We ordered both the Chef Platter and the Taverna Mezze Platter, and everything was outstanding. The presentation was beautiful, and every item tasted incredibly fresh. The hummus was silky and rich, the shawarma tender and flavorful, and the salads—especially the fattoush—were bright and perfectly dressed with crisp pita chips. The mezze selection was a standout: kibbeh, grape leaves, muhammara, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and more—each small bite packed with so much flavor that it felt like a full tasting tour of Lebanese favorites. The bread deserves its own shoutout: served hot, soft, and absolutely perfect for scooping up everything on the plate. One of the highlights of the meal. Drinks were also on point, from the sangria to the light beer—great complements to the food without overpowering it. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the service was warm without being rushed. Overall, a wonderful dining experience. Highly recommend both platters if you want to try a bit of everything—they showcase exactly what this restaurant does best.
Overview
If you're in the mood for a vibrant and flavorful dining experience, look no further than Lebanese Taverna, located at 2001 International Dr UNIT 1402, McLean, VA 22102, United States. This inviting spot brings the authentic taste of Lebanese cuisine to the heart of McLean, offering both traditional dishes and a modern twist on some classics. Whether you're a long-time fan of Lebanese food or a first-timer looking to try something new, Lebanese Taverna provides a delightful experience for all.
The moment you step inside, the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Lebanese Taverna immediately makes you feel at home. The restaurant blends a contemporary ambiance with traditional Lebanese décor, creating a space that feels both cozy and elegant. Whether you're there for a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, the vibe is always inviting. The service, attentive and friendly, adds to the overall experience, ensuring you're well taken care of throughout your meal.
When it comes to the menu, Lebanese Taverna does not disappoint. The array of choices reflects the depth and richness of Lebanese cuisine, with something for every palate. From the famous hummus and falafel to hearty shawarma and kabobs, each dish is packed with flavor and made with high-quality ingredients. One standout is the grilled lamb chops, which are perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, Lebanese Taverna offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The tabbouleh, made fresh with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat, is a refreshing and light choice, perfect as a side or a main dish. The baba ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip, is another must-try. It pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, making for a delightful appetizer to share with friends or family.
In addition to its impressive menu, Lebanese Taverna features an extensive drinks list, including a selection of wines from Lebanon and beyond, as well as creative cocktails. The restaurant's cocktails, like the Lebanese-inspired "Arak Sour," offer a unique twist on traditional drinks, combining bold flavors with a touch of authenticity. Whether you're indulging in a glass of wine or sipping on something a bit more adventurous, the drinks at Lebanese Taverna complement the flavors of the food perfectly.
Beyond the food and drinks, what truly sets Lebanese Taverna apart is its dedication to providing an authentic cultural experience. The restaurant often hosts special events that showcase Lebanese music, dancing, and other cultural traditions. These events add an extra layer of fun to your dining experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Lebanon.
The location of Lebanese Taverna in McLean is another reason it’s a popular choice. Situated in a vibrant area near businesses, shopping centers, and other attractions, it's an ideal spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite during the workday or enjoying a leisurely dinner with loved ones, the location is convenient and accessible.
If you're looking for a place with not only great food but also excellent service, Lebanese Taverna certainly delivers. The staff is always ready to make recommendations based on your preferences and ensure that your experience is nothing short of exceptional. Many guests return time and again, drawn by the consistently high quality of both the food and the service.
Overall, Lebanese Taverna offers an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Lebanese cuisine in a modern and accessible way. Whether you're craving a light mezze platter or a hearty main course, the variety and quality of the offerings at Lebanese Taverna will not disappoint. For those seeking authentic flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a taste of Lebanon in McLean, this restaurant is the place to be.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great tea selection ✓ Great wine list ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Halal food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Healthy options ✓ Private dining room ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Lunch reservations recommended ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
Today was truly special as my family and I spent the day together. We visited luxury watch boutiques, exploring elegant timepieces as potential gifts for the upcoming New Year. Each watch had its own unique charm—some dazzling with diamonds, others showcasing refined simplicity and timeless style. Afterward, we browsed through the latest collection of designer handbags, sharing opinions and enjoying the excitement of finding the perfect choice. The whole experience was filled with joy and laughter. It wasn’t just about shopping for gifts, but about creating meaningful memories together. We ended the day with a delightful meal at a cozy restaurant, where every dish was full of flavor and warmth. Moments like these remind me that the greatest gift is simply being with family.
Consistently delicious food and attentive but friendly service that is not intrusive. The Chef's Selection is a great way to get a taste across many of their offerings. The bean stew ful mudamas, labna, and garlic hummus are great brunch appetizers, and their mint tea is "bizupt!" A great spot for vegetarians as well.
Great food and reasonable prices, especially during happy hour. We love coming back because of that! Our favorite is the whole branzino. The atmosphere is usually great, though there was one visit when some tables in the bar area hadn’t been cleaned, and no one seemed to notice. Flies started coming in, so we let the staff know, and they were quick to take care of it. I just think the host and server could use a friendlier approach—they didn’t seem very warm, though we assume it might just be cultural
We came here based on a friend’s recommendation, and we enjoyed our meal here! We ordered the two platters, and both of them were delicious & fun to explore many dishes all at once. The interior design and service were also pretty good.
The place was looked like they were busy on Sunday so I was excited to try the food. The samosas were my appetizer and tasted great. I ordered the lamb and chicken with rice however it was room temperature food and felt like it was prepared earlier and sitting in trays then served. I expected hot food especially if it was grilled. It tasted fine but could have been better warmer. The hottest thing was the bread. Either way good food but always can be better.
My recent visit to Lebanese Taverna in Virginia was a very pleasant experience! The ambience is lovely, with modern accents that create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Service was also excellent – attentive and friendly without being overbearing. Our server was Moetez. The food had some real highlights! Their hummus was absolutely delicious – creamy and flavorful. I also highly recommend the falafel; it was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside. And the pita bread they bring to the table is fresh and wonderful for scooping up everything. The one slight miss for me was the lentil soup; it just didn't quite hit the mark compared to the other dishes. Overall, Lebanese Taverna offers a great dining experience with many fantastic menu items. I'd definitely recommend it, especially for their hummus, falafel, and delightful atmosphere!