Garlic & Tahini Egyptian Kitchen (Mira Mesa)

I will often tell folks at work who ask me "how did you figure that out", the simple phrase "Google is your friend". And I truly believe that in certain cases. Take for example, Garlic & Tahini. I really don't think I would have found the place if I hadn't Googled "garlic sauce + Mira Mesa". Harvest Market has closed and the Missus was craving the garlic paste. An interesting place appeared on my search; Garlic and Tahini Egyptian Kitchen. I noticed two locations; one in La Jolla, which seemed to be a restaurant and the other on Mesa Rim Road, which seemed to be another area chocked full of business parks; like Hawaiian Fresh Seafood. I noticed a website; which led me to an online order form. I decided to go for it and placed an order; basically it's a "make-your-meal" type ordering.....you know, pitas, bowls, or salads, pick your protein. I also ordered a container of garlic sauce to take home.

My GPS led me to Flanders Drive; the street right past Huennekens (why do I always call it Heinekens?)...the way to HFSF. Down Flanders, right on Mesa Rim Road and eventually a sign......

In a business park.

Whereupon I saw another set of signs and parked in one of the stalls.

Then walked to the doorway to the right of the signs.

Then thru the doorway......

And right into a commercial kitchen. Yes, I know that the concept of Ghost Kitchens are a hot topic right now..... There were quite a few packages lined up on one of the tables.

I called out a rather hesitant "hello" and a really friendly gentleman came on over and I mentioned having placed an order online. He thanked me and said my order would be ready in a minute and he'd be happy to bring it out to my vehicle. So, I went ahead and waited in my car and soon enough he brought out a package with my stuffs.

Back at the office, I unpacked my order. I had gotten a Beef Shawarma Pita, a side of Falafel (five pieces) and an 8 ounce container of Garlic Sauce.

The first thing I noticed when I bit into my pita was the bread itself; which was more fluffy than standard issue pita. It also had a hint of sweetness; which actually wasn't a bad thing at all.

The beef had been chopped and was a bit on the chewier side. I enjoyed the diced tomatoes and onions....and even the parsley; though the Tahini was really mild in flavor and am used to to a more assertive sesame seed flavor.

The exterior of the Falafel were really crisp; though the interior was more gritty than I prefer. I enjoy a bit of light - creaminess in my falafel and I prefer Mister Falafel to the version here. Maybe if we hadn't gone to Israel/Palestine/Jordan late last year, I'd have enjoyed it more. I also preferred using the garlic sauce I purchased to the tahini that was included with the falafel.

Speaking of the Garlic Sauce......this version is truly a sauce and not a paste. As it was fairly thin; not a bad thing at all in this case.

While not as strong in terms of garlic flavor; I did like the texture as it was nice drizzling on salads, veggies, and frittatas - here's a Soppressata - Chard - Potato Frittata I recently made.

I'll definitely purchase more of this.

A week later, I decided on trying a couple of other items I'd seen on the menu and was interested in. So, I placed another online orders and went to pick it up.

Same drill; I ducked in, said hello, and waited for my order outside.

This time I tried the Mesa'aa (Eggplant) and Fool (Fava Bean) Pitas, along with a side of Baba Ghanouj.

I really enjoyed the Mesaa'a; it had a mild spice, was well seasoned, and had a wonderful texture and acidity/tanginess. A definite keeper.

The mashed fava beans was milder in flavor, you could still make out a mild nuttiness, and the tomatoes and pickles really helped it out.

I was told to be careful of the "spicy" finish of the Baba Ghanouj, but I found it quite mild and lacking in the smokiness I expect in the dish.

In the end; I was happy to have found a couple of items I enjoyed from Garlic & Tahini, it's gratifying to support our local businesses during this time, especially in the case of such nice folks like this. I'll definitely be getting more Garlic Sauce, Mesaa'a, and Fool.

Garlic & Tahini Egyptian Kitchen
9932 Mesa Rim Road
San Diego, CA 92121
Hours - takeout only:
Mon - Wed 11am - 3pm
THurs     11am - 8pm
Fri - Sat 11am - 9pm
Sunday    11am - 8pm

Comments

[Si O]

Thanks for posting! This place actually popped up on my social media feed (ads based on me clicking on a Mediterranean place within my walking distance). So, I did wonder how is it. Glad they have good garlic sauce.

I wish to find good Baba Ghanouj! Love the version at Mister Falafel but rarely manage to get there. I also missed chicken shawarma plate at Harvest Market.

[Sandy]

I also saw Garlic & Tahini on my social media feeds, except that I don't know how. I wondered about it, and now that I know a real person has tried it, I'll put it on my list of places to try.

[Junichi]

I miss the garlic sauce at Harvest too. Just make sure you didn't have any social engagements afterwards.

[Janfrederick]

My stomping grounds, but never when it's open. I'll have to change up and check it out. Oh, there is a farm fresh eggs and meat place across the cul-du-sac from this place.

[Elle]

I think I've been to that area before. It use to be Kokonut Dessert Bar (which is now partnered up with Matcha Cafe Maiko). My friend and I got lost trying to find the original location haha. Ghost kitchen is a new concept to me!

[RedDevil]

Google is your friend to find out hole in the wall eats while mmmyoso is mine. I really enjoy the garlic paste at North Park but in researching how to make it myself, was disappointed to see how unhealthy it is—probably why it’s so good. Thanks for another interesting, off the beaten path place to try.

[Kirk]

It's a bit different from what I'm used to in terms of Garlic sauce Si; but still pretty good.

Try them out and let me know what you think Sandy!

Yeah....that might not be socially acceptable Junichi.

Thanks for the heads-up Jan! I'll check them out.

It is a fairly remote location for a food place Elle.

Thanks for the awesome compliment RD! Yes, the amount of fat in garlic sauce is kinda scary. But FWIW, the version here is made with Avocado Oil....if that helps in any way.

[kat]

nice you found a new place:)

[Kirk]

I'm quite happy about that Kat!

[Som Tommy]

Hey I just heard you on the U-T podcast. Your famous

[Kirk]

Maybe more like (in)famous ST????