Silav Cafe&Grill

- 330 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215

In the bustling heart of downtown Columbus, a truly unique culinary experience awaits at Silav Cafe & Grill. This restaurant stands out not only for its convenient location but for its distinct focus on Kurdish cuisine, a flavorful and often-overlooked regional style of Middle Eastern food. While many diners may be familiar with common Mediterranean dishes, Silav offers a chance to explore a similar yet unique flavor profile, characterized by its own traditional spices and preparations. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance promises a genuine and memorable dining adventure, complete with traditional-style seating that adds to the cafe's authentic charm. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, savor your meal, and appreciate a culture far removed from the everyday hustle of the city.

Silav Cafe & Grill has quickly become a local favorite for its friendly service and the delightful "Kurdish twist" it brings to its menu. Diners appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to try something new, yet comforting. The menu is diverse, featuring classic Middle Eastern staples like falafel, shawarma, and gyros, but with a unique approach. For instance, many dishes are served with fresh-baked naan bread, made in-house, which is a particular highlight for many customers. The emphasis on unique sauces and drizzles, such as a spicy cilantro sauce or a pistachio drizzle on desserts like baklava, shows the cafe's commitment to adding a special, memorable touch to each dish. The in-house tea, a delight in itself, is another reason patrons love to linger and enjoy the experience.

While the restaurant has received high praise for its meat dishes and overall atmosphere, it's worth noting the diverse range of feedback, which is common for any eatery that pushes culinary boundaries. For example, some patrons have mentioned that certain vegetarian options, such as the veggie and falafel platters, may not be as seasoned as they would prefer, especially for those accustomed to different styles of Middle Eastern food. It is important to approach a new dining experience with an open mind, as flavor profiles can vary significantly between different regional cuisines. The vegetarian platter, for example, is served with mixed vegetables and fries, which might be a different take than what some people expect from a traditional Middle Eastern plate. However, this is part of what makes Silav unique; it’s an opportunity to try something new. The restaurant's menu also features a variety of other vegetarian-friendly items, including hummus, jajik (a cucumber yogurt dip), and stuffed grape leaves, which are popular and well-received starters.

The restaurant's focus on authentic Kurdish dishes, such as the Kurdi Kabab platter, sets it apart from other Mediterranean spots in the area. The cuisine is known for its hearty, often meat-based dishes, frequently served with rice and fresh naan. Lamb and chicken are staple proteins, simmered in flavorful sauces and served over rice or bulgur pilaf. This traditional style is evident in the restaurant's menu, which highlights items like the gyro and various kebab platters, which receive consistently positive feedback from customers. The unique elements of Kurdish cooking, such as the use of specific spices and cooking methods, are what create the distinctive "Kurdish twist" that patrons love.

Beyond the food, Silav Cafe & Grill is also a destination for its ambiance. The unique traditional-style seating and friendly service create a comfortable and inviting space. It's the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy a cup of hot tea, and engage in conversation, making it more than just a place to eat. It's a cafe designed for an experience. The cafe aspect is a significant part of its identity, offering not only meals but also a selection of unique Middle Eastern-inspired coffee drinks, like a pistachio latte. This dual identity as both a full-service restaurant and a cafe makes it a versatile spot, suitable for a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or a simple afternoon tea break.

Silav Cafe & Grill is conveniently located at 330 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA, placing it right in the center of downtown Columbus. This makes it an easily accessible destination for professionals working in the area, residents living downtown, and visitors exploring the city's core. Its address on a main thoroughfare like High Street ensures it's easy to find, whether you're traveling on foot or by car. The central location means it's also well-served by the city's public transportation system, with bus routes running frequently along High Street.

For those driving, parking is available in various garages and lots throughout downtown Columbus, typically within a short walking distance of the restaurant. While street parking can be limited, the numerous options nearby make it a feasible destination for a lunch break or a special dinner. The vibrant downtown environment adds to the experience, offering a lively backdrop to your meal.

• Authentic Kurdish and Middle Eastern Cuisine: The menu features a variety of dishes with a distinctive Kurdish twist, setting it apart from typical Mediterranean restaurants.

• Dine-in with Traditional Seating: The cafe offers a unique dining environment with traditional-style seating, providing an authentic and comfortable experience.

• Take-out and Delivery Options: For those on the go, the restaurant offers convenient take-out service, as well as delivery through various online platforms.

• Tea and Coffee House: In addition to full meals, Silav Cafe & Grill serves a variety of unique teas and Middle Eastern-inspired coffee drinks, making it a great spot for a casual break.

• Friendly Service: The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, often taking the time to explain menu options to those new to Kurdish cuisine.

• Kurdish Flavors: The restaurant's greatest strength is its unique take on Middle Eastern food, offering a rare opportunity to try authentic Kurdish dishes in Columbus.

• Unique Ambiance: The traditional seating and welcoming decor create an environment that feels both authentic and comfortable.

• Specialty Sauces and Drizzles: Customers rave about the homemade sauces, particularly the spicy cilantro sauce, which adds a fresh and exciting element to the food.

• In-House Baked Naan: Many main dishes are served with freshly made naan bread, a detail that greatly enhances the dining experience.

• Delicious Desserts and Teas: The baklava with pistachio drizzle and the in-house tea are standout items that are highly recommended.

Address: 330 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Phone: (614) 456-7459

For the adventurous Columbus local, Silav Cafe & Grill represents a true find. It’s an opportunity to step outside the familiar and explore a rich, flavorful cuisine that isn't widely available in the city. The combination of its central location, authentic menu with a Kurdish twist, and friendly, professional service makes it a fantastic addition to the downtown dining scene. While some dishes may be a unique take on what some expect, the overall experience is consistently praised for being delicious and memorable.

The restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a cultural experience. The traditional seating, in-house tea, and specialty items make it a wonderful spot for a leisurely meal or a quick cultural escape. For those who appreciate supporting small, local businesses that bring a diverse flavor to the community, Silav Cafe & Grill is an ideal choice. Its commitment to unique and authentic cuisine, combined with a warm and inviting atmosphere, makes it a valuable part of the downtown Columbus landscape and a destination worth visiting for any resident or visitor. It’s a place that shows the vibrant, diverse food scene that Columbus has to offer.

Silav Cafe&Grill

330 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA