Travel from Lebanon to Turkey, Persia, and beyond through flavor at this cozy Arabic-inspired restaurant spearheaded by two tenured chefs. Opened in 2016, Moona, Cambridge, continues to entertain diners with unique and delightful spice and flavor combinations that draw inspiration from the co-owner’s unique backgrounds.
About Moona
Combined, co-owners Mohamad El-Zein and Vesko Blag share nearly four decades of culinary experience. El-Zein’s hometown flavors of Lebanon and Abu Dhabi, in addition to experience with South East Asian, Persian, Middle Eastern, European, African, and American cuisines create a complex flavor profile that is a unlike any other culinary journey in Boston. Vesko’s Bulgarian roots and training experience on the island’s of Cyprus (and also Nantucket’s prestigious American Seasons), add a unique coastal-inspired flair to all the dishes at Moona.
What’s on the menu
Moona’s Arabic-flavors are seasonally inspired by New England’s fresh produce. In the summer, expect more fruits, garden greens, and bright, zesty spices, while the fall brings warm brown butters, nutmeg, and more to the table, changing into spring and winter as well.
The star of the menu is Moona’s grilled whole fish, cooked to perfection and seasoned with a secret blend inspired by traditional preparation techniques of Turkey. The fish is complemented with a refreshing fennel citrus salad for bits of texture and brightness.
While the menu is ever-evolving seasonally, one constant that can’t be skipped is Moona’s dips platter featuring homemade pickles, smokey baba ghanoush, muhammara, and hummus served with warm, fresh bread. Pair it with the Fez mocktail for a refreshing kick from the fresh sumac berries in the beverage.
Other highlights include the Grilled Point Judith Squid, Brown Butter Cauliflower, and Eggplant Fatteh. The mezze plates are designed for sharing and exploration in each bite, making for an immersive and social dining experience with flavors that leave a lasting impressions, so bring a group and try them all!
Find Moona at 243 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA
Open daily from 5 PM