When it comes to Lebanese cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of flavour and tradition quite like Shish Tawouk. This popular grilled chicken skewer, marinated in a blend of spices and yoghurt, has become a staple on menus across the globe — but it’s in the kitchens of the best Lebanese restaurant Sydney that the dish truly shines. Charcoal-grilled to smoky perfection and served with fresh accompaniments, Shish Tawouk is a delicious example of what makes Lebanese cooking so beloved
What Is Shish Tawouk?
At its core, Shish Tawouk is skewered chicken that’s been marinated in a tangy, aromatic mixture often consisting of yoghurt, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and tomato paste. This marinade serves a dual purpose: it infuses the meat with bold flavour while tenderising it to ensure each bite is juicy and tender.
Once marinated, the chicken is grilled — ideally over charcoal — to achieve the perfect balance of charred edges and succulent interior. The result is a smoky, savoury dish with a hint of citrus and spice, often served with garlic toum (a fluffy garlic sauce), rice, pickles, or flatbread.
A Reflection of Lebanese Grilling Culture
Grilling is central to Lebanese cuisine. It’s not just a method of cooking — it’s a way of bringing people together. Shish Tawouk is often served at gatherings, from family dinners to street-side food stalls, offering both comfort and excitement in every bite.
The technique behind grilling over charcoal is key. Charcoal imparts a distinct smokiness that complements the spices and preserves the natural juices of the chicken. At the best Lebanese restaurant in Sydney, it’s this commitment to authenticity and cooking technique that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
What Makes It Stand Out
Shish Tawouk is often mistaken for other types of grilled chicken, but several factors set it apart:
-
The Marinade: The yoghurt and lemon not only add flavour but also help break down proteins in the meat, resulting in exceptional tenderness.
-
The Cooking Method: Charcoal grilling gives it a depth of flavour that pan-frying or oven roasting simply can’t replicate.
-
The Sides: Traditional accompaniments like toum, tabouleh, or rice pilaf add freshness and variety to the dish.
Together, these elements create a meal that is satisfying, aromatic, and layered in taste.
How It’s Served
At many Lebanese restaurants, Shish Tawouk is available as part of a mixed plate, served alongside lamb skewers, kafta, or falafel, offering a balanced experience for meat lovers. It also appears in banquets like the Classic Arabella or Mom’s Feast, paired with a range of appetisers and salads.
For a lighter option, it can be found in wraps with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and toum — perfect for lunch or a quick bite.
Why It’s a Must-Try
Whether you’re exploring Lebanese cuisine for the first time or you’re a seasoned fan, Shish Tawouk is a must-try dish. Its combination of bold flavour, juicy texture, and smoky char make it an easy favourite. It’s simple yet rich, comforting yet vibrant — a dish that perfectly represents the soul of Lebanese cooking.
At the best Lebanese restaurant in Sydney, Shish Tawouk continues to draw attention not just because of its taste, but because of the experience it offers: a taste of tradition, technique, and hospitality on a plate.
