After work drinks in the CBD – with a Middle Eastern Twist

In the heart of Singapore's bustling business district, there's a world of refreshing flavours waiting to be discovered. At Kazbar, we're redefining the post-work drink experience with our exquisite Middle Eastern wines and cocktails.

The Middle East is renowned for its savoury dishes and tantalising spices, but did you know about its rich winemaking heritage? From traditional winemaking practices to innovative boutique wineries, we'll take you on a journey to explore the wine legacy of the Middle East. Yes, you read that right – Middle Eastern wines are a hidden treasure trove of flavours that can rival their European counterparts.

Join us as we uncover the fascinating history of winemaking in the region. And if wine isn't your preference, our menu features an array of exciting cocktails that will delight your senses. We've expertly blended enchanting spices into classic favourites, creating a unique beverage adventure with something for everyone.

Unearthing the Hidden Delights of Middle Eastern Wines

The Middle East, including Lebanon, has an incredibly rich wine history that we proudly represent on Kazbar’s offerings. Believe it or not, winemaking dates back almost 6,000 years to the Phoenician era. The Phoenicians were not only skilled seafarers but also spread their expert knowledge of winemaking across the Mediterranean with its climate perfect for growing grapes. As a result, Lebanon became a prominent hub for wine production in ancient times. It's fascinating to see how deep the roots of wine production go in this region as we learn about the current stewards of the soil who now bring us the best of modern Lebanese wines.

Chateau Ksara, Lebanon's Oldest Winery

Chateau Ksara, the oldest winery in Lebanon, has quite a story. It all started in 1857 when the Jesuit Fathers inherited a plot of land and began producing Lebanon's first dry red wine. Fast forward to the ’90s, Chateau Ksara introduced "modern" grape varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, and Chardonnay. They carefully pair indigenous grape varieties with plants from renowned international growers, all while preserving the distinct soil and climate conditions. The Lebanese terrain offers an ideal setting for grape cultivation, blessed with a balanced, sun-soaked climate along the coastal regions and the fertile high mountain plateaus in the north.

Today, the wineries offer over 30 different grape varieties with vineyards in the beautiful Bekaa Valley, Chateau Ksara produces 3 million bottles each year.

Kazbar’s Ksara collection presents a diverse selection of wines crafted to cater to a wide array of tastes and preferences. The Chateau Ksara Le Prieure, for instance, delivers a delightful medium-bodied experience with an exotic fruity aroma, while the Merwah stands out with its vibrant citrus and white flower notes. For those with a penchant for sweetness, the Chateau Ksara Moscatel promises a luscious burst of flavour.

Head over to our menu to read full descriptions of our list.

When it comes to pairing your wine with a bite, we've got you covered. Whether you're craving dips, mezze, salads, juicy grills, or indulgent desserts, we have the perfect wine to complement. Don't hesitate to seek recommendations from our knowledgeable staff to find your ideal evening libation.

Middle Eastern Cocktails: A Fusion of Flavours and Aromatic Delights

If you're not a fan of wines and prefer refreshing cocktails, you absolutely have to try our specialty cocktails with a Middle Eastern twist. Middle Eastern cocktails are pure magic. They owe their unique character to special spice blends, like the aromatic Za’atar, bringing a fusion of flavour to your ordinary cocktail, making it anything but mundane. Ranging from sweet and floral to warm and earthy, each spice is carefully chosen to complement other ingredients, resulting in a delicious and multi-layered taste experience.

Here are a few crowd favourites:

Poison Sumac Margarita - a tasty take on the trending spicy marg, this Kazbar classic delivers tequila, Cointreau, pomegranate and lime in a generously dipped sumac-rimmed glass. 

Phoenician Lemonade - inspired by Mediterranean, citrus and aromatics, the vodka base is complemented by orange liqueur, mint, fresh lemon juice, and a dash of rose water. 

