Al Andalus

Al Andalus Restaurant Review:

There are over 400,000 Mexicans of Lebanese descent, and as such various restaurants in the capital serve exemplary renditions of their cuisine. One of the oldest and most beloved is Al Andalus, set in a large house a few blocks from the zócalo, the main square of Mexico City’s historic center. On weekends, it’s a family favorite and you may have to wait for a table, but during the week the ambience is calmer. Virtually every traditional Lebanese dish is available, and many customers make their meals from just the appetizers: hummus, baba ghanouj and tabbouleh. Grape leaves are stuffed with rice and meat, and there are meatballs mixed with wheat and fried to a crunchy consistency. You can get platters of these appetizers, or main dishes such as grilled meats or fish, as well as shwarma, the traditional grilled lamb sandwich in a freshly-baked pita. Many diners accompany their meals with fruit drinks or beer, although some wines and full bar service is available.