If you’ve been on Narborough Road in Leicester lately, you might have noticed a new, mouth-watering aroma wafting through the air. That’s the unmistakable smell of authentic Lebanese slow-roasted meat served in a cone wrap, known as a shawarma. Chef Mazen Akeel is the Lebanese chef who’s making waves at Alo Beirut.

If you are craving the real deal when it comes to shawarma, chef Mazen brings more than just his culinary skills, he brings the spirit of Lebanon with him.

“For me, shawarma isn’t just food; it’s a celebration,” he says, as he expertly seasons his meat.

His signature shawarma marinade features a blend of Lebanese herbs and spices sumac, za’atar, and tahini, which gives the meat that perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savoury flavours. Whether it is tender lamb, juicy chicken, or flavourful beef, Mazen slow roasts the meat to perfection, ensuring it is melt-in-your-mouth delicious every time.

And then there’s the garlic sauce — toum — that he drizzles generously over each shawarma, giving it that extra zing. Mazen also serves his shawarma with crispy fries, tangy pickles, and fresh, fluffy baked pita. It’s everything you want in a shawarma, and more.

A fun fact Mazen shares: In Lebanon, eating shawarma is more than just grabbing a quick bite.

“Shawarma is about bringing people together,” he says. “It’s a social experience. In Beirut, we’d gather around the grill with friends and family, laughing and sharing. That’s what I want to recreate here.”

Alo Beirut is quickly becoming the go-to spot for shawarma lovers in Leicester, with customers flocking in from all over to taste Mazen’s creations. The blend of traditional Lebanese spices and his modern twist makes it clear: when it comes to shawarma, Alo Beirut is setting the bar high. If you haven’t tried it yet, your next lunch or dinner needs to be at Alo Beirut.