The heritage of Middle-Eastern food does not only belong to their people

Although a manager can talk about future development of Middle Eastern dishes at a restaurant, the menu at Babylon is more Xinjiang-Uygur than that of Arabian culture.

As in other Xinjiang-Uygur style restaurants, there is roast lamb, kebabs, and da pan ji, as well as other Islamic dishes.

The difference is in their elaboration, great taste, and bigger variety.

The da pan ji (big-bowl chicken) is tender and delicious. It's easy to tell, from the first taste, that it was not made at an ordinary Uygur restaurant.

The nang (Xinjiang bread), served with lamb ribs on top, is soft, yet crispy outside, tasting more like Western style bread.

Apart from the staple Xinjiang Uygur cuisine, there are other elaborately designed dishes available, such as black chicken stewed with Tianshan snow lotus flower. Snow lotus is a rare herb produced in Xinjiang. It is said to be good for the kidneys, as well as increase the sexual vitality of men and adjust any menstruation difficulties for women.

The decor definitely has a Middle Eastern influence. The front door slides away to reveal a cave. The ceiling of the main dining hall is more than 10 meters high, offering an impressive open space.

The Roman-style columns, and yellow and purple curtains, add to the Middle Eastern atmosphere.

The restaurant defines its cuisine as "finely made Xinjiang and Middle Eastern food." Xinjiang style dishes are served in big bowls, and in big quantity. The big-bowl chicken costs 45 yuan (US$5.4) and a roast lamb leg 98 yuan (US$12).

Hours: 11 am - 2 pm, 5 pm - 10 pm

Location: No 69 Jinbaojie,

Tel: 86-10-85111339

(Beijing Weekend October 15, 2004)