Fred B.
Yelp
Some places are just worth the hype, this Middle Eastern hotspot is certainly such a place. That the restaurant even exists is amazing, and that it has become incredibly successful is even more amazing. Some people hope for the best, some people make the best happen!
Mahmoud Odeh, a native of Nazareth, came to Greensboro in 1997 in hopes of having a professional soccer career. But an injury end his playing days, and he stayed in the area, while working a variety of jobs.
All the while, he wanted to find a way to build his love of cooking into a worthwhile career. He applied for several chef positions but since he was not classically trained at a culinary institute, he did not get the positions.
After meeting his future wife, Brandi, they settled in High Point, not far from where their restaurant is located. After years of considering it, they decided to open their own restaurant in 2019 - it seated 25 people.
4 months after opening, the pandemic hit, and they were one of the first area restaurants to offer curbside pickup, and they survived, and gradually grew.
They earned more and more repeat business, more accolades, including over 200 five star reviews on Yelp. They expanded into the space beside their spot, moving the seating up to 90, and they had a full bar.
They offer primarily classic Middle East fare, most using Odeh's mother's recipes, some of which he tweaked. He has spices from Palestine flown in regularly, a bit pricey but he knows what he has.
He also offers daily specials which may be prime rib, or sea bass, or pasta dishes, all with his creatively touch. He seems to always be looking for something new, dazzling! Brandi does the same with the desserts, also amazing.
I have tried the App Sampler - hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush, spanakopita with a Greek salad or tabouleh - a lot of food for $14!
I also have tried the shawarma, kababs, prime rib sandwich, and more! All were excellent, you just need to go!