When our friends returned from starting a family in New York, they commented that living in Southern California was paradise. We all laughed because their words conveyed both humor and truth. Hyperbole sure, but generations have come and lingered in California basically for the weather. Growing up, we learned that Californians have been blessed with a Mediterranean climate – a rare and ideal regional weather pattern shared by a few other locations in the world, including portions of Chile, South Africa, Australia, and to no surprise, countries along the Mediterranean Sea. Mild winters with some rain and dry-warm summers with golden sunshine, what's not to love?
Amazingly, we share more with the Mediterranean than the climate, and those that escape to Southern California for the weather might also be pleasantly surprised by our bountiful Mediterranean eateries. Located about 10 minutes west of the Alamo Inn and Suites, Kareem's Falafel is a cute hole-in-the-wall serving up the best falafels in town along with a healthy fusion of meat and veggie options, just what the doctor ordered. This Mediterranean joint was a first in what is currently known as the Little Arabia District, with a family narrative that harkens back to Nazareth, Israel. We found Kareem's cozy and perfect for a no-frills happy lunch outing.
Further up Brookhurst, also in Little Arabia, Forn Al Hara is likely to be missed by most passersby. Located in an unassuming strip mall, this Lebanese Bakery offers a dizzying array of flatbreads. Don't be fooled by how basic the shop looks; the taste of these Arabic pizzas were incredible. If you're worried that you might feel out of place – even as we were – fear not, as the owner/cashier warmly guided us through the menu and helped us order what we needed that day. The Maneesh minis were perfect for trying out a few flavors and we stuffed our faces with the Zatar & Cheese, Sujuk, and Lahem Bel Ajeen & Cheese. The wait can be a bit long, so leave any fastfood expectations at the hotel.
For a more upscale setting suitable for business-casual lunch, Aleppo's Kitchen, right next to the Honda Center and Angel's Stadium, is a 10-15 minute drive east of the Alamo Inn and Suites. Aleppo's goal is to serve authentic and wholesome food passed down from Syrian family tradition. We went with the ribeye lavash wrap and one of the kabob plates, and everything was on point. Our server recommended the Muhammara – a sweet and savory red pepper dip with origins from Aleppo, Syria – to pair with our meal and that really highlighted our culinary escape. We would return to Aleppo's for their Muhammara alone.
As much as we dream of traveling the world, it's not always easy considering what's on our plate these days. But take a bite at any one of these restaurants, and you'll be transported worlds away in an instant.