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If you live in pretty much any part of Brooklyn, Tanoreen is a fairly reasonable trip. But from Manhattan, you’re talking 45 minutes to an hour on a subway just to get to Tanoreen’s front door. The question ultimately becomes - is this place worth a long trip? Yes, if you want to try some of the city’s best Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food. Yes, if you’re looking to share what you eat. And yes, if you want to have a pleasant, relaxed dinner with friends or family. But if you are at all inclined to a) complain about a long subway ride, b) complain about how much cheaper you can find falafel or c) feel bad for the lamb you are eating - you probably shouldn’t bother.
Food Rundown
Hummus
One of the best servings of hummus we’ve ever had. Lemony and perfect. We also love a basket full of thin pita covered in za’atar.
Kafta
Possibly our favorite dish at Tanoreen. This is baked ground lamb that you want to have topped with tahini (rather than the tomato sauce). It’s a huge serving, and comes on a plate next to rice with fried onions.
Fried Kibbe
Big balls of fried meat. They’re really good.
Eggplant Napoleon
Layers of fried eggplant alternating with layers of baba ganouj. You absolutely need to eat this.
Cauliflower Salad
We heard great things about this cauliflower salad with pomegranate molasses, but found it too sweet and didn’t finish it. Some people love it, but it’s not our thing.
Stuffed Cabbage
Incredibly delicate cigar shaped cabbage rolls, stuffed with lamb and rice. The cabbage is paper thin, and the lamb perfectly spiced. I could have eaten ten.
Brussels Sprouts
Deep fried and awesome.
Mini Pies
We ordered the combination of three pies: spinach, meat, and cheese. All are tasty, but on the small side. The circular meat pie is our favorite.
