All Aboard: The Pita Stop!

Mediterranean Cuisine at it's Finest

The evening started out as it usually does, Googling vegan friendly options nearby, the only difference this time was, the Hubby was the one searching. Which turned out great! His search led us to the Southside of B'ham, right across the street from Highland's Emergency room entrance. Many of you who know me personally, know I am familiar with the location for unfortunate circumstances; however I have passed this secret gem many times without giving it a second thought. Happily the adventure to this location was a pleasant one this time. Our visit started with me taking a photo of the restaurant’s sign, as normal...right?! Well, I didn't know that the staff was paying any attention to me outside! (I guess that’s why Momma always told you to be on your best behavior, cause there is always someone watching) As we entered the neatly decorated building, we were greeted by a jovial gentleman who jokingly told me he was ready for his picture to be taken. Me, always ready with my camera in hand, said “Okay! Lets do it!” At this time he shied away from my camera lens, but little did he know this is how the night would proceed... 

Next, we were seated, given our menus by our gracious server Daniel (Machua),

Server, Daniel Machua

and told the daily specials, he brought water to our table and allowed us a few moments to look over the menus. This restaurant offers southern hospitality at its best! When Daniel returned to take our order, I explained why we came to visit him and the rest of the staff at the Pita Stop- searching for vegan options in the local area and blogging about them. Okay so this is were things get really interesting! (Daniel hooked me up ha-ha!) He not only pointed out two great dishes, the falafel and veggie kabob, he spoke to the chef for me to get photos of him and his food creations. Ok so you remember the guy who said he was ready for his picture to be taken, but then shied away, well you guessed it- that’s the chef of this amazing food-  Ahmed Abu-ghannam.

Chef, Ahmed Abu-ghannam

 So I know you want to know how the food taste, one word folks: AMAZING! So on the falafel plate which are vegetable balls made with chickpeas, parsley and spices was tasty. It came with fresh fruit, a house salad, wild rice, pita bread and hummus dip (so smooth and creamy, yummy). Surprisingly the salad dressing pairs really well with the vegetable balls.

Falafel Plate

My choice for the evening was the Vegetable Kabob Plate. This kabob is served with fresh huge chunks of pineapples, onions, tomatoes, green peppers, mushrooms and it is traditionally served with Swiss cheese (but of course I asked for my kabob without this dairy product), this selection also came with, fresh fruit, wild rice, house salad, pita bread and hummus dip - again yummo!

Veggie Kabob

The portions we received were huge! I mean I have never been served a meal (for one) out of a Pyrex dish before. I thought this was a cool way to serve a meal, by the way- everything was right there for us to enjoy. As I mentioned  earlier this place had southern hospitality flowing through the air, they really know how to treat their guest! While we were in the middle of our meals, Daniel presents us with Tabouli. I had never heard of it, but I was happy he brought it to us- deliciousness in a bowl literally.

Tabouli

Chocolate Cake

This light aromatic dish consists of cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley, bulgur wheat, lemon juice and olive oil. It made my taste buds sing! We were also presented with their chocolate cake, it looked delicious, but don't worry, we didn't cave!

For all of you who are looking for great vegan options try The Pita Stop on the Southside of Birmingham. Everyone else who hasn't committed to the vegan way of life, I still recommend this fine Lebanese-American cuisine eatery. They offer daily specials, Saturday's specials were the rack of lamb plate and the Filet Mignon and shrimp plate (both pictured).

Rack of Lamb

Filet Mignon and Shrimp Plate

Although I did not eat these items, other customers ordered these items and were raving about them. I promise you, that you won't be disappointed by this great place.From the variety on the food menu, a full bar selection of wine, beer and spirits, the nice ambience, to the excellent customer service, from the chef,to the wait staff, this is definitely a place worth visiting and more than once! First to The Pita Stop, where the food is great and the service is even better!

 They have 40 plus years in the business to prove it! 

Tell ‘em the Bham B Vegan Chick sent you!