MALAKEH: A TASTE OF SYRIA IN BERLIN’S SCHÖNEBERG NEIGHBORHOOD
The Cost - $23 per person
The Atmosphere – Malakeh offers a rustic, home-like interior which has a Middle Eastern feel to it. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining though, so dining al fresco during a beautiful Berlin day is certainly a possibility. The casual, relaxed nature of Malakeh makes it a good spot for a dinner with family or friends or a solo outing. Take note that this is a cash-only establishment so remember to bring your euros with you.
In a city full of wonderful middle eastern food,Malakeh stands out because of the story of its owner, Malakeh Jazmati, who was a renowned TV chef in Syria before she was forced to flee her war-torn homeland. Finding solace in Berlin, Jazmati became determined to share the cherished flavors of her culture with her newfound community. Her menu is a treasure trove of traditional dishes, from homemade hummus and Aleppo kebab to succulent lamb dishes, each crafted to deliver an authentic Syrian dining experience.
The Order – Hummus, Mohamara, Kufteh, Aleppo Kebab, and Frikeh.
The Fantastic - The Aleppo Kebab was the star of the show. Served with a wonderful tomato sauce and a warm pita filled with tomatoes and spices, theground beef kebab is simply delicious. To round out the plate, the kebab came with a side of hummus and onions, which could be added to the kebab if desired. This excellent entrée is a must-try for any kebab enthusiast or for those looking for a spice heavy meat dish.
The Great - The Muhammara is a standout dish, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and spice. It is a blend of roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and pomegranate molasses, which come together to create a rich-tasting dip. One of the key elements that elevates the dish is the addition of walnut pieces which bring an earthy note that serves to enhance and deepen the taste. This typical Syrian appetizer is one I’d definitely order again.
The Kufteh consisted of beef meatballs with a tahini sauce and lemon that was garnished with some nuts and herbs. The beef meatballs themselves are tender and juicy, expertly seasoned, and cooked very well. However, what truly makes this dish special is the rich, textured white tahini sauce that envelops the meatballs. It was a tasty meat option that was different from the standard kebab.
The Frikeh was a lamb dish that was served with bulgur and peas. The portion of meat was on the smaller side and it was good, but not amazing. Unlike the lamb, the portion of the bulgur and peas was large and they were excellent. The dish also came with a yogurt mint sauce that added a light, fresh touch and was a welcome counterpoint to the other, richer components.
The Good - Hummus is a staple of Syrian cuisine and I would have been remiss to not order it. Served in a charming wooden bowl with pita bread, Malakeh’s rendition of the classic dish was not the most remarkable but it provided an enjoyable and familiar start to the meal. The accompanying pita bread is average, but it serves its purpose as a means to enjoy the hummus. It was a solid version of the middle eastern favorite and the fact that it received the lowest rating of the dishes ordered speaks highly of the meal.
The Verdict - Malakeh offers an opportunity to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Syrian cuisine in the heart of Berlin and provides a memorable and authentic dining experience. More than just a place to enjoy delicious food, the eatery stands as a testament to the resilience and passion of Malakeh Jazmati. For those in search of a good place to eat in Berlin, Malakeh should be on your list.