Finding truly satisfying Middle Eastern food in handsome surroundings in Manhattan hasn't been easy until now. Happily, Elias Ghafary...has it all together in his new Al Bustan.

The personable host graduated from Beirut Culinary School in the days when the Lebanese capital was the "Paris of the Middle East."

Since Middle East hospitality is expressed by the variety of the meze, or appetizers offered, there are more than three dozen hot ones, cold ones, soups, and salads on the menu. The best way to enjoy them is to join family or friends and order a blizzard of the small plates.

The restaurant has a global wine list, including Chateau Musar's Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine made 18 miles outside Beirut. Now there is peace in its garden, and there is great promise in Al Bustan."

Bob Lape
in Crains New York Business