Experience the exotic flavours of the Middle East right here in Bedford and you could probably guess why a new food hub has been nominated for Best Bite In Beds 2009.

Reem, in Bedford High Street, has been nominated for the Times & Citizen's award after customers enjoyed a taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine, and its tar and nicotine-free shisha.

Sam Azam, 35, owner of Reem, said: "I am very pleased to be able to offer Bedford a taste of the Middle East.

"We only do authentic Lebanese food and all our chefs have years of experience working in some of London's most popular restaurants.

"The restaurant has many twists. We are a cafe, a shisha bar, a restaurant and an art gallery all in one.

"We want to give our customers a fresh, authentic dining experience and are hoping to have a belly dancer coming in on a regular basis.

"It is tradition for Lebanese restaurants to have their grill and cooking area close to the window so people can see exactly what we cook and how we cook."

The restaurant stretches back into a tidy, well heated, garden area where customers can enjoy 12 different flavours of shisha, various teas and Lebanese music.

Reem is hosting a special Lebanese night omorrow at 9pm, with a specially selected menu, music and belly dancer . For more information call 01234 211200.



Do you agree that Reem deserves the title of Best Bite In Beds 2009, or is there somewhere else you like to go to fill up on food? Text your nomination to 81800.

Start your message with the word BTCBITE followed by your full name, address and postcode, your nominated eaterie (eg Sarnies Bedford) and a description.

Texts (no more than 160 characters) cost 25p in addition to your standard network charge.