In One Bite:
A day-to-night courtyard cafe featuring art and books, boasting a rich menu of classic dishes with a Middle Eastern twist.
Standout Features
The Vibe: An artsy cafe will inevitably attract an inspired and inspiring crowd. Such is the case at Maisan 15, where people can grab a book as they sip their coffee or admire the works of artist/ founder Rami Farook.
The Chef’s Creations: A wide and funky menu features emojis and a vast range of interesting ingredients. Ranging from brunch favourites to diner classics, the offer is casual yet presented with inventiveness and care and elevated by the skilled touch of chef Rita Soueidan.
The Venue: Nothing beats a courtyard with a fountain at its centre, with Arabian style divans and plants all around creating a comfortable and inviting setting. The indoor seating has a different feel, with an industrial minimalistic style that is made cooler with the presence of art and books.
Star Dishes
(Subject to change)
- Rami’s Breakfast is a delicious breakfast-on-dough that can be likened to a pizza or manakeesh. A bed of their house-blend Palestinian zaatar is adorned with an egg at the centre and dollops of harissa labneh alternated with roasted cherry tomatoes. A touch of local honey makes all the difference, adding unexpected sweetness that marries so well with the herbal flavours of the mint and the zaatar. Sublime!
- The Okra Fries with sumac and Kashmiri chilli salt are a real treat. Snackish and satisfying, they are dressed with many different strong flavours such as ginger, tamarind and coriander oil, that magically balance out when combined, resulting in irresistible tastiness.
- A trio of dips based on classic Middle Eastern mezze staples become leading stars with a few tweaks that render them unforgettable: miso baba ganoush with pistachio and pomegranate, hummus with zaalouk (a Moroccan salad) and roasted hazelnuts, muhammara labneh with caramelised onions, amongst other ingredients. Served with house bread, they can be ordered separately but make for an exciting tasting experience when tried side by side.
Final Morsel: should you visit?
If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere, an artsy vibe, friendly service, speciality coffee and most importantly, outstanding casual eating, this is the perfect spot to hang out in regularly and to bring your friends to, no matter the time of day or evening. Maisan 15 ticks so many boxes that you’re bound to become a fan.
Photo Credit: Mersa Auda
— Mersa Auda
