Bitar's: The Best Lebanese Food in Philly!
Written: Feb 20 '01
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Pros: Inexpensive and full of flavor!
Cons: Only three tables available so you may have to get take out.
The Bottom Line: If you are looking for the highest quality Lebanese food in Philly then Bitar's is the place!
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| JennJoy's Full Review: Bitar's Pita Hut |
This review is of the original Bitar’s, located at 10th & Federal Streets, on the edge of the Italian Market. Pass by all of the market’s food stalls and specialty stores to find yourself in this little corner of take-out heaven. There is now a second location in University City that offers more seating but I have yet to eat there. The first Bitars was established as a pita bakery. Over the years, a market and restaurant were added to the original location and the bakery was phased out.
The restaurant:
Bitar’s is a combination of a Middle Eastern market and Lebanese take-out restaurant. When you enter the building you will be in the market area. If you are here to eat, grab a cold beverage from one of the coolers and proceed to the counter to place your order. The “eatery” part of Bitar’s only has three bistro style tables. If you’re lucky, there just might be an empty table. Otherwise you will have to take your food to go. This may seem an inconvenience to some, but believe me, the food here is well worth it. Pay the cashier in the grocery on your way out and don’t forget to pick up a bag of freshly made pita to bring home with you. Note: During the summer Bitar’s does offer limited outdoor seating.
The Atmosphere:
Do keep in mind that Bitar’s is a small place. It is simply, but tastefully decorated so don’t expect this place to be flashy or fancy. Jeans and other ultra casual clothing is the norm here. There is no smoking and no reservations of any kind necessary. You may call ahead to place an order if you wish, but walk-in service is very quick.
The Staff: Every employee that I’ve encountered at Bitar’s was friendly, attentive and helpful. Even during their peak hours the staff was patient. Think of Bitar’s as wholesome take-out without the cattle-herding attitude of “traditional” fast food restaurants. If you are not sure what you want or you want something not on the menu do not hesitate to ask—in most cases your questions and requests are easily accommodated. If you do manage to get one of the coveted tables the staff will bring your food to you as soon as it is ready.
The Menu:
Bitar’s does not have a huge menu—this is usually a good thing at a primarily take-out establishment because it won’t take you eons to decide what to eat. That is, unless everything sounds good and it probably will! Bitar’s offers a good variety of traditional hot and cold dishes, soups, sides, sinful deserts and sandwiches. The menu also has many vegetarian dishes to suit your diet. There are really no wrong choices and I am sure you will be more than satisfied with any choice.
Suggestions from the Menu:
My favorite items are Bitar’s wonderful gyros, kebabs, and falafel. The Mediterranean gyro adds a twist to the old favorite by adding feta and manouri cheeses as well as stuffed grape leaves. Their chicken gyro is flavorful and doesn’t over do it on the tatziki sauce. Regardless of what sandwich or entree you order there are a few things you must try that can be a filling meal by themselves. Bitar’s lentil soup is one of the best I’ve ever tasted. You’ll receive a generous portion that is perfectly seasoned with fresh cilantro. Next, order the hummus and baba ganoush with some of Bitar’s famous pita bread. Store bought hummus and pita will never taste the same again! These items are absolutely amazing and I believe the secret is simple: everything here is homemade with the freshest ingredients.
The Price:
I will be the first to admit that a close second to the delicious food served here is the price. Everything on the menu is so inexpensive that I could hardly believe the large portions and awesome taste. My fiancé and I ordered two sandwiches, two soups, hummus, baba ganoush, pita and four drinks and the bill came to less than $15.00. We had more food than we could finish and walked out completely satisfied. One person could easily have a full meal for $5 to $10.
The Total Package:
Bitar’s is worth seeking out when you have a hankering for Lebanese food. It is small and out of the way for some Philadelphians but I guarantee you will not find food like this anywhere else. Other restaurants that serve the same style of food in the area tend to be overpriced or of poor quality. Bitar’s manages a perfect combination of homemade taste and satisfying portions without breaking the bank.
Recommended:
Yes
Kid Friendliness: Yes
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Best Suited For: Friends
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JennJoy
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