Lara’s Restaurant

I kept seeing their commercials all throughout programming on Saturday mornings. I decided to try it out as a possibility for a reception. We called ahead to inquire about pricing, menu choices etc., let them know we would be stopping by for lunch and to discuss details (check out the seating, menu etc.). It was empty when we arrived, still had slow service. Once our food was brought out it was practically dumped on the table without even looking at us etc. I was very disappointed. The ground beef kebobs were so overcooked they were blackened in some spots, very dry and nothing I would classify as kebob — probably even reheated from the night before. Is that how much they wanted our business for a party of 150? Something as simple as a fatoush salad wasn’t even made right (we ordered 1 of each of their main meat dishes to try). We finished our meal and headed out to another restaurant at Keele & 7 (La Grill). Had an amazing experience as always — they even comped us our meal. I wanted to choose Lara because it was close to our church and came highly recommended. I didn’t choose them and went with La Grill even though our guests had a slightly longer drive — we were not disappointed. FYI i went back to Lara on 2 other occasions for receptions, after funeral lunches and had their food at catered events. Big disappointment after all the hype behind their food. Didn’t care for their lax and unprofessional attitude either. The biggest reason I didn’t book them for Baptism reception — they wouldn’t budge on letting me customize the menu based on dietary needs and what we were looking for out of a menu. They insisted on «what you see is what you get» Which is unheard of when someone is paying a lot of money for food & drinks. I’ve had a lot better than what they offer — embarrassed that they are the same background as me.

Delicious middle eastern food at a very reasonable price. Good selection of wine and a nice quiet place to grab lunch or dinner… You can actually carry a conversation with the party you are dining with as there is no unnecessary loud noise.
Open late and you really can’t go wrong with anything you order… Family owned with warm service… Highly recommend!