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    6 years ago

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    Beirut Restaurant & Spirits

    Beirut Restaurant & Spirits

    4.3
    (294 reviews)
    3.3 mi
    $$

    I really wanted to love Beirut and will give it another chance, but my first impression wasn't…read moregreat. I came in as a solo diner and was seated quickly, although my table was kind of nestled underneath the high outdoor bar. That meant hearing some of the bartender's phone conversations. I ordered a glass of Lebanese rose wine and liked it! But my meal wasn't impressive. The vegetarian grape leaves (one of my favorite dishes, generally) were OK, although several were split up on my plate (but hey, it happens). I thought the flavor was underwhelming; there was a lot of acidity but nothing else. I also ordered a side of "extra crispy seasoned potato fries" which just turned out to be generic crinkle fries with salt. Definitely wouldn't order those again. I thought maybe there would be some sort of twist on them? The big frustration was service. The restaurant was far from full when I went -- I counted maybe a dozen seated tables. After I finished eating, I spent more than 30 minutes trying to get my waiter's attention to get my check even as I sat with my plates pushed away, glasses empty, and credit card out. He walked by multiple times to wait on and check with other tables, and I saw at least five other employees working in the front of house and walking by me. Even when I got his attention for the check, it took quite a few minutes to get it, despite him walking out to other tables. (Although I will note he seemed busier than the other employees!) My check before tip came to $24, which felt on the pricey side for what I got. I hope I'm wrong, but I got the vibe that I wasn't exactly their favorite type of guest -- a solo diner who wasn't smoking hookah. (I noticed another solo non-smoker go similarly unnoticed by staff.) Maybe they heavily favor regulars, too. But they weren't at capacity, and I'd have gotten out quicker had I been able to pay. Maybe it was just an off night. But it's just not a great feeling to be ignored.

    My wife and I tried their lunch buffet for the first time and overall, it was a good experience. At…read more$15.99 including a drink, it's a solid deal. The food was tasty, but we were disappointed with the limited meat and fish options. Roasted chicken was the only choice available. I like protein so I ended up just loading up on chicken. We were hoping for a bit more variety in that protein area.

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    Beirut Restaurant & Spirits
    Beirut Restaurant & Spirits
    Indoor seating & on the other side of the window is the outdoor patio

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    Indoor seating & on the other side of the window is the outdoor patio
    Al Shami

    Al Shami

    4.8
    (11 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    After having a fun date at an escape room, we decided we wanted some middle eastern food and…read morelooked up places nearby and this one was the closest and the food looked good . I will say walking in and seeing the inside of the restaurant was a good sign the food would be good . The first thing I noticed is that it looked and smelled clean and it also wasn't super busy but we did go in for a bit of an early dinner and it was the night before thanksgiving ..so that could've had something to do with it . We had ordered chicken shawarma and falafel and I have to say this is the most authentic and home tasting shawarma I've ever had . You can tell everything is made from scratch .possibly even the falafel because they were still hot when they came out. I'm not sure what they are putting in the falafel but those can easily become addicting . Will for sure be back!

    Delicious Mediterranean food right off baymeadows. Simple yet the food was authentic and amazing…read more Simple restaurant and casual right off old baymeadows road in southside. This place is convenient as it's right in a plaza with other shops. Simple yet delicious. I ordered the lentil soup. Creamy and flavorful with lemon zest. Also the falafel was so fluffy and tasteful. The chicken wrap was delicious with many spices yet not spicey and the French fries were fried to perfection. Not oily at all. The service was on point and the server was so helpful. I will definitely be back again.

