An interesting kebab find in Makati

Kebab Turki Baba Rafi at the Dela Rosa Carpark is a find. And sampling what they have to offer is a wonderful discovery.

There are many kebab places around the metro and for the Filipino, it’s incarnated as the ubiquitous shawarma, popular and a fast, yet cheap snack or a healthy alternative to heavier meals especially those watching their weight. And here comes another player trying out their luck in the very competitive niche food market.

Kebab Turki Baba Rafi originated in Indonesia where it proudly banners as the biggest kebab franchise in the world with around 1,100 carts. From there, it has now branched out in Malaysia and, starting October 2012, the first Philippine franchise opened in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Two more branches opened in December: Robinsons Manila and the Dela Rosa Carpark in Makati. The latter two aren’t carts anymore but permanent stalls.

I entered the yellow and red shop in Makati and the place is pleasantly clean. A glass partition separates the food area where one can readily see one’s order being prepared. Their best seller is the double cheese beef kebab (there’s also a chicken version, both P110) which I got paired with their amazing matcha (P35, medium).

The kebab order arrived in a neat carton packaging that’s bright yellow and interesting. Its almost similar to KFC’s twister but instead of a flap that you tear around, the opening is at the top end. To get to the carefully wrapped kebab inside, it has a patented red strip near the center that is pulled up that releases the kebab. The packaging is also such that the sauces and juice inside doesn’t drip, a common complaint when eating this one.

The aroma of a freshly made kebab is wonderful, smokey and something that will open one’s appetite, abre gana. At first bite, I can feel the neat texture of the grilled (not just heated), thin yet crisp tortilla. In itself, its a morsel, made with butter, milk and secret ingredients. Its the first thing that you’ll notice and taste.

The other ingredients then start to assert themselves. Pure US beef is flavorful, well seasoned. The vegetables are fresh and crisp. Binding these together is the garlic sauce. In the original recipe, its just a mixture of mayo and catsup but based on tests in the country, the garlic sauce is preferred. I opted for mildly spicy and liked how it is.

I really had a great time eating at Kebab Turki Baba Rafi. The one I had was filling and great tasting. A single piece is enough to have for lunch. The amazing matcha is also interesting for its green tea flavor and texture. Other than that, they also have lemonade and sweet tamarind which I’m looking forward to try next time.

Do try this kebab place out and tell me what you think.

Kebab Turki Baba Rafi
www.babarafi.com.ph
@KebabTurkiPH
87878 (for delivery)