Carousel

Carousel Restaurant Review:

Glendale is home to a multitude of neighborhood-oriented Armenian and Middle Eastern restaurants, but this big, lavish establishment draws patrons from all over LA. The best way to experience Carousel is to come with a group and put together a feast of meze, such as fatayer (pan-fried cheese-stuffed phyllo turnovers), hummus topped with pine nuts or lamb, muhammara (a Syrian dip created from walnuts, chilies and pomegranate juice), tabbouleh and Lebanese steak tartare made with fresh filet mignon and cracked wheat. Among main courses are a variety of kebabs and shwarma, lamb chops and whole grilled Mediterranean fish. There’s an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu. The wine list is eclectic, but you’ll find Lebanese wines as well as an Opus One and Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne. The rather showy room is filled with fountains, its walls lined with ceremonial swords and other exotic artifacts, and entertainment is offered Friday and Saturday. The original and far less elaborate Carousel is located at 5112 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323-660-8060.