Food in the style of a rustic middle-eastern food stall at a modern, vibrant setting - Eli Falafel. Opened in 2017, the restaurant quickly established itself as a well-regarded and authentic lebanese-cuisine hotspot. Falafel's history dates back to a 1000 years old with the Egyptian copts that brought it from the middle east. Eli Falafel elevates Lebanese cuisine without unecessary frills.
With representations of middle eastern culture dispered around the restaurant with teapots and arched-doorway-shaped designs for windows, the restaurant combined traditional architecture with modern elements.
The large glass panel windows displays the neat and organized kitchen, showing off the gyro grill.
Dishes:
Dipping Combo - est. 150 rmb
While it may sound like a steep price for dips, it isn't your regular ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. The combo of dips include three traditional middle eastern dips, pita, and fresh vegetables. My personal favorite was the Muhammara Hummus which is given its bright red color with the addition of red bell peppers. You can also order each individual hummus on its own.
Shakshouka - est. 40 rmb
Poached eggs in a simmering tomato, pepper, and olive oil sauce just can't go wrong. With the pita bread that the restaurant serves, it is an amazing combo. While it might look simply, the dish packs a punch. It is slightly too salty, however.
Gyro meat platter - est. 150 rmb
With marinated lamb and chicken, cooked over (well i guess technically not "over" the gyro grill). French fries, and fresh pickled vegetables, this is definitely the main event. The mild dipping sauces on the side also have a nutty flavor that balances out overall acidity from other items on the platter.
Falafel - est. 45 rmb
There's a reason why the restaurant's named after this menu item. The falafel is juicy and crumbly on the inside while crunchy and dark on the outside. The seasoning mixed within the filling of the falafel is surprisingly flavorful. While most falafel have a stodgy feel to them, these ones were interestingly light.
Overview:
With classic middle eastern dishes like falafel, gyro, and Shakshuka, it almost feels like a food stall for those who wish to experience a cozy atmosphere. Simultaneously, the neon lights and contemporary architecture with a bar provides a modern feel that makes the restaurant a true hotspot. With a view of the bund close by, it's also great as a place for a special occasion.
Address:
No.294 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Shanghai 200031 China
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