LA Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal embarks on a new street food series in the capital
Move over courtside, Shaq’s now curbside in Abu Dhabi, diving into the city’s street food with the same gusto he once reserved for slam dunks!
In keeping in line with the capital’s growing interest in basketball culminating in the NBA returning to Yas Island in October, the NBA legend is trading hoops for hummus in a new series.
The former LA Lakers great explores the mouthwatering marvels of the Emirati capital’s street eats, dishing out his larger-than-life food reviews along the way.
In ‘Shaq’s Abu Dhabi Street Food Journey,’ our favorite big man swaps baskets for bites, kicking things off at Al Dhafra restaurant with a feast of lamb ghouzi. He calls this dish a “team player,” with meat, rice, and spices working together like a dream team.
Next, Shaq heads to Luqaimat and Chebab, where he finds luqaimat (sweet dough balls with date syrup) that he dubs “mini basketballs” – except these don’t require a net, just an appetite!
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But the fun doesn’t stop at eating. Shaq gets his hands dirty at Beit El Khetyar, where he crafts a massive shawarma fit for a superstar – the “Shaqwarma,” because of course, it’s named after him! This shawarma isn’t just a snack; it’s an MVP – Most Valuable Plate.
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Shaq also shares humorous and insightful commentary about his culinary adventures in Al Sultan Sweets (a crowd favourite Arabic sweets shop), India Palace Restaurant (authentic Indian cuisine), Bu Tafish (a traditional seafood dining establishment since 1968) and Seashell (Abu Dhabi’s unique twist on fast food favourites).
From sweet treats at Al Sultan Sweets to a burger dunk at Mo’s Joint, Shaq’s journey through Abu Dhabi’s street food scene is nothing short of a culinary slam dunk.
His infectious energy and love for food make this series a must-watch. Shaq and Abu Dhabi: now that’s a combo we can all cheer for!
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