Opened in August 2016, Fattoush has wasted no time nurturing a dedicated following on the west side of the Main Line. Located across from the Lincoln Court Center in the former King Street Grill location and perched next to long time favorite Margaret Kuo’s, this treasure trove of authentic Mediterranean cuisine features a perfectly spiced Lebanese focus.
Owned and operated by Byblos, Lebanon, native Roger Sleiman—who previously ran Roger’s Bistro on Boot Rd. in West Chester—Fattoush earns high praise for its genuine menu, relaxing gold and brown toned space and Roger’s hands-on-approach to making guests feel welcome.
We are always on the lookout for dishes that are as healthy as they are delicious, and Fattoush pulls through with clean-eating appetizers. A Mediterranean sampler covers all the traditional bases with hummus, baba ghanouj and our favorite falafel drizzled with tahini sauce accompanied by warm toasted pita bread. Bruschetta, kibbeh and stuffed grape leaves round out the starters.
The salad list is topped rather obviously with traditional fattoush that glistens with freshness and provides the perfect combination of crispness, crunch and just the right amount of sumac spice for tartness. Usually typical tabbouleh and falafel salads are above board here with hearty portions perfect for a business lunch or late afternoon date.
House specials are exceptional with a consistent rollout of precisely spiced shawarmas, wraps and gyros. All made from scratch, we say go for the kafta burger with hummus spread and a side of hot fries. Sandwiches (burgers, grilled chicken and reubens), while Americanized, remain impressive.
Roger continues to tweak the dinner menu with entree selections of lamb, chicken and fish. Of special note is the samke harra, which is flounder topped with colorful peppers, pine nuts and onion drizzled with tahini sauce and served with a side of rice and tabbouleh. Daily specials are always creative and seasonal. We recommend requesting the protein-packed vegan comfort dish one pot mujadara, which blends bulgar, crispy onions and steamed lentils, when available. All dishes are playfully well-presented.
Though we’d prefer to keep them our secret, we would be remiss if we were to neglect to inform you of the housemade desserts. Don’t be shy as you shove your spoon into baba rum, almond cake or the pretty yellow decadent lemon cheesecake. Seriously—don’t pass on these.
Service is pleasant and decidedly proficient. Piped music is spiritual with soft strings, lutes and rhythmic drums. Takeout and catering are available. Future plans include Turkish coffees and Lebanese sodas. Parking is a cinch and free out front.
Dish Tip: Check out award-winning productions at the nearby People’s Light Theater and make a night of it.
Fattoush is located at 182 Lancaster Ave., Malvern; phone: (484) 568-4465.
- Photos: Ed Williams
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