Mezza Restaurant Review

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, a place to smoke a flavorful hookah, or just want to try something new, Mezza is the place to go. Mezza is located on Main Street across from the 711. The menu is filled with authentic Mediterranean cuisine, but also offers classic American foods, so pretty much anyone can find something they like.

Although I have tried many of the menu items, this time choose the falafel. Since I am of Lebanese decent, and have grown up eating Lebanese food; I have some experience of how things should taste. I have also tried many Lebanese restaurants and can’t say that I ever thought any of them were outstanding. Mezza however, was an exception. The falafel, which is a deep fried patty made up of a combination of spiced chickpeas and fava beans, was cooked perfectly, with a crispy outer layer. The pickled vegetables that were served with the falafel were tasty and fresh. I also got to taste the chicken kabob that my friend ordered, and that too was delicious. The chicken was cooked and spiced just right, leaving it juicy and flavorful.

Given that the restaurant is so close to VCU campus, it is usually filled with college students making the atmosphere fun and lively. Arabic music is always playing to add to the Mediterranean feel. It is a family owned business, so you are greeted like a long time friend when you walk in. Some of the menu items include classic Middle Eastern foods such as shawarma, hummus, tabouli, and gyros. If you aren’t in the mood for ethnic food, or are with a picky eater, hamburgers, BBQ, and subs are also an option.



It’s an easy and tasty alternative to fast food, given you can order take-out and be in and out within five minutes. On the other hand if you would rather dine in like I did, there is a cozy restaurant area filled with pictures of Lebanon, and other Middle Eastern countries.

If you enjoy smoking hookah, there is a lounge area where you can sit, and hookahs are brought to you. Hookah flavors include but are not limited to mint, double apple, grape, juicy fruit, and lemon. Since Mezza is a hookah bar and restaurant, the hookah smell is very present. If you are someone who likes hookah, the smell probably won’t bother you. However, if you can’t stand the smell, take-out may be a better option.

Although the food is outstanding, the best part of Mezza is the desserts. They offer tasty baklava, and gelati ice cream, that are both an excellent finish to a tasty meal. I ordered the Lebanese baklava, and absolutely loved it. Although it is hard not to love baklava, if it is not made fresh, it can taste pretty dry. The baklava at Mezza tasted fresh and delicious. My total cost for the entire meal, the falafel, baklava and a drink, was $11, which isn’t bad for such a great meal!