Almarah Grill Mediterranean Cuisine — Restaurant in Austin

This used to be one of my favorite Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern restaurants, but not anymore. The first time I went, it was five stars all the way. It felt like I was in a Middle East dining establishment; the patrons, chefs, and all, and they had a legit Hooka bar and the best Turkish coffee ☕ using real Middle Eastern serveware even. The food was outstanding...Fantastic!

Without going into too much of the minutia, it is nothing like it used to be when we went earlier today. The hostess was uncaring and clueless about the food and the culture, even the cooks were not the same family of original cooks.

It was absolutely outrageously expensive and with the exception of the Lamb Chops, the rest of the food was sub par to bland, especially considering the change in decor — no originality, nothing of the culture, at all.

I am so terribly disappointed. it's not terribly far, but it's not around the corner either and I look forward to dining there because we rarely go to that side of Austin anymore. I am almost one half Persian and S. Indian and I felt so comfortable and at home, once upon a long time ago. Needless to say, I am never going back.

It was just terrible, again, except for the Lamb Chops and I can get great lamb chops anywhere in Austin. They need to bring the true cultural feel of the restaurant, start making the outstanding and authentic food they used to and I really believe it can be saved. I remember it being full...never again!

If I was a jerk, I would have created a scene and demanded myoney back. Actually, if they read this and have any decency, they would refund us. Another one bites the dust. Too...

Having lived in this area of Austin for decades, I have no idea how I didn’t know about this place sooner! What a happy accident it was when we saw the sign Friday evening and said, “oooo!! Something new! Let’s give them a try!”

We were warmly greeted and promptly seated. The restaurant atmosphere was immediately inviting…very clean…open…well lit. We noticed a deck and asked if we could move to a table outside. Our sever, Mo, didn’t hesitate and happily accommodated our request and moved us to the patio.

Let me tell you more about Mo! He is a DELIGHTFUL young man with a real knack for serving his customers in a way that reminds you, “Wow! Service is alive, well and thriving after all!” Mo is so friendly, a great listener and very attentive. We met him Friday and returned again this evening because his service is bar none!

The food. It’s absolutely PHENOMENAL! My boyfriend and I are very mindful of our diets (mostly ketogenic) and both times for dinner, Mo worked with us to craft the “perfect and healthy platters.” On our first trip, I got the beef kabob platter with grilled veggies, the Greek salad and tasted the lentil soup. Every bite was a treat! This evening I tried the chicken kebab platter, which Mo highly recommended and it was outstanding as well. I will have a hard time choosing a favorite when we return again.

Thank you to the family and staff who created a memorable dining experience for us…we look forward to being regulars at Almarah and Mo’s...

Almarah has been a favorite for me for years. The food is always fresh and superb. I tend to order falafel and gyro salad. The falafel is so fragrant and the hummus is silky and nourishing. The Gyro meat is seasoned and cooked to perfection. It's a wonderful protein option if you're looking for both tender and crispy herbed savory meat. Paired with the always fresh vegetables in a salad is a generous and hearty meal.

If you're looking for something a bit more fancy, their lamb chops are perfectly cooked and deliciously seasoned. Not to mention beautifully presented.

My guests and I are always greeted with a smile and prompt service. Sometimes I'll ask what their favorite dish is for a suggestion. It's a good way to try new dishes you wouldn't have necessarily chosen on your own. I've never regretted a suggestion. It's impossible to order wrong at Almarah. Everything is delightful.

They have recently renovated the interior of both the restaurant and the hookah lounge next door. They've changed the aesthetic to a more modern sleek look but it is still a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

10/10 do recommend. I will be a faithful patron for as long as they keep doing what they do best. That being serving up wonderful authentic food that feeds my...