Baladi Coffee House is a new Yemeni cafe in North Olmsted. It sits in the same plaza as Sittoo's. While there is a saturation of Middle Eastern cafes in this city, I have to say that I love this one the most after experiencing all of them. I initially learned about this cafe on social media, and immediately was on my way. What can I say? I love Middle Eastern cafe aesthetic.
AMBIANCE: The interior feels like a page from One Thousand and One Nights. Sand colored furniture, tasteful mirror details, golden accents, runes on walls, and backlit arches. Plenty of light invites itself through the windows. This cafe felt like being transported to somewhere faraway from Cleveland. The best way to describe it is metropolitan.
There is plenty of seating - tables with comfy cushioned chairs, plush couches and chairs, and booths with arm rests. I was sitting next to several parties but still felt like I had ample room to just be. Even when the cafe got very lively, I still felt like I have plenty of space. The cafe features a conference room in the back in case you need more concentration or feel like working.
FOOD/DRINKS: I was extremely impressed with the food and drinks. It's very rare. I ordered Red Tea with mint, unsweetened ($5) and tiramisu cup, pistachio flavored ($12.50).
Red tea has black tea, cloves, mint, and cardamom. It's a very bold hit of caffeine with strong hint of cloves. It's awakening, flavorful, and the best Middle Eastern tea I've tried. Tiramisu cup has creamy pistachio interior that is very velvety and pleasant. It almost tastes like a marriage of ice cream and cream cheese. I don't know wheat this cream is, but it was "close your mouth and feel" dessert. Among the best desserts of my life. The best part? Espresso shot is poured on top of the cup so it melts. My only criticism is that the place could be a little deeper to support the pouring. I gave up my caffeine pause for this combo and don't regret it. I would absolutely order these items again.
The remainder of the menu contains drinks rooted in tradition (like adeni tea), espresso, refreshments (like mojitos), milk based drinks, and an array of desserts and pastries. Many desserts have a sprinkle of rose petals on top making your day a bit more romantic.
SERVICE: The service was short but pleasant. I think it was more of a sign of humble respect than anything else. Staff explained to me the ritual of coffee pouring, and kindly inquired if I wanted sugar in my coffee.
PARKING: There is a shared plaza parking lot. It's fairly small. More parking is available in the back. Be mindful that there are two food establishments in the plaza so the front parking may fill quickly during peak hours.
I have to say that I was very impressed with my overall experience at Baladi. The aesthetic is luxe and reverent to the culture. The food and drinks are top notch, full of flavor and texture. It's now among my favorite cafes in the city, and I'm a tough critic. Experience it! read more