Is the Middle East Restaurant Chain in Kampala worth the hype? Our foodie dives in for a taste test, exploring the menu, atmosphere, and value for money. Discover if this popular spot lives up to the buzz – all eyes on Middle East Restaurant, with a verdict for hungry readers!
Remember the shawarma craze that swept Kampala in late 2021? It felt like every corner had a new restaurant spinning those succulent cones of meat. Well, one name that emerged from that frenzy and has continued to thrive is Middle East Restaurant.
As a dedicated follower of Kampala’s ever-evolving food scene, I, Dennis Asiimwe, decided to delve into this restaurant chain for What’s On Kampala. Here’s the inside scoop on Middle East Restaurant, a hidden gem for some and a rising star for others.
Finding the exact origins of Middle East Restaurant proved trickier than expected. My attempts to pin down the elusive Mr. Khalid, the restaurant’s proprietor, were met with a busy signal – a testament to their success, perhaps? Regardless, educated guesses place their beginnings around November 2021, perfectly positioned to capitalize on the city’s shawarma obsession. With branches now boasting locations in Bukoto-Ntinda, Arena Mall, Entebbe, and possibly Luwum Street, their expansion speaks volumes.
My initial draw wasn’t shawarma, though. It was the sheer visual spectacle their food presented, constantly emphasized on social media. And the promise of an “exotic, spicy” culinary adventure piqued my curiosity. Exhausted after a long week, I recently found myself at their Bukoto-Ntinda branch, indulging in a creamy mushroom soup – a Ugandan restaurant staple that rarely disappoints. This rich, velvety starter did not disappoint.
Now, onto the main course. Craving lasagna, a personal weakness, I dove into their version. The verdict? A resounding success. It was rich, beautifully textured, and the accompanying mince was flavorful. The portion size was generous, leaving me pleasantly full with a lingering desire for “just one more bite.” This sentiment speaks volumes about the overall quality of their food.
Here is the breakdown:
Food: 5 out of 5 stars. Middle East Restaurant delivers on flavor. Their menu boasts variety, and the execution is impressive. From the perfectly seasoned lasagna to the promise of a “wet goat” dish (intriguing!), there’s something for everyone. Plus, their prices are fair, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the culinary expertise on display.
Ambiance and Service: Here is where things get a bit split. The ambiance is lovely. Comfy seating meets stylish decor, creating a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families and casual gatherings. The giant screens showing Premier League games are a nice touch for sports fans. However, the service needs improvement. Despite calling ahead to place my order, it wasn’t ready upon arrival. The ensuing confusion took a significant chunk out of my lunch break. While the staff tasked with welcoming and seating patrons were excellent, the overall service lacked the efficiency found in some other Kampala establishments. (2 out of 5 stars)
Additional Considerations: The drink menu deserves a shoutout. From rich coffees to a variety of shakes and juices, there’s something to quench any thirst. This selection, coupled with the family-friendly ambiance, suggests a clear target market.
Conclusive Notes:
Middle East Restaurant isn’t perfect. The service hiccups and sluggish Wi-Fi are areas for improvement. However, their delicious food, pleasing presentation, and generous portions make them a contender in Kampala’s ever-growing culinary scene. They have clearly identified their audience (corporate moms, families, and those with a sweet tooth) and cater to them effectively.
So, is Middle East Restaurant worth a visit? Absolutely! Just don’t expect lightning-fast service.
Ultimately, the best way to discover Kampala’s hidden gems and rising stars is to explore! And that’s where What’s On Kampala comes in. We are your guide to the city’s ever-evolving trends and lifestyles. So, stay tuned for more culinary adventures, and tell us, what are your favourite new restaurants in Kampala? Let’s continue this delicious conversation!
