Barcelona’s Eixample district, home to 260,000 residents, welcomed Shawarma Haifa on 1 July, a new Palestinian restaurant that has rapidly become a local favourite by serving authentic shawarmas and showcasing its culture.

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The restaurant’s owner, a veteran of Barcelona’s dining scene with over 30 years of experience, conceived Shawarma Haifa as a tribute to his hometown, Haifa. Amir, the 32-year-old restaurant manager, explained the concept to Metrópoli, stating, “We make authentic shawarmas, not kebabs.” This distinction highlights their commitment to traditional preparation.

Amir, who has lived in Spain for five years, joined the project eight months ago. He noted the immediate success, describing the initial two weeks as an “extraordinary boom.” The restaurant’s open kitchen, where customers can watch bread being baked and meat carved from the vertical rotisserie, contributes to its appeal.

Authentic Palestinian Flavours in Eixample

Shawarma Haifa prides itself on its authentic Palestinian cuisine, preparing all ingredients from scratch. This includes marinating the meat, baking fresh bread on-site, and crafting homemade sauces. Entrees are priced around €4, with quality shawarmas available for €7, making it an accessible option for many.

The interior design features photographs of Haifa, depicting its sea, streets, and daily life. This decor serves as a declaration of identity, not merely an aesthetic choice. The team reflects this transparency, with accents from Syria, Lebanon, Morocco, and Palestine, alongside Catalan and Spanish speakers.

Amir emphasised the importance of this diversity, stating, “To serve people well, you need everything.” Palestinian chefs dominate the kitchen, ensuring authentic recipes. Meanwhile, the multilingual front-of-house staff ensures every customer feels welcome and understood.

Word-of-Mouth Success and Community Engagement

The restaurant’s rapid growth did not rely on traditional advertising campaigns. Instead, it flourished through organic word-of-mouth. Amir observed, “People did more advertising than us.” Customers recorded videos, and influencers visited, drawn by the novelty and transparent kitchen.

Approximately 70% of Shawarma Haifa’s clientele are local residents, reflecting its strong community integration. Amir had also generated content on TikTok before the opening. This helped connect with the Palestinian and Arab communities and build initial interest. The restaurant quickly became a trend, praised for its aesthetic, two-floor concept, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Showcasing Palestinian Culture Through Cuisine

Beyond its culinary offerings, Shawarma Haifa serves a broader cultural purpose. Amir highlighted that many people previously associated Palestine primarily with conflict. He stated, “People only knew about wars.” The restaurant now provides a different narrative.

Through dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma, the establishment fosters conversations about Palestinian culture, customs, and daily life. Amir expressed his pride, saying, “I am very proud to be able to show this in a different way.” This approach offers context alongside cuisine.

Barcelona’s multicultural environment supports this exchange. Amir finds the city welcoming and diverse, which is reflected in the restaurant’s varied customer base. He noted, “I receive people from all cultures every day,” including local Catalans, Spaniards, and members of the Arab community.

A Multicultural Hub in Barcelona

Amir feels a deep personal connection to the project, stating simply, “I feel happy.” He values the opportunity to represent his culture in a city that appreciates diversity. The restaurant aims to maintain its high quality and continue its growth. While specific future plans remain open, Amir hinted, “There might be surprises,” indicating a commitment to exploring new developments and sustaining their current success.

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Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta – Urban Life. Read original article.