NYCReview
Le Sajj
If you want to eat kibbeh, go to Le Sajj in Bay Ridge - an excellent choice for special occasions. First-timers should order the “Lebanese Garden” to start, which will give you a taste of several classic mezzes like hummus, tabouleh, and grape leaves. They have three types of raw kibbeh as well as a few baked and fried options. The pumpkin kibbeh is delightfully crisp and packed with herbs and spices, but you should also take the opportunity to try the kibbeh nayeh, a pile of raw minced beef mixed with bulgar and herbs that’s traditionally eaten wrapped in a bit of flatbread and garnished with raw onion, mint, and olive oil.
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Food Rundown
Mezzes
Lebanese dining is all about the mezze, so order lots of small plates (both hot and cold) and prepare for a leisurely, hours-long meal.
Kibbeh Nayeh
Here, minced raw lamb is blended with bulgur wheat and lots of spices, then served on a slab of chilled marble. You can taste the freshness of the meat, which is particularly good paired with raw onion and olive oil.
Pumpkin Kibbeh
These football-shaped fried dumplings are made from a pumpkin and bulgur base and deep fried until they’re dark brown and crunchy on the outside. They're a very different take on kibbeh—one that’s absolutely worth trying.
Sajj Cheese Rolls
Crisp phyllo cigars filled with stretchy, savory cheese, these are what mozzarella sticks aspire to be.
Kafta KhishKhash
Get these spicy ground meat patties with a side of fries for a filling, savory dish that’s a great chaser for all the snacks (and Lebanese beers) you’ve been eating up to this point.
