[invite] Nestled between a 120 year old church and a 19th century inn, hides Shaffa. Hearkening to a vibrant Middle Eastern Marketplace, Shaffa is owned by Israeli chef Erez Nahum, with a focus on Israeli cuisine.
Part of Shaffa’s allure is its complete unexpectedness. A mysterious entrance makes way to a stunning outdoor space, with an adjacent indoor dining area & bar. With the most coveted seats being those at the busy open kitchen.
Joined by newly engaged honorary FFS member Felicity, the feast begins with Laffa Saj, a large thin flatbread, synonymous with Israeli cuisine.
Paired masterfully with the Hummus – w /crispy chickpeas, paprika, parsley & Syrian olive oil. I won’t lie, we ordered two serves of the laffa and hummus #noregrets.
Charred harissa olives and homemade seasonal pickles adding both texture and contrast to the rich starters.
Up next is the Jaffa port fish tartar, similar to a ceviche, it’s fresh and vibrant.
Another standout was the Badinjan- charred eggplant, raw tahini, tomato salsa, chickpeas and zhug (a hot sauce originating from Yemeni cuisine). You will want to make sure you reserve some Laffa to really soak up every single morsel.
And perhaps my absolute favourite dish, the Marinated Flank steak w/ brown butter. Absolutely flawless medium rare with a charred outer layer.
To finish Morroccan mint tea and Coconut malabi. A milk pudding with almonds, orange, rose blossoms & saffron syrup. I’m perhaps not the correct target market here as I like my dessert to be chocolate with a side of chocolate. But to end quite a rich meal, it makes sense.
All in all, it’s FUN! The food and venue is impressive and with a soundtrack to match.
*For Food’s Sake dined as guests of Shaffa, all opinions remain our own
