ArabesQ - Table reservation

The interior of ArabesQ is like a Arabian palace. There are stunning carved wood panels and ceilings, intricate lighting fixtures, mosaic tiles and attractive waiters. The place was packed for dinner on a Thursday night. We had the mixed mezze with puffy, dry bread. The flavors of the salads were unique and some were completely new to me even though I have had more than my share of different mezze experiences in different countries. Most were quite good, some, like the hummus, were standard faire. I also ordered the tuna tartar because it is usually one of my most favorite dishes. I thought it odd to find it on an Arab menu but, I went ahead and ordered it. It was well presented however, it lacked any seasoning. The tuna was in small cubes and sitting on a ring of cubed avocado. It had lemon zest and juice and red onion. It really lacked salt, coriander not to mention that the avocados were just a little more crunchy than ripe. Not unpleasant overly, just a little underwhelming.The main courses were more tasty but, it seemed as if they were trying a little too hard with the plating. Using half the round plate for the food and the other half for sauce calligraphy only made the plate of food look smaller than it actually was. I had the lion of tuna. The tuna in a long, thin cylinder and was lightly battered. It was served rare (as I like it) and served over well-seasoned barley. Although it looked small on the large plate, the accompanying sauces added sweetness, spice and enough interest to make it a successful dish. Again, not "wow" but I found the variety of interesting twists on Arab food very modern and tasty. I suppose I wasn't surprised by the average quality. I have been to other posh-Arabic restaurants before and have been equally underwhelmed. I would go to ArabesQ again on a special occasion. I would order the mixed mezze again (it was tasty and there were few other appetizer choices anyway). I would not order the tartar again. I would order the tuna loin. But, I would definitely try the lamb. We did not eat dessert this time. Oh, and there was an impressive selection of Lebanese wines. Although we did not have any wine with this meal, I would personally recommend any of the Middle Eastern wines that ArabesQ had on offer. They got a lot right. I think they are still tweaking their menu.

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The ambience and decoration including the belly dance and music reminded me on my trips to some Arabic countries, so I personally was not that much overwhelmed. However, sure it is an exiting place for many in the middle of Germany, and it serves exotic and tasty dishes that may remind you a little on your home or holidays in Beirut, Dubai, Kairo, Teheran or places like that.The evening was then topped by a belly dancer like I have seen them "in original" while traveling.So it's an exiting place for a night out with friends an/or family in bigger groups. Unfortunately, I do not know whether they have tables in a cosy corner just for two or so. Just check it out yourself.The many starters in tiny bowls were really delicious and everybody was exited.The main course was mostly ok but not everybody was fully satisfied as some dishes where not really hot anymore when served, like my lamb chop.And moreover, we had to wait much too long for the main course to be served, and it did not come all at the same time. Same with the refreshments. Our complains were replied with the hint to the fully occupied restaurant and hence overload of the service team and kitchen. Well, such unusual delays are understandable but should be announced when the order is taken.Overall a nice place to go but double check the timing and be ready to wait a little...By the way, they may serve halal food as well but I'm not sure whether they are certified.

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I was here for dinner with my friend/customer Firas Jabaly from Jordan and all his colleagues and friends. I was very impressed by the restaurant, very cool ambience and great Arabic food. Very nice service as well.Definitely the perfect place for a romantic or business dinner. I will go there again next time in Dusseldorf. Please check my pictures...Thank you once again Firas for the great company and spacial dinner!!!

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Have been here once a year for five years. The place is fantastic, and the service very friendly. Every time we have shared the arabic starters that are very good. Although, they could have at least some varuation. As a main course we took tuna stakes. They were somewhat dry, and the sides did not satisfy. Excellent desert finished the menu.

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I like the restaurant very much. I've been in many Oriental countries and have never seen such a beautiful restaurant. I can recommend the starters, it taste very good and you can choose many different styles of the oriental kitchen.

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