Layla
4317 Manchester Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110
Layla Menu
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Address :
4317 Manchester Ave
St Louis, MO, 63110 - Phone (314) 553-9252
- Website https://www.laylastl.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 1:00pm
- Mon : 11:00 am - 1:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Accepts Bitcoin : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Music : Background
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Drive-Thru : No
Caters : Yes
Categories
Burgers
Burger or Hamburger is savored as the most desired fast food meal in the United States. A hamburger is basically a sandwich prepared by stuffing ground meat patty, generally beef, between two slices of a bun cut in half. Hamburger is also famous for its seasoning. Most popular condiments used in hamburgers in the United States are mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Besides ground meat patty, hamburgers are also stuffed with lettuce, onions, tomato slices, pickles, and cheese.
Hamburgers are also categorized into two types in the United States. Fast food hamburger and individual hamburgers served at restaurants are two basic types of burgers served in the United States. The individual hamburgers served at restaurants are prepared using everything including lettuce, onion, tomato, and sliced pickles as well as melted cheese on the patty or crumbled on top. American restaurants also serve veggie burgers for those who don't relish meat. Cheeseburgers are also hot favorite in the United States.
McDonalds is the most popular fast food burger restaurant serving different types of burgers in the United States. On the other hand, there are several restaurants such as Burger King are famous for serving the best hamburgers in the United States. Most burger restaurants in the United States often serve hamburgers with French fries and other condiments. If you have a liking for burgers in the United States, then you won't be disappointed. You can easily find the best burger restaurants in your city on our Restaurants Listings directory. Check the reviews and ratings of the top burger restaurants and savor yourself with the best hamburger in the city.
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Betty O.
I just had the most amazing dinner at Layla's. The Clarice burger was delicious. We topped off our dinner with gooey butter baklava. Heavenly! Everybody needs to go to this wonderful establishment.
(5)Harrison R.
Love Love Love Layla! The food is amazing and the staff is wonderful!
(5)Tim B.
If you haven't checked this place out after new owners took over, you need to go! It is clean, really clean. A friend and I stopped in for dinner and Brandy was helping us. Polite, charming, and a great help in deciding what we wanted to eat. We started with the batata on the her recommendation. Great choice. The flavors were very fresh and appealing. I moved onto the beirut burger.... I didn't expect a burger that big to come out, but it was delicious. The kale was perfect, and cooked just right. Nothing I can complain about here. And to make the meal even better, finishing with a baklava shake. This place does fresh food right, and their drinks are on par with some of the best craft cocktails I've had in Saint Louis.
(5)Amy L.
If I could give zero stars I would. The food is good but the service is the worst we have ever experienced in our lives. We had 4 adults and 4 kids. We waited over 45 min for our food. We were never asked our drink order. We all believed our waitress was under the influence of something. She couldn't get anything right, was rude, and overall very poor. We complained to the "manager" and had money taken off our bill but only bc I told him that would be the fair thing to do. A good establishment would have owned their mistakes and automatically done that. We had automatic gratuity added to our bill and when we asked why we were told they don't do that! Um, yes you did! The tables around us were all complaining too. We were told by other patrons that they were sorry we were getting such horrible service. They noticed how bad it was too. I've never ever given zero for a tip but I did today. It was THAT bad! Save yourself the headache and go elsewhere!
(1)Erin G.
If you love stuffed grape leaves like I do, you have to come here. You also have to love couscous, golden raisins and goat cheese and fresh herbs. Hands down the best stuffed grape leaves in St Louis.
(4)Aimee K.
The best Lebanese I've ever had. Seriously. Go now. I stopped by for a lunch to-go and was so surprised at the quality for a place that just opened up! The inside is really nice and you can tell the bar is going to be pretty impressive once it's complete. Some parts still look to be under construction but that'll obviously be fixed with time. Quick run-down of my order: -Hummus: so good and fresh, full of whole chickpeas and drizzled with oil and spices. They gave me more pita than I knew what to do with! Super nice. -Lentil soup: comforting, delicious, and full of flavor. -Falafel sandwich: I can't rave about this one enough. The best falafel I've ever had wrapped up in a pita with grilled vegetables, and a house yogurt sauce worth going back for. The bonus? A side of steamed carrots and green beans with spices. I actually ate it for lunch and dinner because the portions were so big! Give this place a try, especially if you're vegetarian. I'm not, but I noticed a lot of choices that would work well for those who are. I'm so glad to have this place and I can't wait to dine in!
(5)Luz S.
The service was slow, though friendly and the food was just ok. There's a nice vegetarian variety, but overall it's a bit pricy for what you get. We had the Mezza ($28) - hummus, baba ganoush, mutable, tabbouleh, falafel, batata harra and labneh- along with the lamb chops ($15) . We also tried the baklava which was a bit dense (maybe old?) and the coffee (fantastic!). The belly dancer was fun to watch.
(3)Laura L.
We had comically bad service. Like 25 minutes for a beer, 40 minutes to take our order. And the place was not busy at all. And the waitress's sad excuse was the ONE table of 6 had also came in when we did. Umm, so that explains where 5 minutes went, how about the other 35 before ordering..... Anyways, that is really the only reason for the knock in stars. The food was thoroughly enjoyable. We got the monster appetizer tray (someone else ordered so I don't remember what it was called) and I loved everything on it. My falafel wrap was not the best I'd ever had but was quite good. And I had a quiche-type side of the day that was very unique and delightful. I would definitely go back. My sister-in-law recommended it and even before going bragged about the service, so maybe it was an off night. But if I went back and had repeat service like this, I would update this review immediately and say AVOID AVOID because that is not how a typical experience should ever be.
(3)Rico S.
Wow. I had the lentil burger, called the "Jane Says," and I was blown away by how flavorful and filling it was. I am writing this review mostly because of how delicious this veggie burger was. The smoky mango sauce and aioli made for a fun combination. And the flash fried kale gave a nice additional texture. I had roasted potatoes as a side. They were also very tasty. Very vegetarian friendly, filling and at a great price point. This is now one of my go to St. Louis spots.
(5)Johanna C.
I was really looking forward to this place, but just did not enjoy it. I tried the Mezza sampler and a flatbread pizza and both were bland. It definitely felt too expensive for what it was. The Vine is much better in my opinion and much cheaper!
(2)Brian D.
Nice atmosphere, stellar food, and a great place to hear some live music over a few cocktails.
(5)Christina O.
layla is located in a deserted area on manchester. they have a full bar and several tables. lunch here is great especially when with their 6.50 lunch special (chicken shish kebab, beef kefta or veggie platter). i had the beef kefta which comes with basmati rice and veggies. it was flavorful, but the beef could have used some kind of sauce. their fries are homemade and a good size for sharing, but with a bit too much oil. i'm a sucker for baklava and was looking forward to trying it. however, our server didn't bother to ask whether we'd like dessert, brought the check and never came back. we could've probably run out the door without paying... but being a good citizen we went looking for them instead. the decor and ambiance was bland/boring. it didn't bother me much just because i was in good company.
(3)Will F.
I didn't regret coming here, but I wouldn't come back. Layla's food was a let down. The appetizers, which we were counting on given the recent Sauce Mag review, were very disappointing. The stuffed grape leaves were dry and bland...the beef sambusic were cold, small and generally uninteresting...and the baba ganoush was really plain. I felt like I could have bought better grape leaves in a can. We balanced meat and vegetarian entrees and split a "Mixed Grill" dish and the Mnazla Batenjaan. The Mnazla was the most exciting part of the meal, featuring oily, delicious eggplant. The mixed grill was nothing special: our meat was overdone and it came with...shrimp?? The belly dancer is a treat - she's fun and talkable. Our service was slow and lackluster, we waited ten minutes after sitting down for anyone to come to our table. I'd recommend you stick with similar Middle Eastern restaurants on South Grand (that meet the same price point) or if you want to dine in the Grove, visit Everest. This place isn't worth it.
(2)Alexander P.
Dinner and a night out in The Grove could easily start here.
(4)Jeffrey C.
Lot's of good reviews of this place, so we wanted to try it out. We arrived at 11:45 AM on Sunday, for Brunch. The restaurant was empty. We stood there for 5-10 min (sign said please wait to be seated). No one came out, so we just left. Wish them luck, but we won't be going back.
(1)Danielle W.
Layla was a fun new place in the Grove. I was expecting something a little different but that is because I am super picky with my Middle Eastern Cuisine. The atmosphere was really relaxed and not as "ethnic" as I had expected. The Belly Dancer, however, was really entertaining. We had the hummus, tabouleh and the labneh for starters. Everything was great, except for the super slow service. Everything on the table got devoured. I had the chicken shish kebab platter, with carrots, string beans rice and of course the chicken skewers. The chicken was cooked really nicely, I only wish I had a few more veggies on my plate to mix it all up. Across the table the grape leaves were fair, the tabouleh was amazing ( I ate the whole bowl), the hummus was good and the labneh was delicious as well. I think over all everyone was happy, but the service was incredibly slow...especially for a Saturday night. I will be back to try more things and because the Grove is fun!
(3)Adrian B.
Went to Layla's again and was amazing like always! You go Layla's!
(5)Matt F.
My first trip to Layla was one of the most satisfying restaurant experiences I've had in St Louis. My girlfriend and I shared the pickled vegetables and olives, which were interesting, but approachable, and delicious. I had the Beirut burger, which was gigantic, and she had the lamb pita. Both were awesome. We also shared three cocktails: the raspberry sumac-ade, the bedwin in the grove, and the ihsan. All highly recommended. Service was definitely good. The only criticism I can give is that the decor seems too sparse. Not to discount how awesome the meal was, but it would be cool if Layla's looks were upgraded to match the delicious edibles.
