Um Sherif

After our walking tour concluded, we made our way to Um Sherif, for a fantastic Lebanese meal featuring a spread of mezza the likes of which I've never seen. Found myself sitting next to the lovely Carol Hanna of LB/Beirut, sampling delectable tastes from dozens of plates passed my way. I've only scraped the surface of this cuisine and am not equipped to offer much beyond an astonished appreciation of the diversity of offerings placed in front of me. Everything was meticulously crafted, fairly light, rooted in the Mediterranean aesthetic, and absolutely delicious. Here's a quote from the web about the nature of the Lebanese dining experience:

"It is with food that the Lebanese express their generosity and hospitality. The most casual caller is immediately offered a cup of coffee and even the unexpected visitor is pressed to stay on for an ample meal, which generally consists of a variety of dishes and can always be produced at extremely short notice.
The secret to mastering Lebanese cuisine lies in the preparation and organization of the menu and in the fact that Lebanese dishes store and reheat well.
The Lebanese cook always prepares several dishes in advance and stores the basic mixtures so that they can be combined with other food items to quickly make a full meal. Every household has a constant stock of pickles, olives, cheese, yoghurt, nuts, grain, herbs and spices.
Nearly every part of the raw product is utilized. In fact there is so little wastage that a small selection of raw food is sufficient to create a large variety of substantial dishes.
At the beginning of the main meal mezza (hors d'oeuvres) are served with drinks.
Mezza consists of a large variety of nuts, pickles, cheese, and other foods, displayed in small dishes from which it is picked up with the fingers.
Mezza is an important part of the Lebanese social life. It is a leisurely, relaxing period in which eating and drinking is accompanied by congenial conversation..."