Cedars of Lebanon — Restaurant in Greenbelt

If you know me, you know I don't throw around "best ever" lightly -- but this hummus at Cedars of Lebanon might've ruined all other hummus for me forever. Smooth, rich, and impossibly creamy, it came topped with perfectly seasoned ground beef, toasted pine nuts, and a touch of paprika that made every bite feel like comfort and luxury rolled together. I could honestly eat a bowl of that alone and leave happy.

Then came the lamb and chicken kabobs -- juicy, charred to perfection, and packed with that deep, smoky Middle Eastern spice blend that hits every corner of your palate. The lamb was tender and full of flavor, and the chicken was perfectly grilled -- both carrying that subtle lemon, garlic, and spice balance that Lebanese cuisine nails so well. They were served with fluffy white rice and roasted onions that tied it all together beautifully. The side of garlic sauce was unreal -- creamy, punchy, and addictive. You'll be tempted to put it on everything (and you should).

The lentil soup was hearty and full of soul -- the kind of dish that makes you pause between bites just to appreciate how simple ingredients can become something so comforting. I also tried the sweet potato soup -- smooth, subtly spiced, and perfectly balanced. Both were excellent starters that set the tone for the rest of the meal.

And don't even get me started on the desserts. Yes, they make them in-house, and yes, they're as good as they look. Moist, flavorful, and clearly made with love -- a rare find these days. I tried the caramel crunch cake and German chocolate cake and was not disappointed.

But what really sets Cedars of Lebanon apart is the feeling you get while you're there. The staff made me feel like I was eating at a family gathering -- warm, genuine, and proud of what they serve. The ambience was humble and relaxing. Very comfortable and casual which I enjoyed. As far as the cuisine, there's a sense of tradition in every plate, like they're not just feeding you food, they're sharing a piece of their culture. The husband and wife who own it were my favorite part. I genuinely felt like I was spending time with my own grandparents.

If you want authentic Lebanese food made with heart and served with a smile, this place delivers in every way. 10/10 -- easily one of the best dining experiences I've had in a long time.

This will be a regular spot for me...

I've been going to Cedars for years and have taken more friends and family members to this restaurant than any other. Everyone loves it. Everything on the menu is fresh and delicious; they do not hold back on the flavor! My current favorites for a full meal are the chicken kabob platter (that tomato sauce is to die for!), the vegetarian mediterranean platter (sooooo healthy), and the Lebanese traditional platter. The grape leaves are fantastic, and the hummus is the best I've ever had by a mile, smooth and creamy. There have been times when I have had serious cravings for their tabouleh - super green and lemony, or their m'saka which is perfectly balanced and delicious hot or cold. The fatteh lamb is unlike any other dish I've ever had, creamy, flavorful, and delicious. Their desserts are also off the hook and generously portioned, like, every single dessert is delicious. I don't know who is back there in the kitchen, but they're truly brilliant. This little place is a true gem. It's family owned and run, and the family is friendly and warm to all comers. Thank you, Cedars, for nourishing me and my family and friends for all...

Food tastes great and have decent price. Dessert tastes great.

Bad part: The owner (I'm assuming the owner since he tells everyone else what to do), sits at one of the table and watch things on his device loudly. He also talks on his phone using speaker. Normally it not a big deal but there is no background music in the restaurant. I had to sit through my meal hearing random things coming from his device. And seriously, he blasted the sound on his device. The owner also took my order. I ordered a beef sandwich ($8.50). He asked if I want the rice or fries for side. I said rice, assuming that the meal comes with sides. I got a bill for the Beef Platter ($13.50). I told the guy that I ordered a sandwich but got charged a platter. He responded by saying since I wanted rice for sides, it now consider a platter. Again, not a bad price for the food. BUT, really annoyed that I ordered a sandwich and through miscommunication, he gave me and charge me the price...