(5)Kylah F.
Stopped at Layla for lunch after reading its latest review in the Riverfront Times. We ordered the makdoul (eggplant) and hummus to start with. Both were very good. The makdoul is different but very tasty. The hummus was some of the best i have had. For lunch entrees we oredered the specials, the beef kefta and the chicken kabob. Both were seasoned perfectly. Usually chicken can be dry, but this was very juicy and delicious. They both came with a side of green beans and carrots. The service was excellent and we got our food very quickly. The place is clean and very nicely decorated. Can't wait to come back and try the falafal.
(5)Chi P.
Fastest service ever. I went with a friend, we got in, ordered, ate, and paid the check in 35 MINUTES. I kid you not. Served with a smile too, what can be better? Also, shout out to the owner who personally greeted everyone. Friendliest man ever. Besides that, we ordered a sampler platter for 2 - most delicious tabbouleh, hummus, falafel, and goodies ever! Really delicious mint tea as well. I would really recommend checking out Layla's.
(5)Alison N.
Great hookah and awesome service! The bartender was really nice and helpful in making suggestions. If you're in the area, you should definitely check it out! We had a wonderful time here and would love to come back!
(5)Brianna M.
Ordered hummus to share? You are doing it wrong. You are going to take one bite of the fresh hummus, olive oil, and pita and completely regret that you are letting someone else eat any of it. In fact, sharing and any food at Layla are two things that should probably never mix. I went in for dinner on a Saturday night and it was really empty. I have no clue why because the food is awesome, portions are huge, and prices are reasonable. The service was pretty stellar, too; nothing took too long to come out and when they were out of something that we ordered we were apologized to profusely even though we kept telling them it was okay. Between four people we had four entrees, two appetizers, Arabic coffee, and absolutely no complaints. In fact the closest thing to a complaint may have been "I ate too much because it was so good," but I don't think that counts. They have a ton of vegetarian options (more than half the menu) and they are all marked so you know that they are vegetarian. On top of the great menu labeling, the six vegetarian dishes (the veggie platter with five different appetizers and the Foul Moudames) we tried were delicious. I am going to go ahead and guess that nothing on the menu will disappoint, so no matter what you decide upon you are going to leave full and happy. I am cannot wait to go back and try everything. I live close enough to walk here, but I plan on being in a major food coma every time I leave, so driving might be necessary.
(5)Mary P.
If you're up for a new experience THIS IS THE PLACE! The service is top-notch; friendly and quick. The environment is comfortable and inviting. The food is beautiful and different from anything I've had at any other restaurant and you MUST try the falafels because they are spectacular. Even if you're only up for dessert, the baklava is to die for!
(5)Avé C.
My husband and I just decided to go in to Layla Lebanese Restaurant on a whim! The waiter was very friendly, and in general good humor, which is a very special thing to find in a restaurant.The people who work there were very friendly from the beginning to the end. They were all very pleasant, which made us very glad for the experience. The food was very excellent. The prices were very reasonable. I really enjoyed the fresh herbs and vegetables. * The Olive Salad was great. *There was a platter for two people ( I can't remember the name right now.) It was very fun to try all the different things, and it was delicious. *The Arabic Coffee was very well received. I love how they presented it. I was impressed. *I had an Iced mint tea, with FRESH mint . *I really liked their hot dipping sauce. If you like hot sauces, I recommend it. The food was unlike food we had experienced before, It was fun to eat. We had to get take out containers because the portions are so generous. When we left, we left feeling full and serene. We recommend eating here.
(5)Russell B.
In an attempt to go to Sweetie Pies on a Sunday afternoon while visiting St Louis, we were turned away from the line going down the street and we redirected to this little place a block or so away. At first we walked into an empty front bar area with no tables and I was kind of worried we were the only ones. Fortunately we were directed around to the adjoining room where there were a couple of occupied tables. We looked over the menu and ordered some hummus which had a nice nutty flavor and some pretty good pita. My brother and I each got the beef kefta that had a good mild spice and herb flavor along with some decent basmati. The large amount of veggies was odd, but my mother would be proud I ate all them all. The wife got the falafel pita sandwich. The falafel was some of the best I had in a while being super moist and full of flavor. Despite the Sweetie Pies setback, we were still able to salvage a pretty tasty and cheap lunch.
(3)Rrr V.
Host: n/a Waiter:3.0 Food-taste, presentation: 3.5 Property-style, decor, ambiance: 2.5
(3)Jonathan K.
After coming here a second time I have to say this place is pretty awesome and my new favorite for Middle Eastern in St Louis. Their hummus is fantastic with tasty olive oil and garnished with whole garbanzo beans. Everything on the chef's selection mezza platter was delicious, especially the tabbouleh. The salads are great with solid vegetables, their olive salad has good olives. My favorite is still their baked eggplant, which just has the best flavor. Their service has been very good both times I've gone and the atmosphere is decent. Especially with their huge portions and cheap prices, this has to be one of my new favorite restaurants in St Louis!
(5)Dena G.
The falafal sandwich I had here was fantastic, although I do wish it were on pita rather than wrapped up (why the obsession with wraps?). And the vegetarian platter is phenomenal. The owner was friendly and attentive too. Overall it's a great experience.
(4)Marci E.
Amazing meal - hummus was best I've had in St Louis, lentil soup delicious and thoroughly enjoyed the mini cheese pockets and grape leaves. Can't wait to go back. And, it was SO reasonable and great parking.
(5)Agnieszka M.
So I live about 3 blocks from this place, but until this week I hadn't tried it for more than an appetizer or two. I have to say, it's pretty delicious. This time I tried the hummus and the grilled cheese (I can't remember the type of cheese, but it was very tasty), as well as the falafel sandwich for dinner. The falafel wrap was probably the best I've ever had. I love falafel, but it has a tendency to be dry if there aren't enough toppings and sauces; this wrap was pretty much perfect. And only $6.95! I'll definitely be heading back to Layla soon!
(4)Amy S.
Layla is in the Grove. I liked that they had their own lighted parking lot. No on street parking was relaxing. The food was fresh and fast to the table. Everything was great. We have been there 4 times since opening and have never been let down. They say that they will be able to start serving beer and wine within a few weeks. If you aren't familiar with Lebanese food this is the perfect place to start. I would recommend the Falafel for your first time. They have awesome vegetarian options as well as plenty for carnivore folk. Also, try the traditional coffee (it comes in such a cute way and has just the right amount of cardamom). Customer service was great, we didn't have any complaints.
(5)Christopher R.
We stopped at Layla for lunch today. It had been ages since I had Lebanese food and Tron had never had it. I have to say they do what they do amazingly well! Everything from appetizers to dessert was super awesome! If you have never tried Lebanese I would suggest getting the "Layla Mezza for2" it's a great way to try multiple things! We will def be going back!!
(5)David D.
Excellent fresh, clean tasting food with no heavy spices or sauces. The falafel appetizer was very good & for the main course we had the beef & chicken kabob which was excellent as well. The baklava dessert was presented in small tight rolls suppose to the traditional layered version I'm usta but it was excellent as well with the sweetness being just right AKA lightly sweet.
(5)Simone U.
Atmosphere was clean and quiet, and very welcoming... Food was extremely fresh tasting.. Maybe the best Taboulleh I have ever eaten... From start to finish, I give them an A+. Their prices were very moderate, which was icing on the cake...
(5)Betty C.
Yes indeed this place is a gem. Food couldn't be fresher. First timer and was very impressed with everything from the excellent service we got from Samia to the dessert she recommended which I can't remember the name. Two delicate triangles filled with custard and wrapped in fillo dough topped with a little drizzle of honey and a sprinkling of pistachio nuts. Delightful! The hummus with beef appetizer... Wow. Everything we ordered was incredibly delicious. Thank you Layla's...
(4)Katie P.
We ventured to Layla on a Saturday night with another couple. When we arrived we were seated quickly & our server was with our table within seconds. This level of service continued throughout the night as she did a wonderful job of keeping our drinks full, suggesting menu items & checking on us without being intrusive. We began with the sampler platter & if that was all we had eaten the entire night we all agreed it would've been a "win"! For an entree I chose the lamb burger which was phenomenal, the lamb was perfectly seasoned, cooked to just the right amount of done & the sauce & fresh tomatoes on top perfectly complemented it. The side of thick fries were to die for & the homemade apricot ketchup was the perfect condiment. Throughout dinner we listened to the live music & it was a great mix of covers without being too loud. As the meal ended, all four of us concluded we will 100% return to Layla...the sooner the better!
(5)Chris C.
so i loved this place before...but with the new management, new menu, and new decor...it's even better!!!
(5)Nancy J.
i really liked it. the shake was really good and my wrap was very good. the server was very nice which is hard to find in these parts.
(4)Linda C.
Great, fresh food and the staff is happy to help you navigate the menu. The atmosphere is inviting and a great addition to the Grove.
(5)Steve G.
Quality, fresh entrees. Worth checking out.
(5)Gwen D.
Service was a bit slow but the food and cocktail made up for it. I got the fight club burger with fries. The burger was so good and juicy!
(5)Nikki H.
The shawarma is phenomenal. I had traditional with lamb and my husband had Greek with chicken. Both blew me away. There was almost a sweetness to the lamb that played off the savory of everything else and the heat from the batata. The butter cake baklava was the perfect last bite but it's definitely meant to be shared. Very rich. All in all we will be back.