Za’atar Bloody Mary - a bold twist on the classic, featuring vodka, tomato juice, lime juice, tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and the aromatic Za'atar spice blend. 

Star In The Sky - move over Aperol, our arak-based spritzer with dry cava, soda and burnt orange peel is the perfect thirst-quencher.

Tempted yet? Whether you’re an avid cocktail-hunter, wine connoisseur or just need an after-work pint, we’ve got you covered.

Make a booking.

Hosting a party at home? Unleash your inner mixologist…

Indulge in the convenience of our DIY cocktail menu, delivered straight to your doorstep. Whether you're craving a refreshing sangria or looking to impress with a tantalising Poison Sumac Pomegranate Margarita, our delivery menu offers an array of options. 

Our DIY cocktail kits come complete with all the essentials, including our distinctive spice blends—just add ice! This is your foolproof method to amaze your friends and family and showcase your mixology prowess. Available Islandwide.

Check out our full delivery menu here.

A Middle Eastern BBQ Adventure Awaits Your Year-End Party

Who doesn't absolutely adore a fantastic BBQ? 

There's just something truly magical about the tantalising scent and delightful sizzle of food on the grill that makes your taste buds dance with excitement. 

Middle Eastern barbeque, however, takes this experience to a whole new level. Grilling has long been an essential and cherished tradition in the Middle East, perfectly suited to the region's climate and abundance of livestock. Even today, it remains a cornerstone of the region's incredibly diverse and rich culinary heritage, captivating your senses with its irresistible aromas. The meticulous process of marinating, skewering, grilling, and resting each dish is a true testament to the mastery and passion that goes into creating iconic Middle Eastern delicacies like kebabs and shawarma. 

Grilling meat in the Middle East boasts a rich and fascinating history that can be traced back to ancient times. It is deeply intertwined with the lifestyle and environment of the region, hailing from the traditions and practices of its people.

Join us as we delve into the splendid Middle Eastern grilling tradition and allow Kazbar to elevate these timeless flavours to your plate, transforming your next party into an unforgettable experience, to be talked about for years to come.

The history of grilling in the Middle East

In the early civilizations of the Middle East, the inhabitants skillfully capitalised on the hot and arid climate, using it to their advantage in the art of grilling meat. As herdsmen, they had access to an abundant supply of livestock, which became the foundation for this culinary tradition. The ingenious technique of threading succulent chunks of meat on skewers emerged as a brilliant solution for their mobile lifestyle, allowing them to cook their food easily while on the move.

As this culinary practice proliferated throughout the region, each community infused their unique flavours and cooking techniques, giving rise to a wide array of variations on the kebab. The Middle East became a melting pot of culinary creativity, with different regions showcasing their own distinct styles and flavours.

While the technique of grilling meat on horizontal spits has a long history, it was the introduction of shawarma in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire that truly revolutionised the game. Picture this: a vertical stack of succulent meat slices, slowly cooking and tantalising your taste buds. The result? Doner kebab – the mouthwatering inspiration behind both Greek gyros and shawarma.

But the influence of shawarma did not stop there. Its delicious flavours and cooking method reached far and wide, even making its way to Mexico where it gave birth to the equally tempting and contemporary dish known as tacos al pastor.

The journey of grilling meat in the Middle East is not just about the food itself, but also about the cultural exchange and culinary evolution that has taken place over centuries. It is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, bridging gaps and creating connections across different regions and cultures.

The magic behind the Middle Eastern grilling process

Step 1: Marination

Marination is an essential step in the preparation of Middle Eastern grilled dishes. This involves soaking the raw meat in a mixture of ingredients, which serves to tenderise the meat and infuse it with a rich array of flavours. Marinating is not just a simple pre-cooking ritual; it's a culinary art form, steeped in tradition, that paves the way for the explosion of flavours characteristic of dishes like kebabs and shawarma.

