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Lebanese food can easily be described as the perfect marriage between healthy and flavorful. It rarely needs butter and cream, opting instead for garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. The latter are key ingredients in dishes like Hummus and Baba Ghanouj, while copious amounts of herbs and spices compliment savory salads and oven-baked breads. Fruit, vegetables, grilled fish, and chicken are more common in a Lebanese kitchen than red meat. Even desserts avoid dairy-rich components, like the popular pistachio filled Baklava or the ginger and anis based Moghlie pudding. The flavors in Middle Eastern food definitely appeals to the South Asian palate.
CitySaheli has handpicked a few Lebanese favorites that are sure to appeal to your appetite while preserving your health.
One of the friendliest restaurants in New York just opened its doors, but already has a loyal clientele. Balade, which means fresh in Lebanese, lives up to its name. The grilled meats and mouth-watering mezzas are as delicious as the menu is affordable. The luscious Labneh on the fresh-out-the-oven bread will appeal to vegetarians and omnivores alike, while the moist Mouhallabie pudding dessert offers a lighter alternative for all taste buds. The spicy beef Soujouk sausage is highly recommended, as are the homemade Hummus and savory side salad. The sleek and intimate East Village eatery also boasts the best Baba Ghanouj in NYC, along with a wide variety of Lebanese wines.
208 First Avenue
New York, NY
(212) 529 6868
If you love Lebanese food but are looking for a more high-end setting, Ilili is the place for you. The posh decoration and the flavorful food make this Mediterranean gem a Fifth Avenue favorite. Vegetarians cannot miss out on the tasty Tabbouleh with fresh parsley and mint, the Fattoush salad with toasted bread, and the Moujadara lentil puree with crispy red onion. Meat eaters should try the marinated lamb kebab or the chicken Shish Taouk with garlic and lemon, while the tuna kebab with grilled peppers will not disappoint fish fanatics. Try Ilili during Restaurant Week for a broader and cheaper choice off their rich menu, or come during Happy Hour, Monday through Friday between 5.30 PM and 7.30 PM, for a plush experience with exotic cocktails and lighter hors-d’oeuvres from the bar.
236 5th Avenue
New York, NY
(212) 683 2929
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