(5)MaryPat G.
Falafal Fries...great service...a parking lot. What is not to love. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Katie H.
None of the food that I ate on this visit was Lebanese, but it sure was good! I actually was originally drawn to the Shawarma because I've never had it before. But I was nervous to get it and then be disappointed, especially since I couldn't find any reviews that even mentioned it. All the reviews I read raved about the burgers. So, I asked my waitress, "Will the Shawarma change my life or should I get a burger?" She suggested the latter and I'm really glad she did! All of the burger options looked pretty awesome, so it was really hard to pick. I eventually decided to go with Fight Club, BUT I swapped the turkey patty for the beef/bacon patty because DUH! This was probably the best decision I made all day. What a fantastic burger! Thanks to the bacon, that patty alone was already packed with flavor! But then it's topped with melty swiss, super thick-cut bacon and sumac onions (which had a strong flavor, as if pickled) and you have the perfect layers of flavors and textures! I also opted to get the fries as my side - another good decision! Perfect shell of crispy seasoning on the outside and soft potato on the inside! And even better when you dip them in the cool and creamy tzatziki sauce! I should also mention that the serving size extremely filling! Next time I go, I should probably plan on either sharing or taking half of it home so that I can have room to try to dessert! I'm sure that will be another hard decision thanks to the lengthy list of yummy shakes and baked goods! Coming back for brunch and trying their Banana Bread French Toasts sounds like a really great option, as well!
(5)Christy A.
Service was so dry I almost felt like an intruder instead of a patron. I had to seat myself, ask for a menu, request the waitress come over to assist me & damn near hog tie her to get information about veggie options for hummus. The menu states "veggies are an additional $3.5" and I simply wanted to know what my choices consisted of. The response I received was, "I mean whatever we have." Poor baby, I think her name was Nikya, was probably just a little inexperienced in terms of hospitality. Because I really wanted to love the place, I took a deep breath and ordered the traditional hummus with cucumber & tomato along with an order of the falafel stuffed with goat cheese. OMG!!! Once my food arrived all was forgiven. I was in love with the place. The naan was warm, soft with just enough olive oil to add flavor yet not oversaturate the dough. The hummus was authentic, I mean this was real deal hummus, I could tell by the whole chickpeas laying on top. There wasn't too much olive oil resting on the surface to turn me off (how pleasing) The veggies were fresh and sliced perfectly for dipping. The goat cheese stuffed falafel was superb!!! It's important to note that I typically am not a fan of falafel. But the whole goat cheese as an ingredient sparked my interest. These huge balls changed my opinion of falafel; served with a jam that was like icing on a cake. The artwork on the walls inside Layla was a nice touch. As were the linen napkins. I forgive Nikya, solely based on how deliciously prepared the chef made my food today. I shall return. I shall update accordingly.
(4)Lexi A.
Hardcore srumptiousness!! This is a place to visit when you are not in a hurry. I personally prefer this relaxed eating style so I was happy with he service. I know that some people would strongly disagree with me about that. The stuffed falafel balls are really really good. I also love Thor mean green burger. The lentil burger wasn't as good in my opinions. But where they really shine is in their shakes. I have had their peanut butter pretzel one and their chocolate tahini one and they were both delightful!!
(5)Felicia K.
The burger, wings and fries were delicious! They delivered fast and they were courteous. We are definitely going back!!
(4)Blake E.
Made my first trip to the popular burger joint since moving to the neighborhood. Called in for take out and picked it up to eat at home. My burger was SUPER red and bloody, nearly cool in the center. Decided it was worth returning to replace my $14 burger and fries. The manager was cordial, bought me a beer and made another burger for me, that may be one of the best I've had. Rough first impression, but recovered well. I'll be back to give Layla a second try for a late night shake and burger.
(3)Ellen C.
Came here for a late night dinner/snack after a concert in forest park... What a nice surprise! We ordered the hummus, kabobs, and stuffed falafel which were all good to great. A bit spicy overall, but I'm sure a lot of people enjoy that. They had live jazz music playing for awhile and when not, the music was enjoyable. Nice atmosphere and, although there being only one server who was very busy, the service was good! Wasn't in the mood to booze but saw lots of people ordering drinks (as well as shakes/boozy shakes) which looked incredible. Will be back when I visit the area again!
(4)Caprice F.
The menu here is very extensive featuring a large array of traditional Mediterranean fare, and a large selection of nontraditional burgers. Everything sounds good at Layla, which made it really difficult to make a selection. I had the reaper burger, which was very good. My only complaint was the flash-fried kale on the burger. I had it with the batata as a way to try something different. I asked that the sauce that comes with it be put on the side, and thank God I did. It was crazy spicy! Be careful if you order it. The service was good and the happy hour on Saturday was a win. I'd return to try something different.
(3)Tiara D.
We waited 30 mins for hard stiff horrible fried wings after the bartender messes up our order. They never apologized and they also were very rude about it. Glad they were $3 during happy hour. That chicken's death was in vain. Food was horrible drinks were ok.
(1)Beck E.
Finally stopped in for lunch on a Sunday, and it was surprisingly devoid of customers. We had originally wanted to sit outside, but the only table with an umbrella for shade was already taken. I think there were 4 other customers inside while we were there. Waitstaff & bartender were friendly, although it took a long time for my bf to get his cocktail (Bite the Bulleit). He said it was well worth the wait, though! The other cocktails on the drink menu sounded interesting/creative, but I couldn't try them. :( The curse of the DD... Anyway, onto the food! - Spicy falafel shawarma ($8): The housemade chili sauce was nicely spicy! You could definitely taste it in the pita wrap. I thought the falafels themselves were a bit on the salty side, but other than that, this was a good wrap. I thought the portion size was fine. - Tabbouleh: Decent side portion but way too salty... I couldn't finish it. - "Jane Says" lentil burger: I snuck a taste from my bf's plate while he wasn't looking. The lentil patty looked like raw ground beef, which wasn't too appetizing, but it tasted delicious. Texture was kind of strange (reminiscent of raw beef! nooo...). But really tasty. - Hummus & pita: Pretty good, nothing wrong here... I did think the hummus was a bit airy/fluffy, not sure how I feel about this. So right now I'm leaning towards 3 stars instead of 4 because I didn't think my food was that great. BUT I think I definitely have to go back and try one of their shakes and re-evaluate. Until next time...
(3)Defias S.
Very disappointed after hearing amazing things. Waitress was very nice. Got the lamb burger (clarice). Lamb was fatty/chewy. Bun was soggy. Tabbouleh was dry, obviously had been sitting out for a while. Also, it was raining and there were intermittent but consistent drips over multiple spots on the table. For what it's worth, my wife enjoyed her meal. I won't be going back.
(1)Chance H.
Solid grub. We came for the first time here with a Groupon for bottomless mimosas + brunch for two. Good score & good eats! I got the Layla Benny - their take on Eggs Benedict. I enjoyed the flavor of the sourdough & ham steak couple with their version of hollandaise. My gf got the Jane Says burger (veggie burger) and liked it. All in all, definitely worth another adventure and meal. Well done!
(3)Katherine B.
Had a strange visit. The food was great and the service was good. The issue is that we consistently had to remind them to get us the extra things that came with the entree. Brunch ends at 2, we came at 1:30, and then learned we could only order off of EITHER the brunch OR lunch menu. Our server said there was a special event and that was why we couldn't order off both menus...not sure why since other people ordered off of it so everything was already prepped. I ordered a banana french toast, and then got a date cinnamon roll with no notice. It was sugary and delicious, but (see picture), was indisputably NOT french toast, nor contained banana. I don't have a problem with subs, but just let me know in case I'm allergic or just don't feel like what you have left in the kitchen. The bf and I both ordered entrees, and he ordered a side of batata. We received our entrees, but nothing else. Halfway through our meal, we asked about the batata. My guess is that the kitchen staff forgot what goes with what, because our server seemed to remember, but they then had to start it from scratch and we were done eating before it came out. We also had to ask in order to get the side of fruit that comes with the meal, but it was brought out quickly once we mentioned it. But at least this gave us a chance to order a shake. I see why they emphasize burgers, shakes and shawarma. We ordered the chocolate tahini shake. SO GOOD! It was nice to enjoy a shake that wasn't sweet to the point of inducing sugar coma. It was really allowed you to taste the subtlety of the tahini flavor, a slightly bitter greek yogurt taste, and the balance of the chocolate, nuts and vanilla ice cream. All delicious just like last time, we'll be back.
(3)Wanda '.
MMMmmmMMM! Hummus, tabouli, falafels, shwarma, and all the delicious Mediterranean flavors really hit the spot on a 95 degree day! Lemon and light, cold appetizers were perfect to beat the heat. I got the falafel dish with chef's option of 4 appetizers to go with the meal. The chef decides and it changes, so you might ask what the choices are when you go. This was a lot of food and I had plenty to bring home. If you are sharing this would be a perfect selection, and only $15.00. There is a larger option (8 apps) for a bigger group. The people here are so nice too. I highly recommend!
(5)Leaf H.
I went here based on the review from Yelp---what a winner! I had the lamb burger, and turkish delight shake. WOW! they both were great. The fries were exceptional! They offered tabouleh as an option to fries. I took my friend and he had the same---he was impressed! I had the lamb wrap--wonferful stuff. We were full so we shared the turkish delight. Go and enjoy!
(4)Maria S.
