Petiole: Bahrain's Vegan Oasis for Divine Dining Experiences
A hidden gem in Bahrain, Petiole stands out as a rare find - a fully vegan restaurant that promises divine culinary experiences. Nestled in the heart of the country, this establishment has been meticulously developed over three years, evolving into not just a place to eat but a haven for vegan food aficionados. Below the restaurant lies an affiliated grocery store that offers a range of products, including natural cosmetics sold by weight, underscoring its commitment to sustainability. Upon entering, guests are greeted by lush greenery, albeit artificial, in line with the eco-friendly principles upheld by Petiole. Natural light floods through large windows, illuminating a central bar adorned with climbing vines and glass cloches filled with delectable desserts.
Heading the culinary team are Sri Lankan chef Muhammad Sarif, boasting 16 years of vegan cooking experience in the Persian Gulf region, and Bahraini executive chef Khalid Aljoaib. Together, their vision for a more vegan-friendly Bahrain materialized into the reality of Petiole. Beyond just the menu, Petiole's dedication to veganism extends to strict measures against cross-contamination, including a policy prohibiting staff from wearing leather shoes while on duty. Their commitment to zero waste is evident in every aspect, from glass straws to reusable hand towels and eco-friendly to-go bags.
The name "Petiole" draws from botany, referring to the plant part that connects a leaf to the stem, facilitating the transfer of water and nutrients. This metaphor beautifully encapsulates Petiole's mission of providing patrons with a direct, natural pathway from earth to table.
The menu at Petiole is impressively dynamic, changing with the seasons to offer fresh and innovative dishes. A standout mocktail blends rose, cardamom, and citrus, topped with grapefruit foam, setting a high standard with its refreshing and nuanced flavors. A vegan "bang bang" shrimp taco made from tofu surprises with its oceanic taste. Other highlights include grilled Padron peppers, crispy mac and cheese balls with a robust marinara sauce, and "scallops" crafted from compressed tofu, showcasing the culinary team's creativity and skill.
Save room for dessert, as Petiole delights with offerings like maple spiced crème brûlée, a creamy cardamom-and-saffron custard with hints of cinnamon, alongside passion fruit and rose pistachio options that tantalize the taste buds with their unique flavors and textures.
Located in Janabiyah at District 1 Mall, Petiole is open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight, offering a range of brunch, lunch, and dinner options priced approximately between 10 and 16 Bahraini dinars (around $25 to $30). For convenience, they also provide delivery through Talabat. Stay updated with Petiole's offerings and updates by following them on Instagram.
