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TABL M
Master Critic Review
TABL M
7.9
A tucked-away Lebanese counter in The Bloc that feels like a small family spot hiding in plain sight. Plates lean bright and herb-forward—grilled meats, mezze, and warm breads—served with genuine care and low-stress pacing. Perfect when you want downtown convenience without the scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma plate, Hummus & warm pita, Fattoush salad
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A genuinely small Lebanese kitchen quietly anchoring The Bloc.
Who should go: Downtown workers or shoppers wanting a calm meal.
When to visit: Weekday lunch for easy seating.
What to order: Shawarma, mezze sampler, fattoush.
Insider tip: It’s easy to miss—look on the plaza level under the main retail.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Use The Bloc’s on-site garage; validation brings rates down during weekday hours. Street parking is limited and inconsistent in this part of downtown.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; office attire is common from nearby buildings but not required.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold a conversation since it’s counter-service with steady but not loud foot traffic.
Weekend wait: Usually no wait; the area is quieter on weekends and dinner traffic is light.
Weekday lunch: Short lines during peak lunch (5–10 minutes), but seating availability is typically fine.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—mezze, salads, and sides cover most dietary needs.
Vegan options: Several naturally vegan options including hummus, tabbouleh, and certain salads.
Gluten-free options: Good options—many plates centered on grilled proteins and salads; ask about sauces and breads.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Best for a low-key, casual meetup rather than a formal date—it’s counter-service and relaxed, not a long-form sit-down environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here, and seating in The Bloc’s plaza area is generally available outside of the peak weekday lunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—open seating and quick-service pacing work well for families, though it’s better for older kids who enjoy Mediterranean flavors.
Best For
Better for: Quick, fresh Lebanese plates with noticeably friendlier service and calmer pacing than most downtown lunch counters.
Skip if: You want a full-service dinner, cocktails, or a long hangout spot—this is more of a fast-casual, in-and-out experience.