Mediterranean Bistro — Restaurant in Los Angeles

First off, you are greeted by a TERRIBLE odor as soon as you enter the place. Can't tell if it's bad plumbing, or something else. But it is very noticeable as soon as you walk in.

Second off service is terrible. This is NOT for the young man who took my order; he was actually nice and friendly. But the manager/possible owner of the restaurant? Terrible. There were people who ordered AFTER I did, much LARGER orders than me, who somehow got served before I did. I ordered a simple kebab plate, nothing complicated. He gives off the impression that he's discriminatory toward certain people for whatever reason. Even though I tipped generously, possibly even over-tipped. Sat and waited very patiently, didn't complain or anything. Just wanted to see when I would be acknowledged by him. He didn't come over to greet me, ask how long I've been waiting, offer a glass of water, absolutely NOTHING. Just looked at me then continued on as if I didn't exist. That's no way to treat a paying, tipping customer.

Then, upon receipt, the plate I ordered did not come with the pita or pickles as advertised even though I saw him giving out BOAT-LOADS of it to other customers (non-Black mind you). I was quite literally given just one napkin and one fork, that was it. Very cold, and not very friendly. Would never come here again nor would I recommend it to any of my friends, family or peers. Stay away from this place. One star because at least the young man who took my order was kind/friendly. Food was ok but nothing to write home about; I've definitely had better. They got my money once, but...

I've eaten here for many years! Love this place... love the owner.. the food is great.. I'm Lebanese so I can say it's the real deal! The lamb shank is insanely juicy and falls off the bone, the whole fish is amazing.. ALL the salads are perfection. Every meat dish is always good. I'm Judgy about bitter olive oils and wonky flavors in the any type of egg plant salad or hummus.. all of theirs are delicious. I know some of the dishes are few bucks more .. but the cost of meat has gone up.... They have house a Chardonnay that is insanely good.. we tried to buy it online but the winery only sells their reds.. must be a restaurant select Chard. The staff is always running around making sure things are taken care of.. The owner is so charming.. the guy that remembers you for life and makes you feel welcome and appreciated for choosing his place for dinner!.. Once in awhile the owner will show up at your table with a shot of Ouzo if yer lucky! Please finish your meal with a metal pot of Arabic coffee & a desert.. we always laugh.. after you drink it .. you'll go home and clean your house .. HA.. We love inside as well as out.. but outside feels more like your...

PRO - Very nice looking place. People look very professional.

CON - Prices is little bit overprice with small portions. You will not be filled up eating there.

OVERALL - I went there twice. One time for dinner where I order falafel. When I got it, it wasn't put together. You have to put it together yourself. For the price I pay for it, it should already been put together. I notice they have lunch specials with little bit lower prices. So I decided to give them a 2nd chance by going there during lunch time and order a lunch special they have. When I got it, the portions was even smaller and I ate it quite quickly. I have notice when I was there, it seems they have relatives and friends to go there and eat there since it seems they know the people that was eating there. I really want to like this place but I am sorry, but I can't recommend this place. There's no "wow" in their food. You better off going to Falafel Palace...