Visit to Abu Naji
Joshua P.
As a group, we decided to visit Abu Naji. It is a family-owned Yemeni restaurant located off Busch Blvd. in Tampa.
First Steps
When arriving at the area, we were confused about where the entrance was because of the restaurant's outside appearance. However, there was a door propped open that led us to the restaurant’s interior. There was little lighting in the lobby area, which made me think, “Are they closed?” Thankfully, a man appeared from the kitchen doors and took the three of us. (The reason why it took a while was because they were preparing the evening feast for Ramadan.
As we walked to our table, we saw a traditional Yemeni dining area nearby—patted carpet and cushioned seating. The walls, cushions, and carpet were covered in intricately designed cloth. It was nice to see that this restaurant stays close to its tradition because this was a common sighting in one of the food shows we watched—the host of the show ate food in a similar (floor) dining area. Unlike a traditional dining area that was enclosed and private, this dining area they had was open because there was an open wall that was covered in greenery. Because of the current season, two banners saying “RAMADAN MUBARAK” were hung on the walls. Our modern seating area was typical of most culturally-inspired restaurants. However, the walls had beautiful designs.
Outside Scenery
Traditional Seating Area
Indoor Scenery
Staff Etiquette
During our visit, our waiter continuously checked up on us. Even though he was busy helping prepare the evening feast, he did not fail to see how we were doing. We were the only guests present because it was an afternoon during Ramadan. This enhanced our visit overall because we could privately indulge in our meals and have a one-on-one interaction with the staff.
The Best Part…The Food!
Their menu had two sides: Traditional Yemeni dishes & American dishes. Despite being a big menu to hold, there were not many options. Ironically, each dish contained more food than we thought. I chose to get the Whole Chicken Mendi. This was served with buttered jasmine rice, cucumber salad, and sahawiq.
Before receiving our food, our waiter gave us spoons, forks, and knives that sat on a tray. Each of our dishes was brought out on square-shaped plates. Each plate had the steaming entrée sitting on top of a mountain of rice. We were all in shock at how much rice was on the plate. I, for one, was in shock at how big of a chicken was sitting right in front of me! Never in my life had I seen a chicken like this.
Delving into the chicken was like slicing butter with a hot knife. That chicken had to be the most tender chicken I had ever eaten! To complement, the sahawiq and buttered rice added more flavor to the chicken. My group members had ordered Lamb Haneeth, which they commented as being delicious. Our orders became leftovers because of how much food we had gotten.
Whole Chicken Mendi
Our table of food!
The menu
Q&A with Our Waiter
As a group, we asked the staff three questions to understand how they present their culture through food. The staff member we asked was Abdul, who was our waiter. I have put his responses in quotes.
What unique spices and flavors define their cuisine?
“We cook our chicken on the rocks. So it gives a rocky-smoky flavor in our dishes, and then we get our seasoning from Saudi.”
Cooking on rocks, particularly charcoal, is the traditional method of cooking Yemeni food. I want to mention that the Chicken Mendi had a smoky taste.
What is the story behind their food—its origins and inspiration?
“It has been my dad’s dream to open a restaurant.”
From the moment we entered inside, I could tell their place was family-owned! The dishes that were present on the menu were traditional Yemeni dishes.
How does their food transcend borders and adapt to new cultures?
“We try to have Americans, non-Americans, Arabs, everyone try our food. It’s different, unique and they like it.”
His response is supported by the fact that their menu features an array of American dishes. This diverse selection caters to individuals who are not adventurous to try new foods but rather have a Yemeni spin on home foods.
Conclusion
Our restaurant visit was a cultural experience of visiting Yemen without physically visiting it. Rather, the food we ate served as a means of transportation!
