For those of you who've been keeping up with my blogs, you probably know by now that I'm a big fan of good quality food that tastes great. What you might not know (yet) is that as a mom of four ever-starving kiddos, going out to eat is — much to my brood's chagrin — a rare treat. Restaurants are expensive … not to mention that finding one with nutritious options that children will eat without a chorus of complaints is like running a 10K on stilts.
As luck would have it, we've got us an eatery that fulfills all of the aforementioned needs … and then some. It's called Celaborelle, which I'm convinced must translate to “Mediterranean mecca of culinary bliss.” Expertly made to order by chef Joseph Hedary (he comes from a long line of cooks familiar to these parts; think Byblos and Hedary's), the Lebanese-inspired from-scratch dishes he creates are as fresh and authentic as they come. Homemade hummus, salads, grilled meats, seasonal veggies, pita bread … the menu seems endless. (Two words for parents: Cheese pizza. Just try not to devour it before your younguns get a chance, OK?) Oh, and the portions are insanely huge. I'm not exaggerating. When you order, keep in mind you'll be taking a ton of it home. (Ninety-nine percent of patrons do, according to Joseph's son and right-hand man, Antoine.)
As scrumptious as it is, though, it's the prices, as well, that make customers swoon. They're rock-bottom cheap. Think fast-food prices for fare that's absolutely top-tier in quality and flavor.
Heads up: It's housed in the front rooms of an abode built in 1904, so seating is a bit on the sparse side. As I mentioned, meals are made to order, so expect to linger awhile if several diners descend at once. But be patient (and try not to swipe that falafel from your neighbor's plate). The wait is well worth it.
P.S. The Hedary clan goes out of their way to provide us such fabulous fare and ridiculously low prices, so, please, tip well. They deserve it.
Celaborelle
2257 Hemphill St.
817.922.8118
Open every day but Sunday
Lunch, 11 to 2; dinner, 5 to 8
