Middle Eastern Feast: Lebanese Lunch at Lebanese Taverna

After a fantastic event at Lebanese Taverna last Spring, the GU Eating Society had to revisit the unique and tasty restaurant again this Fall. Luckily for us, the food was no less exceptional than last time. Read more to discover the Middle Eastern flavors we enjoyed at our visit to the restaurant, located on Connecticut Ave in Adams Morgan.

Crispy Chickpea Falafel with Tahini Sauce

Upon walking into Lebanese Taverna, you no longer feel as if you're in DC. Instead, you're transported into a sleek, warm, and eclectic atmosphere – dark wood tables are surrounded by ornate mosaic lighting fixtures, comfy seating, and plush decor. The Eating Society was greeted immediately, directed to our table in the open-concept floor plan of the restaurant. Every item of food was served family style, in true Middle Eastern fashion. This went along with our core values; we hope that with every event, we are able to connect with each other over novel and delicious cuisine from a culture we often do not appreciate. 

Our first course was "mezze," which is the Middle Easterner's way of small plates or appetizers. We enjoyed creamy chickpea hummus (some of the best, even according to our Middle Eastern members), crispy falafel with tahini sauce, Taverna salad with sharp feta cheese, and of course, warm and fluffy pita bread dipped in olive oil za'atar. The mezze dishes introduced us to the warm spices of the Middle East – za'atar, a thyme blend, sumac, a lemon-y spice, and paprika, to give everything a bit of smoke. 

Chicken and Beef Shawarma

Entrees, also served family style, came out fresh and hot – chicken and beef shwarma, or thinly sliced rotisserie meat, was served alongside roasted vegetables and garlic sauce. We were also given Lebanese rice, which was long-grain white rice with fried noodles, turning ordinary rice into something special. The entire entree was filling and flavorful, plus the extra pita on the side was not overlooked. 

Arrawat – Lebanese Donuts

Of course, we could not end our visit without some delectable desserts. Our dessert was arrawat – Lebanese donut holes covered in a sweet syrup and powdered sugar. The donuts were extremely fluffy, served warm, and had the perfect amount of sweetness to not overpower our palates. They were served alongside a yogurt honey sauce for some added creaminess to lighten up the texture of the donuts. 
Yet again, we had an amazing meal at Lebanese Taverna, and will be sure to visit again. Our members truly got to experience authentic Lebanese food in the heart of DC, tasting items they have never had the chance to taste before. Not to mention that the service was impeccable – from initial walk in to the moment we left, we felt that we were cared for with great attention to detail. Thank you, Lebanese Taverna for a fantastic event, and for a discounted meal!