For example, a typical Middle Eastern marinade might consist of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a variety of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. The acid in the lemon juice helps to tenderise the meat, while the oil keeps it moist during the grilling process. The garlic and spices infuse the meat with their distinctive flavours, creating a complex and satisfying taste that is unmistakably Middle Eastern.

Step 2: Skewering

Once marinated, the meat is often threaded onto skewers, a technique known as skewering. This method facilitates an even distribution of heat during the grilling process, ensuring that the meat cooks uniformly. Skewering the meat not only imparts an attractive presentation but also makes it more manageable when grilling, turning, and serving. 

It's in these details that the mastery of Middle Eastern grilling lies, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Step 3: Direct Heat Grilling

Upon skewering, the meat is cooked on a grill using direct heat, typically over a charcoal grill. This method involves positioning the skewered meat directly above the heat source. The high temperature promptly sears the exterior of the meat, forming a deliciously crispy and tantalising crust. This intense heat also triggers the caramelisation of sugars present within our unique marinade, which not only amplifies the taste of the cooked meat but also enhances its visual appeal, resulting in a mouth-watering spectacle that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Step 3: Resting

After the meat has been grilled to perfection, an essential yet often overlooked step follows – resting. Resting allows the intense heat within the meat to dissipate, letting the juices that have been drawn towards the surface during grilling to redistribute throughout. This vital pause ensures every mouthful is succulent and packed with the flavours of our unique marinades, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.

Appreciating the subtleties of the grilling process and the role each step plays in crafting the perfect dish is an essential part of our process at Kazbar. Hence, we patiently rest our grilled meats before serving, letting the flavours deepen and intensify. It's not just about enjoying a meal; it's about savouring an authentic Middle Eastern culinary experience at its finest.

Kazbar’s take on the classics: Kebabs, Shawarma and Mixed Grill

At Kazbar, our specialty lies in the authentic Middle Eastern grilling techniques. 

Our passion for crafting traditional Lebanese flavours originates from our deep cultural roots. We pride ourselves on the distinct marinades we use, a blend of spices and herbs airlifted from the Middle East, that form the basis of our culinary creations. Every piece of meat we offer soaks in these flavourful marinades, imbibing the spices and enabling us to serve dishes that carry the genuine taste of the Middle East.

Kebabs

Lebanese kebabs, also known as shish kebabs, typically consist of marinated chunks of meat – often lamb or chicken – threaded onto skewers and grilled until they're full of smoky flavour. What sets Lebanese kebabs apart is the simplicity of their marinade, which often includes just olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a few select spices.

At Kazbar, we serve a wide range of Kebabs including: 

• Shish Kebabs: Picture succulent cubes of marinated meat – lamb or beef – skewered and grilled to perfection. The marinades boast a tantalising fusion of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and an array of spices.
  

• Shish Taouk: Experience the tantalising flavours of this Lebanese classic! Succulent pieces of marinated chicken, expertly skewered and grilled to perfection. The marinade, a delightful blend of yoghurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a medley of spices including paprika and cayenne, infuses the chicken with a tangy zest and vibrant hue.
  

• Joojeh Kebabs: A delightful blend of flavours that encapsulate the essence of Persian cuisine. These kebabs feature chicken marinated in an exotic concoction of saffron, turmeric, yoghurt, and lemon. The saffron imparts a unique aroma and a golden hue to the dish while the turmeric adds a depth of flavour. The yoghurt tenderises the chicken, ensuring the meat is juicy and succulent. The tanginess of the lemon cuts through the richness of the spices, adding a zesty kick.
  

• Seafood Kebabs: a duo of fresh seafood – tender fish and succulent prawns – marinated in an authentic Lebanese marinade. The marinade, a delicate blend of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, crushed garlic, and a range of aromatic Middle Eastern spices, seeps into the seafood to impart an irresistible flavour that truly captures the essence of Lebanese cuisine.

With lamb chops and chicken wings as additional options, our live grilling station provides the variety you need to create the perfect menu for your next event.

