Hasan Alwarhani
Their Story
Hasan Alwarhani, originally from Swaida, Syria, grew up in a village near Damascus, where food was intrinsically linked to family life and cooked fresh from their farm. His culinary skills were primarily taught by his mother and sister, who instilled in him the traditional Syrian recipes and…
What They Make
Damascus Restaurant offers a comprehensive menu of Syrian dishes designed for sharing, reflecting the warm hospitality of Syrian culture. Signature items include various manakish (Syrian pizzas) with fillings like beef and tahini, homemade Syrian cheese, and the popular spinach and feta. Other savoury delights feature marinated and spiced chicken shawarma, traditional Syrian hummus mdamas, Samaki Harra (Spicy Fish), zingy dips and salads, and wraps with marinated meats or falafel. They also serve hearty mains such as shish tawook and lamb sajak, alongside fresh flatbreads baked daily. For dessert, Flora, a pastry chef, prepares exquisite baklava with honey and pistachios, crème brûlée, and Ma'amoul cookies. The beverage selection includes Syrian tea, Arabic coffee, and a curated list of natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, including some Middle Eastern varieties. The restaurant also offers "Habibi Sharing Plates" on Tuesdays, inviting diners to experience Syrian communal dining. Their street food arm, Alswaida by Damascus, focuses on quick, delicious Syrian street food. Its menu includes Chicken Shawarma (available as a wrap or on a plate), Falafel Wrap, Falafel on a Plate, Fatoush Salad, Chickpea Salad, Addas Salad, and sides like Chips with Thum (garlic sauce).
Awards & Recognition
- Cuisine Good Food Awards — Gained a Hat(2025)
More from Hasan Alwarhani
How to Get Their Products
Direct Sales
Shop 4/100 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Dine-in, Takeaway, Online Ordering (Pickup via Alswaida website), Online Ordering (Delivery via Alswaida website, Uber Eats, Delivereasy)