We had another large group that attended this month’s Dine About SF, including another newbie, Zeena’s friend Hiba. Hiba is a newbie for DASF but a seasoned eater! The rest of the group includes the Phans, the Chos, the Minns and the Currys.
Mijana Cuisine serves up authentic Lebanese food and for the most part, it did not disappoint (Zeena gave them the thumbs up for both authenticity and flavors). The space is comfortable and we even got decent entertainment! Overall, this place is an excellent value!!! On to the reviews:
Food = 88
The Mezzas were all excellent, especially since they were served with pita breads that were baked on premise. Zeena took charged and ordered the Cold Vegetarian Mezza Platters (Hummos, Baba Ghannouj, Tabbouleh, Warak Enab, & Falafel) and the Hot Combo Platters (Kebbeh, Borek, Jawaneh, Sambousik). She also recommended the Soujouk (spicy sausage) and the Kebbeh Nayeh (Beef Tartare with Burghul & Onions) that were both excellent. Zeena guided us the proper of eating the Tartare, by stuffing some in the freshly baked Pita and top with raw onion and fresh mint. It totally changed the flavor profile but it all go so well together. For entrees, Zeena ordered the Mijana Mashawi Special (Lamb Chops, Chicken Kebab, Kafta Kebab, Veggie Kebab) and Loup De Mer per my request (Whole Mediterranean Bass Deep Fried & Stuffed with Spicy Vegetables). After all the delicious Mezzas, the Kebabs, although pretty good, just wasn’t as good. In addition, there were consistency issues. Some pieces of the grilled meat were dried and overcooked, while others were moist and delicious.
Atmosphere = 82
We had a good table right in the middle of the dining room. The space is nicely decorated. However, an hour into our dinner, the music started and we were smacked in the middle of it. It was truly an authentic Lebanese dining experience but we thought the music was just a bit too loud. Shortly after the music, the belly dancer entertained us. I reserved comments on her to Victor and Ken, as they were “stared” down and invited to dance by the belly dancer.
Service = 83
The service was solid all around. They kept our plates clean and water glasses full. The only complaint I have was that he couldn’t split our check the way we like unless we do so equally 2-ways, 3-ways or 4-ways.
Tim Curry will be adding his "John on the Jon" column and I invite all friends of DASF to add comments!
