Taboon Mediterranean

I don't throw around five-star reviews lightly, but this Lebanese restaurant deserves it--and then some. I walked in hungry and left questioning why I'd ever settle for boring meals again.Let's start with the roasted cauliflower. Whoever decided to turn this humble vegetable into something so divine deserves an award. Perfectly roasted, spiced to perfection, and drizzled with a sauce that felt like a hug for my soul. Then came the fried potatoes--crispy, golden little bites of joy that had just the right kick of garlic and spice. I'd fight someone for the last piece.Now, the chicken kebab plate. Oh. My. Goodness. Tender, juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned and paired with rice so flavorful I'd eat it on its own. The garlic sauce? Life-changing. If I could bathe in it, I would (too much? Maybe, but you'll understand once you try it).Crystal was an angel! Great service and very sweet. The staff were friendly, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food? Worth writing poetry about. If you haven't been here yet, you're missing out on greatness. I'll be dreaming of that cauliflower until my next visit--and trust me, there will be a next visit."

This place was recommended by a friend, so I thought I would try it as part of my Mediterranean Long Beach food tour where I tried various dishes at a dozen Mediterranean restaurants in a 6-month period.I tried the mixed plate, so I was able to try the chicken kabob and beef kabob and a couple side dishes. The chicken kabob was great. The chicken was tender, and I was surprised because chicken is not easy to cook correctly. The beef unfortunately was not as good. It was not super easy to cut, and it was slightly over cooked. The overall portion of food was a good size and that what you hear folks talk about when they mention Taboon. The ambiance is chill.There is plenty of street parking as the restaurant is located in Bixby Knolls.

We made reservations for 2 through Open Table. Got there and told the hostess we had reservations. She wanted to put us at a small table close to the front door where it was drafty. She had two tables with "reserve" signs on them. Asked her if one of the tables can be used for us since we made reservations. She said no these are for parties of 4. Asked if we could sit at another table away from the front door. Nope. Didn't ask us to wait or let us k ow another table would be open soon. Nada. We turned around and walked right out. Went directly across the street to another restaurant who sat us immediately and greeted us with a smile and a courteous welcome. We had great food and drinks , awesome service and spent over several hundred dollars. You missed out lady. You could have treated your guests who had an actual reservation with a little more kindness and grace, and might I suggest a smile and a warm welcome. Will never go back and would not suggest to anyone even if you had a reservation. With restaurants who are struggling to stay afloat, joe about just being friendly? Food might be great as the reviews say but the hostess who is the first face of the establishment was not someone who should be your ambassador.

Taboon Mediterranean is a local restaurant in the Bixby Knolls neighborhood of Long Beach. I tried it during the pandemic, however, I wanted to get a real experience not that we can actually breath without wearing masks. This is a small local feel restaurant with no frills. We were seated as soon as we entered and our server was very nice. The menu is pretty straightforward with mostly traditional Mediterranean dishes. I ordered the chicken shawarma, which comes with hummus, rice, made fresh pita , pickled onions, and a nice salad. This was one of the best dishes I've had in a while. The flavors were wonderful and the portions were nice. The chicken was moist and well seasoned and you could tell that the hummus and garlic sauce, along with the pita were made in house. Everything on the plate was superb. I look forward to trying another dish!

My go to order is usually the salmon entree; includes salmon, 2 types of rice, salad, hummus, pita, pickled radish and onion-- all for $25. Other great sides include the lentil soup (amazing!), spicy potatoes and the cauliflower. Always quick service and great ambiance! A great place for a solo meal, a catch up date with a friend or even for a birthday lunch or dinner.

Taboon is my go to spot if I need a pick me up during my lunch break or if I want to meet a friend for lunch near my work. Servers are always cheerful and polite. Food tastes great. Music a mellow. It feels like an upscale Greek restaurant with the simple vibes. Oh also the food is awesome! Whether it's a quick lunch or a company dinner, can't go wrong with Taboon

Was so excited to try this place since I heard so many good things about it but was sadly underwhelmed. I did get a side of falafel that was AMAZING but the lamb sandwiches felt underseasoned and plain and the side of hummus was just ok and nothing to write home about. Service was fine. No complaints. Hope this was an off day and not the norm. Prob. Won't be back unfortunately.

BFF chose this place for her birthday lunch and I had never been (excellent choice)! Made reservations for a 1pm Sunday lunch but didn't need them (very quiet). We were immediately greeted and seated outside.Our server (Nicholas) started off with our beverage order (water and a bottle of wine) and then took our order (we chose the meal for four for 89.00) which consisted of 3 cold apps, 2 hot apps, and 6 skewers of our choice with rice, grilled tomatoes, and onions. Nicholas graciously moved us over to a bigger table as he stated that we would have many plates coming.Food was served promptly and everything was delicious and fresh! We ordered the baba ghanoush. yogurt cucumber dip, spicy hummus, roasted cauliflower, and grilled haloumi cheese. I mentioned to Nicholas that it was my friend's birthday and he surprised her with a complimentary baklava for dessert! I rarely frequent this side of town, but I will definitely be back! There seemed to be plenty of street parking although there wasn't a designated parking lot. The service was amazing from Nicholas and he was awesome!

‍I haven't written a review in a while, but I absolutely had to share my experience at this incredible place! It's not only affordable, but they also give you generous portions that truly offer great value for your money. The best part? The food is absolutely delicious! Every bite was a delight--from the perfectly cooked rice to the flavorful onions, each item on my plate was bursting with taste. As someone who is quite picky when it comes to food, I was pleasantly surprised. I just wish I had discovered this gem sooner! The service was also wonderful, making my visit all the more enjoyable. Highly recommend. Dennis was out server and he was absolutely amazing!

I've been here in the past and had a better experience. However, this last time we got take out and I had the chicken kabob plate. The chicken was somewhat burned and so dry. The food was not as flavorful as I remembered it. Maybe it was a one off day but I wouldn't recommend take out without checking your food.