Makani Restaurant & Lounge — Restaurant in Virginia

It's late at night, I get hungry and I search the area for a dine-in or takeout. I come across the Makani Restaurant and Lounge, that says it's open until 2 a m. I am curious and I call - sure enough their open, but until 3 a.m. with the kitchen closing at 2:45 a.m. I arrive and couldn't really find it at first, but I call again and greeted twice by the hostess, who orientated me in the right direction. Makani is located between Subway and Dunkin Donuts. The lot lighting is not doing this location justice because it's obscured in darkness. In addition, the front of Makani has a symbol of Isis inscribed Isis or a symbol in the front of the restaurant. It definitely adds an appeal. So, it's easily missed if you're not paying attention. I arrive and immediately, I am greeted with smiles and very honest members of the staff, I even got to meet the chef. His name is Chef Jose. Anyway, I was given a choice of menus dine-in or take-out. I had a long discussion with the hostess, who informed me Makani had been in Herndon for 10 years. The restaurant slash lounge hosts hookah smoking, which is not new in this area. I just happen to show up not only customers enjoying their hookah and celebrating a birthday. I have to be honest, my experience was so good, I was disappointed I wasn't dining in. Their was music, smoke machine and pleasant people really enjoying themselves. So, what about the food? Well, I ordered the entrée Mixed Grill, 3 types of meat with grilled vegetables (tomatoes, peppers and onions) with yellow rice. And a dessert called Kanafeh. Folks the food was fantastic, and the serving were enough for two people. And it's really inexpensive if you buy an entrée for one that serves two people. My recommendation is to visit this location, not only because it's inexpensive, but the food has flavor that had you wanting more. I week be coming here again and again. The did is that GOOD! The whole atmosphere is what people need during this country's current time, and the Makani Restaurant & Lounge really makes people feel like family. If you don't like the food or the service, I would...

*BEWARE ASK FOR THE RECEIPT BEFORE INSERTING YOUR CARD INTO THE CREDIT CARD READER AND CHECK THE BALANCE. THEY ARE CHARGING YOU AN 18% Gratuity for 3 people and then try to stick you for an ADDITIONAL tip when they bring the card reader to pay your bill.

This was my first time visiting Makani and it was completely empty @ 6:30 pm (1st clue). No big deal, the young man was pleasant and quickly took our order.

While eating, I noticed both of the waiters smoking hookahs (2nd clue), but no big deal.

After dinner the waiter brings the credit card reader, but no bill, which gave tip options for (15%, 20% etc-3rd clue). I was given the bill AFTER I had already signed and included another additional tip (my mistake, I should have asked for the bill first). However if I was given the bill first, I would have immediately noticed I was being charged an18% gratuity for 3 people and not gave an extra tip.

This was done purposely and deceptively and I told the young man that their 18% and additional 15% (totaling 33%) gratuity was very shady and they should have given me the bill first. He told me the 18% gratuity was for the owner and the 15% tip was for “them”. That’s when I truly knew this was done purposely with an element of fraud. The young man apologized and offered me a free dessert (which was nice, thank you). But technically, my shady 33% tip already paid for the dessert.

It’s truly NOT about the money, it’s about the deceptive practice on how a business tries to game customers. But in actuality Makani lost a potential great customer that is well connected and could have literally doubled their clientele with a simple recommendation.

To the Owner, just be honest it definitely goes a long way. Before being hustled, I told my children I wanted to return to your establishment, but I guess...

A Hidden Gem for Shawarma and Gyro Lovers

If you're looking for a spot that delivers big on taste, value, and portion size, this place is it! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with the delicious aroma of freshly cooked shawarma and gyro that instantly whets your appetite.

The Food: Simply put, the food here is amazing. The shawarma is tender and flavorful, perfectly spiced, and cooked to perfection. The gyro is just as impressive, with succulent, juicy meat wrapped in soft, warm pita bread, complemented by fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy sauce. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that leaves you wanting more.

Portion Size: One of the standout features of this restaurant is the generous portion sizes. You definitely get more than what you pay for, making it a fantastic option if you're looking to fill up without breaking the bank. Each dish is packed to the brim, ensuring that even the heartiest of appetites will be satisfied.

Prices: Speaking of not breaking the bank, the prices here are incredibly reasonable. Considering the quality and quantity of food you're getting, it's a real steal. It's rare to find a place that offers such amazing food at such low prices, making it a top choice for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.

In summary, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who loves great food at great prices. The shawarma and gyro are particularly outstanding, and with the large portions, you'll leave feeling full and happy every time. Highly...