Mama Ayesha's Restaurant. Journalists and politicians frequent this family-run eatery for its reasonably priced middle eastern staples, such as chicken and lamb kebabs. Baskets of complimentary pita bread are served hot, and the crisp falafel is among the best in town.
Hard to beat!
Posted by willieB from DC on 12/7/07
Although Mama Ayesha herself has 'passed on', her traditional Lebanese cooking survives. It's been in the same, hard-to-spot location (next to the bus terminal) for years. Sure, you'll met pols and journalists (I met and had a delightful, enlightening conversation with Helen Thomas) here, but it's the food (and the price) that makes it such a jewel! The kabobs are indeed outstanding, but so are the hummus b'tahini, rolled grape leaves (with or without meat), falafel...and the hot pita bread (see Fodor review). Ask the waiters for advice (as I often do), if you're in doubt as to a particular dish. Located just across the Calvert St. bridge from the Lebanese Taverna, it is far, far superior to the better-known, more expensive Taverna. Lots of Adams-Morgan neighborhood folks will recommend Mama's, if U doubt me.
FOOD: 5.0
ATMOSPHERE: 5.0
SERVICE: 4.0
VALUE: 5.0
RATING: 4.8