It was truly a memorable gathering, as we had our Enak! Xtra event at Damai 12 by Sahara Tent.
The event was hosted by Hoda Sayyahi and Azlina Azmi, whose hard work made the afternoon seamless. It kicked off with opening remarks from Keats Markandu, who warmly thanked the hosts for their dedication and hard work for organising this event.
One of the most delightful touches came right at the entrance. As we walked into this beautiful bungalow, the hosts greeted us with warm smiles and handed each guest a small, colourful flower brooch. The red, yellow and green brooches cleverly indicated our food choices through different colours. Such a simple yet ingenious idea by the hosts, showing their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
Damai 12 by Sahara Tent, proved to be a perfect choice. It felt just like a welcoming home, beautifully decorated with warm wooden furniture and fresh green plants. Between the soothing view of the pool through the window and the pleasant Arabic music playing softly in the background, it created the ideal, charming backdrop for our lunch.
The culinary journey, curated at a special menu price of RM 55 per person, was a celebration of authentic Middle Eastern flavours. The meal began with a comforting bowl of Lentil Soup which was warm, hearty, and simply delicious. It set the tone for what was to come. Next, we shared the Mezze Platter with Arabian bread, a feast for both the eyes and palate. Each table of four enjoyed stuffed grape leaves and a refreshing chickpea-pomegranate salad, flanked by classics like creamy hummus, finely chopped tabbouleh, smoky baba ganoush, and a rich spiced stewed eggplant. It was a true celebration of Middle Eastern cuisine.
For the main course, participants chose from three incredibly generous options: a robust Lamb Kebab served with fragrant Basmati rice, a flavourful Moroccan Chicken Couscous with rich gravy, or a savory Bathenjan Gravy served with traditional Arabic bread.
The portions were so generous that many of us happily packed the remaining food to enjoy later at home. Throughout the meal, we were also served with drinking water and a refreshing lemon mint drink that quenched our thirst and complemented the rich flavours of the dishes perfectly.
While enjoying sweet baklava and traditional mint tea, the room was treated to a special highlight when Hoda introduced the restaurant’s owner, Datuk Ala H. Salih. He graciously shared his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, which began in New Zealand in 1994 before he expanded his passion for hospitality to Malaysia. Damai 12 marks his fourth restaurant establishment, which he lovingly
transformed from his personal bungalow into the stunning dining venue in centre of Kuala Lumpur.
The memorable afternoon concluded with a group photograph, capturing the bright smiles and shared satisfaction of all attendees. The captured moment reflected not just the joy of an exceptional meal, but the deep cultural connection and friendship that defines the Malaysian Cultural Group.
Review with many thanks to Elcy Thomas
