Al Naqa Lao Kebab House

I stumbled upon this labour of love - tucked inside Motor City’s Neighbourhood Food Hall - on a dusty summer Wednesday night. That evening, I sampled The Naqa Cola: a healthy, home-brewed soda with a poignant backstory, and listened to chef-founder AJ share his “why” behind Al Naqa Lao Kebab House. Curiosity piqued, I returned in less than 24 hours to try the Double Dragon. Next thing you know, my eyes are closing mid-bite as I savour kebabs cooked over a heady mix of firewood; paired perfectly with yellow rice dotted with sweet raisins. I shouldn’t be mentioning them in the same sentence…but Colonel Sanders’ KFC ain’t got nothing on Grandma’s Fried Chicken (GFC), which I ordered on the side. I left satiated and content - and a splash of Iced Pineapple Coconut Limeonade was all kinds of refreshing, which I took home for the fam. Big love, luck, and my best wishes to AJ and the team, who’ll soon be shifting to The Market Island at Dubai Festival City Mall. I haven’t been to Laos (yet!) but the flavours and hospitality transported me to Thailand - and just like I’d return to the Land of Smiles in a heartbeat - I’d return here, too.

I wanted to try the chicken dish but it sold out. So I got the kabob dish. Wow, the chicken was so soft usually chicken kabob the meat is dry but not at this place! Also AJ the owner was such a nice host and he took the time to share with me the story behind the name of the restaurant. I can’t wait to go back and try the chicken dish and also the coconut drink.

Excellent food. Chef Aj is so passionate and talented bringing unique flavors and kebabs that are simply so good. My favorite was the Grandams Fried Chicken 2.0. Highly recommended

A Fusion Masterpiece! Al Naqa is an extraordinary dining experience, merging Arabic flavors with Southeast Asian influences, particularly from Laos and Northern Thailand. The combination is mind-blowing! We tried the coconut hummus and three different flavors of kebabs and grills and each was just unforgettable, and the bread? Unlike anything I’ve ever had—simply incredible. The balance of flavors is masterful. The chef and owner is a true host—friendly, passionate, and deeply knowledgeable. He went above and beyond, offering samples and guiding us on how to mix and match flavors for the perfect bite. The food, hospitality, and vibrant atmosphere make Al Naqa a must-visit. If you’re an adventurous eater or a lover of great food, you cannot miss this place. Highly recommend! PS, don’t forget to ask the chef the story behind the name 😉

The amount of transportive culinary delight in everything we tried was INCREDIBLE! The lamb loin kebab and grandma's fried chicken with a side of coconut cream hummus and a sundae for desert featuring smoked dates fried in Ghee are all absolute musts. And the home made cola (which is the only type of cola anyone should be drinking these days) will bring you back to those chewy gummy cokes from childhood. Thank you to AJ and his team for one of 2024's most memorable lunches

Really amazing twist into dishes. We ordered lamb and grandma’s chicken and was so impressed we needed to go back and order again😅 Definitely will be added to our go to spots in NFH.

Tried their home made coke made with dates. A great refreshing but healthy option!

This Persian restaurant is undoubtedly the finest in the city. We are truly grateful for Chef AJ's dedication and extensive culinary experience gained over 15 years in various countries, which has allowed us to enjoy such an exceptional dining experience. Please accept our heartfelt congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment.