The Grill Master

Exquisite Shish Tawook, a Culinary Delight

Walking into the warmly lit, fragrant embrace of this Middle Eastern nook feels like stepping right into a Levantine street market. Amid a cushion of murmured conversations and the occasional sizzle from an open kitchen, it’s the gentle hum of authenticity that first draws you in. I chose to start with Shish Tawook, a classic dish, marking my baptism into its offerings. The chicken was tender, marinated so beautifully that every bite was a masterclass in balancing flavors—neither too bold nor retreating. It boasted a smoky, charred exterior that gently yielded to reveal a delicate, moist center underscored by lemony whispers that linger long after you've swallowed.

Despite its culinary triumphs, the restaurant fumbles in areas that could easily elevate the experience from delightful to extraordinary. Service, though delivered with smiles, comes off more harried than attentive. This isn't a leisurely Mediterranean meander; rather, it drifts in fits and starts, as if the servers are perpetual participants in a high-stakes game of culinary catch-up. For a place that asks us to loosen our pockets to the more platinum end of the chickpea spectrum, such lags feel unwarranted. Nevertheless, if measured solely by its Shish Tawook—a plate capable of making even the most ardent falafel devotees reconsider their allegiances—the restaurant promises an evocative journey that's worth embarking on, albeit prepared for a few detours along the way. — Clarissa Cuisinier