Carousel is hands down the best Mediterranean spot. I've been coming here for years and it never…read moredisappoints. Their arayes are a must -- it's basically like a lahmajun with two pieces pressed together, and it's insanely good. I usually go all in and order the tabbouleh, babaganoush, a pound of lula kebab, and shish kebab. Honestly, if you're with 2+ people (or even just really hungry), ordering by the pound with sides is way better value than getting individual plates. You get more variety and it just feels like the right way to eat here. Every now and then I'll switch it up and get the liver plate -- it comes with tons of greens and onions, and when you wrap everything in their fresh pita, it's incredible. Not an everyday order, but when you're in the mood for it, it hits. If you dine in, the indoor decor is super nice and really gives that authentic Mediterranean vibe. They also play a lot of 90s music, which somehow fits perfectly and adds to the whole experience. I've dined in plenty of times and the service is always solid -- staff is friendly and attentive. Just a heads up, food can take a little longer sometimes, but that's because they're always busy and everything is made fresh, so it's worth the wait. I've also done takeout here more times than I can count -- probably over 100 orders at this point -- which says everything. This is easily one of my go-to spots and I keep coming back for a reason.

The food was okay, nothing extraordinary, but decent. Unfortunately, the service was, without…read moreexaggeration, one of the worst I've ever experienced in my life. From the moment we arrived, the vibe felt off. The host who seated us (who later turned out to also be a server) left us at the table, and no one approached us for about 10 minutes. When a server finally came over, the first thing she said was "Ready? Ready?", no greeting, no welcome, nothing. We were never brought water. I had to ask a busser for it because the server walked past our table multiple times, clearly saw us, and chose to ignore us. The food runner was also rude, he dropped the plates on the table without saying a single word. Throughout the entire meal, no one checked on us. No "How is everything?" No "Do you need anything?" Nothing at all. Meanwhile, we noticed that nearby tables were being greeted, checked on, and treated kindly. When we asked for the check, the server literally threw it on the table without saying a word. The experience was so bad that we decided not to leave a tip; Something we never do, especially since we truly value good service and I personally work in the restaurant industry. I don't know if the treatment had anything to do with how we looked or how we were dressed, but I've never felt so ignored and uncomfortable in a restaurant before. The food may be fine, but the service completely ruins the experience. I would not return or recommend this place.

I've been coming here for years and the device is always 5-star. Food is sooooo good!read more

I passed by Raffi's Place often in my weekly walks and I finally got a chance to eat there last…read morenight with family from San Francisco. I'm so glad this place did not disappoint. First off, it was a Friday night so it was very busy - we were walk-ins and we had to wait 30-45 minutes. They have a place in the back outside with benches so that was thoughtful. The atmosphere inside was warm and friendly. The service and staff was efficient. Our waiter was Marco who was very friendly and visited us often to see if we were enjoying ourselves. The food we ordered was the Shish Kabob made with chunks of tender filet mignon, Rack of Lamb, and Salmon entree. They were kind enough to combine and make it family style for us. The meats were tender and the Salmon was flaky and moist - so delicious that we ordered another round of them LOL! Will definitely be back! By the way, there's public parking on Artsakh Ave - 90 minutes free and cheap hourly after.

