Atlanta's Inman Park, a neighborhood steeped in history with its beautifully restored Victorian homes and lush green spaces, offers a vibrant tapestry of experiences. It's a place where the past gracefully meets the present, and among its diverse culinary offerings, Delbar stands out as a beacon of warm, inviting Middle Eastern cuisine.
Stepping into Delbar, especially on a chilly day, feels like a welcome embrace. The restaurant boasts a stylish, modern ambiance that's perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments. If you're lucky and the crowd is just right, snagging a seat in the sunroom is a treat – it's surprisingly cozy even when the temperature drops, thanks to the air conditioning keeping things comfortable.
From the moment you're seated, the hospitality shines. A small plate arrives, a prelude to the meal, featuring a delightful mix of pickled radish, walnuts, and fragrant herbs, all accompanied by warm, pillowy flatbread. This bread, by the way, is a star in its own right. It's wonderfully crisp and an absolute dream when dipped into the creamy hummus. And the best part? It's refillable, so you can keep scooping to your heart's content.
Many of Delbar's dishes carry the signature char of the grill, a testament to their cooking style. While some might have a hint of char, I found it only enhanced the depth of flavor, never detracted from it. The grilled chicken wings, marinated to perfection and served with a spicy dipping sauce, offer a delightful kick that complements the tender meat beautifully.
For me, the true standouts were the Chinjeh and the Seabass. The Chinjeh, described as tender beef tenderloin, likely marinated in yogurt before grilling, was incredibly succulent. And the Seabass, while one of the pricier options on the menu (short of the impressive lamb shank), lived up to every expectation. It was a truly satisfying dish.
I did try the Lamb Shank Stew on one occasion, and while it was decent, it didn't quite capture my imagination the way other dishes did. Looking back at some older photos, I remember trying the Omani Shrimp after seeing it featured prominently on Yelp. It looked incredibly enticing, but my experience was a bit disappointing due to a slight 'watery' taste in the shrimp. Hopefully, that's something they've since refined.
The Adana bite was forgettable, which usually means it was perfectly acceptable but not remarkable. And the Shishlik, or grilled lamb chops, I'd probably skip next time.
Overall, Delbar is a place I'd wholeheartedly recommend, especially if you're drawn to the smoky, savory notes of grilled Middle Eastern fare. It's more than just a meal; it's a warm, flavorful journey that leaves you feeling content and well-cared for, much like a good conversation with a dear friend.