    Photos
    Al Shami
    Chicken shawarma with rice,falafel, garlic sauce, and a chicken shawarma with fries
    Chicken shawarma with rice,falafel, garlic sauce, and a chicken shawarma with fries
    Menu 1

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    Menu 1
    Hala’s Mideast Eatery And Market

    Hala’s Mideast Eatery And Market

    4.4
    (162 reviews)
    4.7 mi
    $$

    What a hidden gem!…read more From the outside it looks like a run of the mill strip mall market but then you walk into a beautiful little cafe style restaurant with a bar, decked out with stylish leather chairs and fashionable tables. The food was absolutely to die for with a good mixture of Palestine and Greek choices. The tea service was adorable, and we had more fun trying new things and talking to our amazing server than we ever anticipated. If you want to take someone out that if a big foodie this place would seriously impress!

    Halal Food in Sunni Islam - Conditions (Translated and Organized)…read more In Sunni Islamic jurisprudence, "halal food" refers to food that is permissible according to the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad . It must meet several conditions related to the nature of the food, its preparation, slaughtering process, and consumption. 1) Lawful Nature of the Food Itself The basic rule is that all foods are permissible unless there is clear evidence of prohibition. Forbidden foods include: * Pork and its derivatives * Carnivorous animals (such as lions, wolves, dogs) * Animals declared impure or harmful * Animals explicitly prohibited in Islamic texts (e.g., domesticated donkeys in most cases) 2) Conditions of Islamic Slaughter (Dhabihah) For meat to be halal, the animal must be slaughtered correctly: * The slaughterer must be a Muslim or, according to many Sunni scholars, from the People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab) * The name of Allah must be mentioned at the time of slaughter ("Bismillah") * The windpipe, esophagus, and main blood vessels in the neck must be cut * A sharp instrument must be used to minimize suffering * Blood must be fully drained from the body * The animal must be alive before slaughter 3) Purity and Absence of Impurity (Najasa) Food must be free from any religious impurity, such as: * Flowing blood * Urine and excrement * Contamination from impure substances or unclean surfaces * Contact with alcohol if considered ritually impure or prohibited in consumption 4) No Mixing with Haram Ingredients Even if the base food is halal, it becomes haram if mixed with prohibited substances: * Alcohol or intoxicants used as food ingredients * Pork-based gelatin or enzymes * Fats or oils derived from forbidden animals * Any additive derived from impure or prohibited sources 5) Lawful Means of Acquisition and Preparation The food must be obtained through lawful means: * Honest trade and lawful purchase * No theft or usurpation * No use of unlawful wealth such as interest (riba), bribery, or fraud 6) Utensils and Cooking Equipment * Utensils must be clean and free from najasa (impurity) * If previously contaminated, they must be properly purified according to Islamic rules * Utensils of People of the Book are generally permissible if clean 7) Intention and Consumption Ethics * Food should not be used to harm oneself or others * Excessive waste (israf) is prohibited * It must not be used directly for sinful purposes Summary In Sunni Islam, halal food is not only about the type of meat. It is a complete system involving: * lawful ingredients * proper slaughtering * purity from impurities * lawful earning and preparation * ethical consumption

    Photos
    Hala’s Mideast Eatery And Market
    Meat Trio and Grilled Chicken Combo Plate
    Meat Trio and Grilled Chicken Combo Plate
    Meat Trio

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    Meat Trio
    Fast Eddy's Quick Mideast

    Fast Eddy's Quick Mideast

    4.8
    (435 reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    The food is always so flavorful here. The staff is so friendly and the place sm heavenl…read more Go check out this local family owned spot