Shawarma

What could be more delightful than savouring the rich, smoky flavour of meat on a stick, you ask? Well, imagine this: succulent slices of meat, marinated with Middle Eastern spices, cooked to perfection, and then tightly wrapped with fresh, crisp vegetables in a warm, toasted bread envelope. This is our specialty at Kazbar. 

The Lebanese shawarma is made by marinating thin slices of meat – usually beef or chicken – in a flavorful mix of spices and yoghurt, then stacking them on a vertical spit. The meat is then slowly grilled as it rotates, resulting in tender and juicy slices.

Catering a party with a Middle Eastern BBQ

Experience the centuries-old culinary journey of traditional Middle Eastern grilling this holiday season with Kazbar’s award-winning cuisine. From the meticulous marination of meats to the authentic skewering, grilling, and resting techniques, we cater dishes steeped in rich tradition and bursting with flavour. Whether it's a small get-together or a large festive gathering, our range of offerings, including live grilling and aromatic shawarma stations, cater to events of any size.

Live Stations

We offer the following live shawarma stations which are ideal for small to medium-sized groups:

• Chicken Shawarma Live Station: Immerse yourself in the tantalising aroma of succulent chicken shawarma, delicately spiced and cooked to perfection.

• Lamb Shawarma Live Station: Enjoy an authentic Middle Eastern culinary experience with our richly flavoured lamb shawarma. 

• Beef Shawarma Live Station: Savour the robust flavours of our succulent beef shawarma, marinated and grilled to perfection

• Ouzi Lamb Live Station: Our whole lamb shank, expertly marinated lamb shank slowly roasted served with arabic rice is a crowd pleaser.

• Live Grilled Kebabs: Available in a wide variety of options for you to mix and match, these simple but packed with flavour kebabs come in Shish Kebab, Shish Taouk, Joojeh Kebab, Prawn, Lamb Chops or Jawaneh

Sit back and let our expert chefs serve your guests with an unforgettable treat.

Mixed Grill Platter

While our live stations undeniably add a flair to any event, not all venues can accommodate them. If your space isn't suited for a live grill, fret not! At Kazbar, we've got you covered with our mixed grill platters. 

Our sharing platters are the perfect solution, offering an assortment of our exquisitely marinated and grilled meats, masterfully cooked in our kitchen and brought to your table. Bursting with robust flavours of Middle Eastern spices, and paired perfectly with a selection of our fresh, vibrant side dishes, our mixed grill platters ensure that you won't miss out on the authentic Kazbar experience. 

Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or a large corporate event requiring a full buffet, manned bar and entertainment, we offer it all. Catering our award-winning food will bring the magic of the Middle East directly to you. Trust us, your guests will be delighted. 

Make your celebrations extraordinary with Kazbar's expertise and attention to detail. Take a look at our catering menu [here]

Call 6438 2975 or WhatsApp +65 8223 5603, and our expert staff will guide you through your catering needs.

Party Planning 101: From Office Catering to Restaurant Gatherings

It's that time of year again, when the office buzzes with excitement, decorations emerge from storage, and the holiday spirit fills the air. It's time to dive into the world of party planning, a task that requires equal parts creativity, organisation, and a dash of festive magic. As the year draws to a close, one thing is for sure: a well-planned office party is the perfect way to celebrate achievements, host valuable clients, and boost morale as we usher in the holiday season.

With so many details to consider, organising an event with the perfect mix of flavours, fun, and festivities while you’re still wrapping up Q4, can be a challenge. From finding the perfect venue to planning fun activities – it takes coordination and finesse. With over two decades of experience in hosting a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings at our restaurant to grand galas accommodating hundreds of guests, we've honed the art of achieving the perfect blend of food and fun for an unforgettable evening.

This article shares our tips for putting together the perfect festive event packed with the top considerations for anyone catering an office party in Singapore.

