KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 4 -- When chefs Ameer Alzalek, Andy Choy and Joel Kirk team up, good things like Zaataru happen.

Like the spice za'atar it was named for, Zaataru's food is a blend of many different flavours and textures, pulled from the Levant region (Lebanon, Syria, Palestine and Jordan) and Japan, opening one's mind to some off-kilter twists.

This partnership has food consultant Joel heading Zaataru, fresh from designing cocktail bar Coley's menu and previous projects at Bol and Lex's Patio Pantry.

Backing him up is Ameer from Leen's Middle East Kitchen and S.A.J. Bistronomy - master of puffy breads baked to order in a scorching hot oven and the hot grill, an important part of Levantine cuisine.

Rounding up the trio is Andy, rest...