Food, My Ancient Enemy

Which is the best restaurant in your city?

Lately, I’ve noticed so many writing prompts about food. They make me think harder than usual, and sometimes I feel a little clueless about what to say. But food, I realize, isn’t just about taste. It’s about the places we go, the people we sit with, and the memories we carry home.

For me, the best restaurant isn’t only about how crazy good the food tastes — though that matters. It’s also about wanting to go back again and again. Still, I’ve learned that atmosphere counts too. I don’t want a place that’s too crowded. I want to hear and talk to the person I’m with. I want to spend time with my family, because those moments give me strength. In the past few years, I’ve yearned for them more than ever — the kind of moments that keep me steady when life feels overwhelming.

From my childhood, one restaurant stands out is Hatam Al Ta’ai, an Iranian restaurant in Dubai. It’s not really suitable for vegetarians because it is a meat heavy place, but for me it was unforgettable.

They served the most delicious slow-cooked kebabs and lamb chops, with fresh salad, fries, and hummus on the side. It was the only place where I would eat salad without complaint — that’s how good it was. The flavors were rich, comforting, and memorable.

If you ever travel to Dubai, I would wholeheartedly recommend Hatam Al Ta’ai. For me, it wasn’t just about the food, but about the joy of being there, the family moments, and the comfort it gave me.