Watany Manoushi

Located in the old Palmdale shopping centre, opposite Garden City, Watany is a morning walk through Beirut with its fresh bread, classic olive oil, sumac and za’tar trio, and rare Arabic produce. The underwhelming view of the carpark completely contrasts with what you're getting here: a wholesome Lebanese breakfast representing various regions in Lebanon and the Middle East, served with tea and stories. The Fatte plate combines a tanginess with tahini and fried pine nuts ($8.99) while the za’tar pastry rolled up into a wrap with tomato, cucumber olives and mint is freshness that fills you right up ($6.50). My favourite though is the spinach and fetta pastry ($6.80). The cheesy warmth and flavour coupled with the sweet tea reminds me of eating by a woodfire in the elevated mountains of Sawfar, Lebanon.