Au Za'atar 05-31-2014

Location: 188 Ave A
Time: 1pm
People: RB, CK and myself

Feelings: Au Za'atar, named after Lebanon's famous seasoning mix, is a relatively new Arabian French bistro in East village. It is a dependable spot for the ambitious mixture of the specialties from Lebanon, France and North Africa. With various mezze plates, classic French flavors, Middle Eastern cheeses and organic wine, expect some relaxing time with your friends and family. Variety of craft beers and rustic decor add a modern touch.

They also take an interesting twist to the usual new American brunch dishes. If you are bored of your ordinary Sunday brunch, Au Za'atar will give you robust flavors without being overly adventurous. Roasted Z'atar Tomato Omelette ($12 with halloumi cheese) is perfectly fluffy, and the grilled halloumi cheese is smokey and excellent.

"Kafta Benedict" ($13, grilled kafta meat, poached eggs, Moroccan sauce) is a clever and welcome addition to a classic brunch dish. RB felt the Moroccan red sauce was a much better compliment to the poached eggs than the traditional heavier hollandaise, and the side of fries with sumac and parsley were light and well seasoned.

Our dining experience at Au Za'atar was a solid, comfortable one. They are not there to impress us with new inventive flavors, however, they offer hearty dishes that mothers and grandmothers would make--something that I would crave daily. They aim to please.