Dubai, UAE – September 2025 – Zaroob and NoGarlicNoOnions kicked off Season 2 of their street food heroes series with the legend himself, Abou Shady, live in Dubai! Known for his foul, balila, hummus, and labneh, Abou Shady didn’t just serve food rather he created a vibe, brought people together, and made Dubai feel a little more like Lebanon.
Morning Vibes at Zaroob
The weekend started with Anthony Rahayel live from Zaroob, sharing the excitement of having Abou Shady in Dubai. The energy was contagious – families showed up early, children were waiting with big smiles (some even asking for Tony!), and everyone wanted a chance to meet, take photos, and taste food made by a true Lebanese hero.
Anthony and Abou Shady kept the crowd engaged with laughter, traditions, and stories. Fans tuned in live from around the world – greetings came from as far as San Diego – reminding us that Lebanese food and culture truly travel beyond borders.
A Weekend of Real Food and Real Connections
Abou Shady’s menu was the star of the show:
- His foul, rich and hearty, had people lining up for second servings.
- The balila – slow-cooked chickpeas with lemon, olive oil, and spices – delivered comfort in every bite.
- His labneh with onions and meat struck the perfect balance of creaminess and savoriness.
- Guests loved the quail eggs, a delicate surprise rarely found in Dubai’s food scene.
- And of course, his signature hummus – every chickpea peeled by hand for unmatched smoothness – became the talk of the weekend.
- For the adventurous, his eggs with lamb fat (“leyet el ghanam”) brought bold, traditional flavors straight from Lebanon.
The atmosphere was buzzing. Guests laughed, shared stories, and took photos with Abou Shady, who welcomed everyone with warmth and humor. People didn’t just come for the food – they came for the experience, for the feeling of home, and for the chance to meet a true Lebanese food hero.
Crowds That Proved Authenticity Wins
On Saturday and Sunday, the turnout was huge – hundreds of people filled Zaroob. Families, food lovers, tourists, and expats all came to experience authentic Lebanese street food done right. Many guests even asked if Abou Shady could stay longer in Dubai, showing just how much impact he made in just one weekend.
It felt like a slice of Lebanon had been transported to Dubai. People didn’t just eat – they connected, they laughed, and they left with memories that tasted as good as the food.
A Hero That Sets the Stage for Season 2
As the first hero of seven to join Zaroob this season, Abou Shady set the perfect tone. His passion, humor, and dedication to authentic street food reminded everyone that real food comes with a story. This is what Zaroob and NGNO are all about – giving unsung heroes a platform and letting the world feel the vibe of true Levantine food culture.
About Zaroob
Zaroob, located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai, is a Levantine street food restaurant offering an authentic dining experience with traditional Levantine food and contemporary flavors. Known for its dynamic vibe and live cooking stations, Zaroob brings the best of Levantine food culture to Dubai, combining authenticity with modern flair.
About NoGarlicNoOnions
NoGarlicNoOnions is a renowned food blog founded by Anthony Rahayel. The platform focuses on uncovering the hidden gems of Lebanese cuisine, showcasing the stories of passionate chefs and food creators. It is a trusted source for authentic Levantine food and culinary travel experiences.
Follow the Journey:
Instagram: @zaroob | @nogarlicnoonions
YouTube: Watch Anthony & Abou Shady Live
