New Lebanese Restaurant Opens In Chiswick

Shams aims to bring the sunshine flavours of the Levant

New Lebanese restaurant Shams, is hoping to bring some of the sunshine of the Levant to Chiswick.

Shams (the title is Arabic for Sun) opened recently in the premises of a former Italian restaurant at 26 Chiswick High Road, and says it is already finding favour with local residents.

"Some people have been back three or four times already, it's going really well". says owner Ihab Atieh.

He says they will offer classic Lebanese cuisine, hot and cold mezze starters, along with grilled meats and seafood, and plenty of vegetarian dishes, cheeses and baklawa.

They also have a selection of Lebanese wines. Classical Lebanese music will be played in the background to enhance the atmosphere, he said.

Along with the a la carte menu, there is a takeaway lunch box for £6.

The restaurant can accommmodate 45-50 people and will be open from 9.30 am to 11 pm.

Lebanese food favours spices such as za'atar and sumac with herbs such as mint, lemon and parsley. Kibbeh (minced lamb with bulghur wheat), hummous, tahini, pomegranate and orange blossom water are common , and the meal usually consists of hot/cold mezze starters followed by meat, fish, or vegetarian.

Typical main dishes are combinations of rice with meat, vegetables, and salads. Desserts are generally fresh fruit, or pastries often called 'sweets' or baklawa.

April 4, 2019