sababa
The GUES mission to explore culture through cuisine takes us all over the District in search of new and delicious culinary experiences. Our latest venture took us to Sababa in Cleveland Park, where we got to meet Head Chef Ryan Moore. A Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand winner, Sababa's modern-eclectic approach to lsraeli cuisine, coupled with the immaculate service and atmosphere, made for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
We couldn't stop pointing out how beautifully decorated the space was. Every detail, from the Mediterranean tiles to the draping sail fabric and dim lighting, created a cozy ambiance perfect for bonding with friends or a romantic dinner.
The meal began with Salatim, a selection of salads and dips to spread onto warm, freshly-baked pita. Next followed a series of shareable plates: Chef Moore's famous Hummus (which, btw, takes 4 days to make), Charred Eggplant, Garlic Grilled Broccoli, and our favorite the crispy Fried Cauliflower with tahini and golden raisins. For the main courses, we had both the Lamb and Beef Kofta, plus a true standout: the whole-roasted Mediterranean Sea Bass-the tenderest, most flavorful bass any of us had ever tasted! We ended the meal with the Golden and Strawberry Malahabia desserts, which were equally incredible. Every dish was expertly prepared, boldly spiced, and beautifully presented.
The other highlight of our evening was chatting with Chef Moore. He told countless personal anecdotes, from childhood cooking shows that inspired his passion, to travel experiences in the Middle East that inspire his techniques, to lessons he has learned about cultivating a positive kitchen environment. I was particularly impressed by his commitment to a zero-waste kitchen. Instead of discarding lemon peels, Sababa turns them into charcoal to fuel the oven!
We truly indulged at Sababa and definitely recommend it for your next D.C. dinner excursion. It has earned a well-deserved spot at the top of my list of restaurants to show my parents when they're in town!
- Emma Rose Wooten
GUES Recommends:
Hummus
Whole-roasted Mediterranean Sea Bass
