Location: Peoria
Top Restaurants in Peoria
Countries
Most Popular Lebanese food in Peoria, Illinois, United States
Reviews on Lebanese food in Peoria, Illinois, United States. There is nothing average about the average American town of Peoria, where the diverse population and Midwestern vibe has long had entertainment promoters asking, "Will it play in Peoria?" If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere, or so the logic goes. Its scenic skyline, energetic nightlife, lively performing arts scene and miles of mountain bike trails will have you wondering why you would want to make it anywhere else. Will you play in Peoria? Yes, you will!
Things to do in Peoria
1. Kabab-G
Overall Ratings
4 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By Hopmanifest
A âChefâs Specialâ is often a dish with signature style, often offered seasonally and with limited availability. The ingredients are fresh and carefully selected. Think market by morning, prep and ready by evening. The Chef brings a rich history of experience and forte that has been picked up and refined. The dish is an extension of the chefâs self. It represents a narrative of his experiences expressed in flavor. This is at least how I imagine a âChefâs Specialâ. Chicken and Eggplant Fatteh (pronounced FAH-TEE), a unique and flavorful âChefâs Specialâ made by Chef Muhammad of Kabob G, drew my interest. Fatteh originated in Syria. It has since drawn influences from various cultures and regions through immigration and travel. The original dish consists of toasted or stale flatbread pieces, yogurt, chickpeas, and olive oil with other ingredients added depending on the cook and the region. âThere are many varieties of Fatteh, over 15 in Syria,â explained Muhammad. His take is a Lebanese Syrian fusion. Chicken and eggplant, a pairing not as common here as steak and potatoes, should be experienced in the way Muhammad presents. Itâs aromatic and flavorful as a dish of layers and textures. A spoonful may be creamy and tart, another savory and spicy. The spice is not of heat but with notes of mint, garlic, and parsley. The crunch of the pita, magnified essence of olive oil, and tenderness of the eggplant is nothing short of satisfaction. It is a dish that will leave you with nothing left to desire. Muhammad offered a look behind the curtain. A layer of toasted pita croutons topped with whole chickpeas is placed beneath a mix of homemade yogurt, sesame sauce, and garlic mint salad. A sharp knife slices chicken shawarma into delicate cuts to be combined with the lightly fried and diced eggplant. Almonds and pine nuts are sautéed, providing accentuated toasted flavor and great texture. With sweeping quick motions, parsley and tomato are chopped and plated. A heavy drizzle of virgin olive oil completes the plate. The ingredients are bright, fresh, and true to spring. Although not currently on their menu, Chicken and Eggplant Fatteh may be made upon request providing ingredient availability. Muhammad enthusiastically prepares and offers his dishes to the unfamiliar and familiar alike with a menu including chicken as well as beef fatteh that are sure to please.
Where to eat Middle Eastern food in Peoria: The Best Restaurants and Bars
2. Chef Moussa
Overall Ratings
4 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By Bart F
My wife and I had a nice surprise tonight. This was our first time for dinner. The hummus, stuffed grape leaves and falafel appetizer was excellent. Then we shared a chicken shawarma which was excellent. Highly recommend!!
3. Haddad's Downtown
Overall Ratings
4 based on 30 reviews
Founded in 1980 by Tony & Loreece Haddad, owned by Andy and Rita Speck.
Reviewed By Paperclip68
We had our first experience at Haddad's Downtown for lunch. The staff is extremely personable, attentive, and proud of their cuisine. We decided to order the Haddad's Feast for two so we could get a good taste of their specialities. The platters came with enough food to feed four people! Everything was very tasty with just the right about of spices. The cabbage roll is not mushy like you see in so many other restaurants serving Lebanese cuisine. The flavor was excellent. The falafel and hummus were top notch. The tabouli is heavenly with a hint of onion and lemon. Both the gyro and chicken shwarma were excellent. We were provided with tahini, a wonderful homemade garlic sauce, and tzatzik. On top of that, our server brought us a basket of homemade potato chips that were crispy and flavorful. After a conversation with both of the owners, we were given a taste of the Italian beef which is probably the best in Peoria.Come to downtown and give Haddad's Downtown a try for lunch, carry out, or catering. I don't think that you will be disappointed.
