Bab El Salam - Portage

For our family's first lunch together, we gathered a party of nine and arrived after the lunch rush, so the restaurant wasn't too busy. Our waitress was extremely helpful and recommended the large family platter, which turned out to be a fantastic choice. Although I’m not very familiar with Mediterranean cuisine, everything we had was delicious. The platter came with a variety of dishes, including rice and salad sides, and it was more than enough to feed all of us, leaving us with plenty of leftovers to take home. The owner took the time to personally welcome us and share some insights about his restaurant; he was charming and engaging. I’ll definitely return the next time I'm in the area!

Bab El Salam is a beautiful jewel in the heart of Portage. Always clean, well ventilated and kept at a comfortable temperature. The staff is very friendly and respectful also to customers who have many questions about menu items. There is a grocery store next door that supplies all the necessary ingredients if you are interested in trying your hand at some of their dishes in your regular weekly table. I found about 1/3 of the menu here. Everything is well presented on the plate and is delicious. Many restaurants serving the kitchen in the Middle East in America tend to overwhelm the food. Not here. Flavors are correct and delicate about any court I have experienced. There are countless vegan, vegetarian and omnivorous options on the menu and the kitchen staff are happy, customizations for the individual palate. I would be rejected to write a review of Bab El Salam and not the innateness and true of the warmth of the owner as well. There should be more people like him on earth. Great place, great people, great food. You'll be happy you tried.

The food was impeccable. I had the shish tawouk chicken with lentil soup and hummus on the side and my husband had the chicken shawarma with falafel and hummus. Everything from the moment we stepped in till the moment we stepped out from the restaurant, it was a pleasant encounter. The food was juicy, tender and very much full of flavours. The girl who helped us place the order was friendly, patient and recommended the proper foods according to what we desired and the owner was just out of this world very charming. He gave us (personally came and served us) complimentary baklavas, and special cookies for the road. Everyone was nice, and the food was delicious. You will not leave disappointed! Must must try

Best Mediterranean spot in town, and one of the best places to eat in general. Terrific atmosphere, great prices, extremely generous portions, and the owners and staff are exceedingly pleasant and friendly and make you feel right at home. Can't recommend enough!

I just had lunch with my wife, and the food was delicious—especially the Turkish coffee, which might be a bit strong for those who aren't fans of coffee grounds. The service was quick, but the atmosphere was quite chilly. I’ll definitely be returning for dinner.