Zenobia

When gathering around fragrant, spice-infused platters, the slow-cooked lamb shanks make an obvious centerpiece. Cooked until the bone-in meat falls apart at the touch of a fork and served over aromatic basmati rice, the dish layers rich lamb flavors with gentle Middle Eastern spices. For a quicker bite, guests frequently turn to Arabian shawarma—finished crisp on the outside and laced with rich garlic sauce—or skewers of charcoal-grilled kebab.

An assortment of mezze enlivens the table before the mains arrive. Silky hummus, strained labneh yogurt dip, and freshly fried chickpea falafel pair naturally with warm Arabian bread straight from the oven. Add a tart fattoush salad brightened with pomegranate molasses, alongside comforting bowls of lentil soup or garlicky molokhia, and a classic Levantine spread comes together.

For dessert, options include Syrian cheese rolls scented with rosewater and dusted with crushed pistachios, as well as crisp, layered baklava packed with nuts. Lingering over them with fresh mint tea, spiced chai, or tart hibiscus karkadeh makes for a leisurely conclusion. Located on the 2th floor of an Azabu-Juban building, the calm dining room remains open until 3:00 in the morning, serving as a welcoming spot to converse over shisha late into the night. Note that payment is cash only, so it is wise to have yen on hand before visiting.