One-word impression: FANTASTIC

I almost didn't want to write this review in fear that this neighborhood dining experience will only become as busy as Ya Hala or Nicholas. However, I felt the need to give credit to TarBoush where credit is due for a great meal.

What first stood out to me was the very solid and attentive service. They always made sure I was comfortable, while not being overbearing and allowing me my space. They also were very friendly and put me in a good mental space to take in their food. I couldn't ask for better service.

Then what stood out was the food itself. I was first served fresh pita bread with olive oil and zaatar spice, which was a simple, yet lovely start to the meal. I then got the TarBoush Signature Mezza with Kafta and Chicken skewers, which was just jam-packed with food. It included the skewers, basmati rice, tabbouli, hummus, baba ghanouj, and this lovely tomato-based sauce that you poured over the rice and meat. The Kafta skewers were spiced perfectly, and if I only had that, it would have been a good meal. The chicken was solid, too, especially with the tomato sauce and rice. The tabbouli was awesome, as it was very fresh and bright. The hummus and baba ghanouj individually were okay, as they both felt like they were missing something. However, when I combined them together with the tabbouli, rice, and meat all in one bite, they complemented the other flavors perfectly. It was all so good together that I surprised myself by finishing off the plate entirely. I was left wanting more despite being full, as in the end, I was scraping up small streaks of baba ghanouj, hummus, and tomato sauce with my pita bread.

I am truly excited that TarBoush is now in my neighborhood, as now I have excellent Lebanese food with excellent service and no wait-lines within an arm's reach. I will be certain to visit again, especially as I am curious about their falafel and other dishes. If they are as good as what I had today, I will certainly become a regular, even if lines start to form outside.

Tan N. - Portland, OR

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How many bad chicken shawermas did I and my girlfriend have to eat before finding TarBoush? I moved to Portland from San Francisco 4 months ago and was on a quest to find a Lebanese place with quality food like Ziryab in SF. Until TarBoush no one could compare. I no longer have to cross my fingers for a go-to place- TarBoush I'll be back.

Jeremy H. - Portland, OR

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I'm so full I could burst and it's all TarBoush's fault. The food was great, the service was better than expected, and the atmosphere was charming. I plan on returning, and in a town with so many restaurants to choose from, this is quite the compliment.

Alicia F. - Fairview, OR

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