Spice level warning — Mechouia Salad is not what I expected

I underestimated Mechouia Salad. The boldly spiced and warming description didn't prepare me for the reality. dried rose petals brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Tunisia is the world's third largest olive oil producer and olive oil underpins the cuisine. The a family couscous Friday setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. boukha fig spirit cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.