Overhyped Bavel – Honest Review 🍽️🌿

Bavel had been sitting on my must-try list for about two years! Last night, thanks to a Chase Preferred credit, I finally motivated myself to make the trip from the far east side of LA—excited and full of expectations! 🚗💨 Let me get straight to the point: It wasn’t bad, but it was just… okay. It didn’t live up to the overwhelming hype online. 😕 I’ve loved Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine since college—I’ve tried at least several dozen places, from Asia to the U.S. to Europe. The restaurant does have a beautiful atmosphere and great ambiance, I’ll give it that. 🏺✨ But even the hummus at chain spots like Panini is more flavorful, unique, and varied than theirs. Their grilled kebabs were decent for the price, though. The Chicken Liver Pâté was overshadowed by the floral-fruit jam. The jam was fragrant—if you like that, you might enjoy it. The Grilled King Oyster Mushrooms were good, but you can find similar flavors at local Middle Eastern spots. The Grilled Lamb Chops were a bit salty but tasty! Still, if I had to choose, I’d pick Peter Luger (yes, it’s a steakhouse, but their lamb chops are underrated! 🐑❤️). People often call London a food desert, but there’s an amazing Middle Eastern restaurant near the embassy there—no fancy decor, similar prices to Bavel (but no tip required!), and way more delicious. 🏛️🍛 All in all, my meal at Bavel felt a bit empty. To me, it’s more like a glamorous introduction for those new to Middle Eastern cuisine. No big surprises this time, but at least I can finally check it off my list! ✅ Have you been to Bavel? What’s your favorite Middle Eastern spot in LA? Share your thoughts! 👇 #LosAngeles #LAEats #MiddleEasternFood #MediterraneanCuisine #HonestReview #Overrated #FoodieReview #DTLA #RestaurantHype #TryItYourself #AtmosphereDining #NotBadButNotGreat #FoodGoals #CheckItOffTheList