Halabiya

The Arabic word Halib means milk. So Halabiya could literally be translated as milk bar. But I’d call it a super-simple eatery.

Sandwich is a typical dish at a Halabiya. You tell the staff what you want on your sandwich. Sandwich with tuna and boiled egg is usually popular.

Other common dishes are chickpeas (hummus) and beans (loubia). They’re usually nice and flavourful thanks to the seasoning. It is served with bread.

When I order a sandwich, chickpeas or beans, I’m usually asked if I want Har. The word means hot in Arabic, which in a culinary context means spicy.

• Har on a sandwich means a spicy sauce
• Har on chickpeas or beans means grilled green chilli

I’ve only visited a few Halabiyas. Every time, the food has been ridiculously cheap. I’ve never been disappointed by the taste.