Ravi Kabob: A great place to break your fast for Ramadan

The tender and juicy karahi chicken. Photo: Mehan Dossani

It’s the month of Ramadan, and this means over 200,000 Muslims in the D.C. area are fasting. The breaking of the fast, Iftar, is when everyone gathers together at sundown to treat their taste buds to the beauty of nourishment after abstaining from both food and drink throughout the day. Many Muslims traditionally break their fast with dates and fresh fruit and then some snacks, such as samosas. After your stomach has accepted these gifts, you move on to a more hearty meal and Ravi Kabob is a popular favorite for locals. Ravi Kabob is arguably the best Pakistani kabob house in the D.C. area.

The delicious Seekh kabobs. Photo: Mehan Dossani

Named after the river Ravi that runs along Pakistan, this kabob house is packed on most evenings and even more so during Ramadan. Locals flock to this establishment to indulge in traditional beef, chicken or lamb kabobs as well as fiery hot dishes such as their karahi chicken. Diners can put aside the plastic utensils, tear into piping hot naan fresh off the tandoor and wrap it around a juicy piece of Seekh kabob dripping with the cool yogurt accompaniment (raita). Take advantage of the late night service: during the month of Ramadan Ravi Kabob is open all night, until 5a.m., except on Sundays when they close at midnight.

For other Ramadan treats: Dates. Chewy dried dates with their delicately condensed sweetness are the traditional way to break your fast. Madina Halal (3128 North 10th Street, Arlington, VA 22201) is the best place to buy dried dates. Look for the Medjool variety.

Ravi Kabob restaurant. Photo: Mehan Dossani

Samosas: Shiney’s Sweets (4231 Markham St Annandale, VA 22003) is most famous for their delicious samosas: packed with potatoes that are married perfectly with spices.