Quest I: Slaying the packed chicken sesame pita of Madeira

This menace was promised to be a strong contender for best kebab - even SHISH Kebab House is the self-proclaimed “best kebab” on the lovely island of Madeira, Portugal. In a sea with only 3-4 choices and one which has recently shuttered, this title likely shouldn’t be bestowed upon this establishment. They pride themselves on halal, handmade kebabs and deliver this well.

Except for the exceptional bread, the other ingredients were but mediocre combatants which didn’t survive the field test. The flavors were just a little bit… off. The chicken a bit slimy and too dark. The sauce a little weird and didn’t play that nicely with the other ingredients or juices. Too few vegetables to make a difference. What really stood out what the outstanding handmade bread, definitely the best on Madeira, which held up well with the juices and sauce. The last few bites of kebabs can get quite messy if filled with sauce. If pressed on the battlefield, I prefer to walk away with clean hands than dirty ones.

Madeira’s Kebab scene is still in the making, and Madeira’s specialties and spices are far from those that might be viewed as cookie-cutter on Kebabs. Madeira’s strengths lie in beef and fish mainly, as well as some fruits. How does one rate an up-and-coming location for kebabs? The restaurants at the vanguard of growth shouldn’t be penalized for lack of infrastructure and spices to get the best ingredients, yet the ultimate quest for the world’s best kebab is a brutal one. Sorry SHISH Kebab House, it was a valiant effort that will surely improve over time. For now, the throne is held by another.