News Summary
Levant BBQ, a new restaurant in Houston, Texas, has introduced a unique dish known as brisket shawarma, combining Central Texas barbecue with Levantine flavors. This innovative creation features flavorful brisket, accompanied by vibrant accompaniments like hummus, pickles, and jalapeños, all wrapped in a panini-pressed tortilla. The dish has quickly gained popularity among locals and reflects the cultural fusion prevalent in Texas cuisine. Owner Mohamad Kharboutli aims to celebrate diverse culinary traditions while inviting diners to explore new flavors.
Houston Introduces Brisket Shawarma at Levant BBQ
Levant BBQ, a newly established restaurant in Houston, Texas, is captivating locals with its unique culinary twist: brisket shawarma. Situated at the intersection of Westheimer Road and Fountain View Drive, Levant BBQ opened its doors in 2024 under the ownership of Mohamad Kharboutli, aiming to combine the essence of Central Texas-style barbecue with the rich traditions of Levantine cuisine, which encompasses regions from modern-day Syria and beyond.
The brisket shawarma has rapidly turned heads in the Houston food scene, particularly because it does not come with a formal description on the menu. Instead, its composition is seemingly self-evident to those ordering it. The dish features chopped brisket accompanied by a variety of accompaniments including hummus spread, optionally toum, pickles, red onion, and jalapeños, all encased within a thin tortilla that is panini-pressed and seared to perfection. The brisket boasts a thick, lustrous bark reminiscent of obsidian, delivering a visually striking and flavorful component to the meal.
A Taste of Flavor Fusion
The experience of enjoying brisket shawarma at Levant BBQ goes beyond the quality of its ingredients. The combination of the dish’s elements creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The crispy, light flatbread envelops the savory brisket, while the sweet notes from the hummus enhance the overall taste experience. Jalapeños introduce a level of spiciness, pairing effectively with the briny punch of pickles that further elevate the dish. Customers are also encouraged to complement their meal with Levant BBQ’s signature sauce made from pomegranate molasses, which has been highlighted as a delicious addition.
Culinary Traditions and Immigration
This innovative brisket shawarma serves as more than just a meal; it symbolizes the broader tapestry of culinary integration in Texas. The state has long been known as a melting pot, where various immigrant cuisines collide and create new culinary masterpieces, seen over the years with influences from Vietnamese, Egyptian, and Ethiopian dishes, among others. The introduction of brisket shawarma at Levant BBQ raises an important question about the role of such dishes in challenging critiques regarding America’s identity as a “nation of immigrants.” It serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural narratives that beautifully intertwine within the local food landscape.
Owner Mohamad Kharboutli’s vision reflects a commitment to not only offer delicious food but also to foster understanding and appreciation across diverse cultures through culinary expression. The brisket shawarma stands as a vibrant embodiment of this fusion, inviting diners to explore something deeper than just the plate before them.
Conclusion
In a city renowned for its diverse dining scene, Levant BBQ offers a new and exciting addition with the brisket shawarma, expertly marrying Central Texas barbecue with Levantine influences. As residents and visitors alike flock to this restaurant, the brisket shawarma is likely to continue garnering attention and sparking discussions around culture, tradition, and the evolving identity of America’s culinary landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle: Brisket Shawarma at Levant BBQ
- Houston Chronicle: Tex-Mex Restaurant Expanding
- Houston Chronicle: Picos Restaurant Closure
- Wikipedia: Food in Texas
- Your Houston News: State Farm Stadium
- Google Search: Houston Barbecue
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
