8005 SE Stark St
Portland, OR 97215
(503) 256-4484
Ya Hala
This was a place we didn’t even know existed until our most recent trip to Bend and one of our servers said we had to go. Fast forward 2 weeks and we were making our way to the airport via I-205 trying to find a place to stop, and this place was the perfect place to stop.
We were not only greeted by cheerful people, but also a large sign that showed the special of the day as Butternut Squash Humus. For those of you that have followed me you will know that butternut is one of those menu items I will order when I see it. Apparently this is such a popular dish that they try and keep it on the menu most of the year because the regulars ask for it. It was easily my favorite dish of the night.
If you haven’t had Lebanese food don’t let that scare you. Not scare you in that it’s weird, but scare you because it’s hard to sometimes know what to order. We not only asked our server but also one of the managers for suggestions. You can order big meals, but we chose mostly small plates so we could try lots of things.
After much deliberation here is what we chose:
My most favorite dish of the night was the Butternut Squash Hummus. Did I say that already? I was literally wiping the plate clean with pita bread. It was so bad our server even made a comment. We also enjoyed the Kabobs. I’m glad we tried the different meats. I liked the chicken the best and my husband liked the lamb. The meat pies were also amazing.
The cooked fava beans was my least favorite although we still really enjoyed them. We liked every single thing we ordered. We kept seeing different things coming out and know that we need to make another trip out to keep EatingOurWayThru. Great menu.
- Atmosphere was very old school if you will. Not your typical, modern Portland restaurant, but more true to who they are. It’s cozy, it’s big and it’s great for families and groups.
- Pricing was great. We tried lots of stuff and our bill wasn’t over the top. The smaller plates were around $5.50 and the large Kebob entree was $16.75.
- Service was excellent.
- Drinks were some traditional Lebanese beers and drinks.
- Ya Hala is located on SE Stark.
Ya Hala’s is a favorite for my hubby and I! We love the Veggie Mezza because it comes with a bit of everything for a great price! And I LOVE the falafel!!
Thanks for the great suggestions. I remember looking at the Veggie Mezza and they even suggested we try it, so next time for sure!
Ya Hala runs the deli counter at World Foods (on NE 9th and Everett) and they sell their butternut squash hummus there, along with housemade pita!
Best tip ever!!!! Thank you.
One of my favorite places. They have the best hummus in Portland!
Definitely a hidden gem.