Came here for a Flamenco performance. The place is cute with many tables, large space and a stage. Street parking only. The service was not attentive at all. I'm Not used to such coldness from the staff. The food was pretty good though. We ordered a combo platter of dips. They came with huge, delicious flatbreads. Tzatziki was really really good too. And we got a combination kebab. All the meats were really tasty and juicy. The rice, however, was tasteless and unseasoned. Sangria was delicious, not the usual kind that is wine heavy. This one was very light on alcohol and sparkling. Personally, I loved it but I can imagine someone who is a sangria connoisseur may be disappointed in lack of wine/alcohol in this. All in all, the service was lacking, but food was tasty. read more

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Lovely place, unassuming looking from the street, but quite specious inside and full of charm. Food was good, staff were very friendly and accommodating (we asked to move tables mid-dinner to get a better view of the performers and they were fine with that) The owner even stopped by asking if we are good or need anything. We got to chat a bit with him with was great. The evening we were there, a trio of musicians played Bossa Nova and Jazz and they were excellent! Overall, lovely atmosphere and great food. We will be back! read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Decent Mediterranean spot. We arrived late on a Friday evening and tried walids combo, baklava, ravioli, Turkish tea and the house salad. I didn't like the ravioli much but the rest was pretty decent. I've heard they also have live music on some days so that should be fun. The night we arrived there were few folks, the service was friendly but bit slow. We had a good time. Would recommend if you like Mediterranean food. read more

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This is the best chicken I have ever had. I've ordered multiple times via DoorDash and ate in person. I don't know the secret to the tender and juicy consistency of the chicken skewers and I always want more. The seafood plate has a nice char from the grill that really stand out on the salmon and shrimp and pair nicely with the pilaf rice and veggies. All of the dips are great and you can really taste the house made love in each dish. I feel like I'm an eating at someone's house. Please support this local restaurant. I wrote a previous review and I'm writing another as I was thinking about their food. read more

Wow, wow, wow!!! Stopped in on a Sunday evening around 5. Was pretty empty. Very large space, very well decorated. It still felt intimate. We had a nice booth seat by the bar area. To start we ordered Baba ghanoush and virgin mojitos. The baba ghanoush came out with fresh made bread. It was delicious, so flavorful. Our virgin mojitos had great flavor. My husband ordered the lamb platter, which was a special. His meal came with a starter salad, which he chose ceasar. The salad was pretty nice sized. We actually split it. It was so good. For my entree I ordered the kofta kebab, which came with rice and grilled veggies. My husband's platter came with lamb chop, a piece of lamb loin, kofta, potatoes, corn, asparagus and rice. We DEVOURED our food from start to finish. It was excellent, perfectly cooked and so flavorful. To top off the amazing food we ordered their baklava to go, we couldn't wait to eat it, so we ate it on the drive home! Harissa's has exceptional food and wonderful service to match it. Service was very good, super attentive and polite. Absolutely cannot wait to go back! Might even go back again this upcoming weekend! read more

Came to grab a meal here with my Boyfriend a couple weeks ago. Overall the meal was good. We really enjoyed the kebabs. The staff were very nice and overall the food was great. My only concern was the volume of the music that was being played. I overheard the manager take a call and cuss out the caller and claiming the music was not loud and yelled other obscenities at the caller. Not sure if I can support a business that bullies the people in the neighborhood it shares. I recommend finding another business. read more

Always a welcoming and delicious experience at Harissa. My friend Theresa and I popped in for a refreshing drink. read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Wlaliid's apple cup martini - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Food! Beyond Excellent! Thursday nights, live entertainment and dancing. Ambiance is "old school" and bar service very acceptable ! Enjoy! read more

Review is for service waiter was rushed too many tables not enough wait staff. Not asked how our meal was, no refills on water. Not sure I would go back. read more

Thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our evening at HMC. Walid and his staff provide a very "family" vibe with flavors in each plate that take you away from the small Ravenna feel, to the countryside of Lebanon. Delicious food, great ambiance. A must go. read more

