Asma was started by three Emirati sisters with a passion for food. Their mother, Asma, passed on many delicious recipes which are now used in the restaurant. Housed in the expansive Dubai Mall, the restaurant pulls flavours from Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt and Syria with exciting results. The space itself is comfortable and relaxing, with soothing lighting setting the mood. Cream sofas and plants fill the main room, while the blue tile bar runs along one side. Enticing aromas fill the room, emanating from the charcoal grill as it is put to good use throughout the day.
Here, it's all about sharing. The menu is designed to work best for groups, although solo diners and couples will still be able to enjoy it too. Start off with tasty entrees like arayes, musakhan, falafel, spiced potatoes and crispy corn, as well as signature dishes like the chraimeh wings and honey halloumi. Be sure to order plenty of bread for dipping and mopping - you'll need it. Dips include beetroot with labneh, chicken liver, hummus, babaganoush and labneh with za'atar.
The main event comes straight from the grill, so choose from gloriously charred options like chicken freekeh, beef skewers, lamb cutlets, kebab pita and meat shakshuka. Don't forget some greens to go alongside, like watermelon salad, fattoush, tabbouleh, cauliflower or kushari. Green prawns or octopus are also available for those who prefer seafood to meat, or simply those who want to try everything. The children's meal includes chicken tenders and fries, perfect for keeping the little ones happy after a long day of browsing one of the world's biggest shopping centres. To drink, there are freshly pressed juices, including orange, carrot, green apple or minted lemonade. Asma is also available on many delivery websites, so you can always opt to enjoy the food from home.