Our culinary columnist is pleased as (zero-proof) punch about Ramadan offerings at local restaurants.
I resonate with the phrase: “Never discuss politics or religion in polite company.” Conversations that veer toward politics rarely end on a positive note. Yet I am sometimes compelled to share my own beliefs because Americans have such strong opinions on both topics that they tend to come up in casual conversation.
Thankfully during non-election years and between religious holidays, friends and coworkers are less stressful to be around. Personally I’ve reached a point where I can respect another person’s dissenting thoughts and agree to disagree with politics. I also like learning more about how other religions celebrate their own spiritual times of the year, like Ramadan.
This year, Ramadan occurs between Feb. 28 and March 29. During this time, Muslims observe each day of this holy month with prayer, acts of service and times of peaceful reflection. They also fast from sunrise to sunset in order to practice self-discipline, empathize with those less fortunate, purify their hearts, and renew their faith.
To get a better sense of how some break their fast during Ramadan, I checked in at Fullerton’s Michelin-acknowledged Khan Saab and Mint in Laguna Hills, restaurants that adapt their dinner service during this spiritual time of the year.
Helmed by Chef Jamil Hosseini and Consulting Chef Imran “Ali” Mookhi, Khan Saab, Mint and its sister restaurant Shor in Hawaiian Gardens serve Desi/South Asian cuisine, however nuances in ambiance and menus at these restaurants make them appealing for Muslim diners.
All three locations will serve dates, called khajoor, which are typically consumed to break the fast of Ramadan. “We will also serve samosas and vegetable pakoras (fritters) – popular snacks that bring a sense of celebration and community during gatherings for iftar (the evening meal),” Mookhi said. Fresh fruits and rose water will also appear on the menu, as they are traditionally consumed throughout Ramadan.
“Khan Saab offers a more refined, fine dining environment with elegant decor and luxurious ambiance,” Mookhi said. In comparison, “Mint has a warm, casual atmosphere ideal for families and everyday meals.” An updated seating layout and improved lighting situation present welcoming and contemporary vibes.
At Mint. PHOTO 1: Goat cheese kulcha topped with shaved truffle and gunpowder spice. PHOTO 2: Purple Haze is a zero-proof beverage featuring lavender-infused molasses. PHOTO 3: Zesty key lime cheesecake counts as a serving of fruit. Photos by Anne Marie Panoringan, Culture OC PHOTO 4: The renovated dining room. Photo courtesy of Mint
Having dined at both O.C. spots, I wanted to better understand the flavor differences between Mint and Khan Saab. “Mint serves a wide selection of Indian dishes, highlighting traditional favorites like chicken karahi and garlic naan; its menu combines classic flavors with modern touches, appealing to a broad audience,” Mookhi said. At Khan Saab, the dishes are 100% halal (prepared according to Muslim law) with a focus on upscale Indian and Pakistani cuisine. “Mint is approachable and versatile, catering to various tastes with its diverse menu. Meanwhile, Khan Saab is more specialized, delivering a premium, authentic halal dining experience with distinctive dishes not typically found at other Indian restaurants,” Mookhi said.
Orange County’s Mint and Khan Saab only pour Muslim-friendly, zero-proof beverages. Mint upgraded its drink menu to include mocktails plus alcohol-free wines and beers during its recent remodel by including a designated bar to prepare these beverages. Of the half-dozen mocktail options my favorite was Purple Haze, featuring Seedlip 108 (a nonalcoholic spirit), lavender-infused molasses and lime.
Notable items on Mint’s food menu include a goat cheese kulcha (flatbread) topped with black truffle, shaved parmesan and gunpowder spice (lentils, seeds and a myriad of spices). For proteins, sustainable, wild-caught salmon is smoked then perfectly cooked with garnishes of fresh dill and mustard. Note: A side of pickle possesses a flavor that is less pickled, more fiery; I learned that the hard way. For dessert, a zesty, key lime New York-inspired cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, finished with fruits and lime glaze is a delight.
Here are a few other restaurants in Orange County that offer Ramadan-friendly menus.
Aleppo's Kitchen, 2414 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim. Offering Syrian cuisine, Aleppo’s is known for the Ramadan buffet full of traditional Middle Eastern dishes.
House Of Mandi, 518 S. Brookhurst St., Anaheim. This Yemeni family-run restaurant offers dishes designed for groups.
Al-Sultan Mediterranean Grill, 1707 S. Brookhurst St., Anaheim. Here you can find baba ghanouj, chicken shawarma and beef kafta sandwiches.
The Kebab Shop, 1515 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim. Like Chipotle, this Mediterranean-inspired chain lets you build your own wraps, bowls and plates, mixing and matching chicken thighs, saffron chicken, lamb beef, steak, ground beef, falafel and vegetarian options. The carbed lamb beef is halal and in past years, the shop has offered platters for iftar.
Bei Restaurant, 1951 Harbor Blvd. #B, Costa Mesa. This Lebanese full-service restaurant offers halal and late-night options. It also has a private dining room.
Zait and Za’atar, 510 N. Brookhurst St. #106, Anaheim. Traditional Lebanese fare specializing in wraps and an extensive bakery. Their Instagram account mentions they are also opening a location in Aliso Viejo soon.
