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Heavenly Lebanese in Portland

Ya Hala, which means "welcome in Lebanese", most definitely lives up to its name.

A tantalizingly diverse menu, friendly, attentive service and a cozy interior adorned with murals depicting life in the homeland, makes this family owned restaurant an oasis hiding in plain sight in Portland’s SE side. The wide-ranging menu is filled with both traditional recipes many of which are believed to have been handed down over the years within the family.

With familiar items such as Baba Ghanouj, Chicken Shawarma (my favorite) and Falafel (quite possibly the best in Portland!), and adventurous selections such as Braised-sauted-and-stuffed Artichoke Hearts, there’s something for almost every palate on the menu.

If you’re a first timer, start with the “Veggie Mezza”—an introductory course on Lebanese food—it’s the restaurant’s most popular dish and features plates of tabouli (Arabic salad), humus, Baba Ghanouj (eggplant & tahini), and two servings each of falafel, and stuffed grape leaves and Aranabeet (fried cauliflower).
And what’s more…if you’re inspired to recreate the selections in your kitchen, the family runs a small grocery store adjacent to the restaurant.

Keywords: Lebanese, Romantic, Just you alone / As a single, Dress casual, With teens, Outdoor / Patio seating, Take out / Delivery, Good for first date, Good wine list, Restaurant, Everyone, No smoking, With a group, With kids, Dinner, With business partners, As a senior citizen, As a couple, Lunch, Very cheap (under US$ 5)