The Art of the Singular Obsession: Why Zhengyalov Hatz is Glendale's Most Focused Masterpiece…read more------- There's a specific kind of anxiety that comes with opening a menu that reads like a telephone book. When a kitchen tries to make pizza, sushi, and a passable club sandwich all at once, they usually fail at all three. Give me a specialist. Give me someone who wakes up every morning, stares at a single dish, and spends their entire life chasing perfection. Tucked away at 318 E Broadway in Glendale, Zhengyalov Hatz is exactly that kind of sanctuary. They don't have a menu so much as a mission statement. They make one thing. One single, spectacular, fiercely guarded Armenian culinary tradition. And they do it so perfectly that the Michelin Guide had no choice but to take notice. // The Vibe and the Craft // You walk in, and the air hits you immediately--the unmistakable, primal scent of hot griddles and a massive volume of fresh herbs. The clean-lined, minimalist space is centered entirely around a simple walk-up counter, but don't let the efficiency fool you; the greeting you receive the second you step up is instantly warm and genuine. There are no secrets here. You watch as seasoned hands work the dough, rolling out delicate, paper-thin sheets, burying them under an impossibly large mountain of finely chopped greenery, and folding them into tight parcels on the hot griddles. It's a beautiful, well-oiled operation where a steady stream of locals are constantly in and out, clutching take-out boxes filled with their greenly miracles. // The Main Event: The Namesake // The dish is the Zhengyalov Hatz, and when it arrives hot off the griddle, blistered, slightly charred in places, and absolutely steaming, it is a revelation. You bite through that crisp, yielding dough into a dense, vibrant green lining of over a dozen different varietals--spinach, scallions, sorrel, beet leaves, and herbs you probably couldn't name if you tried. It shouldn't be this complex, but it is. It hits every corner of the palate: it's sharp, it's sour, it's earthy, and deeply, viscerally satisfying. Even if you're a devout carnivore, this plant-forward flatbread demands your absolute respect. It's a complete meal wrapped in a charred, unleavened embrace. In fact, the last time I walked through those doors, I had to buy two orders just for myself. It really is that good. (Pro tip: have them slide a pat of butter in there to melt down into the hot greens. Don't overthink it, just do it.) // The Supporting Cast // Because they only make one main dish, deciding what to order takes about three seconds. To wash it down, you get the Okroshka--a cold, tangy yogurt drink punched up with dill and cucumber. It serves as the perfect, refreshing counter-hook to the warm, earthy flatbread. To finish, grab a square of their Paxlava (baklava). It's built with flaky phyllo and ground nuts, offering just a light crust and a sweetness that doesn't overpower the palate. // The Verdict // In a culinary landscape obsessed with "more"--more options, more fusion, more noise--Zhengyalov Hatz is a masterclass in "less." They have bet their entire existence on the power of a single, flawless creation, and they absolutely nail it. It's authentic, it's unpretentious, and it is a mandatory stop. Go early before they sell out, eat it hot, and remember what it tastes like when people actually give a damn about their heritage.

I really enjoy the authenticity of this place, and they've recently opened their second location in…read moreNorth Hollywood. I've come here a few times for their Zhengyalov hats, but once I found out they also make lahmajun, I had to try it. Let me tell you, it is some of my absolute favorite lahmajun. The dough is done perfectly with just the right thinness, the meat is delicious and seasoned so well, and everything about it is exactly to my liking. I definitely recommend it, but be warned, they are massive, so there's no need to over order.

The food absolutely blew me away. Everything was cooked to perfection! For the pro move, order the…read morecheese fatayer and dip it in the labneh. You will not regret it. Honestly every dish we ordered from the lamb kabob to the vegetarian plate was a hit. Super nice staff in a traditional environment. 10/10

The food was delicious! We had several items and all are delicious! Service was excellent- very…read morefriendly and accommodating! Cabbage salad, baba ghanoush, chicken kebab and shawarma were all top notch. The interior felt very clean and nice. Don't let the parking lot or neighborhood turn you off. It's absolutely worth going here. We observed many people picking up to-go orders as well. I'm so glad someone had suggested it to us.

Ate Armenian food for the 1st time. Got the Oxtail Khashlava, Eggplant dip, and Ground beef kebab…read more(my finger covered up the picture). I'm no Armenian food expert, but I felt All three were delicious and well seasoned. Reminds me of Persian food & some Mediterranean food, but even better ! Service was great. Louisa was very attentive and helpful for answering our questions. Ambiance: This place is definitely geared towards hardcore old world immigrants. Decor is super extra. Folks drive black Mercedes. They started doing live music at one point, and I felt like we were in another country. I love it.

The manager here is the one who makes this restaurant better and different than the other…read morerestaurants. Thank you Armine for amazing hospitality and delicious food. We will definitely be back again.

Great spot for Armenian food! The setting is casual and doesn't have a ton of seating, so we took…read moreour food to go. The portions are large so we were able to share! We got the beef and chicken plate and Greek salad. This was enough for 3 of us to share! The beef and chicken were tender and marinated well. All the sides in the combo were good too - especially the hummus! The greek salad was a nice complement, and again really large portion. I really enjoyed the meal and would recommend if you're looking for Armenian food!

I finally tried Mini Kabob and it was all that and more…read more I ordered the chicken and beef plate with rice and hummus (yes to the hummus), and the chicken was incredibly well-seasoned and juicy -- so good. Only note for next time: I'll ask for it a little more well-done (just personal preference... I like my chicken with a little extra bite ). The eggplant caviar was solid and a generous portion, but the real standout? The Caesar wrap. It completely lived up to the hype -- bold, flavorful, and honestly addictive. I almost ordered a second one to take home. Also worth mentioning: the son of the owner who took my order was super friendly and had great customer service, even with a long line. He kept things moving while still being engaging, which I appreciated. I was excited to hear they're opening a Studio City location -- I'll definitely be back. This place is a must. Get the Caesar wrap.