1. Set the scene with the right venue

Choosing the perfect venue is crucial to create a memorable event. With so many great choices of venues in Singapore, sometimes the toughest part is deciding where to host your event. Your selection should mirror the unique identity of your company and the character of the occasion. For example, if you're organising a casual team-building lunch, the private section of a restaurant with great service may fit the bill. On the other hand, if it's a formal year-end celebration involving a large group, you might opt to cater at a formal venue where you can comfortably accommodate a crowd and build the atmosphere with a free-flowing buffet with live stations and signature cocktails to keep the conversation going.

Here's our list of when to cater versus when to book a restaurant venue.

Catering your office party

When it comes to organising an office party, the food plays a major role in making it a success. We're talking about those mouth-watering aromas that greet you as you enter, the way the food is presented, and, of course, the explosion of flavours in every bite. It's the kind of stuff that people can't stop talking about long after the party's over.

Good food not only leaves a lasting impression but also ensures your guests are happy and satisfied. That's why it's important to choose a reliable and high-quality caterer that excites your guests to deliver a memorable experience.

Ideal for:

1. Large corporate gatherings: Opt for catering when hosting significant corporate events like conferences, seminars, or large training sessions. It's an efficient way to serve a large number of guests across different locations.

2. Outdoor celebrations: Consider catering for outdoor events such as garden parties, picnics, or beach gatherings. This gives you a convenient option to delight your guests, especially if your caterers provide service in diverse settings.

3. Community festivals: Consider catering a buffet with live stations featuring specialities cooked on the spot for a festive atmosphere.

4. Business luncheons: For smaller business luncheons or board meetings, consider high-quality catering, with sharing platters or bento boxes as a convenient option.

At Kazbar we’re known for consistently delivering high food quality, impeccable service and dependability from the moment you inquire up to the end of your event. However, the process of choosing a caterer isn't without its challenges. It's a task that demands careful consideration, and part of that consideration is being aware of red flags.

It's essential to thoroughly vet your chosen caterer and communicate your expectations clearly to ensure a successful event.

Here are some warning signs that should give you pause when evaluating potential caterers:

1. Lack of experience: Your annual event is too important to leave to chance. Look for a caterer with a proven track record in hospitality and select someone with experience in handling similar events. If a caterer is unwilling or unable to provide references, this could be a red flag.

2. Limited menu options: A caterer offering a limited menu may not be able to accommodate diverse dietary preferences or options to suit your budget. Look for a caterer with flexibility in menu choices.

3. Late or incomplete responses: Delayed or incomplete responses to your inquiries can be a sign of disorganisation or poor communication skills. Timely and thorough communication is crucial. A caterer who is inflexible and unwilling to accommodate your specific needs or requests can lead to a frustrating planning process, or worse, not coming through on the day of your event.

4. Unclear pricing: A lack of transparency in pricing can lead to unexpected costs. Ensure your caterer provides a detailed breakdown of all fees and potential extra charges.

Booking a restaurant venue for your office party

Look for a venue that not only offers ample space for your planned activities but also provides a comfortable setting for networking and socialising. An ideal choice would be a centrally located venue with excellent transportation links, ensuring convenience for all guests.

Consider the venue’s layout, ensuring that it can accommodate both seated and standing areas, as well as any additional requirements, such as a screen for any presentation requirements.
 
Restaurants are ideal for:

1. Intimate gatherings: For smaller, more intimate gatherings, like holiday parties for small teams, or private dinners for management, booking a restaurant venue with great service, like Kazbar, can provide an authentic and cosy atmosphere.

2. Client meetings and networking: For business dinners with clients or networking events, reserving a restaurant with the right ambience to set everyone at ease can create a memorable event.

3. Team-building events: If you're planning team-building events for smaller groups, booking the restaurant's space can facilitate an engaging and immersive experience.
   

Vibrant celebrations: When you want to provide a festive atmosphere and entertain and engage guests, an indoor-outdoor restaurant with flexibility and built in entertainment might be your best bet.

