LA SHISH
17-19 City Road, Cardiff. 029 2049 3337 / lashish.co.uk
Food ***** Atmosphere ****
Located at the foot of City Road, along a stretch of exotic offerings, is a Middle Eastern jewel: La Shish, one among Cardiff’s renowned kebab houses. Lured by the aroma of the charcoal-grilled meat, I eagerly awaited my turn in this popular restaurant brimming with guests.
It’s simple yet embellished and spacious. The paintings on the yellow wall, the decorative chandeliers, the Arabic music and even the artificial greens which seemingly felt out of place added to the atmosphere. Settled amid the buzz in a comfortable corner after a 10-minute wait, I skimmed through the reasonably priced menu.
Apart from the typical Arabic cuisine, the menu also included wraps, burgers and a small section dedicated to vegetarian dishes. Being a meat lover, my first order was a chicken mixed grill platter with a portion of rice, chips and bread – the very sight of which made my mouth water.
The platter (£10.99) was a mix of perfectly charred and tender chicken shish, kufta and chicken thighs served with buttered saffron rice, salad and a side of garlic mayonnaise and lightly spiced tomato sauce.
The saffron rice, the light flatbread (£1.50) and the fresh, crunchy chips (£2) accompanied by a mixed fruit juice (£3.20) was more than satisfying.
My meal was concluded by a sumptuous chocolate cake served with fresh cream and chocolate sauce. The ultimate climax to an appetizing dinner. A Middle Eastern culinary experience to savour, La Shish’s delectable dishes and value makes it an easy recommend. VARSHA BABUJI