Shaku Maku's Unique Palestinian Culinary Night

In the vibrant neighbourhood of Rathmines, Adnan Shabab, the owner of Shaku Maku, a beloved Palestinian restaurant, is gearing up for a unique and heartwarming Palestinian Culinary Night. The purpose is to raise crucial funds for medics in Gaza, a cause close to Adnan’s heart.

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Shaku Maku isn’t just any restaurant; it’s a culinary haven that encapsulates the rich tapestry of Palestinian cuisine, rooted in Adnan’s family traditions. Passed down from his grandmother and mother, the recipes served at Shaku Maku tell a story of heritage, resilience, and a commitment to preserving the flavours of Palestine. Shaku Maku has demonstrated initiative in changing the world before. In a previous culinary night, the restaurant successfully raised an impressive €7,400 for the Irish Red Cross. The event was a resounding success, with the restaurant bustling with patrons eager to savour the authentic Palestinian dishes.

Due to overwhelming demand and the positive response from the community, Shaku Maku is set to host another family-style culinary night. Diners will come together in groups of four to eight, creating a familial and communal atmosphere. Adnan reveals that a special menu has been curated for the occasion, showcasing mouthwatering delicacies from various Palestinian regions.

“Some of these recipes are from specific Palestinian cities – we have the famous dessert Nablus knafeh from the Palestinian city of Nablus on offer,” Adnan shares. To accommodate a diverse range of tastes, the menu features delectable plant-based options for vegetarians and vegans. It promises to be a busy night, and anticipation is high for this gastronomic journey through Palestine.

Beyond the exquisite flavours, Adnan envisions this Palestinian Culinary Night as an opportunity for people to contribute to a noble cause. Shaku Maku, as a business, has been a staunch advocate for the Palestinian people amidst the ongoing challenges in Adnan’s homeland.

The restaurant faced adversity when a mural supporting Palestine was erected on its wall, leading to a barrage of negative Google reviews. However, Shaku Maku’s loyal customers rallied behind them, demonstrating unwavering support. Adnan reflects on the experience, saying, “Our customers really supported us through that, and we want to focus on the positives now by making some changes. There’s no point just watching from afar and asking ‘what can we do’ – even a little gesture can have a big impact.”

In the midst of adversity, Shaku Maku stands tall, using the power of food to bring people together, celebrate culture, and make a positive impact on the world. As diners gather for this special Palestinian Culinary Night, they aren’t just savouring delicious dishes; they are contributing to a cause that transcends borders and resonates with compassion for those in need.