Middle Eastern Cuisine Spices Up Toledo
- Anthony Nassar
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
Written By: Anthony Nassar
TOLEDO, Ohio —Family-owned Middle Eastern restaurants reflect the growing community in Toledo. By blending tradition with modern elements, to bring people of different backgrounds together through food.
Toledo is home to nearly 15,000 Middle Eastern residents, showcasing the growing community and how it has helped continue to shape the city’s diverse restaurant scene.
Sidon Lebanese Grille & Bakery, known as the Middle East Bakery, was founded in 2005. What began as a small corner store has evolved into a thriving establishment with a staff of about 50 employees.
Owner Nadine Hariri continues to evolve the menu by experimenting with different items, such as za’atar fries or a kofta burger. Za’atar is a blend of dried herbs that creates a tangy flavor, while kofta is ground meat that can be mixed with different spices and herbs.
Hariri said her father-in-law studied at the University of Toledo before going back overseas, where their family lived until his son turned 15.
“They knew eventually they wanted to be in the food and grocery business,” Hariri said. “I think family is what kept them here.”
Byblos has been a staple in the Toledo area for over 30 years, showcasing that its customer base expands beyond the Middle Eastern community.
Leila Hajjar, the owner’s daughter, said the restaurant focuses on the consistent quality of food and an atmosphere that ensures everyone feels welcome.
“Before, there were a lot more Arab customers,” Hajjar said. “Now, it’s more people from the Toledo area with different cultural backgrounds.”
Phoenicia Cuisine, which started on Bancroft Street in 1991, serves the University of Toledo community, ensuring its menu balances authentic flavors with broader tastes.
Owner Imad Barakat recalls hosting former presidential candidate Ralph Nader, which he considers one of the highlights of his restaurant’s history.
“If you tried something purely authentic and did not catch people’s taste, it may be because it’s too seasoned or unique,” said Barakat. “With time, we came up with different current menu recipes, flavors, and all that.”
The newer River Diner offers both Middle Eastern and American cuisine, attracting a wide audience to the restaurant.
Ayah Ifetiha, the owner’s daughter, said the restaurant initially began with mostly Arab customers but now pulls in a mix of Toledo residents.
“Our culture is represented through the hospitality received in the restaurant,” said Ifetiha. “My dad likes to give out free samples to show his customers that he appreciates them being there.”