I love Middle Eastern food. Being a vegetarian it's one of the most versatile types of cuisine I have found. Layla never fails to deliver every time I go! I am in love with the Jane Says burger, the Falafel Wrap, the hummus, the condiments, the STL Meets Beirut dessert, the crispy kale, everything is always on point. Don't leave without trying a shake. My favorite is the Cherry Habibi! Say "Hi!" to the bartenders because their signature cocktails are amazeballs!!
(5)Hannah B.
I was really excited to come here for brunch because I had heard great things. We got there and ordered pretty quickly. My boyfriend and I ordered the red velvet pancakes, battata with schwarma, and the Layla Benny. I asked what the breakfast salad was, and the waitress said that it was this corn and bell pepper mixture with a cream dressing. I asked for the dressing on the side and the waitress said she didn't know if they could do that. So I said I'd take the fruit on the side if they couldn't. It wasn't a big deal but she never came back to tell me if they could or couldn't put the dressing on the side. Our food took 40 minutes to come out. Then only the pancakes came out and they were luke warm at best, like they had been sitting out for at least 10 minutes . We sent them back. Then the pancakes came back completely burnt! It looked like they had just scorched the pancake on the griddle, slathered it in syrup hoping we would not notice. Unacceptable. Any decent dining establishment would have made fresh pancakes in 5 minutes or less to amend the mistake. At least the waitress took off the pancakes from our bill, though she never asked us if we wanted new pancakes. Next, the schwarma was basically just a plate of potatoes with a small piece of chicken on it. However, what was perplexing was they forgot the sides! We had to remind them to bring the eggs and tabbouleh. The tabbouleh was very unappetizing and acidic. I couldn't stomach it. The schwarma came out of the kitchen 5 or 10 minutes before the sandwich, so I had already eaten it before my boyfriend got his food. The only dish that we had no complaints about was my bf's sandwich. I don't think I'll be coming back here.
(1)Jenny J.
Great falafel fries. Shawarma (lamb, traditional) needs to be eaten with hot sauce for more flavor. The wings that came with the samples were delicious (not sure which they were)
(3)Karl W.
I've been here a few times. Great bar staff, tasty food and really fun atmosphere. One of my new favorite places for happy hour in The Grove.
(5)Tom E.
A welcome addition to the St.Louis culinary scene. Fun ecclesia in-house, live music was interesting but a tad loud. Any of their shwarma are highly recommendable. Try the stuffed falafel! Genius...
(5)Jenny M.
Best lunch place in St. LOUIS, Tower Grove neighborhood. If you love Mediterranean food than this is the place to visit. Had the lemon lentil and chicken Shawarma Cesar, chicken shawarma pizza, and the Beirut Burger with fries. We finished off with a Turkish delight shake. Yummy!!!! Will definitely come back again. Too much other great food to try. Service was superb.
(5)Joshua N.
I came here when this place first opened, and it was just okay. My friends mentioned that it was under new management and had greatly improved. I decided to give it another try and went for Sunday brunch. The food was really really good. The service was fast and our waitress was really sweet. Will definitely be trying Layla again.
(4)Vik S.
Layla is still killing it. They have achieved the holy quadrinity -- awesome food, great service, reasonable prices, and a cool atmosphere. And it seems like the word is out. The restaurant was pretty full Saturday night, although my party of two was able to get seated right away. Kicked off with a couple small plates -- chicken kebabs ($5) and grape leaves ($5). The kebabs (2 per order) were unexpectedly delicious...the chicken was so tender and marinated with a tasty blend of spices. I highly recommend these. The grape leaves (5 per order) were very good as well, long and skinny, stuffed w/ goat cheese, couscous, and golden raisins. Yum. Both plates were served on top of some mixed greens. Generally this stuff is just there for presentation. But Layla went one step beyond, tossing the greens in a lovely dressing and making them an enjoyable part of the dish. Bravo! A bowl of the lemon lentil soup ($4) was delicious. Also got a lamb burger ($12 w/ side) which was very good, served on a brioche bun. I think the meat could have used a bit more seasoning, but I still enjoyed it. A generous side of tabbouleh salad also impressed. I wasn't planning on getting a drink, but then I saw the ingredients in the "Baraka Date Night" cocktail ($9) and knew I had to try it -- rum, cherry liquer, date syrup, lemon, and ginger beer. It was fantastic, served in a tall glass, and the flavors lingered on the tongue. Kinda pricey, but definitely good. The cocktail menu had some other interesting choices on it. Service was top-notch. Our food came out very quickly and the servers were friendly and attentive. There was also some live music (guitar and hand-drum) which was perfect for the atmosphere. Their rendition of Nirvana's "About a Girl" was the cherry on top of a great meal.
(5)Harper Z.
My guest and I decided to come in on a rainy cold Sunday and found we had the place to ourselves. Staff was friendly and helpful. Let us have our space without hoovering which I appreciate. The food. Well I wanted to be more impressed than I was. pretty extensive menu which looks to satisfy all taste buds. We both ordered lamb swarma in different forms, the traditional and the Philly. Both warps came in light crispy wraps almost like tortillas instead of pita, so I was a little surprised. The meat was cooked well but something about the flavor combinations in both dishes was a little off. Fries were tasty and the presentation was nice.
(3)Shailey G.
great meal here with a large group! everyone in our group found something yummy to eat and drink. We were blown away by the choices, and the service was great. Our group also appreciated the gender neutral bathrooms. We had a lovely time. I had the spicy lamb shwarma with french fries. These folks make their own condiments, and they do a good job!
(4)Angela S.
Why did I wait so long to come here? My favorite foods, in no particular order are: hummus, pita, falafel, pop tarts, and eggplant. I can get 4 out of 5 of those at Layla, on the same plate, for $7. The lunch special is one of the best deals around. I got super strong Lebanese coffee and the vegetable plate for less than $10. My friend had the eggplant stew, which was perfect, for $7.95. It's a comfortable space and service was very friendly and attentive. He even brought us two little pieces of baklava on the house. If you're a fan of Saleem's or The Vine, you'll love Layla. I am going to eat here basically all the time. You should, too.
(5)Steven B.
Once again, the International Supper Club pushed me out of my comfort zone. Which is a good thing. They got me to experience Lebanese cuisine and to visit a neighborhood that I do not frequent. All was good. We had a group of 13 and Layla was able to accommodate us with a long table, in a side dining room. Lucky for us we had the room entirely to ourselves. Our waiter hustled as quickly as he could with a group that large. He smoothly went around the table taking orders and answered questions professionally. When our food started to come out, there were some pauses in between the deliveries to the table. I think with such a large group, the kitchen did an okay job keeping up the pace. The pauses were not that large, just noticeable. Those who got their food first, dove in and started to enjoy. I love lamb, so when I saw they had a lamb burger I knew what I wanted. A juicy medium rare lamb burger with, Mediterranean Pico, Tzatziki, Feta and Romaine was a winner. My side was their Seasoned Fries, which were crispy, crispy and came with a little cup of ketchup. We all know how I like my little cup of ketchup, I have a list dedicated to my appreciation. I got a dessert to go, Gooey Butter Baklava. As they say on the menu, St. Louis meet Beirut. Some diners enjoyed it at the restaurant and had mixed comments. Once home, I got to sneak a bite before giving it to the roommate who was craving something sweet. I thought they did a great job on combining these two desserts into one. Layers of crispy paper thin dough layered with walnuts & brown sugar soaked in honey syrup and topped with Gooey Butter Cake. It then had a sprinkling of fresh mint on top which added a pop of flavor. The baklava was done well and the GBC could rival those that you get at Park Avenue Coffee. Overall, I liked my first experience at Layla and would be happy to return to experience their menu in a smaller group or alone. When: 11 FEB 2014 Why: International Supper Club
(3)Grace S.
Love the chocolate tahini milkshake. I found this place, running in from a rainstorm before a concert-- Great food and a cool atmosphere. It's very hip, so when I took my grandmother here a few weeks ago, it wasn't quite a fit, but the food is flavorful, and keeps you feeling healthy. Even the burgers have their own little spin. Definitely would reccommend. Service is a little slower, but I will acknowledge that each time I've gone, it's been in the middle of the day, between lunch and dinner.
(4)The D.
My first time. I was excited by the cool menu options. Many great burger combinations, schwarma and milkshakes! Lots of interesting ideas and combinations. Also a nice selection and variety at the bar. My wife's milkshake was amazing. We both ordered burgers I got a burger topped with sliced lamb. My wife got the "Classico" Her burger came out and was good. I ordered my burger medium rare and specifically asked if that was good for the type of burger I asked for. The waitress said "YEA! Sure! That's perfect." My burger came, the lamb was very good on top. I cut into the burger and it was over cooked. It still tasted good. But was over cooked. I hen I mentioned it to the waitress she said "oh yea we normally cook our burgers medium but I will let the kitchen know. What the....??!? You do? Then why did u let me ask for it medium rare? Oh well. Maybe we will try it again...
(3)Courtney S.
I wanted to try a vegetarian restaurant in the Mangrove area before hitting up some bars afterwards with my best friend and Layla was the first one to come up. I read that the "Jane Says" was a popular burger and I've never had a lentil burger so I tried it and was very impressed. It was very flavorful, filling and delicious! Our waitress took good care of us. We got to sit outside by the window. Nothing blew away as it was paper clipped down. They didn't have sweet red wine so I was offered a Rose as an alternate. Let me tell you about the fries though! I asked our waitress were the fries plain or regularly seasoned with salt/pepper and/or seasoned salt. She replied that it has cinnamon and savory seasoning on it. A bit skeptical after my whole Rooster incident (see that review on the breakfast potatoes ), I ordered them after she reassured me that it was a popular side and really good! And she was right. Between my tzatiki and i believe apricot ketchup dipping sauce, my palette was extremely satisfied. I even tried my best friend's burger, "Clear Conscience" aka a savory juicy turkey burger and was very pleased. The buns are a croissant appeal with a bun outward appearance. Very delicious! I will definitely be back and highly recommend this restaurant for lunch, dinner, to-go or whatever!!!
