Bedouin Tent

Wow has it been that long!

MP and I were in the mood for some tasty Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean food. When Middle Eastern cuisine comes to mind; I think of big flavors, vibrant spices, and hot pita bread.

Oh—was I wrong. We ordered a five combination salad platter and (I kindly) asked to omit grape leaves because MP isn’t fond of them. Server comes back with grape leaves on the salad-- I kindly ask him if he can take the grape leaves out. He is slightly put off—and gently swipes the plate away.

In the meantime, my leg of lamb platter arrives and this time--there is no point of return. WHAT IS THIS--I thought. The slices of lamb are grey and dry. Is the kitchen staff taking shifts on cooking this same leg of lamb over and over again? I've finally given up on the dish when I tasted it.

MP's leg of lamb sandwich arrives at the same time--which is the exact replica of my grey leg of lamb platter (half the price)--Picture my dish rolled up on a stale pita. Voila.

Server comes back with the five combination salad. First glance: no grape leaves. Second glance: no feta. Where’s the feta? They gave us fava beans, instead. MP wants her feta. She immediately flags the server (who is already not happy with us) and tells him that we didn’t order fava beans. Server (turns red) lashes us with loud rants "I had to throw the first order out...!" (and some words in his native tongue). He was so enraged and staggered--we couldn't help ourselves but laugh (completely involuntary). To help mitigate the situation , I order the feta separately and the waiter storms off.

The rest of the story is history but I must say: this is one of the very few times that I felt that I was inconveniencing a server while he was on the job. But we did get a good laugh. It was kinda worth it.

One more recap: when we asked for the check, he seemed surprised to see so much food left over. He demands “Take rest, to go!”

Bedouin Tent 405 Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11217-1702 (718) 852-5555