Saj Alreef Restaurant — Restaurant in Sterling Heights

Made a reservation for a party of 18 this evening and it was a phenomenal experience. The table was ready for us when we got there and they promptly seated us; from the minute I sat it was clear they were very swift and efficient in getting things moving. Our waitress Rena and waiter Nerci were excellent. Although it has to be overwhelming to care for a party this large, they were on top of it all. They were extremely professional, kind, and efficient. Their kindness did not change or diminish from the second we came till the second we left. Rena made sure I ordered entrees that would impress, and nothing disappointed. Do not underestimate the food at this place. Many compare this place to the other 2 big names in the area. Honestly, there’s no comparison. I tried the shawarma fries, the dolma, the mandi, the mansaf, the Iraqi kabob and the steak bites to name a few. Everything was a 10/10. Also tried the new colorful kibbeh appetizer. I’ve never seen anything like it. 4 Iraqi kibbehs each uniquely stuffed and all full of flavor. The prices here did seem a tad steep, but you really do get what you pay for. It’s rare that I come to Mediterranean restaurant and enjoy almost everything. I’ve been trying new eats in the Metro detroit area for almost 10 years now, and I have to say that I haven’t been this impressed with a restaurant in a long time. From the service, to the food, to the outstanding vibe, you won’t be disappointed. Look forward...

My recent experience here was not terrible but unpleasant. The place is located at an awkward Plaza, there is a parking space right in front of it but they reserve that for valet parking, and if you want to park yourself you ha e to dri e behind the place, which in my opinion is inefficient and should be the other way around. The place is very crowded and noisy, due to both customers and staff. Service is meh, they are trying but not enough, for example if you ask for water they will get you a pitcher and 4 cups despite that there is a over 10 persons sitting at the table, you ask for more cups they would ask how many more!!, same goes for napkins. When they bring in the food or the appetizers, they will just drop it in whatever empty space on the table or wait for you to make space, and nobody bothered to get the small appetizer plates when they brought in the main dishes. Table clothes didn't look clean. Food is ok, not what I we were expecting and not up to the reputation of the place. In an effort to show good service and hospitality, someone will come and ask around the table if everything is OK, which is fine but not every 5-10 minutes, which becomes more disturbing than helpful. The place have only one washroom for ladies and one for gents, whether you're going in to wash your hands or do your business, then everyone will have to wait, it can be long and annoying. Three stars for the effort, probably...

This is not my first time at Saj Alreef, but it might be the last. The food, atmosphere, and guys were outstanding. My waitress was not. She was rood and I felt disrespected. My entire time there, she came 3 times to my table. One to take the order, two to bering my main entries, while the guys brought the drinks and appetizers. As I was done eating, I asked for a to go box for leftovers, tea, and a piece of cake with the sparkles as I was selprating my wife's birthday. The gentleman that brought my tea took the try with leftovers. So I was like It’s ok. There wasn't much anyway. The waitress comes back with the piece of cake with nothing on it and the to go box with my food in it. I told her I didn't need it anymore as the food was taken in the try already. She looked at me and said, "Just to let you know, we don't package the food back in the kitchen. They are so busy back there. Ask for a box next time." I told her this is not my first time here, and I asked for a box, I didn't ask for it to be packaged. Then she took off. I waited a little and asked the waitress next table if she could get me the sparkles on the cake, which she did. Although, I felt disgusting about the service and wanted to talk to a manager. Many tables were just walking in, and I am not a one who's looking for a seen. Still left a good tip and took my...