Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo
Written by Fathima Rukaiya,
Mad Dogs Bodega, Banyan situated right in front of Sentido Heritance Negombo, has recently unveiled an exquisite Mediterranean menu in celebration of Ramadan. The restaurant’s warm ambiance, complemented by soft lighting, invites guests to enjoy a delightful dining experience. Whether you choose to sit indoors or outdoors, the ample seating ensures comfort.
What truly sets this place apart is its open kitchen concept. As you settle in, you’ll have the pleasure of witnessing the skilled chefs in action. Their meticulous preparation and attention to detail add an extra layer of authenticity to your meal.
The food at Mad Dogs Bodega is nothing short of exceptional. Carefully crafted by talented chefs, each dish bursts with flavor. From the tantalizing aromas to the beautifully plated dishes, every aspect reflects their dedication and passion. And don’t miss the welcome drink – a refreshing way to break your fast and awaken your taste buds.
The Irresistible Mezze Platter
This delightful assortment featured three distinct varieties of creamy hummus. The classic hummus was a timeless favorite, while the beetroot-infused hummus added a delightful twist. Mad Dogs has truly mastered the art of hummus preparation.
Accompanying the hummus were hot, crispy falafels, savory fataya with minced chicken, pita bread and a refreshing coleslaw. The contrast between the warm, crunchy bites and the cool, creamy dips was delightful. The falafels were impeccably crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside. As for the fatayas, they burst with rich flavors, leaving no room for disappointment. And the coleslaw? It was a perfect balance of crispness and freshness.
Rs: 8,650/=
Delightful Mediterranean Chips
The chips platter featured a delightful combination of crispy potato wedges, polenta chips and salted pita chips. Accompanied by two flavorful dips, it was a treat for the taste buds. The first dip was a refreshing mint – dill sour cream, perfectly complementing the potatoes. The second dip, although spicy, had a creamy texture that added an exciting kick to the overall experience.
Another delightful combination to explore is dipping the crisps in hummus. The beetroot hummus, in particular, pairs exceptionally well with the crispy chips. Its unique blend of flavors – sweet, tangy, and savory – creates a memorable taste experience.
Rs: 5,350/=
Chicken and Beef Kofta Platter
The kofta platter arrived alongside a classic serving of couscous, generously sprinkled with chopped bell peppers. This delightful platter featured a total of three beef koftas and three chicken koftas.
The koftas were nothing short of exquisite – tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Each bite revealed a delightful surprise: a filling of creamy feta cheese. As for the couscous, while it was decent, it didn’t steal the spotlight from the star of the show – the perfectly executed koftas.
Rs: 6,850/=
Exquisite Shawarma Bowl
The shawarma bowl arrived with a delightful assortment of components: a single portion of rice, red kidney beans, classic hummus, pita bread, zesty avocado – tomato salsa, and tangy pickles. A side of creamy garlic mayo completed the ensemble.
The star of the show was the shawarma chicken, impeccably seasoned and bursting with flavor. The rice, light and soft, provided the perfect base. The salsa added a delightful kick, balancing the dish beautifully.
For a personalized touch, you could assemble your own mini shawarma using the pita bread served. Layer the chicken, mayo, and pickles – tailor it to your taste.
Rs: 4,350/=
Legendary Turkish Pide
First, the minced beef pide – a masterpiece. Succulent minced beef mingled with melted cheese, creating a harmonious blend. Each bite was a contrast of textures – the crunch of the crust yielding to the tender filling. It was spot on, a savory revelation.
Next, the egg pide – a delightful surprise. Gooey egg and cheese, perfectly encased in that same golden crust. It was comfort food elevated, a warm embrace on a plate.
And for those seeking variety, there were more paths to explore: minced lamb pide and cheese with spinach pide. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer a vegetarian twist, this pide promises an unforgettable experience.
Minced beef pide: Rs. 3,500/=
Egg, tomato and cheese pide: Rs. 3,100/=
Chicken JUMBO Shish Tawook
As our appetites surrendered to the feast, we opted for a takeaway portion of shish tawook. The neatly packed container held three generous slices of boneless chicken. Each piece was a masterpiece – perfectly marinated chicken, crispy on the edges, with a delightful smokey flavor. But the magic lay within: tender, juicy chicken that melted in our mouths.
Accompanying the chicken were roasted onions and tomato slices. And what’s a shish tawook without its trusty sidekicks? A slice of warm pita bread awaited, ready to cradle the succulent chicken. But that’s not all – a fragrant mound of basmati rice and a refreshing lettuce and feta cheese salad completed the ensemble.
Rs. 4,350/=
The Menu
Your Next Iftar Meal
At Mad Dogs Bodega, it’s more than just an iftar menu – it’s a symphony of Mediterranean flavors, a celebration of authenticity. This Ramadan, they’ve truly outdone themselves. A visit here is a must before the holy month concludes. And mark my words: once you experience their culinary magic, you’ll keep coming back for more! Plus, the convenience of a takeaway menu allows you to savor these delights in the comfort of your own space.
May this Ramadan bring you peace, blessings, and joy. Ramadan Mubarak!
Location: No. 175 Lewis Pl, Negombo 11500
Menu available from: 10:00am – 10:30pm
For more information: 076 877 6438 | 0317 431 431