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This establishment is first-class. My attraction to Middle Eastern/Mediterranean cuisine goes back to adolescent years in Pittsburgh, PA and has continued to the present. Harissa has made that legacy even better! They present simple dishes prepared artfully and with style. Soup, appetizers, and a salad make a complete dinner. The entrees are fantastic as well. There is literally something for everybody! Walid and staff provide first-rate service and ambience. The restaurant has entertainment nights which I haven't experienced, but will. Harissa is a wonderful outing in North Seattle, not to be missed.... read more

I want 20 of these dolmas in my stomach for a party! The rice was luscious (but unevenly cooked in parts). The seafood stew was a bit underwhelming but it's a nice base to add more veggies for leftovers. The flatbread (sorry I don't know the official terminology) was delicious and great to dip in the dolma sauce. Setting was classy and the dim sexy lighting made me sleepy but worth it. read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Dolma and flatbread - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Came here hungry. Started out with the Walid combo as an appetizer. Could not decide which appetizer sounded the best. Harrisa, hummus, eggplant salad, labnenh and tomato salad. A really great array of delicious starters. I am partial to eggplant, so this was my favorite. Tomato salad was so good. Next, the lamb meatball stew and stuffed eggplant. So incredibly flavorful. The hit of flavors, balancing the meat and sauce is wonderful. These sound like simple dishes, but the taste is memorable. Really, Walid is such a good cook. These dishes stand out in my culinary memories. Baklava was a nice balance of honey and sweet. Really pleased by the great food served here. read more

While the service was not a problem,in fact, our server was incredibly sweet and attentive, my review is focused solely on the management and the food. Unfortunately, the food was just okay. My chicken kabob was undercooked and raw in the center, which is concerning. My husband ordered an Old Fashioned, and it was oddly served in a margarita glass filled with ice (more suited for a soda). When we asked about it, the bartender said it didn't matter how the drink was served as long as it tasted good. Well, it didn't taste good either, and to make matters worse, it had mysterious floaties in it. Overall, it wasn't a good experience. The highlight of the evening was the live music, which was nice, but it was a bit too loud. A better sound system or some volume control would go a long way. read more

I wish I could give 10 stars. Eight of us gathered for a special dinner tonight at Harissa-- to celebrate a book release. From the moment we sat down until the moment we left, Walid treated us like queens. The food is ridiculously good, the ambience warm and welcoming, and the host is simply the best. Thank you Walid - for your generous and warm hosting. read more

Had a wonderful experience. The food was fresh with great flavors. The hummus was one of the best I've had. Also enjoyed the tzatziki. pita, and chicken kabob. The head chef came to greet us and checked in with us during the meal. Highly recommend. read more

