Iftar of the day: Ya Baladi, Coral Boutique Hotel Apartments, Dubai

Ya Baladi in Al Barsha sells itself as a “home-style” establishment, offering “a true taste of Lebanon”. It delivers on both accounts.

Hot and cold mezze are served at the table, and taste fresher than most of the bulk stock some buffets offer. Interesting twists includes hummus with chopped up mint, liver in piquant dark gravy and fattoush where even the croutons are flavourful.

The chef uses balsamic vinegar generously, so salads are light and zesty, some sweetish, others more tangy.

Two types of soup are on offer, and I found the lentil option rich and filling.

From a choice of three main courses, I was quite impressed with my flame-grilled chicken (the portions are huge — half a chicken was placed in front of me), served with wild rice peppered with nuts and raisins.

Apart from fresh fruit, there are two other dessert options, if you have space for Arabic sweets and puddings.

The options change daily, so visit more than once.

Price: Dh135. Iftar is served until 9.30pm. Call 04-3409040.