Bavel

Bavel, located in the arts district of downtown Los Angeles, is a contemporary dining establishment that transports its guests to the culinary landscapes of the Middle East. The restaurant, with its high ceilings and urban chic ambience, offers a dynamic setting where the old world meets modern sensibilities. Exposed brick walls and hanging greenery create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while elegant lighting casts an enchanting glow over the bustling dining space.

Upon entering Bavel, diners are greeted with an open kitchen, where the energy of the chefs at work adds a mesmerizing showcase of culinary prowess. The restaurant's intentional design complements the dining experience, with a mix of communal tables and intimate booths providing versatile seating options for both social gatherings and private dinners.

The menu at Bavel is a celebration of rich flavors and culinary traditions from regions including Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, and Morocco. It's crafted by chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, who are known for their expertise in elevating rustic recipes with a touch of elegance and innovation.

Some of the standout dishes at Bavel include:

1. **Lamb Neck Shawarma**: A tender and succulent dish, the lamb is marinated with a blend of aromatic spices and slow-cooked to perfection. It's served with a tangy amba (mango pickle condiment) and creamy tahini, wrapped in a freshly baked pita or presented elegantly on a plate along with a variety of Middle Eastern pickles and herbs.

2. **Malawach**: This traditional Yemeni bread is pan-fried to a golden crispiness, served alongside grated tomato, dill crème fraîche, and a soft-boiled egg. This dish delivers both texture and depth of flavor, making it a favorite among patrons seeking traditional comfort food with a gourmet twist.

3. **Grilled Prawns**: Marinated in a harissa sauce that's both spicy and aromatic, these prawns are grilled to a smoky char and served alongside a cooling yogurt dip that balances the heat, garnished with fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor.

4. **Duck 'Ndjua Hummus**: A unique take on classic hummus, this dish pairs the creamy chickpea blend with rich and spicy duck 'nduja. It's topped with crispy chickpeas, adding a delightful crunch, and served with house-made pita that's pillowy soft and perfect for scooping up every last bit.

5. **Baba Ghanoush**: This smoky eggplant dip is elevated with the addition of burnt bell pepper, red walnuts, and fried pita crumbles, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on the palate.

Bavel's drink menu complements the bold flavors of the cuisine, with a curated selection of wines, craft beers, and inventive cocktails that draw inspiration from the spices and ingredients featured in the dishes. The attentive staff are well-versed in the menu and ready to guide diners through an immersive culinary journey, making a meal at Bavel not just dining but an experience that captivates the senses.

Whether it's for a special occasion, a casual night out, or a culinary adventure, Bavel provides a setting and menu that are sure to impress anyone who walks through its doors, leaving them eager to return and explore more of the rich and diverse flavors that the Middle Eastern culinary tradition has to offer.