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About
Diplomat Restaurant
Welcome to Diplomat Restaurant, a cherished dining gem nestled in the heart of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Established in 1976, this iconic eatery, formerly known as Abu Darwish, has stood the test of time, captivating locals and visitors alike with its authentic Arabic cuisine and nostalgic ambience. Located on Al Marija Street, opposite Al Maida Al Jadeda Tailoring, the restaurant embodies a humble charm that welcomes you with its warm service and cozy decor.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a décor that tells a story of its own—a blend of old-world charm and modern-day comfort. The eclectic yet inviting atmosphere is filled with the aroma of freshly grilled meats and spices that awaken the senses. Here, the menu reads like a love letter to Arab culinary traditions, showcasing a variety of dishes that are deeply rooted in history.
The restaurant is particularly renowned for its mixed grill, featuring an assortment of kebabs that are beautifully charred and bursting with flavor. The hummus with laham is a must-try—it’s creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced, a dish that easily earns its spot as a fan favorite. Customers rave about the lamb chops, which are said to be some of the best in town, complemented by freshly baked bread that elevates the entire dining experience.
A frequent highlight in many reviews is the liver dish, which has captivated the palates of those who seek a taste of something unique. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavor, making it a standout dish amid the traditional offerings. Alongside these, the eggs with potato and nashef meat sheikh also deserve mention, providing a hearty and fulfilling meal that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Diverse opinion on pricing has emerged, with some customers like ‘Foodie Ferry’ suggesting that certain dishes may feel a touch pricey, while others appreciate the generous portions that ensure satisfaction. The family-run nature of Diplomat Restaurant enhances its authentic feel, inviting you in as part of their extended family. Despite the dated decor, the cleanliness and friendly service provide an excellent experience, turning casual visits into cherished memories.
As you plan your visit, keep in mind that this beloved establishment operates on a cash-only basis, a nod to its longstanding practices amidst a rapidly modernizing world. Overall, Diplomat Restaurant stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Arabic cuisine, leaving guests with a heartfelt taste of nostalgia and a longing to return.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Cheap and cheerful food in a random location. We stumbled across this place which has been around for a long time, very dated decor but looked clean and staff were friendly! Fresh kebabs from the grill were great, the hummus and meat wasn’t too clever but the liver was really tasty! The sides they give are good portions! I’d come back if I was in the area. ”
“ One of my favorite spot for hummus with laham. Super delicious. Hummus is creamy and the meat is the master. Mixed grill is authentic but its not worth for the price. I felt like over priced or atleast o ene stick more should be ok. Its an old restaurant in the hear of sharjah. You can see so many local ArBs there. Nice service and friendly staff. No card accepeted ”
“ The best Arabic food and taste, that you will find in town. Must try: Hummus with meat ( sliced meet - لحم مفروم ). Nashef meat sheikh. Kabab meat. Eggs with potato. Lamb chops لحم ريش. ”
“ Diplomat Restaurant is a gem that has been around since 1976, originally known as Abu Darwish. Tucked inside the market, this family-run spot screams nostalgia with its old-school sign, cozy decor, and warm service. It started as an Arabic restaurant and still serves up classics like stews, Levantine beans such as foul and mosabaha, and grills. The menu feels like a hug from the past. We tried their signature Hummus Nashif, creamy hummus topped with tender meat cubes in a fresh tomato stew. It was a winner. The grilled chicken was just as solid, juicy, and paired with a free side of hummus and bread. Their hummus is so good, I didn’t mind seeing it twice. They also toss in generous sides like salads and pickles, which is a nice touch. One quirky highlight: you can ask the waiter to grab fresh tanoor bread from a nearby bakery. It is not even part of the restaurant, but it pairs perfectly and adds to the charm. The only letdown was the tea, just a teabag in hot water, though the fresh mint leaves helped. At 74 dirhams, the bill was a steal for the quality and portion. You pay at the counter on your way out, another nostalgic nod. The staff is super friendly, and parking is easy behind the place. Diplomat is a rare find, and I hope it sticks around forever. I will definitely be back. ”
“ A restaurant in the corners of the Old Sharjah. Great and authentic food, and the inside of the restaurant tells a lot since its inauguration. The lamb chops are one of a kind. Ibtried them once before but on my second visit they were not available. However they have a wide variety pf amazing dishes. The bread is freshly made and it was delicious. However, since it is an authentic restaurant, don’t expect much in terms of a luxury interior or a bathroom. It is just a place to pass by, eat good food and leave. ”