In the CBD, Kazbar's got you covered with our awesome central location, an extensive menu filled with delicious food and drinks, flawless service, and even some in-house live entertainment like belly dancing.

Selecting the Perfect Menu

With the venue locked in, the next piece of the puzzle is selecting a menu. It's where the magic happens. Be it a catered affair or a restaurant gathering, crafting the perfect menu is an art that can take your event from great to unforgettable. At Kazbar, we understand that a well-curated menu can transform an ordinary gathering into an extraordinary one. Exceptional food leaves a lasting impression, ensuring that your guests not only leave satisfied but leave with a great impression of your hospitality.

Crafting a Memorable Catered Menu

When it comes to hosting a successful office party, selecting the right catered menu is a paramount task that can set the tone for the entire event. Your menu choices should reflect the character of your company, the nature of the occasion, and cater to the diverse tastes and dietary requirements of your guests. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to craft a memorable catered menu for your office party.

1. Know Your Audience:
The first step in curating a perfect menu is understanding your audience. Consider the preferences of your guests, including any dietary restrictions or allergies they may have. Reach out to your attendees in advance to collect information about their dietary requirements. This will ensure that everyone can enjoy the feast without any concerns.

2. Varied and Well-Balanced Choices:
Offer a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. Include a balance of appetisers, main courses, sides, and desserts. Ensure that your menu includes options for meat lovers, vegetarians, and those with dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegan diets. Having a mix of flavours and textures will delight your guests.

3. Food Presentation:
The way food is presented matters. Pay attention to the visual appeal of each dish. Discuss presentation ideas with your caterer to ensure that every dish is a feast for the eyes, particularly when they’re bringing the experience to you.

4. Cocktails and Mocktails:
Don't forget to include a beverage selection to complement your menu. Consider providing a range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic options to cater to your guests' preferences. Signature cocktails or a wine pairing can elevate the dining experience.

Hosting at a Restaurant

When opting for a restaurant venue for your office party, you have the unique opportunity to customise the dining experience to suit your company's requirements and stick to your budget.

Here's how to select and personalise the restaurant menu for your office gathering.

1. Collaborate with the Restaurant:
   Experienced chefs can offer valuable insights and suggest dishes that align with your vision. Work closely with the restaurant's team or chef to create a customised menu that fits you and caters to your guests’ dietary requirements. Communicate your budget to the restaurant and work together to create a menu that aligns with your fund for the event.

2. Customise Portions:
   Work with the restaurant to customise portion sizes based on your guest count. This prevents food wastage and helps manage your budget effectively. At Kazbar, smaller plates, sharing platters, or buffet-style dining can be tailored to your preference.

3. Signature Dishes:
   Consider incorporating signature dishes or restaurant specialities into the menu. These items can add a unique touch and showcase the restaurant's culinary expertise. For example, Kazbar can provide table service for large roasted meats when ordered ahead of time.

4. Set the Tone with Entertainment:
   Consider the unique tastes and preferences of your guests when planning entertainment. Hiring a professional emcee can keep the event organised and engaging. If you know your audience well, you can choose activities and performances that will resonate with them and create a more enjoyable experience.

2. Managing Event Logistics

Effective event logistics management minimises stress and guarantees a hassle-free office party, allowing you and your guests to fully enjoy the festivities. It's a behind-the-scenes effort that ensures everything unfolds seamlessly, from start to finish, creating a successful and unforgettable occasion. 

We’ve found it’s best to know who’s in charge of each element, whether that’s someone from your organisation or the restaurant or vendor. At Kazbar we keep you posted on every element so you can enjoy yourself on the day.

