It started of with a bit of a hiccup. Ever so slightly I’d arrived around 10:00 to 10:30, which I thought was decent. But they were still in the middle of setting up most of the menu. Chopping up the tomatoes. Getting the chicken on the charcoal grills.

Shish Taouk – شيش طاووق‎

Cooking in that glorious charcoal.

So I ordered two sandwiches, apart from the few starters. Just for me.

Classic move.

First came the shish taouk. Honestly the size of normal baguette. It came wrapped in foil. Thin lavash type bread. Filled to the brim with large pieces of shish taouk. Perfectly (over) charred on the outside. Succulently juicy on the inside. Sitting amongst freshly cooked chips. And toum.

Much larger than what I was used to getting in London.

My god did I mention the toum. Was I dreaming.

Fattoush – فتّوش

Mixed salad with herbs, toasted bread, vinegar and a touch of garlic.

Apart from the fact that it allowed me to eat more dishes. It was actually quite refreshing. Distinct tang from the pomegranate molasses. Always a favourite.

Chicken shawarma – شاورما دجاج

Then came this. Double wrapped. Crispy crispy bread.

How many words can I write about this sandwich. Will they ever be enough.

If you’re to ask for a highlight meal for the trip. This would have to be it.

Milch Mango Cocktail (mango milkshake)

0.5l. Stein sized.

I think originally the whole purpose of coming here was to try this. Which meant having to wait nearly two hours before the milkshake maker arrived.

Was it worth the wait. I’d say so. Thick and creamy combination of milk, sugar and fruit. Oh and ashta (fresh cream). Joyous.

As close as I’ll get to the famous Damascene cocktail maker Abu Shaker.

If I’d have gotten another one for the road it would’ve been overkill. Was still tempted.

Al Dimashqi, Reuterstraße 28, 12047 Berlin, Germany