I love good Middle Eastern food and I have an odd standard for judging whether or not a restaurant is worth trying: If the hummus and tabouli are good, then the restaurant is worth exploring further.

It is really sad how bland and tasteless the hummus and tabouli are at this place—I suspect they have been dumbed down for the American palate. Sad because the ambience and hospitality at this place are wonderful. Unfortunately, I am not one of those people who will frequent a restaurant just for the atmosphere; if the food is not worth eating, I don’t bother going back.

Sigh! Maybe I will go back and try their pizza, but when I am in the mood for Middle Eastern, I will be heading somewhere else.