Since its opening almost a year ago, I’ve been wanting to try Mama Malouf after hearing plenty of good things about the place. This quaint Lebanese restaurant gets its name from the Alex Malouf’s (the owner) mother. The dishes take inspiration from Alex’s mother and the recipes have been developed from his experience growing up in a Lebanese home. You’ll find traditional, as well as more modern dishes on Mama Malouf’s menu, all of which are hearty and satisfying. In terms of atmosphere, you can expect a cozy, home-like feel at Mama Malouf with minimalist decor.

Mezze

Cucumber and tarragon labne (HK$58)

Baked eggplant salad with burrata (HK$128)

Haloumi & fontina cheese fondue with fig jam (HK$118)

We began with the cucumber and tarragon labne (HK$58) with safron and caramelized onions. The dip was thick and creamy, and the caramelized onions added an extra punch of flavor. My favorite starter was the baked eggplant salad with burrata (HK$128). This was a more modern dish on the menu, and I loved the contrast in texture from the creamy burrata, smooth eggplant, and crunchy salad. If you love cheese, you should definitely try the haloumi & fontina cheese fondue (HK$118) with fig jam. The cheese came to our table bubbling (get those Boomerang’s ready!) and the combination of the melted cheese and fig jam on brioche was absolutely divine.

Mains

Grilled beef kafta skewers (HK$178)

Whole roasted baby snapper (HK$168)

I was a big fan of the grilled beef kafta skewers (HK$178) with pita, padron peppers, sumac salad, and tahini and harissa sauce. The ground beef skewers were incredibly tender and full of flavor, especially when made into a wrap with the pita, salad, and sauces. The whole roasted baby snapper (HK$168) had a bit too many tiny bones for my liking, but the flavor was certainly on point and others at the table said this was their favorite dish of the evening.

Dessert

Turkish delight chocolate fondue (HK$58)

We finished our very filling meal with the Turkish delight chocolate fondue (HK$58). We took the Turkish delight, which is imported directly from Lebanon, and dipped it into the melted chocolate before covering it in crushed pistachios. I liked how this dish had just the right amount of sweetness – perfect for when you’ve overindulged on mezze and mains, but can’t say no to dessert.

Verdict on Mama Malouf

If you enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine, I would definitely recommend giving Mama Malouf a try. The vibe is cozy and homey, while also being minimalist and modern – perfect for a date night or to catch up with a friend. Expect traditional Middle Eastern spices and flavors that have been incorporated into contemporary, satisfying dishes.

Mama Malouf 
93 Catchick Street
Kennedy Town

Tel: 2817 3828