I've never had Georgian food, so it was very intriguing when our friend introduced us to one in…read moreGlendale. The restaurant is situated in a small strip mall with some parking spaces. When we first walked into the restaurant we thought we were the only patrons, then we found out the host just likes to seat people in the private booths which are separated from the main dining room by straw dividers. I read on the other reviews that they thought the server was not very nice, however my experience was the opposite - she provided helpful input when we asked for advices on the cuisine, and even recommended us to try the khinkali with sour cream which she provided and didn't have to. On to the food - we ordered the eggplant appetizer, it's similar to baba ghanouj but this one is a bit spicier and so yummy with the bread that came with it. We also ordered khinkali which is Georgian's version dumplings (we ordered the boiled version but there's also fried ones available). The skin is on the thicker side and was very chewy, the filling was well spiced with herbs, when you cut into it the juices come flowing out, yum! Our fav dish was the chimeruli which is baked hen drenched in a garlicky cream sauce that was more of a soup to me and i could not stop drinking it down! The hen was roasted so nicely with crispy skin, and along with the sauce just made the whole dish so hearty. Things are on the pricier side but I would still definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone who's adventurous in trying different cuisines. It was interesting to note that they had two menus, one for Georgian foods, and the other for Armenian foods. Btw the restaurant charges a "non cash fee" for all non cash payments.

The Khinkali was pretty good and the bread was fantastic. I did not enjoy the Sacivi as much to be…read morehonest, but I think it might be just due to regional differences, we prepare it slightly different which I prefer. Service is quick and attentive as well.

The OG Soup Dumpling: Why Khinkali House is Glendale's Best Kept Secret…read more Let's get one thing straight: if you think the "soup dumpling" started with a two-hour wait outside a Din Tai Fung, you're about 600 years late to the party. While the culinary world is currently obsessed with the delicate, bite-sized Xiao Long Bao--which didn't even show up until the 1870s in Shanghai--the Georgians have been perfecting this craft since the 13th-century Mongol invasions. Khinkali is the OG. It's the rugged, fist-sized ancestor that doesn't need a bamboo steamer basket or a delicate, nervous touch. It's a meal that requires soul, a bit of primitive technique, and a complete disregard for your clean shirt. Tucked away on Artsakh Avenue, Khinkali House is where you go to pay your respects to this ancient culinary titan. Atmosphere and the Art of the Rainy Day I happened to drop in on a rare, miserable rainy day in Glendale, and let me tell you, sitting out in their roomy, covered patio area while the water drummed against the roof was pure atmospheric gold. It's the kind of setting that demands heavy, unapologetic comfort food. The service here is sharp, warm, and attentive--the kind of old-school hospitality that makes you feel like a regular before you've even opened the menu. The Opening Act: Borscht with Soul You don't just jump into a pile of massive dumplings. You have to prepare the palate. I started with a bowl of their Borscht, and it was exquisite. It arrived as a deep, vibrant crimson pool of beet-infused soul, swimming with tender beef, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. It was earthy, slightly sweet, and served at a temperature that could ward off any chill in your bones. It's the kind of bowl that tells you immediately that this kitchen isn't just following a recipe; they're honoring a bloodline. The Main Event: The Four Pillars of Khinkali Then came the heavy hitters. Unlike the thin-skinned, elegant Xiao Long Bao, Khinkali is built for battle. It's a massive, boiled parcel with a thick, satisfyingly chewy dough gathered at the top into a sturdy little knot or "handle" (the kudi). You don't eat the handle--you use it to hoist the beast, bite a small hole in the side, aggressively slurp out the liquid gold trapped inside, and then devour the rest. I worked my way through all four flavors, and each was a masterclass in balance: Ground Beef & Pork: The classic heavyweight. The moment you pierce the dough, a rich, heavily spiced, aggressively savory broth floods your spoon. The meat is fatty in all the right ways, laced with herbs that cut through the richness. It is purely addictive. Lamb: A masterclass in bold, unapologetic flavor. The lamb adds a deeply gamey, sophisticated depth that grounds the entire dish. As it boils, the rendered fat mixes with the internal cooking liquids inside that thick doughy cavern to create a broth that is darker, earthier, and aggressively flavorful. It's a heavy, soulful revelation that hits you right in the chest. Mushroom: Often treated as a vegetarian afterthought in other places, here it's a star. It hits you with a massive wave of umami. The mushrooms are tender and earthy, producing a fragrant, woodsy liqueur inside the dumpling that makes you realize you don't need meat to create a complex masterpiece. Georgian Cheese (The Undisputed Champion): I'm just going to say it--this was my absolute favorite. It is an exercise in pure, primal decadence. Instead of a meat broth, biting into this unleashes a molten, gooey river of tangy, salty Georgian cheese. It pulls, it stretches, and the sharp, slightly funky bite of the cheese against the warm, thick dough is a spiritual experience. I could eat ten of these and die happy. The Return Trip The tragedy of Khinkali House is that the dumplings are so filling, you have to leave the rest of the menu unexplored. But I am already plotting my return. Next time, I'm coming back for the Adjarskiy Khachapuri--that famous Georgian boat-shaped bread loaded with melted cheese and crowned with a fresh egg yolk and a pat of butter. I also have my eye on the Zhengyalov Hatz (a traditional Armenian herb-filled flatbread), and the wildly intriguing Osetrina (Sturgeon) Skewer, which you just don't see every day. The Verdict: Respect the Elders Let's cut the noise. Xiao Long Bao is great for a polite, light lunch, but Khinkali is for when you want to feel something real. Khinkali House has managed to bring a 13th-century mountain staple to a Glendale patio and make it feel like the most relevant thing on the street. It's bold, it's historical, and it's flat-out delicious. If you want to experience the true evolution of the dumpling, get yourself to Khinkali House. Grab a handle, watch the rain, and eat like a Georgian highlander. You can thank me later.

