Here’s an experiment to try. Ask someone who has spent more than a day in Buffalo what they think of this town. New Yorkers, West Coasters, Southerners; they will all tell you a story of how they instantly fell in love with this city. If you asked them what they love about Buffalo they may say the arts scene, the architecture, or the delicate balance between small town hospitality and big city vibrance, but odds are the food will be at or near the top of any list. 

The restaurant/bar scene is one of Buffalo’s most well hidden gems. Greek, Polish, Italian, Japanese, American cuisine and countless other cultures are all exemplified in Buffalo establishments. Lebanese cuisine has new local representation in the form of Mezza Restaurant on Elmwood Avenue. Located in the former home of Bel Cibo Restaurant (and Sofra before that), Mezza Restaurant is shaping up to be a very strong addition to the Elmwood strip.

I stopped in with a pair out of town friends (one from New York City, and one from Philadelphia) in early October for my first impressions. The atmosphere was comfortable and subtly elegant but not too formal; one could stop by in jeans without feeling inappropriately under-dressed. We went on a Friday evening without reservations and although the place was fairly busy we were able to be seated almost immediately. An additional challenge before Mezza that night was that one of my guests is a vegetarian and often has trouble ordering off most menus (thankfully, not the case at Mezza). The establishment is split level and we were seated at the edge of the upper area, overlooking the bar and main entrance. We began with an appetizer of falafel ($5.99) and drinks, which was served with tahini. I also requested a side of tzatziki. As first courses go, we were off to a great start. The beer selection was respectable and reasonably priced, we had Flying Bisons all around which is never a bad idea. When it came time for entrees, we chose beef shwarma served with potatoes and rice ($12.99), fattoush salad ($7.99 for the entrée size), and shish tawouk ($13.99). We finished the meal by sharing a rice pudding, which was large enough to comfortably split 3-ways, and coffee. 

I can confidently say that everything placed before us was absolutely delicious. Despite the fact that I probably don’t have the most refined palette for Middle Eastern cuisine, I was able to thoroughly enjoy the entire meal as did my cosmopolitan companions. The service was prompt, courteous and professional in every way. The only word of caution I feel compelled to offer is be careful with the garlic dip that accompanies many of the dishes. One of my fellow diners initially mistook what is essentially several head of garlic pureed to a creamy, buttery consistency for actual butter. After smearing a healthy portion onto a piece of flat bread the girl was drawn nearly to tears by the assault of potent garlic on her taste buds. Those of us who were aware of the item’s true nature were able to apply it judiciously and it was a tasty compliment. This caution goes double for those of you considering Mezza for a first date venue, don’t let the garlic dip adversely affect your social agenda. Nobody wants to kiss someone who tastes like they are preparing for a vampire attack. That being said, if you are in the mood for a culinary experience beyond the usual burger and pizza joints, then a trip to Mezza may be just what you’re looking for.

What: Lebanese Cuisine
Where: 929 Elmwood Avenue Buffalo, NY 
Phone: 716.885.4400

Cost: $-$$ ($10 to $20 entrees)

Hours:

Monday – Thursday 12pm-11pm

Friday & Saturday 12pm-12am

Sunday 4pm-9pm

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