Mar 1, 2024
Written By: J.Couch
We were in Portland to see family and friends and celebrate a few birthdays that we had missed. We decided to embark on a culinary adventure that would tantalize our taste buds with exotic flavors and transport us to the heart of Lebanon. Ya Hala Lebanese Cuisine, a hidden gem that promises an authentic and delightful dining experience, and boasts that they are “Portland’s best Lebanese food since 1999!”. In fact, my parents had been there about 25 years ago when it first opened. They offer many Gluten Free, Vegan, and Vegetarian options.
As we stepped in through their front door, the warm and inviting ambiance instantly set the stage for a memorable evening. The decor, adorned with traditional Lebanese elements, provided a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage that awaited us on the menu. Their menu is a tapestry of Lebanese delights, and one dish that caught our attention was the “Other Plate.” This intriguing option promised a diverse selection of Lebanese favorites, making it the perfect choice for someone eager to sample a bit of everything.
With the “Other Plate”, we choose the Falafel which was served with rice, cabbage salad, pickles, tahini, hummus, grilled pita. However, we substituted the cabbage salad for a side of tabouli instead. It is a visual feast boasting an array of flavors and textures. It featured a generous serving of hummus, falafel and tabouli.
We also got a side order of the Baba Ghanouj that stood out as a silky, smoky masterpiece. Made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, this velvety dip was a revelation. Its rich, nuanced flavor profile left us yearning for more, and we couldn’t resist savoring every bite with extra order of warm pita bread.
To conclude our culinary journey, we opted for the vegan pistachio baklava to go for later, a modern twist on a classic dessert. Layers of flaky phyllo pastry enveloped a heavenly blend of crushed pistachios, sweetened with just the right amount of syrup. This guilt-free, vegan indulgence was a testament to their commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
Ya Hala Lebanese Cuisine proved to be a haven for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic Lebanese dining experience. The “Other Plate” provided a delightful assortment of flavors, and the Baba Ghanouj and vegan Pistachio Baklava left an indelible mark on our palates. If you find yourself craving a culinary escapade, venture into Ya Hala and let your taste buds dance to the rhythm of Lebanese cuisine. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of flavors and traditions that will linger in your memory long after the last bite.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
