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Levantine
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Levantine
8.3
Levantine is an Israeli-Mediterranean spot on Graham Avenue known for warm hospitality, a lush back patio, and plates built around hummus, shawarma, and seasonal mezze. It functions as a neighborhood staple for brunch, lunch, and casual dinners, with a menu that’s friendly to vegetarians and groups who want to share. The vibe is cozy rather than flashy, with most of the appeal coming from reliably flavorful food and a welcoming staff.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic hummus with fresh pita, Chicken shawarma platter, Eggplant carpaccio
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 6.3
What makes it special: Israeli-style hummus, shawarma, and mezze served with genuinely warm hospitality.
Who should go: Friends or families craving relaxed Mediterranean sharing plates.
When to visit: Brunch or early dinner to snag the garden patio seats.
What to order: Hummus trio, chicken shawarma, eggplant carpaccio.
Insider tip: Book the back garden in mild weather; it feels like a hidden courtyard.
Levantine
8.5
Levantine offers a cozy atmosphere with authentic Israeli-Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a relaxed meal. Highlights include fresh hummus, shawarma, and mezze, all served in a vibrant, welcoming environment.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shawarma Plate, Hummus with Lamb, Falafel
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Authentic Israeli-Mediterranean dishes served in a modern space.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting a casual yet flavorful night out.
When to visit: Evenings for the full experience of music and lively ambiance.
What to order: Shawarma Plate, Hummus with Lamb, Falafel.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for the best view of the open kitchen.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be challenging after 6pm. Consider arriving early or using nearby parking lots.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine but leaning slightly dressy is recommended.
Noise level: Moderate - the atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, allowing for comfortable conversation.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated menu section with plenty of options.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options available.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, the cozy ambiance and vibrant flavors make it a great choice for a relaxed, yet engaging first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but especially during weekends, a reservation is recommended to avoid long wait times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it’s a great spot for families, offering casual dining with a welcoming environment. However, the noise level may not be ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Levantine excels in providing a laid-back yet flavorful dining experience with a modern twist on Israeli-Mediterranean dishes. It’s perfect for group gatherings and date nights with a lively, social vibe.
Skip if: If you prefer a quieter, more formal atmosphere or traditional Mediterranean dishes without a contemporary twist, consider other options.