Cedars

This is the second time we have been here. The first one was incredible. Fantastic, outstanding food and great service. This time around, the experience was very different– towards the worse. The Kibbeh took 35 minutes to get to the table, and when it did, it was frozen. Literally. They took it away to thaw. The Shanklish was inedible, extremely salty. They ran out of grape leaves almost immediately (a Lebanese restaurant without grape leaves???). We asked for Yogurt sauce and got some garlic sauce that was saltier than the Dead Sea. Service was very friendly but took forever. My wife does not want to return (I will give them a second chance assuming today they were off their game because they were half full– which is still not excusable).

After a longtime (4 years), back in this restaurant. Yes the food is still great!
Maybe a little to much food?

Yum! I’m already thinking of when to go back.
Love the view. I wish it was warmer so we could sit outside.
Slow paced but very attentive service. I have allergies to eggs and the waiter made sure to assure me that none of the countless dishes we ordered would be a problem.
You can order a la carte but if it’s your first time, with a group, or with a large appetite I highly recommend getting a set meal. The waiter will choose a specified number of salads, cold and warm Mezzes, main dishes depending on which set you get and dessert. Here’s a tip, you can specify which Mezzes from the menu you would like and they will try to accommodate the fit into your set. Every dish was delish but the steak tartar and the hummus with lamb we’re standouts. The mixed grill main dish was also a platter of juicy meat goodness.
The restaurant is open late. There’s a hookah bar upfront. Parking is free. The prices are on the higher end but it is worth it.
My only complaint… We were seated around tables that were very silent eaters and felt that I had to whisper during the conversation. Maybe they were too concentrated on the delicious food to want to have a conversation?

Location Location Location
It’s all about the location at Cedars. That and the wonderful dining experience. This is not a restaurant where you go for a casual meal. No, that sort of activity is better done elsewhere.
I have been to Cedars about 5 times over the last few months, and love it every single time! Of course, being a vegetarian means that the choices are limited, but that also means that we get to enjoy diverse flavors.
The building is tastefully done. There’s also a lounge upstairs where there are seldom private parties/​gatherings. The view is just spectacular, and could be quite romantic given the time of the year.
Now the food — it’s your standard mediterranean fare, you know, hummus, pita, etc. The difference lies in the presentation. Of course, it doesn’t taste bad, either. We always go for the vegetarian combination (hot and cold) platter. It comes with a generous serving of tabouli. The bread keeps coming while you enjoy your food in style.
Cedars is a wonderful place to get out of the city and spend a few intimate hours with someone special, or even with a group of close friends. There’s a lot to be said in favor of a restaurant that is classy and crafty at the same time.