As a “taste tester,” my obligation is to be objective when it comes to trying new types of cuisine. However, I must admit that one of my favorite cooking styles is from the Middle East. The mouth-watering spices used in Middle Eastern cooking catch my attention every time I come across a new authentic Mediterranean restaurant.
In my opinion, there’s nothing better than indulging in a scrumptious falafel sandwich or sizzling shwarma, whether it is beef or chicken. The question is, however, which Middle Eastern restaurant is the best? Unfortunately, this question is not easy to answer. So, I say try them all!
On my continuing journey to taste every different type of chow, especially Middle Eastern cuisine, I came across Aladdin CafCB) and Grill. There, I attempted to taste everything on the menu. However, neither my stomach nor wallet could handle the objective.
The ambiance at Aladdin’s was not quite what I had expected. The dCB)cor of the restaurant tried to create a Mediterranean atmosphere. However, the scenic depiction was rather clichCB). The restaurant seating arrangement featured both booths and tables for the comfort of each diner. Yet, without a crowd it doesn’t matter where you sit, you’ll never feel claustrophobic.
In general, Aladdin’s “secret” location makes it a gem for the local clientele. Aladdin’s also features excellent service. The restaurant is family owned, and demonstrates respect for their customers in every manner. They offer friendly service and are always willing to strike up a conversation with you.
Aladdin’s may not feature a perfect 10 in its ambiance, but it definitely scores in its cooking ability. As a starter, Aladdin’s hummus and pita for $3.95 is a perfect way to begin your meal. Their hummus is a wonderful blend of chickpea puree, sesame oil, garlic and lemon juice, which is then topped with a hint of paprika.
However, for those of us who want to taste something new, Aladdin’s Arayes for $5.75 is a great plate to begin with. This dish is a combination of minced beef, onions, fresh parsley, tomatoes, and garlic rolled in the shape of a meatball. It is then centered in a pita, which has been baked to have a crisp taste on the outside and soft texture on the inside.
As an entrCB)e, either the chicken shawarma for $12.95 or the falafel for $9.95 is a great option. Both are traditional dishes that replicate those delectable flavors and scents from the Mediterranean. The chicken shawarma is strips of boneless chicken breast that are marinated in Aladdin’s own special seasoning. It is then served with their own home-made garlic paste, a side of rice, hummus and pita.
The falafel dish is another mouth-watering meal, which is perfect for vegetarians or for those who aren’t afraid of vegetables. It is made by grounding and combining chickpeas, onions, minced parsley, cilantro and garlic into small balls, then adding Aladdin’s own spices.
The falafel is then deep-fried in sesame oil, which brings out the rich savory flavors of the dish. As a side, it is served with potato wedges, which are also seasoned with Aladdin’s spices, hummus and grilled pita.
To complete this outstanding dinner, Aladdin offers two desserts that are also authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Both the baklava and the kenafi are $2.25. The baklava is traditionally cooked and prepared with crispy baked layers of filo dough that is sweetened with honey and topped with walnuts and pistachios. The kenafi is a Semolina pastry that is filled with a sugary mixture of cream drizzled with honey syrup.
If your palette or stomach is now craving Mediterranean food, then take a chance and try Aladdin CafCB) and Grill. It is located at 2594 S. Colorado Blvd., near the University Hills Plaza.
They are open on weekdays from 11 a.m.-2 a.m., and on weekends from 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Don’t be shy. Instead, call Aladdin at (303) 759-9778, and make a reservation for you and your friends.