Food was good and our server was nice, but I was honestly confused and disappointed with the way…read moregratuity/tips were handled. We were 4 adults and 1 child, and an automatic 18% gratuity was already included in the bill. However, on the receipt the section saying "tips not included" was circled, which made it seem like gratuity had NOT been added yet. Because of that confusion, I ended up leaving an additional cash tip. I understand restaurants may add gratuity automatically for larger groups, but if gratuity is already included, the receipt and staff should make that clear instead of circling "tips not included." It creates unnecessary confusion for customers. Also, automatically adding gratuity regardless of service feels questionable. Thankfully our server was kind, but if service had been poor, customers should still feel they have a choice regarding tipping.

Hard to find parking. There was metered parking in the front…read more Came on a weekend afternoon. Made reservations, but according to the host, the reservation cancels after 15 minutes of not showing. Place was not full at all. Got the Veggie Sampler for Two for $15, Carousel Combo for $25, and Sarma for $10. For the Carousel Combo we got the Lula or ground beef Kebab and Lamb Shish Kebab for $4 more and substituted the cabbage salad to Lentil Soup for $2. We also got the bulgur instead of rice, fried, or fire roasted vegetables. The food was all amazing. The Sarma was on the sour side, but good. Would come back.

The take out order was missing a main item. When we called to complain, they left us hanging on the…read morephone for a long time. The food was average, the shawarma was overly spiced and the cheese rolls very heavy. We paid about $150 for the take out and did not have a good experience.

A definite must try. The food is amazing. I got the beef Lulah plate, it came with 2 sides and a…read morebed of rice. The beef was perfectly seasoned, the red cabbage salad was fresh and crunchy, the rice was fluffy and tasty, and the hummus was delish. I was given a basket of pita and lavash bread to enjoy with my meal. Tereza is such a beautiful angel; she was very sweet and welcoming)) The place is beautifully decorated, the ambiance is calm and relaxed, they have great music playing. The parking lot is quismall but there's plenty of space on the major streets.

When you're ready to have a delicious and quality Russian/Armenian meal in Sherman Oaks, then…read moreshowing up at Restaurant Areni is the right way to go! Owner Teresa greets you here with a smile and is diligent in getting your order so you can start your delicious journey! We started with being adventurous and asked her for some suggestions. Whatever she said, we said "Yes" to! The journey began with the Cherry Plum juice, Borcht, Georgian Khinkali, Beef Xashlama, Chicken Pagarske Cutlet, Kievske Cutlet and we finished off lunch with some strong thick Armenian Coffee and some Napoleon Cake for dessert! After everything was said and done, we were full, content and very happy that we came! See you here!