Last time I stopped in was back in August 2014, definitely time for an update with my recent dining experience on 4/1/22. I am always checking out the evolution of Ravenna's restaurant row that runs adjacent to Roosevelt and Bryant/Wedgwood neighborhoods on NE 65th. Definitely one needs to slow down along this busy thoroughfare, because like me, you'll miss out on a hidden gem with a well storied pedigree. It may not be the latest media darling or with major cache. But Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine has become a work in progress that knows how to get back to basics, shore up its strong foundation, managed to survive and reinvent itself for success well beyond the pandemic. I managed to find nearby street parking and showed up at the appointed time. I was welcomed by restaurant staff and my dinner host. It was nice to be seated at a booth with natural light and views of the rest of the vast dining room. Usually there is dinner service, but on Fridays and Saturdays there is also the added benefit of late night live music, festive belly dancing, and hookah service. It is amazing how the interior expansion created an entirely different atmosphere. One is totally transported to a whole new environment, just stepping in from the entrance. And one doesn't have to bother with the challenges of traffic, parking, and safety issues heading downtown or other hot spots! As an aside, the restaurant team also is capable of handing small intimate gatherings, hosting large special events, and does catering. More information is available through their website or calling directly to discuss your event needs. I haven't traveled to any specific Mediterranean locales, but have dined at many sites in the greater Seattle area which sets the expected benchmarks for flavor, preparation, and presentation. I had no preconceived notions beforehand, but definitely was pleasantly surprised by the service, cuisine, and atmosphere experienced on Friday evening. I was able to try fresh baked bread with the four dip sampler. I enjoyed the new spins on the flavor spectrum for spicy tomato, labneh, baba ghanoush, and hummus. The plump spanokopita and flavorful rice followed - better than another Greek place I favor. The main entrees selected were grilled lamb chops and peppers served on a sizzling platter. And also served were grilled seasonal halibut and shrimp with more rice and a vegetable medley. Dinner was seamless and paired with two different pours of pinot gris. Signature cocktails, wine, and beer are available to go with the starters and entrees. We wrapped up the enjoyable meal with generous sized baklava and equally generous service of port. It is very rare that I will remained engaged for a five hour dining experience on 4/1/22. And no, this was no April Fool's Day joke. Kudos to chef/owner Walid and his staff for taking good care of me, very welcoming, everything was anticipated, and not intrusive. Thank you to my dinner host and fellow 16 year Yelp Elite/IGer. Absolutely delightful evening sharing food, drink, and conversation with him and his two other dining companions. It was also good to observe other tables from two to eight tops also experiencing similar positive service. Lessons learned - a place with dated Yelp posts easily gives pause and raises an eyebrow. Dining out is always subjective. However, understanding the overhaul and witnessing how the hard work is paying off with solid results. Future return visits will enable me to comment further on consistency. Yes, there are spots like JuneBaby, Wataru, and Kricket Club also located nearby. But if you want the whole package of welcoming service, palate pleasing cuisine, decent beverage menu, and on Fri/Sat nights immersed with live music, belly dancing, and hookah, give Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine a try! read more

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Stopped in here today with my son as I have driven by multiple times and always wanted to eat there. The food was outstanding and their menu had many interesting dishes. Everything we had was perfect. The chef was exceedingly nice and explained a lot of the food and spices to us, he was super friendly and helpful to my son who needs a little more help and made him feel welcome . Can not wait to go back! read more

I lived in Beirut for 9 years. I love Lebanese food. Dinner at Harissa last night was a celebration for me of the very best of Lebanese food, served with the same delightful graciousness. It was like a night in Beirut with the same charm and excellent cuisine. Geri Branch read more

Ridiculously good food. Mediterranean is one of my favorites and as a vegetarian, it's not always easy to find a cuisine or restaurant that caters to it. Harissa did not disappoint. I'm an eggplant snob and the eggplant salad was easily one of the best I've ever had. The labneh was very flavorful, with a hint of mint and other spices. It's easy to get lazy with a dish like that. There was an initial problem with my salad that the owner took care of with zero fuss. Bonus tip: Live music and entertainment Friday and Saturday nights between 9 and 10. I'm looking forward to trying more dishes and bringing my friends to try the wider range of dishes. Heavy rotation. read more

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The owner just "replied" to a review I wrote over three years ago. I stand by my review as an accurate relation of my experience. The food and drink was almost comically overpriced, but the atmosphere was wonderful. A few drinks and appetizers did indeed set us back over $200. I don't even know if this is the same menu, manager or owner that was there that night. If their prices have become more reasonable, or they've stopped gouging partiers on weekends, bully for them. But it seems to me that any restaurant manager that goes out of his way to address concerns THREE YEARS AFTER THE FACT can also be counted on to offer similarly irrational and untimely solutions to any issue you might have with YOUR experience at his restaurant. Diner beware. read more

I'd give this 10 stars if I could. Visiting from LA. My boyfriends mom brought us here because she came here recently w a friend and loved it. This is the BEST food, hands down. We had a stew, the kabobs, and a lamb platter. Our starters were fresh warm pita and various dips. Also, the BEST sangria. To finish, we were given home made baklava. All to die for. And the service was top notch. So friendly and helpful. Can't wait to come back. read more

I was the only one in the restaurant when I dropped in for lunch so I took the opportunity to have the server order my meal for me. He recommended the lamb platter which came with a salad and an appetizer, and I also was recommended to try their house rosé which I must say was the best rosé I've ever had. I bought a bottle to take home with me but it wasn't infused with what ever special spices I tasted in the restaurant which was expected. Would totally go back just for another glass! Also they offer "outdoor seating" which is covered and heated Very nice decor The parking is street parking and the restaurant isn't heard to miss if you aren't specifically looking for it read more