(5)Mark S.
I dig the new iteration of Layla....middle-Eastern and American cuisine fusion? I'm in. The burger I got had a lot going on....fried kale on the bottom, cheese, big beef patty, sliced lamb on top, but it worked. The kale was an inspired choice and something new I've never had on a burger-even if it did make the bottom bun soggy. Minor issue. The fries tasted fresh and hand sliced-they use a hint of cinnamon on them, which might sound odd, but it worked really well. Came with a nice Tzatzi sauce. The chicken schwarma pizza tasted great but, and I usually would never say this, was too cheesy. Still pretty good. Our server was friendly and quick, and I liked the background music, Indie rock, not exactly authentic but whatever.
(4)Diana J.
Went for lunch on a Saturday. Pretty empty for a sizable space. Food and service was good: - chicken kabobs ($5 for 2 skewers): heavily spiced with the chinese chili sauce, you know the roooster one but with the seeds, which was good but I didn't think very Mediterranean? - tabbouleh salad: heavy on the lemon juice, otherwise nice cool complement to the spicy kabobs - chicken shawarma: for $8, I thought the portion size was very small. It was fine, but not memorable enough for me to order it again. I chose the batata potatoes as a side, but instead of being "flash-fried" and crispy, it was rather soggy and again drenched in the chinese chili sauce. - we also got the brunch special pomegranate mimosa which was good for $5. I'd come back and try their happy hour and late night menu.
(3)Jessica L.
Delicious food, cozy atmosphere, solid beer selection.
(5)Lauren C.
I had the fowl play burger the other day- absolutely delicious! I am not a big fan of chicken burgers, but this one sounded so good that I decided to give it a try and I'm glad I did. Great balance of sweet and savory. Can't wait to try other burgers from here, although it might be difficult to pass up the fowl play.
(5)Kelly B.
Back today after a sabbatical. I've been cheating on Layla with Sameem's (one block west). We ordered the vegetarian sampler $12, which contained the awesome falafel and grape leaves, baba ganouj, hummus, taboulei, tahini, tzatziki, and pita. All DELICIOUSLY AWESOME! We also ordered the kale and batata apps at the waitresses suggestion. The Kale was good at first, but quickly became too rich from being fried. The citrus flavor was very acidic and tasted like something more than lemon. It was hard to finish, even though the first bites were good. The batata (spicy potoato dish) was an epic FAIL. too much siracha and not much other flavor. - all spice, no taste. We also ordered the lemon guacamole and the Swararma rolls (TERRIBLE). The lemon guacamole had that citrus acid flavor again and you could hardly taste the avocado. The swararma rolls were just bad. The bitter cabbage leaf overwhelmed and we couldn't taste the other fresh ingredients. I'll always be back for the things I like, and because those things are so good, Layla still gets a high rating from me, but I will never order the batata, kale, swararma rolls, or guacamole again. They are a perfect example of fusion gone wrong. .
(4)Kristina S.
I've never had a bad experience at this unique restaurant/bar. There are so many amazing features I'm not even sure which would be my favorite. Anything I've ordered there food-wise is delicious and all of the cocktails are carefully designed by a very talented bartender. I attended Layla's first cocktail dinner last night for Big O spirits -- the experience was unforgettable. The food was amazing, the cocktails were paired perfectly and the setting was cozy and friendly. It was truly a 5 star experience without all of the "pomp and circumstance" that normally surrounds such an event. Layla is fine food and fine drinks sans the frills and uppity air of similar establishments, it's quickly becoming a Grove staple!
(5)Marilynn P.
Didn't love it! I came here for brunch and didn't have the greatest experience. There were only about 8 people dining (including my party of 3) and only one waitress working. The service was slow, and unprofessional. I ordered the Layla omelet (i think- with apples and sausage or something? Sorry yelpers I totally forgot- but I'm glad I'm able to erase this meal from my memory!) and it was terrible. the egg tasted like rubber and I didn't love the apple/meat combo. No one in my party really liked their meal.... I think the only item we ordered that was somewhat a hit was the hummus. But even then I've had better hummus. It was just good in comparison to the rest of the items we ordered. Don't think I'll be back!
(2)Wayne N.
Delicious burgers! Food & drink both a plus AND they have their own parking lot which is rare for the area.
(5)Mary P.
This IS the most underrated veggie burger in St. Louis. I can't wait to go back and try everything..including their extended list of cocktails. This seems like a gem!
(5)Leigh J.
everything is delicious! i had the turkey burger, tabbouleh, and spinach salad. SO GOOD.
(5)Ben S.
I took a business guest out for lunch and landed here after discovering that the Everest Cafe has moved - damn you Garmin! I must say that I am glad that we found this place... Apparently they are under new ownership and had just reopened the day before our visit. I spoke to one of the owners and learned that they had "freshened-up" the menu and redecorated. The waitress spoke highly of the hummus so we gave it a whirl. The dish itself was delicious but the pita was absolutely uninspired and gave the impression that it was right out of a bag that came from the supermarket. I basically thought it didn't live up to what they were doing with the rest of the dish which was quite delicious. My guest went for the lamb burger and fries. The burger came with a healthy portion of feta cheese and looked really, really good. He opted for the fries and we had a short conversation about where in the world they got such large potatoes to turn into fries. Seriously, one of them had to have come from a spud that was 10" long. I went with another recommendation from our very attentive waitress - the Beirut Burger. She described it as a dish with a whole lot going on and I would have a hard time arguing with her given the presentation (see photo) and difficulty I had managing the beast. I can't remember exactly everything but I do recall a burger patty sitting on a spread of aioli and topped with carved lamb, a smoky cheese, sauteed onions, fried kale, fresh tomatoes, another spread...all on a brioche bun. It was about 6" tall when assembled and didn't compress much so it was a little difficult to eat. My initial impression was that this really could have been two separate dishes but everything was delicious. I opted for the vegetable of the day and it was also an amazing choice. Stir-fried baby eggplant with sun-dried tomatoes and a little bit of onion. It wqas nicely seasoned and also packed with midlde eastern flavors. There may have been a little too much going on with my dish but it had those big, bold flavors that reminded me of eating in the middle east. I've looked around for those flavors pretty regularly and am frequently disappointed...but not at this place.
(4)Alyssa B.
Tasty, tasty, tasty! Layla offers great wraps, fries, and milkshakes. Such a great stop for any vegetarian, or omnivorian for that matter. Don't miss the falafel fries!
(5)Annette S.
I have ordered delivery from Layla's several times along with visiting the restaurant and I have never had a bad experience so I thought it was time to write a review. My boyfriend usually gets the wraps which is loves. I usually get the house chilli wings, so flavorful and a good size. The burgers are good too with unique toppings and flavors. I have to rave about the Great Harvest Salad. It is the best salad I have ever had. This salad has so much flavor and all the ingredients go perfect together. (apples, goat cheese, candied pecans, dried apricots and the house made banana walnut dressing). We tried the falafel fries tonight....yum! We have had such good luck with the quality of the food and the friendliness of the staff that we look forward to the next time we eat at Layla. I highly recommend trying it!
(5)Aaron B.
I'm kind of new to Lebanese food and was excited to eat here! I'm always looking for new cuisines and to step out of my culinary comfort zone. Although, Layla's/Lebanese doesn't get too crazy! I went with the Falafel and a side of their seasoned fries. The wraps are super tightly packed and cooked just right. I was a little disappointed to see how small the wraps are. I was expecting a big old thing stuffed with plenty of Falafel. While it was good and filling, I thought it was lacking in it's Falafelness. There was very little Falafel per bite. I must also note that it was quite spicy! (I'm an n00b when it comes to spicy-ness) The fries were amazing! The seasoning on them was perfect and delicious. Service lagged behind a little but I was with a large party on a Monday night (i.e.13ish). If I come back, I am going to indulge in one of their burgers. The burgers looked amazing but I was trying to experiment with the traditional cuisine. Also, the shakes looked amazing. Get a shake!
(4)Catherine W.
I was really impressed by my recent visit to Layla. I was a little skeptical at first - burgers and shwarma? Ooookay. But the menu was surprisingly adventurous. This is fusion food at its best, with a mix of all different kinds of ingredients and flavors to make something really amazing. I want to go back just to try all of the crazy, delicious-sounding items on the menu. I opted for the lentil burger, which was excellent. It had two sauces - a sweet mango glaze and an aioli - that tasted wonderful together, and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the flash-fried kale on top. It got a bit messy towards the end because the lentil patty itself was very soft and got squished between the buns a bit, but I didn't mind. The tabouleh that came on the side was tasty, if not particularly amazing. I tried a bite of a friend's batata, and found it tasty but very spicy - the kind of spicy that creeps up on you and then punches you in the back of the mouth. My one complaint was the service. Our server was polite, but as far as I could tell it was just him and the bartender working that night and he was far too busy to offer quick service. This was particularly bad towards the beginning, when it took us way too long to get our drinks. I want to come back and try their brunch! There were a ton of crazy-sounding items that just make you want to see how they could pull it off (apple, lamb, and goat cheese omelette? Yes please!).
