10 Mouthwatering Dishes to Try at a Middle Eastern Restaurant in Sterling
Find the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this delightful list of dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From aromatic spices to fresh ingredients, a visit to a Middle Eastern restaurant in Sterling can be an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, this blog will guide you through some must-try dishes that you won't want to miss.
Savory Hummus Variants
Start your meal with a generous scoop of hummus, a creamy delight that's both healthy and satisfying. Explore different variants like roasted red pepper or spicy harissa for an exciting twist! These small changes can transform the traditional recipe into something unique, making your hummus experience truly memorable.
Pair your hummus with warm, fluffy pita bread or crisp veggie sticks for a variety of textures. Don't forget to ask for an extra drizzle of olive oil on top; it adds a luxurious finish to this popular appetizer. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed solo, hummus sets the stage for the delicious journey ahead.
Fragrant Chapli Kebabs
Juicy and marinated to perfection, Chapli kebabs are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. At IVY By The Lake, our Chapli Kebabs are a true homage to the rich culinary traditions of South Asia, reimagined with a modern twist. These flavorful minced meat patties are expertly seasoned with a bold blend of spices—coriander, cumin, pomegranate seeds, and chili flakes—then pan-seared to perfection for a crisp exterior and juicy, tender center. Served alongside fresh herb chutney and house-made accompaniments, our Chapli Kebabs deliver a vibrant burst of flavor in every bite.
Whether you're enjoying them as a shared starter or a hearty main, this dish reflects IVY's commitment to authentic taste, quality ingredients, and a sophisticated dining experience with lakeside charm.
Imagine biting into a kebab that’s both tender and flavorful. The warmth of the spices, combined with the charred edges, creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist. Often served with a side of tangy yogurt sauce, these kebabs become even more delightful. They are best paired with fresh pita or a light salad to balance the rich flavors!
Mixed Grill at IVY By The Lake
The Mixed Grill at IVY By The Lake is a feast for the senses, offering a generous and flavorful selection of our finest grilled specialties. This signature platter features juicy Beef Kofta, spicy Harissa Chicken, tender Hanger Steak, and classic Chicken Kabob—each marinated with bold spices and grilled to perfection. Accompanied by a vibrant skewer of mixed vegetables, the dish is beautifully balanced with house-made sauces like zesty Cilantro Toum, fiery Harissa, and creamy Garlic Toum. A side of pickled vegetables adds a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness and tying the whole experience together. Ideal for sharing or savoring solo, the Mixed Grill is a true celebration of fire-kissed flavor and Middle Eastern hospitality.
Creamy Fattoush Salad
Fattoush, with its crunchy vegetables and crispy pita chips, is another must-try salad. Enhanced with a delightful sumac dressing, it captures the essence of the Levant. The combination of fresh greens, radishes, and cucumbers brings a satisfying crunch.
The addition of toasted pita adds a unique texture, making every bite exciting. Fattoush is not your typical salad; it's vibrant and full of flavor, and the tang of the sumac dressing brightens everything up. If you're looking for a refreshing option, enjoy it as a light starter or alongside your favorite main dish!
Dessert Board at IVY By The Lake
End your meal on a decadent note with the Dessert Board at IVY By The Lake—a beautifully curated selection of indulgent treats that promise an unforgettable sweet experience. This elegant board features rich and creamy New York Cheesecake, a luxurious Pistachio Tres Leches Cake soaked in sweetened milk, a colorful assortment of delicate macaroons, and the star of the show: Vanilla Ice Cream Stuffed Baklava, combining the warmth of tradition with a cool twist. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, each bite offers a unique texture and flavor, making this dessert board the ultimate finale to your lakeside dining experience.
IVY By The Lake Brunch Experience
Brunch at IVY By The Lake is a celebration of flavors, textures, and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired creations served in a lakeside setting that elevates your weekend. The experience begins with our Artisanal Beginnings board featuring warm Turkish Açma and Poğaça, flaky spanakopita, savory potato gozleme, and whipped feta paired with honey butter, mixed olives, and house-baked pogaca—perfect for easing into your morning.
