I've been to The Phoenician three times now, most recently on Saturday night. The only real reason I went here in the first place was because I have a waitress friend there, but I'm really glad I did because the place is an experience.When you walk in you might think you have been transported to some sort of exotic Lebanese palace. Yes, I'm talking about thousands of fake grapes hanging from the ceiling, golden curtain rods and purple fabric for miles! It might be a little over the top, but it works by really make you feel like you're some place different.
After sitting down, you're greeted by your friendly server (who has to wear this ridiculous vest apparently imported directly from Lebanon). You are brought pita and yogurt for dipping (which is quite good). They have a very nice and not very expensive wine list although I've never tried any of their wines with many available by the glass. I've always tried to stay in the Lebanese spirit and gone for the Kilikia Dark beer (which is actually an Armenian beer, but it's in the same region so it feels authentic).
As for the food, I've never made it past the appetizers. With 20 or so starters on the menu I feel like that's where the focus is at The Phoenician. My first visit I was accompanied by 3 of my friends and we tried the "Mezza" ($49). This is the appetizer sampler to end all appetizer samplers. Normally on a sampler you get a little taste of 4 or 5 different starters, but not here. You get full size portions of Hummus, Baba Ghannouge, Falafel, Fatayer, Grape leaves, Kebbe, Tabouli, Shankleesh, Haloumi, Makanek and Loubie Bi-Zeit. This parade of plates filled up our entire table. I can't even attempt to tell you what they all are, but most of them are quite tasty. I would recommend this to a first time group of 4-6 that isn't sure what to order. You will not leave hungry. One of my favorite appetizers is the "Hummus with meat" ($8). It is the best hummus I've ever eaten topped with ground meat, pine nuts and diced tomatoes. I'm not sure why, but it's was better than just the hummus... the meat makes it awesome! I also like the "Soujok" ($6.50) (mildly hot sausages in a spicy tomato sauce) and the "Fettoosh" salad ($7) (a kick in the face lemon vinaigrette explosion with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber and toasted pita bread crumbled up). There are also nightly specials, some of which I have tried and they are also tasty.
Maybe next time I go I'll try an entree, but I've been very happy with the low prices and the generous portions of the appetizers and I think you will enjoy them as well.The Phoenician Restaurant (map it)
4401 West Broad Street
Richmond, Virginia 23230
(804) 359-5590
http://thephoenicianrestaurant.com/
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1 comments:
I mostly get carry out lunch from there. In that case, it's a falafel sandwich every time. It comes with some pita chips and hummus. For a little fun, I'll order a side of garlic puree for $0.75. The next cheapest side is like five bucks or something. Anyhow, the puree is pure garlic and oil. (g'head and delete the above comment, pls)
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