Habibi, Rajouri Garden

 

Habibi is the new middle eastern gem in the heart of Rajouri Garden. The restaurant offers a wide variety of cuisines like Lebanese, Moroccan and Arabic. The ambience is that of an authentic arabic luncheonette. With the sheesha displays in every corner and the turkish lamps hanging from the ceiling really really sets the belly in the mood.

Not many of us are aware but watermelons are the most preferred fruit in the middle east. People like to dive into it after their meals as a part of their dessert. Surprisingly, Habibi offers watermelon in the most unexpected form – Cocktails! Their signature cocktail called Arabian Medley was so refreshing even though it was vodka based because it was infused with watermelon and basil. The Watermelon Martini will rejuvenate you for sure but will give  you strong strong hit in the end.

The appetizers were appealing and appetising, nonetheless. The Moroccan Chicken Crostini is a perfect example of what is called a balanced texture. Small but juicy and well seasoned chicken pieces lay on top of a crunchy piece of crostini which is nothing but a fried or a toasted piece of bread. The standout starter is their Zatter Chicken which was so succulent and tender. And obviously, no middle eastern spread is incomplete without a perfectly fried falafel. And their falafel lived up to every expectation.

The main course was much elaborate and scrumptious. Dal Makhani had that earthy and smoky flavours to it  and it seemed as if it had been cooking away all day. Habibi Mutton and Chicken Curry was all a curry could be. With the perfectly cooked meat and perfect blend of spices, every bite of it was absolutely lip smacking. The most exquisite part of the menu was Ruz Mafroom – traditionally prepared arabic rice with chicken. On the whole Habibi offers a hearty meal with meaty curries and equally meaty biryani.

The desserts absolutely makes sure that we can remember the whole experience with an extraordinary sweet ending. Turns out, our beloved phirni has a middle eastern sister called Ruz Bin Holi. Rice prepared in sweet milk, the texture was just enough gooey to make us savour every bit of it. The arabic twist on the top of it was some caramelized walnuts and almonds and the glaze of it was luscious enough to make us drool over it all along.

All in all it was an amazing experience and Salt and Sandals recommends you to visit the place because you can definitely save up on that pricey air ticket to the middle east by flying down to Habibi to satiate that middle eastern culinary desire.