Au Za’atar Delights: A Taste of Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

Au Za’atar brings the rich tapestry of Lebanese culinary traditions right to the heart of New York City. Known for its exceptional flavors and aromatic dishes, this restaurant delivers an immersive dining experience that transports guests to the vibrant streets of Beirut.

Exploring Au Za’atar’s Vibrant Menu

The Au Za’atar menu is a delightful journey through classic Lebanese cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in savory meat dishes or exploring the vegetarian options, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

From Our Stone Ovens

The restaurant’s stone ovens produce some of the most authentic Mujanat Manaeech, these freshly baked flatbreads are topped with a variety of delicious ingredients:

• Za’atar Manouche: Sun-dried thyme blends harmoniously with sesame seeds, sumac, and olive oil to create a tantalizing experience.
• Jebne Manouche: A unique combination of white cheeses delivers a creamy delight.
• Bastal W Banadoura Manouche: Enjoy the flavorful mix of spiced onion and tomato spread.

Vegetarian Dips

The vegetarian offerings are equally impressive with choices like:

• Hummus Beiruty: This puréed chickpea base is elevated with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh parsley, topped with hot fava beans.
• Muhammara: Savory and sweet peppers are blended with walnuts, creating a richly textured dip enhanced with pomegranate molasses.
• Baba Ganoush: Char-grilled eggplants puréed to silky perfection, seasoned with tahini and lemon juice.

Main Course Highlights

From grilled meats to hearty casseroles, the main courses at Au Za’atar offer a plethora of robust flavors:

Exquisite Casseroles

Casseroles are a staple at Au Za’atar, with options like:

• Kafta Bi Tahini: This dish pairs minced beef and lamb with potatoes, baked in a savory tahini lemon sauce.
• Kibbeh Bil Saniye: Layered, baked lean beef and cracked wheat filled with spiced ground beef, onions, and pine nuts provide a hearty meal.

Grill Lovers’ Paradise

For those who enjoy grilled fare, the Mashawi section of the menu is irresistible:

• Shish Tawook: Succulent chicken cubes marinated in tangy lemon and herbs, served with vermicelli rice.
• Grilled Kafta Kebab: A delightful blend of ground beef and lamb mixed with onion, parsley, and spices, grilled to perfection and served on hot stones.
• Filet Mignon Shish Kebab: Offering a luxurious touch, beef filet mignon cubes are cooked tableside on a hot stone.

A Sweet Finish: Desserts at Au Za’atar

No Lebanese meal is complete without a touch of sweetness, and Au Za’atar does not disappoint. The dessert offerings cater to traditional tastes and modern palates alike:

• Mouhallabie: A traditional milk pudding garnished with almonds and pistachios, providing a creamy and rich conclusion to your meal.
• Knafeh Bil Jebne: This sumptuous baked cheese dessert topped with shredded filo dough soaked in syrup is a must-try.
• Mixed Baklawa: Assorted filo pastries filled with nuts and honey, perfect for sharing or indulging solo.

Beverages to Complement Your Meal

Whether you prefer a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage or a cocktail, Au Za’atar’s drinks menu is extensive and thoughtfully curated. Here are a few highlights:

• Virgin Mojito: Fresh mint, lime juice, and club soda offer a refreshing twist on a classic. Available in a variety of fruity flavors such as Strawberry and Passion Fruit.
• Lebanese Coffee: Strong and rich, providing an excellent pick-me-up to end any meal on a high note.
• Specialty Cocktails: The ‘Mediterranean C’ combines rum and mango puree with orange blossom water and mint, crafting an exotic drink experience.

Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Not to Be Missed

Au Za’atar’s menu is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Lebanon, offering New Yorkers a chance to experience the true essence of Middle Eastern flavors. Each dish is crafted with precision, marrying traditional ingredients with contemporary flair. Whether you’re indulging in a classic dish from their stone ovens, savoring the complex spices of their casseroles, or enjoying a sweet traditional dessert, Au Za’atar promises an unforgettable dining journey.

So, next time you find yourself in the city craving authentic Lebanese food, make your way to Au Za’atar—a true gem in the vibrant culinary landscape of New York.