If you’re looking to savor the rich flavors of Egypt without traveling far, Feteers restaurant in northwest Spokane is your perfect escape. Opened on May 1 by Amir Talib and his wife, Leila Altassan, this vibrant eatery serves up a taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine, spotlighting a dish that’s been cherished for centuries—feteer.
What is Feteer?
Feteer is a traditional Egyptian pastry, renowned for its flaky, buttery texture crafted from countless paper-thin layers of dough brushed with clarified butter (samna), akin to Indian ghee. Often compared to pizza because of its versatility, feteer can be filled with an array of savory ingredients such as meats, cheeses, and spices, or tantalizing sweet toppings like honey and nuts. As Talib notes, “In Egypt, it’s like burgers here. Everyone eats it all day long.” This accessibility and variety contribute to its cherished status in Egyptian culture.
The skill required to create feteer is remarkable. The dough is stretched paper-thin—incredibly close to being translucent—and then layered with generous amounts of samna. This meticulous process is repeated through multiple folds, yielding the flaky layers characteristic of this delicious pastry. Historical records indicate that feteer was often baked for Egyptian royalty and served as offerings to the gods, showcasing its deep roots in the country’s culinary history.
A Journey to Spokane
For Amir and Leila, sharing this beloved dish has been a dream since they moved to Spokane two decades ago. The restaurant has already made a name for itself, with the chicken shawarma and the Pyramid being standout offerings. As you step inside, you can witness the mesmerizing process of the feteer being made to order, ensuring freshness with every bite. The chicken shawarma is a delightful blend of seasoned chicken, cheese, and veggies, while the Pyramid option boasts a robust mix of gyro meat and sausages, perfectly embodying Mediterranean flavors.
For those seeking vegetarian options, Feteers offers delectable cheese-filled varieties and even a unique hot dog feteer. Each savory dish comes with a house-made ranch/mayo dip, adding an extra layer of flavor to your experience.
Sweet Treats and More
No visit to Feteers is complete without indulging in dessert. According to Talib, their Dubai chocolate feteer is the top seller, featuring a delightful filling of premium chocolate and pistachio cream. Additionally, patrons can choose from options filled with Nutella or classic custard, or perhaps enjoy the sweet harmony of honey and cream. For those looking for lighter bites, dishes like dolma—grape leaves stuffed with seasoned rice—and smoky baba ghanoush served with fresh bread are highly recommended.
The restaurant also boasts a selection of imported drinks, including Vimto, a refreshing mixed fruit cordial, and Moussy, a crisp nonalcoholic malt beverage. Guests can’t seem to get enough of the steaming Turkish coffee, perfect for complementing your meal or sweet treat.
A Unique Cultural Experience
Looking ahead, Talib and Leila aim to gradually expand their menu and introduce catering services. They are even planning lively Egyptian dance performances to create an immersive dining experience for their guests. Talib hopes this unique culinary offering will resonate with the local community, stating, “So far, everybody loves it. No one else serves this in Washington, and we hope to franchise nationwide.”
Feteers is not just a restaurant; it’s a flavorful connection to Egyptian heritage that Spokane locals are bound to enjoy.