foodadelic

I’ve always been intrigued about Ilili on 5th ave. At least 5 random people in the same month have recommended this place to me. It’s the first Lebanese cuisine I’ve tried. I had such an amazing time! It definitely helped that my friend Inky is the Pastry chef. The experience was impeccable and memorable.

The menu is unbelievably expansive. You’d probably want to dine here few times to get the full breath of what they have to offer. But here are a few of the first items to try.

Duck Shawarma-Duck magret rotisserie fig green onion garlic whip

Lamb ribs- burned strawberry scallions a la plancha

And for the life of me, I can not remember what this is…

Falafel- fried chickpea & fava bean dumplings

I believe this was one of their specials… and it was amazing.. orgasmic status!

Kibbeh nayeh beirutieh- steak tartar, could have lived without ordering.

HUMMUS

Complimentary goods.

Warm yummy pita bubbles

Try any one of their fish dishes, also ask for the special market fish

I couldn’t decide which one for dessert, so I did what any normal person would… and got all three!

Kanfe Bil Jibneh- upsidedown sweet cheese tart w sesame pita pillows and syrup. THIS IS A MUST TRY. If I had to choose, this is THE one dish that they have perfected. It doesn’t get any better than this!

Labne Cheesecake Napoleon - strawberry compote, black pepper granita - this is full of bursting flavors that actually work if you are the adventurous type.

Ilili candy bar- choc. kataifi crunch, choc ganache, pistachio & fig caramel, warm choc sauce. THIS IS ANY CHOC GIRL’S HEAVEN.

I feel an upcoming visit soon to refresh my memory on the foods offered here. It’s a fun experience and even if you don’t have time for dinner, snacks at the bar work equally well. Another plus is that their cocktails are nice if you are into mixed drinks.

*UPDATE 11/28/10 - First time ordering the brussel sprouts and they are amazing. Love em! These are no ordinary plain brussel sprouts, the concoction of flavors were done so well that I can still taste them. YUM!

Ilili
236 5th Ave
(btw 27th & 28th St)
New York, NY 10001 
(212) 683-2929