(4)Tresha W.
Clear conscience burger and fries!! Went on a weekday around 9PM. Food cMe out hot and fast. Turkey burger was cooked to perfection yet juicy. The sumac apples and blue cheese was awesome!!! Burger was served on chibatta bread. Rob was the waiter and he was great!!!! Ambience was very relaxed but I preferred more lighting. Definitely will be back!!!
(4)Jarret G.
My new favorite lunch place. The pressed pitas are warm, fresh, and full of spices. My wife had the chicken schwarma, while I had the fajita. They had tabouleh for sides, as well as fries. I tried my wife's fries, and they were very crispy... a nice surprise. You dip the fries in their tahini sauce.... awesome! We split one of their strawberry, pistachio, and rose water shakes... and definitely the best ice cream in town.
(5)Picha M.
I have to admit I haven't had much Lebanese food before but had the opportunity to try Layla thanks to ISC! It is a little different than I expected but then also somewhat what I expected. I wasn't really expecting thick juicy burgers made with different meats and with explosive colorful toppings along with milk shakes with rose water at a Lebanese restaurant... but I was glad they had them. We started our meal with the grape leaves appetizer which is similar to the dolmades in a greek restaurant. These were stuffed with couscous, raisins, and goat cheese. These had a wonderful taste but the grape leaves may have been a little under cooked. I sure didn't mind. I also ordered the Beirut burger which included a slice of lamb on top of beef topped with apricot ketchup, sumac onions, flash fried kale and lemon garlic mayo. I almost had to unhinge my jaw to take a bite but of course I managed. The burger was extremely juicy and flavorful. The flash fried kale trumped standard lettuce easily. Definitely a winner. You have to try the Beirut burger if you come here. The only hiccup of the night was the internet went down for a period of time delaying our ability to pay with a credit card. Did I mention they have private parking!!! Always a plus in the Grove. Overall, thank you Sarah and the ISC for bringing me to a place it would have taken me months to years to try out on my own. Layla is definitely on my short list to return!
(5)Laura M.
I've been to Layla the past two Friday nights and have been very impressed both times! The first time, I went with the hubs and the service we received was some of the best I have ever had. Our waitress was super sweet and very attentive. We had the Mezza Sampler to start out with and it was incredible! It's chef's choice and came with falafel, batata, hummus, and salsa. Everything was AMAZING. I would seriously go back here just for the sampler. I then had the Lamb Burger and my husband had the Beirut Burger and both were excellent. The fries that come with are also some of the best I've had. The second time we went with our in laws and the service was a little off...It took awhile for us to be seen and to put our orders in but the waitress apologized and said they were understaffed that evening. It was a little irrating but not a deal-breaker or anything. We ordered the larger mezza sampler which everyone DESTROYED. I can't remember what was all in it and what everyone ordered, but I know everyone was very pleased. This place is definitely turning into my new favorite spot!
(5)T H.
This place used to be one of our favorites. It changed ownership and really should change names so people aren't expecting the flavorful, interesting food of a year ago. The batata app was so tangy & crispy before and is now a wet slop w/what seems like just store bought hot sauce. Service was so-so and the Sat night live singer was so bad, we actually asked the waitress if her mic could be turned down. Yes, that bad. What a shame. Either bring back the former owners for advice, change the chef, your menu or your name.
(2)Dave F.
Fusion- do not expect traditional Mediterranean (both to peak your interest & a warning) I walked away being a fan of the concept & main course execution. The good- Lamb burger, IMHO, was a great flavor & sloppy fun eating. I was glad I was not on a date dealing with the fragile bun. I paid $1 extra for a romaine based salad with (I am not a foodie) crumbly feta (?). I am not sure, but really enjoyed the salad. Now the bad- Hot tea was standard Lipton. I arrived late so not sure what they offer, but I was disappointed for a Mediterranean place. I was HIGHLY disappointed. I ordered the fusion of baklava & gooey butter cake. Terrible. The "baklava" was one hard thick single layer of crust with the honeypot filling on top. The gooey butter cake layer was OK, but contrasted with the mint that was more fitting on normal baklava.... I really expected a small layer of real layered baklava with a "no bake" gooey butter cake on top. Then maybe a lemon zest & whipped cream to compliment both parts of the "fusion". Personally, I would ask before I would order this "fusion". I sat on this wanting to give 4 stars to the concept, but still can not. I will return.
(3)Dee C.
Jane Says veggie burger was DELICIOUS!!! Flavorful with the perfect texture! The fries where yummy too! I would've took a pick, but I was too hungry and forgot!!!
(5)Sarah S.
Very accommodating to our group, which I appreciate. Some of my dining partners loved their food and some were just ok. Mine was in the ok category. I ordered the vegetarian mezza platter, which comes with falafel and chef's choice of 4 mezza. I asked what the 4 were and was told, but what came out was different. Baba ganoush (which I hate and would've asked for substitution for if it had been told to me), hummus, preserved lemon guacamole, and batatas came with my platter. The hummus was decent, and I liked their spin on the guac. It definitely had a citrus spin that I liked. Didn't touch the baba, and the batatas were SO spicy. Way too much for me. I've had them before at other middle eastern places, but never have they been that spicy. I liked the falafel a lot and wished that I had gotten the sandwich made with it. The pita bread was just weird. My friends got the platter too, and theirs was kind of plain and thin, but mine was crispy like it had been fried. I didn't like either version. Better bread would have made the platter much more palatable. I would come back and try the falafel sandwich and a shake, especially since some of my dining partners liked them a lot.
(3)Brian G.
Fantastic devils advocate burger and George the Itilian bar tender is great. This place is a hidden gem!!!!
(5)Doug H.
A very tasty veggie burger. Other selections sounded good. And our party of 6 were all happy. We went on a Saturday and they had a nice acoustic duo, which was nice atmosphere. The rest of the bar seemed a little confused on its theme. But still really good food and a nice sat. night.
(5)Chris Z.
We were in the mood for a Gyro. Yelp suggested Layla. Layla as it currently stands has been existence for about 4 months. The new owners took over the place from the previous owners, but the name stayed the same. Before that, I remember visiting this place as a BBQ joint. The space itself hasn't changed. There is an entryway and waiting area, followed by a large bar, and dining tables towards the back of the room. All of the tables (save a larger one) were high-tops. Just a word to those that are picking out dining room tables. People are much more comfortable with their feet on the floor. Leave the high-tops to a bar area. We tried one of their mezza samplers. The falafel was good, but overcooked. The hummus was ok. The sampler had guacamole too... I've never seen that in a mediteranean spread. And then some spicy potatoes. Everything was ok. They bring out TONS of pita with this plate. For entrees I had one of the lamb burger specialties, while she had a wrap. The burger was piled way too high to eat traditionally. I had to deconstruct it and eat the components separately. The wrap was pretty good. Fries were good too. We left full, but not really all that impressed. Good if you are in the area. But not worth a drive specifically to this place. They don't serve gyros.
(3)Ryan P.
I've been a few times and love their "Jane Says" veggie burger; its big and flavorful. It might be the best veggie burger I've ever had. I also enjoy their spicy potatoes side. I definitely will be back.
(5)Rob J.
Great food. The staff is always great and the owner who is also a chef is great. The burgers are great. The fries and different items to dip them in are awesome. Desert? Try one of the shakes. They are delicious.
(5)Jeff Z.
Okay, so the tag line of "Burgers, Shakes and Schwarma" was a bit intriguing. But I think I might have found my favorite Mediterranean place in the Lou. First of all, the shake. Perhaps the best shake we ever had. Baklava flavored with rose water. It was so good we were in kind of a trance. I ordered the pressed pita beef Schwarma. Delicious! The sweet onions and pickles were just how it's supposed to be like when I had it in the middle east. Lemon lentil soup was thick but flavorful. Tabbouleh salad tasted fresh. We'll definitely be back.
(5)Daniel L.
My girlfriend and I found Layla through Yelp, although once we got there I do recall having driven past it a few times since it opened. I don't have time to write a very complete review at the moment, but I wanted to at least write that we really enjoyed each and every dish we had (kale chips, lentil veggie burger, spinach salad, glazed carrot side). Everything had something unique about it, making you stop for a second and say to yourself, "this is really good". We're vegetarian and the menu was very accommodating for us. Perhaps I can add a bit more later, but I suggest you try this place in the meantime!
(4)Devorah L.
I've heard their food is good and it very well maybe, but the hummus I had was nothing to rave about and the late night weekend happy hour was a complete let down. My friends and I stopped by here on a Friday night, excited to smoke some hookah and try some boozy shakes. Their website advertises they offer half price hookah, as well as some food and drink specials from 9-close on weekends, but when we arrived, there was no hookah in site, despite a sign reading "Shisha" in the window. Apparently their hookah is only a seasonal thing, with smoking only outside in the summer, but their website and window made no mention of this nor did they guarantee it would even be back this summer. Having braved the cold to get here, we decided to still partake in some of their other specials. They were offering a five dollar hot toddy that sounded perfect for a winter day, but when it arrived, there was no hint of any alcohol in it. It was overwhelmingly sweet, like drinking spiced molasses or warm butterbeer, except that I've been to Universal and butterbeer was actually drinkable. This I only managed to get a few sips down before giving up to avoid going into a sugar coma. One of my friends ordered a nonalcoholic milkshake which he slurped down with delight. I would have been smart to follow his lead, since I tasted no booze in my hot toddy. Another friend ordered a boozy shake, which I also found disappointing. While most of its ingredients seemed promising, it had bits of bacon in it that completely ruined the drink. Normally I'm a fan of salty and sweet, but this just tasted wrong. To top it all off the service was also subpar. Having accepted the sunk costs of a poor decision for a night out, we were ready for the check. It took the waitress a long time to come back to check on us, even though all we ordered was drinks and hummus. Plus there was live music that was anything but pleasant.
