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Mizlala
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Mizlala
7.9
Mediterranean-Israeli fusion in a casual setting near the Galleria serves Chef Danny Elmaleh's vibrant small plates. The Moroccan chicken draws repeat customers, while crispy Brussels sprouts showcase creative vegetable preparation. Reasonable prices and generous portions make it practical for business lunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moroccan Fried Chicken, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Lamb Shawarma Pita
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Israeli-Mediterranean fusion with Japanese technique from experienced chef
Who should go: Lunch crowds seeking fresh, flavorful Mediterranean fare
When to visit: Weekday lunch 11am-2pm to avoid dinner crowds
What to order: Moroccan chicken (order two), Brussels sprouts, lamb shawarma
Insider tip: Parking lot in back avoids the Sepulveda entrance hassle
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind building off Sepulveda - easy access, avoid front entrance congestion
Dress code: Business casual to smart casual - collared shirts work, jeans fine if paired with nice top
Noise level: Low to moderate - open layout but acoustic-friendly, easy conversation at lunch
Weekend wait: 15-25 min without reservation, busier Fri/Sat evenings
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - designed for lunch rush efficiency, 11:30am-1pm peak
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 40% of menu is vegetarian, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower are standouts
Vegan options: Good options - hummus, salads, roasted vegetables can be prepared vegan upon request
Gluten-free options: Yes - most proteins and vegetables are naturally GF, staff knowledgeable about modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd+ date or lunch dates - casual atmosphere lacks romantic ambiance but shareable plates encourage interaction. Great for daytime coffee-to-lunch transition dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for lunch - walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes. Dinner weekends recommended to reserve, but bar seating typically available for parties of 2.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 8+ - approachable Mediterranean flavors, not overly exotic. No kids menu but chicken and shawarma appeal to younger palates. Lunch service moves quickly for restless eaters.
Best For
Better for: Quick business lunches requiring quality over pretense - better value and portion sizes than Lemonade or Mendocino Farms, more authentic than Cava, faster service than sit-down competitors like Hummus Bar & Grill
Skip if: Seeking romantic dinner ambiance, craving heavy/rich Mediterranean (this skews lighter and health-conscious), or need extensive menu variety - focused menu means repeat visits require appreciation for core dishes
Mizlala
8.0
Award-winning Chef Danny Elmaleh brings elevated Mediterranean cooking to this casual Sherman Oaks storefront, building on his Cleo Restaurant pedigree. The compact menu showcases Moroccan chicken, sumac fries, and housemade pitas stuffed generously with shawarma, all prepared with technique-driven vegetable dishes that shine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moroccan Chicken, Sumac Fries, Lamb Shawarma Pita
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Chef Danny Elmaleh's storefront showcasing smoke, char, and layered Mediterranean flavors
Who should go: Mediterranean food lovers wanting quality ingredients at accessible prices
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner to avoid peak crowds
What to order: Moroccan chicken, sumac fries, any vegetable side with intricate sauces
Insider tip: Order ahead for takeout - containers can leak with sauce-heavy dishes
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall parking lot shared with other businesses - usually available but can fill during lunch rush. Street parking on Ventura Blvd as backup.
Dress code: Casual storefront - jeans and t-shirt totally fine. Think laid-back lunch spot, not date night destination.
Noise level: Moderate - open kitchen adds energy but conversations flow easily. Not a quiet romantic spot.
Weekend wait: 15-25 min typical - counter service model keeps things moving. Order at register, food comes out fast.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, maybe 10 min during 12-1pm rush. Otherwise walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - multiple veggie-forward dishes are menu highlights. Chef's vegetable sides with complex sauces compete with proteins.
Vegan options: Good options - most vegetable dishes work, pitas can be modified. Ask about dairy in sauces.
Gluten-free options: Limited - pita bread is central to menu. Some salads and protein plates work, but cross-contamination likely in small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a casual second or third date. Counter-service format and strip mall location don't scream romance, but quality food and reasonable prices take pressure off. Save it for when you're past initial impressions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter service. Order at register, grab a table. Weekday lunches are easiest; Friday/Saturday dinners 6-8pm see the biggest crowds but turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly. Casual vibe, fast service, shareable pitas, and fries that kids love. High chairs available. Good middle ground between fast food and sit-down restaurant for families.
How much should I budget per person? $15-25 per person depending on appetite. Pita sandwiches $12-16, add sides $6-8. Portions are generous - two people can share 2-3 items comfortably.
Is takeout as good as dining in? Almost - food travels well but be aware saucy dishes can leak. Pitas hold up better than expected. Order ahead via phone to skip any wait. Pro tip: eat within 20 minutes for optimal texture.
Best For
Better for: Quality Mediterranean at fast-casual prices and speed. Chef-driven vegetable dishes that rival the proteins. When you want elevated flavors without the formal restaurant experience or price tag.
Skip if: You want a romantic atmosphere or full-service dining. Need extensive gluten-free options. Looking for a splurge meal - this maxes out around $25/person. Want traditional sit-down service with waiters.