Phoenix, Scottsdale Welcomes a Vibrant Mediterranean Eatery Serving Punchy Mezze

Interesting Facts

A new culinary gem has emerged in Phoenix, offering a vibrant take on Mediterranean dining. Noor, meaning "light" in Arabic, has illuminated the local food scene with its Levantine-inspired menu. Located at the northeast corner of Tatum and Shea boulevards, this establishment is the brainchild of Syrian chef Dima Al-Chaar, a "Top Chef Middle East" semifinalist renowned for her global culinary consultations. The drink menu is curated by local cocktail expert Maxwell Berlin, previously of downtown lounge Quartz and the esteemed Thai restaurant Glai Baan.

 

The restaurant's interior pays homage to its Syrian roots. An octagonal fountain adorned with intricate geometric stone tiles gently bubbles at the center, shaded by a faux olive tree. A mural depicting a village square with a central fountain adds to the ambiance, complemented by sleek tables and booths that attract both couples and groups. Woven textiles drape from the ceiling like chandeliers, while brass lights cast a soft glow, enhancing the dining experience.

 

Noor's cocktail offerings blend classic recipes with Middle Eastern ingredients. The Medjool Thief Old Fashioned, for instance, is presented in an ornate box that releases a smoky aroma upon opening, revealing a crystal glass filled with a concoction of date, cinnamon, and cherry-infused rye. Another standout is the Souk Southside, a refreshing mix of honeydew gin, cucumber, lime, mint, parsley, and mastic, garnished with a melon ball and mint sprig.

 

The menu boasts an array of mezze that deliver bold flavors. The short rib hummus combines the nutty warmth of tahini with spicy, tomato-infused short rib, accompanied by freshly baked puffed pitas. The muhamara dip, a sweet and tangy blend of roasted red pepper, pomegranate molasses, walnuts, and chili paste, is particularly addictive. The eggplant fattoush salad offers a crunchy medley of cucumber, radish, tomato, and crisped pita, all enlivened by sumac, pomegranate, and fresh mint.

 

While the mezze shine, some entrees, like the Shish Tawook, have received mixed reviews. Despite being marinated and grilled, the chicken was noted as lacking in flavor, though the accompanying vegetables and garlic aioli attempted to compensate. Given the higher price point of some dishes, expectations are elevated, leaving little room for error.

 

In a city where the term "Mediterranean" is often used broadly, Noor distinguishes itself by offering a focused and authentic Levantine dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to traditional flavors, combined with a modern twist, provides a refreshing option for Phoenix residents and visitors alike. Despite occasional missteps, the memorable mezze and inventive cocktails make Noor a noteworthy addition to the local dining landscape.

Q/A Questions

Q: What inspired the creation of this Mediterranean eatery in Phoenix and Scottsdale?

A: The vibrant and lively atmosphere of the Mediterranean region inspired us to bring a taste of that culture to Arizona.

Q: What sets your mezze dishes apart from other Mediterranean restaurants in the area?

A: Our mezze dishes are known for their punchy flavors and unique ingredient combinations that you won't find anywhere else.

Q: How do you create a welcoming and authentic dining experience for guests at your restaurant?

A: We strive to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel like they are dining in a bustling Mediterranean marketplace. Our attentive service and delicious food also play a big role in creating an authentic experience for our guests.