Here's a breakdown of the key components of event logistics:

1. Guest List Management and Invitations:
   The success of your office party largely depends on your guest list. Identify the key stakeholders, clients, colleagues, and anyone else who should attend. Keep a master list with contact details and dietary preferences or restrictions if relevant. Use digital invitations, traditional mailed invites, or a combination of both, ensuring they are sent well in advance to allow guests to RSVP. Don't forget to communicate the dress code to your guests in advance, ensuring everyone is dressed appropriately and feels comfortable at the party.

2. Vendor Selection and Coordination:
   If you're working with various vendors, such as catering services, entertainers, and decorators, carefully select and coordinate with them. Clearly communicate your expectations, timelines, and any specific requirements. Having reliable vendors who understand your needs is vital to the success of your event.

3. Ensure a Smooth Event Flow:
   Creating a detailed timeline for your office party is essential. Note when guests should arrive, when different activities or entertainment segments are scheduled, and when meals or refreshments will be served. Don't forget to account for setup and teardown times. A well-structured schedule ensures that everything flows seamlessly throughout the event. Be prepared for contingencies, like weather changes for outdoor events or unexpected delays, so that your event remains enjoyable and memorable.

Why work with us to create a memorable event

At Kazbar, we get it. Picture this – a buzzing atmosphere with laughter, music, and just an all-around great time. Envision a feast that's so impressive it feels fit for royalty, with every dish bursting with flavour. 

We know that every little detail matters when it comes to throwing that unforgettable office party. Our love for food and dedication to the whole experience from start to finish make us the perfect team to take your event up a notch. With our years of experience, and a menu that's got a little something for everyone, we've got all the ingredients to make your office party seriously stand out.

But, hey, Kazbar isn't just about catering. We're also the go-to spot for your festive gathering. We serve up delicious food in generous portions, while offering top-notch service. So, if you're still on the hunt for an office party solution in Singapore, get in touch and let's see if we're a match made in party-planning heaven.

Whether you want us to handle the food or provide the perfect venue, your office party will be the talk of the town for years to come. Let us bring a dash of Middle Eastern magic to your event and make it unforgettable.

How to work with us:

No party is too big or too small for us at Kazbar. For intimate gatherings at home, simply order through our delivery platform for a fuss-free cost-effective party solution. For larger events, check out our catering menu here and reach out to us on +65 6438 2975  or WhatsApp us on +65 8223 5603 so we can start cooking up a plan with all the works. 

We can’t wait to serve your guests!

Secret Ingredients in Middle Eastern Food: Exploring Our Spice Blends

Middle Eastern food is a true feast for the senses. 

From the bold flavours and aromas of spices to the vibrant colours of fresh herbs you’re in for a unique and unforgettable culinary experience when you dine at Kazbar. Middle Eastern meals are known for their use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Nobody knows how to turn the humble chickpea into smooth hummus or sesame into a silky golden tahini like the chefs of Lebanon. Combine our rich spice heritage with high-quality meats, fresh vegetables and herbs and you have a feast for the senses and a flavourful yet well-balanced option for dining that won’t hurt your waistline.

The allure of Lebanese cuisine lies in our special mixes of aromatic spices, using the little-known ingredients that hold the key to Kazbar’s tried and tested recipes that have had our guests coming back for over twenty years. Whether you're indulging in a mezze platter of hummus, babaganoush, and tabbouleh, or savouring a rich lamb dish, the beauty of Middle Eastern cuisine lies in its ability to transport you to a new world of exotic flavours with every bite.

 Babaganoush

A Flavorful Legacy

Where did these special combinations come from? The Middle East has been a hub of the spice trade for centuries, and its cuisine has been heavily influenced by the various cultures that traded in the region. Spices were not only used for flavouring food but also for medicinal purposes, and their trade was a significant source of wealth for many countries in the region.

While the region has been a trade hub for millennia, what’s sometimes forgotten is that many people from the Middle East were also famed adventurers taking their rich culinary heritage with them to all corners of the world. While a variety of dishes such as hummus and tabbouleh have gained popularity worldwide, the spices and marinades that elevate modest meats and vegetables to heroic feasts still remain quite a mystery in many Southeast Asian kitchens.

