If you’ve ever looked at a Lebanese restaurant menu and wondered, “Where do I even start?”, you’re not alone. The good news is that you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the rich and flavourful world of Lebanese mezze. Especially here in Trinidad, where we already love sharing food, bold spices, and great conversation, mezze is a perfect fit.
If you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or just curious about what to order at Amara Restaurant, this beginner’s guide will walk you through the mezze experience, one plate at a time.
What Is Mezze?
Mezze is the heart of Lebanese dining. It’s not just a dish but a style of eating that involves multiple small plates served before or alongside the main course. Think of it like a Lebanese version of a Trini lime, where everyone digs in, shares, and talks over flavourful food.
Some mezze plates are cold, others are served hot, but they all offer a chance to sample a wide variety of textures and flavours in one sitting.
Cold Mezze You Need to Try
Here are a few cold mezze favourites available on the Amara Restaurant menu in Trinidad:
- Hummus: This creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice is a must-have. Trinis who love garlic sauce will fall in love with this Middle Eastern staple. Perfect for scooping with warm pita.
- Labneh: A thick and tangy strained yogurt that pairs beautifully with olive oil and herbs. If you’re a fan of sour cream or Greek yogurt, this one will hit the spot.
- Moutabbal (Baba Ghanoush): Made with smoky roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic. It’s earthy, creamy, and surprisingly refreshing.
- Warak Enab: Grape leaves stuffed with rice and spices. A great pick for vegetarians and adventurous foodies alike.
Hot Mezze That Trinis Will Love
Ready for something warm and comforting? These hot mezze plates are perfect for anyone who enjoys spiced, savoury bites.
- Batata Harra: Spicy, garlicky potatoes tossed with coriander, chili, and olive oil. The flavour reminds many Trinis of our local pepper-infused potato dishes but with a Mediterranean twist.
- Sambousek: Choose from meat or cheese fillings, wrapped in pastry and fried until golden. These are similar in vibe to a mini meat pie, with a totally different flavour profile.
- Falafel: Crispy chickpea fritters that are crunchy outside and soft inside. A perfect starter for vegetarians or anyone looking for something hearty and satisfying.
- Grilled Halloumi: Salty, slightly chewy cheese served warm. It’s unlike anything on most local menus and definitely worth a try.
What Should First-Time Visitors Order?
If it’s your first time at Amara, start with a mezze platter that includes a bit of everything. It’s a great way to explore Lebanese mezze in Trinidad without committing to just one dish. Ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences. For example:
- Want something creamy and familiar? Go for hummus and labneh.
- Like spice and crunch? Batata Harra and falafel are your best bet.
- Trying to impress someone? Share a plate of grilled halloumi and sambousek with a side of warm bread.
Don’t forget to add toum (garlic sauce) to your order. Trinis who love garlic sauce with their gyros or fries will absolutely enjoy this Lebanese version.
Your Mezze Adventure Starts at Amara
Whether you’re planning a casual lunch or a social dinner with friends, mezze is an easy and enjoyable way to dive into Mediterranean cuisine in Trinidad. At Amara Restaurant, every plate is prepared with authenticity and a touch of local flair.
Visit us to experience the best of Lebanese mezze Trinidad has to offer. There’s always something new to try, and always someone ready to share.
📍 Authentic Lebanese cuisine. Shared the Lebanese way.
