Georgetown's culinary scene just got a vibrant and flavorful upgrade. After a long wait, Alara, the highly anticipated Middle Eastern restaurant from restaurateur Hakan Ilhan, has finally opened its doors in the former Paolo's space on Wisconsin Avenue. Named after a mythical Turkish water fairy, Alara promises an enchanting dining experience, showcasing the diverse and delicious tapestry of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine.
A Culinary Journey Through the Eastern Mediterranean
Alara isn't just another Middle Eastern restaurant. It's a celebration of the region's rich culinary history, drawing inspiration from Lebanon, Syria, Istanbul, the Aegean Islands, and beyond. Ilhan, also the owner of Ottoman Taverna, explains that the menu reflects centuries of culinary exchange, highlighting the interconnectedness of the region's food traditions. "When you go back to the history, that part of the world having been under the Ottoman Empire for 600 years or so, all of the cuisines have intertwined," he says. "We try to present that region as a whole, rather than just focusing on one country.”
A Feast for the Senses: Mezze, Kebabs, and More
Chef Ahamet Aydogmusmus has crafted an extensive menu that caters to every palate. Diners can embark on a culinary adventure, exploring a wide array of hot and cold mezze, flavorful kebabs, traditional pide flatbreads, and a tempting prix fixe sharing menu.
Highlights from the menu include:
- Mezze: Classic hummus (with optional toppings like roasted mushrooms or spiced beef), flavorful karniyarik (roasted stuffed eggplant), roasted cauliflower with yogurt-garlic sauce, and grilled halloumi with tomatoes and mint.
- Kebabs: A must-try is the Turkish beyti kebab—grilled ground-beef kebabs wrapped in lavash and topped with yogurt and tomato sauce.
- Regional Specialties: Explore dishes like tzatziki and moussaka from Greece, fattoush and moutabal from the Levant, and numerous classic Turkish preparations.
For those seeking a curated experience, Alara offers a four-course prix fixe menu ($54.95 per guest) for dinner, allowing diners to sample a variety of the chef's specialties. Dessert options are equally enticing, with unique offerings like tahini creme brûlée and Turkish coffee tiramisu.
A Revitalized Space in the Heart of Georgetown
The 5,000-square-foot space on Wisconsin Avenue, formerly home to Paolo's Ristorante, has been transformed into a cozy and polished dining destination. Ilhan's vision for Alara involved a complete renovation, including new plumbing, electrical wiring, ventilation, and HVAC systems. The kitchen was even moved to the basement to create more seating, ensuring a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests.
Open All Day, Every Day
Alara welcomes diners seven days a week, offering all-day service until 1 AM on weeknights and 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Lunch and late-night menus feature a focused selection of kebabs, sandwiches, and smaller mezze plates. Brunch, served on Saturdays and Sundays, adds exciting options like soujouk eggs benedict and avocado toast with grilled halloumi.
Affordable Elegance
Ilhan's goal is to make Alara accessible to everyone. With the exception of large share plates, nearly everything on the lunch, dinner, and brunch menus, from mezze to kebab platters, is under $20. "We want it to be as friendly a menu as possible for all walks of life," Ilhan explains.
Experience the Magic of Alara
Alara is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. From the carefully curated menu to the beautifully designed space, every detail has been considered to transport diners to the heart of the Eastern Mediterranean. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of Middle Eastern cuisine or a curious newcomer, Alara promises a memorable and delicious journey.
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