Skip to main contentTalk about world peace. Al-Amir can boast being the only Lebanese restaurant in Portland to be housed in a former Catholic archbishop's residence. The gothic-revival architecture and exposed brick help create an atmosphere that's a little on the classy side. The food is largely traditional Middle Eastern fare, but each dish is surprisingly subtle, complex and full of flavor. The lentil soup is lighter than you'd expect and resonant with lemon. To get a good idea of what Al-Amir is all about, the Lebanese Tour comes with hummus, strangely smoky baba ghanouj, impeccable grape leaves, tabbouleh, falafel and a choice of entree. Only the falafel disappoints for being a bit dry instead of bright green at the center. The restaurant does chicken, lamb and beef equally well, making any of its entrees a fine choice.
WWeek 2015