Circle of Friends Restaurant — Restaurant in Findlay

Circle of Friends is a gem of a restaurant. Not the least fussy, the focus is on creating the most authentic, faithful versions of popular dishes from around the world and serving them side-by-side. Having been all over the world, and being from out-of-state we think Findlay Ohio diners should know how lucky they are to have this terrific restaurant in their small town.

A bright modern dining area and delicious smells from the kitchen greet guests as they enter the door.

The menu is a dizzying variety of traditional dishes from places all around the world: Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan, Greece, India, Nepal, the Philippines, Laos, and Vietnam.

Being familiar with many of these dishes (and many are our favorites) we were unsure how any restaurant could present them individually without all the techniques and flavor profiles becoming one big muddle but our doubts were undeserved.

We had tangy Lebanese hummus with lavash bread, rich Indian and Asian samosas, Philipino chicken adobo, and Arabian lamb shank mandi. All prepared and presented just as would be traditional.

All the flavors were spot on, the meats were slow roasted and fall-apart tender and unctuous. The arabian rice was aromatic with jasmine and a hint of smoke-so authentic.

With dinner we shared a delicious warm pot of Indian spice tea served in a pretty vintage tea pot.

Prices are very reasonable, food quality is exceptional. All meats are Halal, and they offer many vegetarian and vegan options. Beverages include soft drinks, teas, coffees, and lassi, a fruit and yogurt drink. No alcohol.

Circle of Friends is surprisingly very good, in an...

Great food but the place is understaffed. Im afraid that the owner may not be able to to pay a full staff. Most of the time, the restaurant seems to be run with no more than three or four employees. My wife and I have watched the wait staff work in the kitchen as well as at the tables. Those poor souls when they work during busy hours. It's hard to imagine how hard it is for them to juggle phone calls, online orders, and a full house while also preparing some things in the kitchen. I remember having a hard time just bussing tables when I was younger so I feel for them kids. The only other issue is that it is hard to find parking nearby because of the downtown location. Best to plan your visit with that in mind.

Aside from those, the food is really good and affordable. The portions on some of the dishes are a bit big so you'll probably end up taking some home. (That's not exactly a bad thing though.) The staff is friendly and very homely. There is a home-like coziness here. The owner is a real doll. Funny little lady with a big heart. My wife and I adore watching her entertain guests when she gets a break from the kitchen. Watch out though, she'll take dozens of pictures for you.

My wife and I love the Around the World dish with gyro meat added. She is also a fan of the Sunigan soup. (I dont know how it's spelled.)

The place is a bit small so I'd make a reservation if you are dining with a group of more than...

First off, you absolutely can not find better customer service or someone who has more pure, genuine love and pride for their work than the sweet lady who seemed to be in charge, along the with also doing most of the cooking. It felt to me as if she might be the owner. But regardless, she's so friendly, honest and clearly takes so much pride in everything she serves! She breaks down all the dishes to every ingredient, which also shows that everything is definitely homemade, which you can also tell from the quality of the food. And the portions are truly unreal. Two of my party shared the "Around the World" option, which can be ordered for up to 5 people I believe, but we only got the option that serves 2 and cost only $25, and I wish I would've taken pictures because words can't do it justice. There's at least 7 different entrees from 7 different areas of the world, and each comes with enough food to be a meal. It could've easily fed 4 people. I shared it with my brother who is 6'3 and 260+ lbs, and we didn't even put a dent in it.

So, if you're looking for somewhere to eat and considering here, your search needs to end now. Just go. I promise you won't be...