The Savory Appetizers continue the journey with bold flavors: from the crispy, spice-kissed Batata Harra with green goddess toum, to golden Za’atar Fries paired with garlic aioli and Aleppo sauce. Crispy Brussels Sprouts add a sweet-savory balance with parmesan and pineapple agua chile, while the Halloumi dish combines roasted honey, red grapes, and dukkah for a sophisticated Mediterranean bite. For a touch of elegance, the Simit and Smoked Salmon Platter shines with labneh cream, za’atar sauce, and sumac-dressed greens.
Vegetarians will delight in the crunchy, herb-filled Falafel with chickpea aioli and pickled parsnip, while the Spring Fattoush Salad offers a fresh burst of flavor in every bite. Don’t miss the Deviled Eggs Quartet, each uniquely topped for a creative twist, and the Labneh Granola Parfait—a sweet finale with layers of fruit, dates, chocolate, and pomegranate. The IVY brunch is more than a meal—it’s a curated experience designed to awaken the senses and bring people together over exceptional food.
Spreads with Pita Bread at IVY By The Lake
Start your culinary journey at IVY By The Lake with our vibrant Spreads with Pita Bread—a thoughtfully curated selection of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dips served with warm, fluffy pita. Our Hummus is a creamy classic elevated with dried olives, pomegranate pearls, and crumbled cheese for a rich, tangy twist. For an added kick, you can enhance it with smoky Harissa or tender, seasoned Lamb, turning this beloved appetizer into a savory standout.
The Tzatziki is cool and refreshing, made with crisp cucumber, lemon zest, fresh herbs, and mint—a perfect palate cleanser. Our Baba Ghanoush offers a smoky, silky texture, topped with peppery arugula, tangy red onion pickle, and bursts of pomegranate for a modern touch. Lastly, the Spicy Feta delivers bold flavor with concassé tomato, zesty harissa, scallions, and dried black olives, creating a spread that’s both fiery and addictive. This spread selection is ideal for sharing, pairing beautifully with cocktails, or kicking off an unforgettable meal by the lake.
Cocktails and Mocktails at IVY By The Lake
Experience the art of mixology at IVY By The Lake, where every cocktail and mocktail is crafted to elevate your dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a bold, signature cocktail infused with Middle Eastern spices or a refreshing, alcohol-free mocktail bursting with natural flavors, our curated drink menu offers something for everyone. Sip by the water and enjoy vibrant flavors, creative presentation, and the perfect balance of taste and ambiance. It’s more than just a drink—it’s a moment to savor.
Often served chilled, this drink provides a delightful contrast to warm dishes, cleansing the palate between bites. Not only is it delicious, but it's also quite refreshing, making every sip an enjoyment in itself. Consider adding a twist of cucumber for an enhanced cooling effect. Mint lemonade truly embodies the spirit of Middle Eastern hospitality, inviting you to relax and enjoy your meal.
Sweet Baklava Treats
To end your meal on a sweet note, indulge in baklava. Layered with flaky pastry, nuts, and honey syrup, it's a rich dessert to savor with a cup of Turkish coffee. Each bite delivers a combination of crunch and sweetness that brings joy to your palate.
Baklava is not just a dessert; it’s a sweet tradition, oftentimes shared among friends and family. Its intricate layers and sweet flavors tell tales of history and culture through every piece. Treat yourself, allowing this sweet delight to linger on your taste buds as a wonderful conclusion to your dining experience.
Contact Us
Craving the rich and vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine? Visit us in Sterling and let your taste buds travel across the Levant and beyond! Whether you're planning a family dinner, a casual lunch, or a quick takeaway, we’re here to serve you fresh, authentic dishes with warm hospitality. Have questions or want to place an order? Give us a call or stop by—we’d love to hear from you!
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