This business recently changed ownership, and my old review (a raving 5-star review (left below)) no longer applies. The business has new owners, new management, a new name, same style of cuisine, but new food. I'm not sure how they got the old reviews from the previous business transferred, but they did.
We were hopeful of the new spot - gave them a few months to get their legs, and this last weekend, decided to give them a try.
I'm sorry to say that despite a couple of bright moments in our meal, the difference between the two businesses, for us, was as stark as night and day. I know that much of halal can be prepared in advance, but there are limits - especially for professional kitchens - that I do not feel were adhered to in this case. Our recent experience left us not ever wanting to order from them again.
Most items in our $80ish order showed signs of age - like we were eating food that was prepared 3+ days ago. The gyro meat was - without question - the absolute worst of the 40+ varieties I've eaten in my life. At best... the meat was extremely gamey; but I fear to say it was likely a bit on the rancid side. We pulled out the hummus, pickles, and salad from the platter, and threw the meat and the rice the meat rested on away. The dolmas were clearly several days old (soft and falling apart). The schwarma - was dry. When we order halal, we typically order enough for a couple of meals... saving the remainder for another lunch or dinner in the next day or two. Such was not possible in this case because, pretty much everything was already at or past its "use by" date.
The Lahmacun, falafel, and salads were notable exceptions. They all seemed to be prepared fresh, and - along with the chicken schwarma (that was turned by the time I tried to eat leftovers only 36 hours in the fridge later) made the bulk of our dinner on Friday. The baklavah was good, but the portion was exceptionally small (bite-sized). The pita was fine... though (for those who care about such things) not pocketed.
The taste of the hummus wasn't bad, but it was very 'saucey' - like the chef halved the amount of garbanzo beans in the recipe.... or used potato or some other thickener.... or doubled the amount of tahini and oil. Whatever the case, it was very liquidly.
The delivery came a little earlier than expected, so A+ on that note... though I believe they only brought 3 of the 5 types sauces we ordered - failing to include the tzatziki that was chosen included with our meal and another variety for which we paid an extra amount.
As previously implied, the Lahmacun was excellent. It was the first thing we ate, and so we were excited to try the rest of the meal... it just wasn't, in our estimation, enough to save what was to come.
I don't like leaving bad reviews, but my old review clearly cannot stand to represent this new business. I've worked in restauarants, know things happen, and am the sort who typically likes to work out issues with management directly, but there were some lines crossed here. I can't imagine our experience is the norm (else there's no way they woulda lasted the time they already have) - we just have no interest in going again to find out, ourselves.
REVIEW OF PREVIOUS BUSINESS (SHISH) AT THIS ADDRESS. NO LONGER APPLIES: We order from this place for dine-in, take out, and delivery regularly.
Everything's made in-house from scratch (down to the tzatziki and pickled turnips). Very fresh. Exceptionally good. Best dolmas we've had in L.A. Best baklava we've had anywhere. I was able to cut this evening's beef shish kebab with a plastic fork.
Family who runs the place have always been warm, inviting, and - in my personal experience - appreciative of frank communication.
It's not the cheapest of it's ilk in the area. It's worth...
Read moreAs a passionate food enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of dining at Jeje Restaurant, and I must say, it was an experience that tantalized my taste buds like never before! The stars of the meal were undoubtedly the kebab and wrap.
The kebab was a masterpiece of flavors and textures. Each skewer boasted succulent, perfectly grilled meat that was marinated to perfection. The spices were expertly balanced, creating a harmony of savory, sweet, and a hint of smokiness. The meat was tender and juicy, almost melting in the mouth, which is a true testament to the chef's skill in understanding and respecting the ingredients.
Moving on to the wrap – it was nothing short of culinary artistry. The wrap was packed with a generous amount of fillings, including fresh vegetables that added a delightful crunch and vibrancy. The sauces used were a revelation, complementing the wrap's components without overpowering them. The wrap's bread was soft yet held its integrity, making it both a convenient and delicious option for on-the-go dining.
In addition to the outstanding food, the ambiance of Jeje Restaurant added to the overall dining experience. The staff was courteous and attentive, ensuring that every aspect of the meal was enjoyable.
In conclusion, Jeje Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates high-quality, delicious food. Their kebab and wrap are not just meals but a celebration of flavors that promise to leave you craving for more. Highly...
Read moreA truly BAD experience for us. I wish we had not come here, for several reasons. After dropping off family at Burbank Airport we wanted to grab a bite to eat before getting back home on a very busy freeway. We normally don’t eat out but enjoy Halal food and wanted to patronize and support small businesses like this. There were other choices available in our map search but we chose to come here. We will NEVER return to this place. The customer service person (female - Vanna?) was so RUDE and verbally abusive toward us, because we had asked to use a bathroom (and was told to go next door, only to allow the next customer to access to the bathroom while we watched).
When we spoke to the other employee about the difference in treatment he was apologetic and offered the manager’s contact information) while his co-worker accused us of looking for a slip and fall opportunity on the wet kitchen floor, saying that we were there to likely “sue” them if we had used the restroom!
I don’t know where or how she came up with this one but I’ve never been so offended and this type of behavior cannot be justified or condoned in any way. This person shouldn’t be employed for any reason and truly ruined our entire experience. It wasn’t about the money or the lack of parking, slow service, or food (honestly it tasted good). I don’t believe anyone deserves to be treated the way we were. I am embarrassed by the way this...
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