(1)Stephanie G.
Add this place to the list of places I should have tried sooner. Mixed Vegetable Soup - perhaps my favorite soup ever. Kale, chickpeas, onions, celery, all bathed in a nice and spicy tomato broth. Yum. I also had the stuffed falafel balls. Stuffed with goat cheese, then you can dip them in a yummy jam. For dessert, gooey butter baklava. Mic drop. Will definitely go back.
(5)Emily W.
Layla had me at at the awning: Burgers, Shakes, Shawarma. Need I say more? This has been the Lebanese place I have been dreaming out. Great service, amazing food. Yum. I cannot wait to go back. I went there for lunch a few weeks ago with my cousin. I started with the lentil soup. DEAR GOD. So good. I can't even write about it. I need to go get some now. My entree was the lamb sandwich with fries. I love adorably packaged food and the fries came in the cutest basket ever. Not only were the fries cute, but they were probably the top 10 french fries I have ever had. The service was great and fast. Perfect for a weekday lunch. I can't wait to go back for dinner and their happy hour specials seem amazing. Overall, go there. Get the lentil soup. Be happy.
(4)Mridu K.
We ordered Jane says burger from here. I crave for vegetarian burgers in US.. but, unfortunately, thats not a thing here. This place, though, made an interesting veg burger. The patty is made of lentils but looks weird. Tastes good, though.. The bun is also soft and tasty.. Overall, I liked the burger but cannot say a lot about ambience and other dishes on the menu. Would love to go there and try more, though. They do delivery as well..
(3)Susan F.
Very very disappointing... Pita: The pita is not a pita, more like an especially thin tortilla. Shawarma: The food in the chicken "shawarma" was good just not actual shawarma. Shawarma is meat prepared on a spit and shaved for serving. I love shawarma and have not had it in St. Louis since Zorbas the Greek left town. Hummus: The hummus tasted like something that was reconstituted from a dry box mix. Fantastic Foods maybe? I made something similar after my first health food grocery store trip back in the early 90s. Falafel Fries: Nice idea, poor execution. Dry, no flavor. Go to Cafe Natasha's for the best falafel in St. Louis. Ambiance: Ugh. To make it all much much worse, they had heavy metal playing and there were two obvious security cameras trained on me and my boyfriend. Cement floor, formica tables. Service: Nice staff and an especially friendly bartender. I feel sorry for them as I seriously doubt this place will be in business much longer. In conclusion: We thought the gooey butter baclava looked interesting but by the time we would have been ready for dessert we just wanted to go home.
(1)Peter I.
Came here in search of good burgers, and definitely found them. A late Sunday night burger craving brought me here, when my girlfriend and I wanted to be anywhere but downtown. This place fit the bill with parking outside, groovy ambiance, and convenient later hours. I gave the beirut burger a try, and it was phenomenal: a patty of beef combined with lamb served with designer condiments. Superb! The falafel fries served with tzatziki aioli were also a hit with me and my date. The service is what brings it down, surprisingly. While we were there the waitress spilled water on the table while pouring - apologized but didn't clean it up; dropped a fork at our feet - which stayed there the entire meal; and dropped some change - which somehow got picked up from next to the sedentary fork... Was this a fluke of service, or someone having an off day? Possibly. Would I go back for a luscious hand-crafted burger good enough to negate a subpar waiting staff? Absolutely.
(3)Nirmal R.
My wife's family and I were in St. Louis for the July 4th weekend. After seeing the arch, we were all pretty hungry and the majority of the group are vegetarian. We found this place on Yelp and after checking the menu, this was the place to go. VERY VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY!!! We got there and we noticed how very hipsterish the decor was. Lots of local artists paintings on the wall that are pretty cool. When we sat down our waitress was very helpful and patient with our group. She was able to rattle off so many suggestions for veggie food. The bartender set us up with some great drink specials that she whipped up on the spot. I have to tell you she kicked ass! We started with the vegetarian platter to start. The falafel fingers with tahini sauce, baba ganoush, spicy potatoes, tabouleh, red pepper hummus. Hunger aside, we cleaned the dishes because they were so good!! When the main course came out, I got myself a standard cheeseburger that was very well made and tasted great. The spicy veggie shwarma was a big hit on the table. We have a picky eater in the group who was very surprised how good the spicy shwarma was. The lentil burger is a veggie lover's dream. We'll spiced and the toppings made it a must have. We also had a falafel burger that was absolutely delicious. After we finished, they were also more than helpful telling us about places to pick up drinks and cigars. All in all, we would definitely fly back there just for the food. Coming from the NYC area we have to say that this is, by far, the best Mediterranean food we've ever had!!!
(5)Margaret L.
How have I managed to skip this place for so long!?! Layla, you sexy beast, FEED ME MORE. I wandered here after having camped out down the street at Rise for an extended period of time- stomach grumbling, I turned to the ol' iphone to figure out what was closest and tastiest. I ended up meeting up with my boyfriend here, and by the time we rolled in, it couldn't have been much later than 4:30pm- just in time for the senior special! Due to the odd timing on our end, the restaurant was pretty desolate, but our server made us feel comfortable, and eventually other patrons began trickling in. The food was on point- I ordered the vegetarian mezza dish and asked if I could be served dairy-free options. I ended up with a bunch of amazingness on my plate- falafel, hummus, baba ganoush, seasoned potatoes, salsa. Everything got full marks in my book. I definitely plan on coming back here and ordering the exact same thing.
(5)Sumer T.
I got the Jane Says (the lentil burger). First off, I eat mostly vegan and told the waitress this when I ordered and she said its vegan so long as I got a particular kind of bread. After the food was ready she came out to tell me that the bread actually isn't vegan and asked if I wanted just the lentil patty. I wanted a complete burger so I went with the non-vegan bread instead of waiting another 20 minutes to get a replacement meal. From first glance, it looked like pink uncooked hamburger, which was off-putting. It tasted good but the patty was soft and squishing out the sides a bit. The flash fried kale was a lil to greasy for my taste and I couldn't bite through it easily so wound up eating a whole leaf in a single bite. Tabouleh side was tasty. My dad ate the traditional chicken shawarma without any complaints.
(3)Kimberly S.
We are not from the area and just on the way to see the Arch. So we were just driving around looking for a place to stop for some lunch on the way. We stumbled across this place. We were a bit skeptical when we walked in and there was no one inside eating but when the food came we were pleasantly surprised. My husband got a burger not sure exactly what kind but he could not stop raving about it, said it was the best burger he has ever had! I had the pita nachos which were also very yummy! My kids had a salad which also looked delicious. Only thing I have to say that I didn't like was they did not have a kids menu. So my kids were not entirely happy. So if you have little picky eaters like, me this may not be the best choice for restaurants other than that I would recommend this place and did recommend to family members who do live in the area.
(4)Maria Elena J.
We stopped here after searching Yelp for a new place to eat near work. There was a bit of a wait but man was it delish! I got the Harvest Moon burger + fries and my husband got the Fowl Play burger. I think my exact words were, "I could eat here every day." The wait was worth it.
(5)Florencia G.
Ok, so I'm a bit late on my review since I dined here earlier this year twice. My first time it was all great! I had the shrimp taco pita and it was delicious! Also, I think it was a Tuesday and they had a belly dancer dancing around. It felt silly at first (to me) but I think it was pretty cool! Service was really good this time and I like the atmosphere of the place. Second time I was there was early this summer. I had the shrimp taco pita again, since I had liked it so much the first time (and felt like being boring that day) and also ordered the tabbouleh salad (the pita comes with a bit of it on the side, so I knew I'd want more). So the shrimp taco pita comes and I'm eating it and I'm about on my third bite in and I don't even know what it was in that bite but it was SO F'ING spicy. I mean, my eyes were watering, I couldn't stop coughing - I am from latin america and I'm used to spicy foods but this was not okay. I had ordered this same item last time and don't remember it being spicy at all. The place is small and the wait staff took notice after some time. Our server came to our table and asked if I was OK. My boyfirend told her what was going on and asked if she could bring some milk for me to stop choking. She came back with a glass of milk for me. So I guess it's good that she came over to offer help, but a) I was charged for the huge glass of milk she brought over (I took one drink, and this should have been a courtesy) and b) why the heck was my food so dang spicy?! And why couldn't she offer to replace my meal with something that was edible? (I had to break the tacos apart to try to find the culprit and ended up eating just the single shrimp and a few other pieces of the tacos). I still think the food in this place is very good, judging from everything BUT the crazy spicy bite. What other people I was with had ordered and I tried was also very good. I guess there just should be more guidance for the waitstaff as to what to do in situations like the one that happened with me. A small drink of milk, on the house, and an offering to do something about a patron's unpleasant experience with their food (like replacing it with a better version) would have been the correct way to go about this, in my opinion.
(3)Ashley D.
This place has phenomenal (and huge) burgers! Each burger had such a unique flavor that I'll definitely be coming back to try more. Not to mention that the fries were fantastic too. The staff was very friendly and attentive. You can't ask for much else. I will definitely be back!
(5)Lydia S.
