Crowds flock to Madameek’s Free Shawarma Day

By Patricia Leboeuf | December 16, 2021 | Local

Several people stand in line in restaurant kitchen, all wearing Santa hats and same shirt, man in foreground gives thumbs ups

Bracing themselves for the crowd outside, are, from left Fadi Diab, Anthony Diab, Jihan Falah, Samara Diab, Hani Diab, Elie Diab, Brenda Leclair and Mahmoud Ayyad. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)

A line-up of hungry diners formed long before Madameek Petawawa opened their doors on Dec. 8. It snaked around the building despite the frigid temperature and falling snow. People shivered as they waited for their turn, but it was all worth it when they received their food during Madameek’s 8th annual Free Sharwama day. The tradition was created to thank Petawawa customers for their support of the restaurant and honour Trooper Marc Diab’s memory and all fallen soldiers. It has grown over the years into a popular event that sees countless pass through Madameek’s door for chicken shawarma, rice or garlic potatoes, baklava and a drink. It can be a very busy day for staff, but it is also one of their favourites.