    My husband and I went to a special 6 Course meal event hosted by Fast Eddy's and Jacksonville…read moreRestaurant Reviews and we had such a great time exploring some of Fast Eddy's food. We started with Hummus and Tata Chips, which was crispy pita chips with a standard (but delicious) hummus. The Tata chips had great flavor, like Stacy's Pita Chips but better! The firat course was White Bean Fahsulia, which was a rich and hearty bean stew that packed huge flavor! Second course was Falafel with Tahini Sauce. These were a nice little bite between dishes. The center of the falafel was light, fluffy, and flavorful! Course 3 was Masaka-Ah served with Timan Asfur Rice. While this dish was good, it was my least favorite of the evening. I ate half of the stew and passed the rest off to my husband, who loved it! Course 4 brought us Dolma's served with Roasted Vegetables. I LOVE stuffed grape leaves and these were seriously on point! Tart and tangy up front followed by a whole lot of savory. Course 5, my favorite, was the Spicy Curry Chicken served with White Rice. This was the dish that made me fall in love with Fast Eddy's food and had me coming back for more. I took a couple bites and got a to-go container to enjoy this later at home. Finally, we reached the end of our dinner and Course 6, dessert, came out. Freshly made, sweet and decadent, traditional baklava. Filo dough, crushed walnuts, butter, and honey. This just melted away once it hit my mouth. I don't eat a whole lot of sweets but this had me closing my eyes and enjoying every bite. Every time I've visited Fast Eddy's the staff has been amazing, friendly, and hospitable. And of course, the place being completely decked out with rock and metal music memorabilia, i feel right at home here. Oh, and there's never a time where I leave that place without an order of the Pasta Anatoli to-go!

    Photos
    If you love classic hard rock, you'll easily love this place.
    If you love classic hard rock, you'll easily love this place.
    Derby Fillies + Mac n' Cheese
    Derby Fillies + Mac n' Cheese
    Chicken Big Eddy. YUMMY!

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    Chicken Big Eddy. YUMMY!
    Syriana Grill

    Syriana Grill

    4.2
    (29 reviews)
    4.5 mi

    The most traditional, high quality, Neighborhood food that you will find anywhere in the area. I…read morehighly recommend that you try this place. From the first bite, you will taste the freshness and the love that goes into each meal. The food is prepared as you order it never ahead, ensuring that you will always have the best ingredients. The Owner shared with me that they do not keep things stored. Everything is made fresh. In fact, I think I'm gonna go there for dinner again tonight.

    Halal Food in Sunni Islam - Conditions (Translated and Organized)…read more In Sunni Islamic jurisprudence, "halal food" refers to food that is permissible according to the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad . It must meet several conditions related to the nature of the food, its preparation, slaughtering process, and consumption. 1) Lawful Nature of the Food Itself The basic rule is that all foods are permissible unless there is clear evidence of prohibition. Forbidden foods include: * Pork and its derivatives * Carnivorous animals (such as lions, wolves, dogs) * Animals declared impure or harmful * Animals explicitly prohibited in Islamic texts (e.g., domesticated donkeys in most cases) 2) Conditions of Islamic Slaughter (Dhabihah) For meat to be halal, the animal must be slaughtered correctly: * The slaughterer must be a Muslim or, according to many Sunni scholars, from the People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab) * The name of Allah must be mentioned at the time of slaughter ("Bismillah") * The windpipe, esophagus, and main blood vessels in the neck must be cut * A sharp instrument must be used to minimize suffering * Blood must be fully drained from the body * The animal must be alive before slaughter 3) Purity and Absence of Impurity (Najasa) Food must be free from any religious impurity, such as: * Flowing blood * Urine and excrement * Contamination from impure substances or unclean surfaces * Contact with alcohol if considered ritually impure or prohibited in consumption 4) No Mixing with Haram Ingredients Even if the base food is halal, it becomes haram if mixed with prohibited substances: * Alcohol or intoxicants used as food ingredients * Pork-based gelatin or enzymes * Fats or oils derived from forbidden animals * Any additive derived from impure or prohibited sources 5) Lawful Means of Acquisition and Preparation The food must be obtained through lawful means: * Honest trade and lawful purchase * No theft or usurpation * No use of unlawful wealth such as interest (riba), bribery, or fraud 6) Utensils and Cooking Equipment * Utensils must be clean and free from najasa (impurity) * If previously contaminated, they must be properly purified according to Islamic rules * Utensils of People of the Book are generally permissible if clean 7) Intention and Consumption Ethics * Food should not be used to harm oneself or others * Excessive waste (israf) is prohibited * It must not be used directly for sinful purposes Summary In Sunni Islam, halal food is not only about the type of meat. It is a complete system involving: * lawful ingredients * proper slaughtering * purity from impurities * lawful earning and preparation * ethical consumption

