SHAWA - Lebanese Grill

Waltzing into this culinary establishment, I nearly tripped over my skepticism. Yet, somewhere between the extravagantly marbled entrance and the decidedly less extravagant but endearingly rustic wooden tabletops, my intrigue began to simmer just as the kitchen evidently simmers its fries—until they reach a level of crispness that rivals autumn leaves. This intriguing juxtaposition of style could be seen as symbolic of the restaurant's character itself—a marriage of high aspirations and humble comforts.

The star of my visit was indisputably the burger, which seems to muse on the art of umami harmony with each savory mouthful. A revelation it was, a handheld toast to comfort food transcendence, a reminder that restraint has its own flavor. The house lemonade, dressed in its citric couture, was a curious concoction—unorthodox yet thrillingly successful, reminiscent of a tango dancer swooping unexpectedly through a room echoing with more sedate rhythms. Though the drumbeat of criticism from others rings loudly, I discovered echoes of innovation and warmth, overshadowing occasional blunders. There's a peculiar charm in dining experiences that offer splendors amid imperfections, inviting fate to sprinkle its unpredictable seasoning to substantial reward. — Clarissa Cuisinier