The Jane Says is one of the best veggie burgers in St. Louis. The service was great and the atmosphere was laid back. I'll definitely go back.
(4)Anna M.
Great food! Now has hookah and belly dancers! Food is bought local and fresh. My favorite food items are Turkish BBQ burger, hummus, chicken kabobs, wings, and Turkish salsa. If you're up for a drink try the Raspberry Sumac Ade!
(5)Thom G.
Great experience. Traveling for work. Looking for veggie options. Saw good reviews for the Jane Says burger. Stopped by. Had a beer. Listened to some nice live music. Enjoyed one of the best veggie burgers I've ever had. Very thick, lentil patty. Not your standard thin veggie patty. And the fries were pretty rad to boot. Casual atmosphere. Definitely recommend.
(4)Rachael B.
We live in the area and have driven past Layla a million times, but today seemed like the perfect time to try them out. We got there around 11:45 and were surprised to learn they serve only their brunch menu until 2PM on the weekends, when they switch over to their lunch menu (their lunch menu being sort of the reason we came). Okay, we were taken aback for a moment, but their brunch menu looked great so we decided to stick around. When we got there, there was one other couple already eating, and no other patrons. We were a party of 4. We ordered some iced tea which, as another reviewer mentioned, was very basic Lipton-style tea. It would have been nice to have something more in line with Lebanese cuisine but no big deal. We ordered three main dishes: The Moroccan, The Baby Jane and The Grove. We also ordered a side of biscuits and bacon. Here's the bad news: as I said, we were the only un-served patrons at this time; however, our food did not arrive for over 30 minutes. Beyond that, there was almost no check-in from the waitress during that time. We were sitting near the kitchen and over the course of the 30+ minutes we were waiting, we saw several of the kitchen staff walk in and out. When we made eye contact and smiled, they either did not make eye contact or if they did, did not smile back. After about 30 minutes, the waitress came to refill water/tea and said that our food would be out in a while and that we only needed to wait a bit longer. No apology, no acknowledgment of how long we had been waiting. The good news: the food arrived and it was overall very good. The Baby Jane benefited from some seasoning (a little salt did the lentil cake wonders, while the fried kale was amazing and perfectly seasoned), but the other two were quite good as is. The biscuits were out of this world amazing, and the beef bacon was our first try of the non-pork variety and well-received by all. Another plus: the servings are generous and the prices are very reasonable. The take-home message: the food was good, but not mind-blowing. Unfortunately, the poor service makes us quite uncertain as to whether we will try this restaurant again. When food takes an exceptionally long time to arrive and there's no acknowledgment, explanation, or apology from the wait or managerial staff, it's really hard to get over. The great thing about St. Louis is that we have an abundance of amazing ethnic eateries with great food, at great prices, and excellent waitstaff. When a place has better than average food at good prices, but very poor service, it's hard to justify spending the money to eat there when there's so many alternatives. If/when we try Layla again, I hope we see that they've recognized their shortcomings and made some adjustments.
(2)Marni P.
Delicious falafel and schwarma, burgers and bites for a very reasonable cost. They have their own parking which makes it easily accessible in the sometimes difficult to park Grove area.
(5)Ali C.
We stopped in here not expecting much and left with a new favorite restaurant. Our server was hip and friendly and awesome and the food was incredible. They played awesome music and sported an equality sticker on the door. We just loved absolutely everything about it. However, don't come in here and expect to grab a quick bite to eat. We ordered 4 burgers and it took them about 45 minutes to come out. Totally worth the wait though. Hummus and stuffed falafel were great. I can't remember the name of my burger, but it had a sunny side up egg on top and it was hands down the best burger I have had in a long, long time. We can't wait to come back next time we are in town.
(5)Tanya M.
I walked in and waited and waited and stood and stood. I almost turned around but I have wanted to try Layla for a long time. Although I really should have picked a place a bit cheaper, I decided to treat myself for get decent grades this semester. The waitress/ hostess was nice and appoligized for me having to wait. I started with the cherry habib shake. The shake was soooooo goooodd. I would almost go in here just for a shake. It was so creamy and I got loads of real cherrries, not marachino cherries. not like there is any wrong with them, but in a shake unbrined cherries are the best. I then tried the morroccian chicken soup. the soup was good. I don't know much about morroccan flavors but it tasted like regular chicken soup with a bit of different spices in it. I would get the soup again but I will bring a baggie of crackers. I am a cracker or bread person when the soup is broth based. I asked for some bread of crackers and was given pita bread. which was good. I was charged $1.50 for the pita, still ok. but then the waitress was going to take them away. If i would not have caught her I would have been out about $1 becasue I was brought a large ,for one, basket of pita and she was going to take them away. I had to stop her and ask her to box up the rest of the pita. For my lunch entree, I ordered a fajita pita with out green peppers. I also got the side of the day which was a spinach salad with dates and pecans. I get my entree and it has green peppers. I have in other reviews voiced my distain for green peppers. One half of my pita I picked just a few peppers out, and the other half got the bulk of the peppers. The funny thing was that they were not cooked. The onions were cooked but not the peppers. thank goodness for that because it made easier to pick them out. Other wise the pita was really good. The side salad was good also, I am not a fan of goat cheese but I almost didn't mind it. I picked out the larger pieces. The waitress apologized for not catching the peppers in the pita. She offered me a free dessert. I was gettilg full so I said no thanks. she did give me a coupon for a free appetizer next time I come in. I don't know why if you offered me a free dessert, why they did take off the soup or the shake. but oh well. I did like the food. I will be back. there are other things on the menu that I want to try.
(3)Sheryl M.
I did not know this place existed until someone checked in on Facebook. I had a craving for a burger so decided to make the trip today. I am so glad I did. It was mid afternoon but there was still a nice assortment of people in the place. Zac the bartender was very personable and did a great job explaining the drinks and menu. I decided upon the Raspberry Sumac Ade from their signature cocktail list (see picture). It was delicious. Note - I cannot seem to add pictures at this time. Will try later. I got the Beirut burger that has apricot ketchup, lemon garlic mayo and sumac onion along with flash fried kale. The side of the day was batata which is flash fried potatoes with garlic and herbs. This is the most flavorful meal I have had in ages. I could not get over how delicious it was. They also have milkshakes which looked delicious but I was stuffed. Make no mistake, check out this place. It is not the Layla of old. They remodeled and re-opened with a new chef about 4 months ago. They even have a side room for private parties. Bonus is the parking lot along side the building. Parking can be at a premium in the Grove. It is also just down the street from the new Urban Chestnut facility which is huge.
(5)Barbara E.
Excellent Turkish burger with crunchy fries- yum- service good- a great neighborhood place!
(5)Cat W.
Omg, this place has awesome burgers. I had the "Jane Says" burger, which is a vegetarian lentil burger with Monterrey Jack cheese. I chose to have fresh kale instead of fried kale on the burger. I got fries on the side, as you have a choice of fries, tabbouleh, and side of the day. I really like how this comes with the meal, as a lot of places just charge $10 for a burger and don't give anything with it. The portion size was huge (see pics). The veggie lentil patty itself was very nicely seasoned and didn't fall apart like most veggie burgers do. I LOVED the seasoning on the fries. They had a perfect crisp to them. Definitely give this place a try!!!
(5)Jade B.
A delicious vegetarian meal for sure. We had the vegetarian platter which is plenty for two! The hummus - oh my, the hummus...you know how making your own hummus is always so disappointing? I don't think they feel that way when they eat their own. Cute interior, great service and some tempting beverages (I stuck with the coffee - WHICH IS VERY STRONG, beware if you have any aversion to bitter grounds and the espresso).
(4)Stewart P.
I could probably agree with Aimee here even if I am holding at 4 stars. It does have a very comfortable interior and a nice bar area and we were immediately greeted and shown to a table (but we were only 1 of 2 tables at the time). We of course started with the hummus, which seems to be exactly like our favorite at Ranoush (which would be right since the owner was previously with Saleem's at that same location) and of course it was excellent. Very good pita bread to go with it. We ordered falafel balls, some spicy meat filled donut things (I am so bad at remembering ...), and some of the grilled cheese ... which is not fried cheese or grilled cheese on bread, it's actually cheese strips that are grilled with oil and herbs, maybe my favorite dish, just grilled enough to have the oil and herbs adhere to the cheese. Don't expect it to be hot. The spicy meat filled donuts (not really spicy and in the shape of a fig) were very good and the falafel balls were the best I have ever had with there only be a slight difference in ones I have had at Al-Tarboush. Maybe a bit creamier is the only way I can describe them but these are a must order I think. I always have to try the baklava, which we didn't like all that much (very partial to greek baklava) but the Harisah - Syrian delight - was an excellent coconut enhanced cake you should definitely order.
(4)Eric M.
In this hip-but-still-dodgy part of town, Layla's seems to be about the only restaurant open on a Monday night. Tumbleweeds were blowing across Manchester Avenue--even some of the bars weren't open. But it's clearly a trendy area nonetheless, and Layla's has spared no expense in making its interior warm and inviting. Wish I had been able to stop by on a night when it wasn't such a ghost town. The food was pretty solid overall. Tabouleh salad seemed a little more overwhelmed with diced onions and tomatoes than most, which many people may like though I found it a little disarming. I rarely have beef and kibbeh is one exception: the subtle sweetness was just right and the portion sizes were good. Service was warm and attentive, though that wouldn't have been hard, since it was more or less empty for most of the rest of the time...just like the street scene itself. I can't imagine it helps Layla's profit margin to be open on Mondays, but I'm grateful for them that they were.
(4)