I really wanted to like this place. After ordering online via Grubhub (and getting a confirmation via both email and text that the order was placed and would be ready within a half an hour), we got there on time and it was ... not ready. Not only was it not ready, they claimed they didn't even use Grubhub, after saying they usually just get orders for delivery from Grubhub, then they saw my email confirmation and took my phone from my hand to look it through, then all of a sudden found a notice of the order from their end. Okay. Things can happen - people don't understand technology, etc. - I'll live.
Then it took, of course, about 20 minutes to get my order. In that time, we were not offered to sit, a glass of water, tea, nothing. Okay, this happens, too. Really would expect a bit more knowing my own culture and all, but I'll get over it.
In this time, I heard the microwave and my excitement dropped even further. Meh. Microwave sounds are never a good thing at any restaurant. That's what pans are for. If you're going to have a restaurant, learn how to heat food up the proper way.
Anywho, my son wanted a canned drink while we were waiting. I'd already paid over $40 to Grubhub for our meal, so I'd need to pay for this separately. Because I had no cash, I offered my debit card for payment ($1.50 for a can of soda). That's not enough for a payment by card, the cashier said, and she would not give me an exact amount as to what was enough. I grabbed 2 more cans and a small thing of rice pudding, all of which totally about $9. That was enough, luckily, to pay by card.
Alright, order's finally ready and we're on our way back home, excited to get a taste of homestyle cooking. And, in case you haven't figured it out by now. that was disappointing as well.
The kabobs were all dried out (we had three kinds). The salad's lettuce was very brown, and not just because it was soaked in dressing. The hummus tasted okay, but was really on the loose side of things. The bamia (okra stew) was lukewarm and didn't taste like it would back in Palestine. The moloukhia (leafy soup type thing) had more garlic than it ever should. The fries, even on the way home, already smelled stale and microwaved, like if you were heating up a low class diner's fries leftover from the day before. The only thing that tasted decent was the rice pudding, full of lovely orange blossom flavor and perfectly gelatinous.
When we came in, they had a photographer there photographing their food for their website The food we received didn't look as appetizing. See the user submitted photos.
All in all, would I eat here again? Maybe ... but only things that they have to actually make fresh, or if I become a friend of the owner (they got the royal treatment, of course, while we were standing there waiting the whole time - even though the restaurant was otherwise...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Alwadee Bakery and Restaurant on Brockhurst in Anaheim, California, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure all my needs were met and that I felt comfortable throughout my visit.
The menu offers a fantastic selection of Middle Eastern dishes, and each one was a delightful experience for the taste buds. The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. I particularly enjoyed the [ Jordanian mansaf & mlokhyaa ], which was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The bakery items were also a highlight, with a wide range of freshly baked bread and pastries that tasted just as good as they looked.
One of the things that stood out to me was the generous portion sizes and the reasonable prices. It’s clear that Alwadee Bakery and Restaurant prioritizes both quality and value, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Overall, my experience at Alwadee was exceptional. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere made for a memorable dining experience. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. I will definitely be returning to Alwadee Bakery and...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Al Wadee Restaurant and Bakery in Anaheim, and I cannot praise it enough. This Lebanese restaurant deserves every bit of its five-star rating. The highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the special Mansaf Rice—a delightful combination of tender lamb, aromatic rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce that left me craving more. The Mansaf was truly a taste sensation that showcased the culinary mastery of the chefs at Al Wadee. Equally impressive was their freshly baked Zataar bread, which was fragrant, perfectly crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. Each bite transported me to the streets of Lebanon with its authentic flavors and traditional preparation. And let's not forget the Turkish coffee—bold, rich, and expertly brewed. It provided the perfect ending to my meal, leaving me satisfied and content. The ambiance of the restaurant was warm and inviting, complemented by attentive and friendly staff who made me feel like a valued guest. The dedication to quality and authenticity in every aspect of Al Wadee is evident, and it truly sets them apart. If you're looking for an exceptional Lebanese dining experience in Anaheim, Al Wadee is the place to be. Prepare to indulge in their heavenly Mansaf Rice, savor the deliciousness of their Zataar bread, and treat yourself to a cup of their aromatic Turkish coffee. You won't be...
Read more