    Photos
    A touch of class.
    A touch of class.
    Chicken kabab with rice and salad. Delicious.
    Chicken kabab with rice and salad. Delicious.
    From the parking lot

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    From the parking lot
    Ya Habibi Sweets & Ice Cream

    Ya Habibi Sweets & Ice Cream

    4.6
    (44 reviews)
    4.5 mi
    $$

    Oh my God in Heaven what a delicious collection of sweets, delicacies, delights, and ice creams…read more The store itself is SPOTLESS so clean, and so pleasant to visit. The menu rotates on the large screen television with descriptions under each item. You can buy a selection of "buy the pound" or "by the piece" delights, including traditional baklavas, shortbread cookies, stuffed Phyllo rolls (Nutella, pistachio cream, and lotus cream which we think taste like graham crackers), and of course - Authentic Dubai Chocolate! We tried several things that were familiar and some completely new to us. I love exploring flavor profiles of other culture's foods. The staff were professional, polite, and service was so fast. I cannot wait to go and buy from them again! And they do catering!!

    Halal Food in Sunni Islam - Conditions (Translated and Organized)…read more In Sunni Islamic jurisprudence, "halal food" refers to food that is permissible according to the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad . It must meet several conditions related to the nature of the food, its preparation, slaughtering process, and consumption. 1) Lawful Nature of the Food Itself The basic rule is that all foods are permissible unless there is clear evidence of prohibition. Forbidden foods include: * Pork and its derivatives * Carnivorous animals (such as lions, wolves, dogs) * Animals declared impure or harmful * Animals explicitly prohibited in Islamic texts (e.g., domesticated donkeys in most cases) 2) Conditions of Islamic Slaughter (Dhabihah) For meat to be halal, the animal must be slaughtered correctly: * The slaughterer must be a Muslim or, according to many Sunni scholars, from the People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab) * The name of Allah must be mentioned at the time of slaughter ("Bismillah") * The windpipe, esophagus, and main blood vessels in the neck must be cut * A sharp instrument must be used to minimize suffering * Blood must be fully drained from the body * The animal must be alive before slaughter 3) Purity and Absence of Impurity (Najasa) Food must be free from any religious impurity, such as: * Flowing blood * Urine and excrement * Contamination from impure substances or unclean surfaces * Contact with alcohol if considered ritually impure or prohibited in consumption 4) No Mixing with Haram Ingredients Even if the base food is halal, it becomes haram if mixed with prohibited substances: * Alcohol or intoxicants used as food ingredients * Pork-based gelatin or enzymes * Fats or oils derived from forbidden animals * Any additive derived from impure or prohibited sources 5) Lawful Means of Acquisition and Preparation The food must be obtained through lawful means: * Honest trade and lawful purchase * No theft or usurpation * No use of unlawful wealth such as interest (riba), bribery, or fraud 6) Utensils and Cooking Equipment * Utensils must be clean and free from najasa (impurity) * If previously contaminated, they must be properly purified according to Islamic rules * Utensils of People of the Book are generally permissible if clean 7) Intention and Consumption Ethics * Food should not be used to harm oneself or others * Excessive waste (israf) is prohibited * It must not be used directly for sinful purposes Summary In Sunni Islam, halal food is not only about the type of meat. It is a complete system involving: * lawful ingredients * proper slaughtering * purity from impurities * lawful earning and preparation * ethical consumption

    Photos
    Some of the cases. :)
    Some of the cases. :)
    Ya Habibi Sweets & Ice Cream
    Dubai chocolate bars.  Available in Dark & Milk Chocolate.

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    Dubai chocolate bars. Available in Dark & Milk Chocolate.

    Aladin - mideastern - Updated July 2026

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