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This is a nice restaurant in N. Seattle that is absolutely perfect for an intimate dinner date or to entertain guests. I had the lamb special which did not disappoint. My wife had the falafel dish that was excellent. They have a full bar and wine list but also a series of non-alcoholic selections. The one negative might be the price which seems a little steep. read more

A very good neighborhood choice! I regret it has taken me so long to try it because it's much better than my usual go to farther afield. Highlights: The hummus is remarkable in it flavor and smooth as silk texture- it's the closest I've had in Seattle to my LA fave Marouch - very high praise from me :) The babaganosh has just the right smoky tang. Best one I've had in this city. Their tabouli is mostly parsley (that's a good thing to me) and very lemony and refreshing! The flat bread was fresh, hearty and plentiful! Not that thin, sad, papery stuff you sometimes get. The chicken kabobs were nicely flavored and came with the requisite rice pilaf. I'd ask for extra garlic sauce next time. Everything was fresh and flavorful, garnished and boxed with care. We will be returning often - it's a fantastic choice and worth trying if you've passed by and wondered about it. The dining room looked lovely and we will try dining in next time. read more

Incredible food! Came here with family and we got "family style" kofta (lamb) kabab, samak (salmon) kabab, and one of their lamb specials. we also had baba ghanouj to start, which featured the best hummus i've had to date! the portions are generous and everything came out rather quickly. the salmon was cooked to a perfect tenderness and the lamb was so flavorful. Harissa's rice also has wonderful flavor and was accompanied by delicious, fresh grilled vegetables and drizzled w a creamy garlic sauce. photo shows the family style entrees! would definitely recommend this place! read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I've been coming to this restaurant for over 10 years. Even though there's never anyone in the restaurant, which is a bad sign, the food has always been good and the service quick, which is all I need from a takeout spot. Cut to last weekend when I decided to bring a good friend of mine and our two sons for late lunch/early dinner dine-in service before a play. My son noticed bugs in the candy dish and ants all over the place and tried to get us to leave. I should've listened to him. Next, the OWNER came up to take our order and when we tried to place an order for two platters to share, knowing that would be plenty for the four of us as well as the timeframe we were working with, he reassured us that he knew exactly what we wanted and would bring us everything so we didn't have to worry about anything. Anytime we tried to clarify EXACTLY WHAT he was bringing, he would brush us off with that same answer, he knows what we want and he'll bring it and take care of us, don't worry. When we received our food, it was massive helpings of EVERYTHING, way more than we wanted or had time to eat. For instance, when we tried to clarify that the platter CAME WITH baba ghanoush and hummus, instead he brought us a separate platter of just all the dips, including extra pita bread, which is not what we ordered. Instead of letting us order the platters we wanted, he brought us big helpings of everything, not what we ordered from the menu at all. Seafood, chicken, lamb, you name it, he brought EVERYTHING. And when we went to the register to pay, he charged us over $200. $200 for a late lunch before a play. We had to bag up most of the food and take it home because it was not what we ordered and way more than we wanted. When I told him that I don't even have that much in my account right now as we were not expecting to go out to a $200 lunch before the play, we were expecting to order around $60 worth of food off the menu, he started getting irate and angry and accusing us of trying to steal from him and threatening to call the police. Imagine us two women standing there with our two sons just trying to get to a play before we're late, and now we have this awful man harassing us and threatening to call the police on us. I would've walked out if I weren't there with my friend and our sons. NEVER STEP FOOT IN THIS AWFUL PLACE. read more

Many years ago a friend and I ate here and we were underwhelmed. However, I decided to give it another try and the food was delicious!! I ordered the spanakopita and my companion had the falafel dish. The portions were extremely generous, the wine was lovely, and the owner was friendly and helpful. I will DEFINITELY go back. read more