Spices on display in a Middle Eastern Market

A Spice Symphony

In Middle Eastern cuisine, spices are used to add depth of flavour to dishes and to complement the natural flavours of the ingredients. The spices often combine earthy, aromatic, and warm flavours with tang and bite, creating a complex and rich taste. Here’s how.

Lebanese 7 Spice / Sabaa Baharat

An essential spice blend found in many Lebanese kitchens, this aromatic blend is made up of a mixture of seven spices including allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, fenugreek, and ginger. The secret lies in the ratios for each element, which are rarely repeated and remain closely guarded secrets in families. The Lebanese 7 Spice can be used in a variety of ways. It is perfect for creating flavorful marinades that infuse meats with a delightful combination of spices. It also makes an excellent rub for adding a burst of flavour to grilled or roasted dishes. Additionally, this spice blend is a fantastic addition to stews, adding warmth and depth to the overall taste.

Lebanese 7 Spice/Sabaa Baharat

Sumac

Sumac is a tangy and slightly sour spice made from dried and ground berries and it’s what gives Za’atar Spice its delicious unexpected tanginess. It's often used as a substitute for lemon juice or vinegar in Middle Eastern cooking. It can be sprinkled on top of hummus, mixed in with salad dressings, or used to add a tangy kick to grilled meats. One popular dish where sumac shines is Fattoush, a Lebanese salad made with chopped vegetables, herbs, and toasted pita bread, all tossed in a sumac-infused vinaigrette.

Sumac

Za’atar

Another popular ingredient often used synonymously for the spice blend, Za’atar is also a particularly spicy cousin of the well-known thyme. Za’atar spice, the mix, is often blended with other herbs such as oregano and marjoram and toasted with earthy spices like cumin and coriander.  To add a delightful twist, sesame seeds, salt, and the star ingredient, sumac, are added. Sumac, with its tangy and zesty flavour, gives Za’atar its unique and mouthwatering taste. This exquisite spice blend has been cherished for generations and is a true culinary gem in Lebanese cuisine 

Za’atar

Our Approach to Spices at Kazbar

If you’ve ever got your hands on Middle Eastern spices but found them disappointing, it could be because they have been sitting on a shelf for months. To ensure freshness, we import our spices directly from the Middle East regularly and Chef Kamel carefully handcrafts our blends to ensure the perfect balance of flavours that truly capture the essence of his heritage in Lebanon. We believe that using high-quality ingredients is essential in creating our much-loved dishes.

If you're wondering where to source these secret ingredients, your best bet is to look for speciality stores that carry Middle Eastern spices. These stores often have a wide variety of spices that are not easily found in regular grocery stores, and sourcing the spices directly from the Middle East can ensure that you're getting the most authentic and flavourful products available.

When using these spices, it is important to use them sparingly, as they can be quite potent. A little goes a long way, and it is important to taste as you go. But don't be afraid to experiment with these aromatic ingredients. Or you can leave it to the professionals and drop by Kazbar for your fix.

Discover the Magic of Middle Eastern Cuisine 

Middle Eastern cuisine, with its fusion of flavours, colours, and aromas, delights the senses and provides a world of exotic tastes. Our special spice blends unlock this cuisine's true potential. Experience bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking techniques for a special culinary journey.

Craving a taste of Lebanese food? Visit Kazbar and indulge in our delicious cuisine. Ranked among the top 10% of restaurants worldwide by Tripadvisor users, our menu offers a wide variety of dishes to satiate any craving, from hearty meat dishes to fresh and healthy vegetarian options. Our chefs use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients to create authentic and delicious meals. We also boast an impressive list of wines and cocktails, perfect for complementing your meal.

So, why wait? Experience the magic of Lebanese cuisine and our special spice blends by visiting Kazbar today. We also offer islandwide food delivery for a taste of the Middle East right to your doorstep.