Ya Hala Mirna Attar Ya Hala
8005 SE Stark St. (SE 80th Ave.)
Portland, OR 97215
503-256-4484
Map
Out of the ordinary Lebanese food served in a welcoming, family-run setting.
Openings: Lunch & Dinner Mon.-Sat.


Ya Hala Restaurant Review:


This friendly Lebanese restaurant in the up-and-coming Montavilla neighborhood offers far more than hummus. Chef Mirna Attar and her husband serve some dishes rarely seen beyond Lebanon, and they go out of their way to make every customer feel welcome. Begin by sharing a selection of meze; the thick yogurt cheese called labneh is a must, and among hot options are lightly fried cauliflower and house-made broiled beef sausages. Vegans may opt for the makloube, a savory eggplant and basmati rice casserole. Meanwhile, artichokes are stuffed with either ground beef or a carrot, potato and squash mix, and bulgar-b-dfeen is prepared with beef shank, chickpeas and onion. For dessert, don't miss the shaibeyat, which is phyllo leaves filled with cream, drizzled with rosewater and then sprinkled with pistachios. For beverages, order lemonade with orange blossom water, a yogurt drink or Lebanese sodas in intriguing flavors such as rosewater, jallab and tamarind. Service can be slow, so come prepared to relax and enjoy the experience. If you'd like to buy some ingredients and try cooking these dishes at home, check out the attached grocery store.