Another wonderful meal at Harissa. We asked Walid (the chef-owner) to make us whatever he felt like cooking. We brought us an amazing seafood kabob and a lamb dish (photos attached). Truly one of the best restaurant meals I have ever had! I don't understand why this place doesn't have a line down the street to get a table! read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Lamb cooked three ways. - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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The owner charged us for two bottles of wine instead of two glasses of wine. He also brought us doubles of appetizers and charged for it, when we ordered a single. Plus there was a 20% service charge. read more

The owner replied to my 7 year old review to imply I used a Groupon and that was why I thought the prices were expensive. Sadly my first visit there was with a Groupon and my second and last visit 7 years ago was with a group (not using Groupons!) This reply from the misinformed owner is a further deterrent and confirmation of my previous feelings about this business. read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - If you review them negatively they may harrass you YEARS later...on the week of Christmas. Just another reason to avoid this place. - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This place is such a neighborhood gem! So it's embarrassing that we've lived literally around the corner for years, and never tried it. We went in as a foursome on a quiet night, and everyone was pleased with their (massive) entrees. Seriously, people - come HUNGRY. The price is surprisingly reasonable, the decor is cozy, and the staff is charming. The owner is as well. He came to welcome us and offer some baklava as a dessert on the house. We will be back - possibly weekly because there cannot be too many kabobs in your life. read more

Our group of 10 people enjoyed a really delicious meal here last night! Our host, Walid, explained the dishes really well and made helpful suggestions for wines and side dishes for our entrees. His service was attentive but not intrusive and we all enjoyed his enthusiasm for his foods. Nice, casual atmosphere with white linen service that would also be appropriate for a "special" meal. Thanks, Walid! read more

I liked this place! I ordered the Lamb Kabob, Kofta Kabob, Baba Ghanouj and Domas. Everything was great! The grilled onions was so crispy and charred. The lamb was very moist, and the pita was tasty and fresh. The server was so nice and personable. We had a great meal here, and will definitely be back read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Lamb Kabob - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

We went on our wedding anniversary and were the only patrons.... I suppose because it was 2 days before Valentine's Day. The atmosphere is lovely and there was a band practicing. Couldn't have asked for a better night! The food is excellent! The kababs were not soft as we would have liked but were flavorsome. Walid's combo plate is not to be missed! You can tell that the chef doesn't compromise on quality ingredients. Everything seemed really fresh. This is the third time we have been to this gem, and I feel bad I waited so long to write a review. Chef Walid personally visited our table and spoke to us. Highly recommend. You will not be disappointed in the ambiance, food or service! read more

My mom found this restaurant before Covid. During Covid my parents would do pick up. So my sister and i came to Seattle and my mom said you have to try it. We went last night and the food was amazing! Services was great drinks were good ! I will add this to my list of places to go when i come home. You won't be disappointed read more

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It always feels special to dine at Harissa. There is live acoustic music on Thursday evening from 6 to 9p, and it is surprisingly not crowded then. There is a small dance floor as well. It is a fabulous place for a date or meeting friends as it is quiet enough to talk. The service is relaxed and not rushed. The food is great and servings are generous. There are small plates as well as larger dinners. I always go on Thursday because I like the music. There is live music on Friday and Saturday as well, but I haven't been there on the weekend yet to hear what it is like. read more

Harissa has amazing food, wine, atmosphere! The owners have taken care of every aspect of the dining experience! I loved the live music too! read more

Harissa Mediterranean Cuisine - Live music Thursday night! - Mediterranean Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Unfortunately, the food was not good at all. On top of it, service is really slow. First and last time.

My wife and I tried Harissa for the first time the other day. We were pleasantly surprised by the warm atmosphere (reminded us of a European cafe). Walid, the owner, greeted us warmly and took the time to chat with us about the restaurant and his desire to provide a welcoming place for the community. When he asked what we'd like to eat, we told him about some of our diet restrictions (no gluten, sugar, etc) and he said "I'll take care of you." Walid came back a short time later with a beautifully presented dish of roasted lamb and vegetables for us to share. It was delicious. It's rare to find that kind of personal attention and consideration these days. We'll definitely be back. read more