Abraj Mediterranean Restaurant

Abraj was such a joy to discover and visit. They have the most authentic Iraqi food that I have ever had, and it is entirely thanks to the owners maintaining it themselves to keep the quality to highest standard possible. The food may take some time (15-20 minutes for main dishes, and appetizers get rolled out fast). The food is worth everything. The owners are extremely kind and sweet and take care of the customers very well and are extremely accommodating. They are dedicated to preserving the most authentic food experience, and this makes Abraj one of my top favourite Iraqi restaurants (and I have been to many across the countries outside of Iraq). First and foremost, the golden dish that sets the tone for the entire meal: the complementary lentil soup, prepared in the authentic Iraqi style with a dash of paprika for added flavour and a slice of lemon ready to be squeezed and added into the soup. Truly, it is the best way to open the dinner table and satisfy the hungry stomach and get it ready while the heavier meal items arrive. Lentil soup to all arabs is something of a comfort food that speaks of so much love, warmth, and community. It is a symbol of home. This soup is no different, and elevates the experience in Abraj from just a regular meal to a full joyful experience. The potato chop is my top appetizer recommendation. Aside from it being my favourite home-comfort food item, Abraj prepares it in the true authentic style with the perfect balance of flavour seasoning and texture. It is an Iraqi food item that is a must for everyone to try at least once. We also ordered Kubat Halab which is another Iraqi staple that is very difficult to find. The hummus is beautifully textured and seasoned. The Lajam blajeen is seasoned in a deliciously flavourful way. I recommend trying it with and without a squeeze of lemon. The lemon allows the seasoning to be elevated and shine in such a way that the experience of eating it with and without the lemon juice is like two separate dishes and is worth it, your tastebuds will thank you. For main dish, I very highly recommend the kufta kabob!! This is the first time I have ever had kufta kabob exactly how it should be prepared in the Iraqi style, which is extremely difficult to replicate. There is something about the exact specific proportions of seasoning and meat quality that makes Iraqi kabob so special. Truly, everyone should have this food experience in their life. Nothing is spicy unless you ask for it to be added, some dishes may have black pepper. Again, I highly recommend you make your way to Abraj if you have the chance or want an authentic Iraqi food experience in a small quiet corner.