... Read moreYou guys, if you're ever in the mood for truly authentic and mouth-watering Lebanese food, you absolutely have to check out House of Cedar! I recently grabbed lunch from there, and it was just as fantastic as always. I'm talking about those incredible flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean, right from the comfort of my own home (or office!).
My usual go-to is one of their charbroiled platters, and this time, I went for a mix of chicken shish tawook and kafta, and it did not disappoint. When my order arrived, everything was packed so thoughtfully, which I always appreciate, especially for a lunch on the go. There was a clear container with a generous portion of perfectly grilled charbroiled chicken and a fresh, vibrant salad with a light, zesty dressing – so refreshing! I love how they always manage to get that perfect smoky char on the meat without drying it out. The chicken shish tawook is especially tender and juicy, packed with incredible spices, and the kafta has that rich, aromatic blend of herbs that makes it irresistible.
Then there's usually a round container with a side dish, and this time it was some fluffy vermicelli rice pilaf, which complemented the meat and salad perfectly. Often, there's also a delightful foil-wrapped item – usually warm, soft pita bread that's just begging to be dipped into everything. And you can't forget the small condiment cup; for me, it's always their incredible house-made garlic sauce (toum) or a creamy tahini sauce, which adds another layer of authentic flavor to every bite. Sometimes there's also a cup of a delicious yellow liquid, which often turns out to be a comforting lentil soup, especially on a cooler day, warming you from the inside out. It's these little details, like the restaurant's logo sometimes appearing on the packaging, that show they care about the whole experience.
What I really love about House of Cedar is the consistency in their quality and the freshness of their ingredients. Every single time I order, the food is fresh, flavorful, and feels homemade – like someone's grandma is in the kitchen! Their appetizers are also legendary – honestly, you can't go wrong with their creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, or the crispy, perfectly seasoned falafel. Pair any of these with their fresh pita, and you've got a mini-feast before your main course even begins. It's the kind of place where you know you're getting real, traditional Lebanese recipes, prepared with care.
It's perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying lunch during the workday, or even for a casual dinner when you don't feel like cooking but want something wholesome and delicious. The portions are generous, so you definitely get your money's worth, making it a great value for such high-quality food. Plus, it's such a fantastic way to experience new flavors if you're not super familiar with Lebanese cuisine. I always recommend trying their mixed grill if it's your first time, as it gives you a taste of several amazing options.
So, if you're searching for a fantastic Lebanese restaurant that consistently delivers on taste, quality, and generous portions, House of Cedar is truly a gem. Trust me on this one – your taste buds will thank you!