AL BALAD

Al Balad is a mixed bag, but don't let the 5-star hygiene fool you. The food can be good, especially if Mahmood is on his A-game, but some customers have had downright awful experiences. The kebabs and hummus often get praise, while the service can swing wildly from excellent to painfully slow. It’s definitely a fuel-stop kind of place; cheap eats that’ll fill you up, but you might leave wondering if it was worth the hassle.

The atmosphere is decent post-renovation, and the location’s a win, especially for a bite before heading to Winter Wonderland. Just prepare yourself for a potential rollercoaster of service, and don't be surprised if the portions leave you wanting more. If you’re starving, it’s a solid choice, but if you’re looking for finesse, you might want to keep scrolling.