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Wood Ranch at Spectrum; Balboa Bay's Oktoberfest
EXECUTIVE DINING
Amid recent outings came one of those little gems that has taken us on a tasty, unexpected culinary journey with its delicious Lebanese food and a friendly nod to those who might prefer some tasty burgers, sandwiches and salads.
By the time we had we finished our inaugural meal at Bon A Pita in South County, it had already made a first-rate memory that shot this place to my "Bests" list. It is one of those authentic ethnic spots that are abundant in L.A. and in very short supply here.
This simple location in a local mall was no great shakes for decor on first arrival. Sam and Nada Chehayeb took the storefront with a hope of bringing some Mediterranean family recipes to the forefront, and now they give us a family-friendly oasis that compíeíeIy reveals its soul in the food. Simple tables and a trio of booths suffice for seating, but there are some colorful pictures of Mediterranean scenes on the walls and sweet little Tiffany-style hanging lamps - plus its sparkly clean.
Along with their food, Sam and Nada are about the friendliest restaurant couple you are likely to meet - aided by their college-age son and daughter who also help out with service and smiles on various shifts. It percolates with regular customers, like a local friendship gathering enjoying food camaraderie and good conversations. We have had some good repartee.
Open for breakfast, lunch and early dinners Bon A Pita closes at 8 p.m.), a vast array of morning egg dishes, griddle items and combo plates get the day started. There are even some south-of-the-border breakfast items. American lunch and dinner items are aboard, but the 30 Lebanese dishes on the menu (and a few daily Mediterranean specials) are my total focus.
Hummus a Hit
The hummus is a smooth mélange of chick peas, garlic, lemon and tahini (sesame) sauce. I have always taught my cooking students to make baba ghanoush; it has been a decades-long favorite for me after I was introduced to it by one of my students.
The falafel patties (blended fava beans, chick peas, spices) are crunchy on the outside, giving way to a softly textured interior....