Went here as the reviews were all quite stellar. The food was subpar at best, and the atmosphere is horrible. The service was questionable as well. Why? Let me fill you in...We were seated immediately as there were only about 6 other people in the restaurant total. The tables were covered in paper, not tablecloths, and I fully expected someone to hand me some crayons to color with. Although there were only two tables occupied there were two servers, and it still took almost 15 minutes for our drinks to come out. They brought out store-bought pita bread, as they don't make their own. They set it on the table in a ziplock bag with a few packets of butter. Not heated or on a plate, or presented in any way, just cut and quartered into a ziplock baggie.The lowest priced meal on the menu is $19. So if you get anything to drink and a meal, you're at $22 a person. Our family of five spend $134 before tip. The hummus is excellent, and would be phenomenal if paired with fresh pitas or naan. However, that was the end of excellence.The kabobs are moist, but not well seasoned. There were honestly two bell pepper slices and one slice of onion on the kabobs. The presentation and color of the deliverables were not good. The Chicken Pieces meal had half the serving of chicken as the Chicken Schwarma meal, had half as much rice, but cost more? Make it make sense...The Shish Tawook was over cooked and dry, but had good flavor. The rice is good, but not great. Everything needed salt.Last but not least, our kids sat with empty glasses for over half their meal, as our server never came back to check on us. She finally asked when she came to ask if we needed a box... we left the leftovers as it wasn't worth taking home.Damascene clearly caters to a clientele of a certain age demographic who typically dine before 5PM. If you enjoy flavor, or expect a certain level of attentiveness when spending your hard-earned money while dining out, do yourself a favor and head somewhere else. This was a major disappointment.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 3
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Hummus
Susan S.
4.25 This restaurant is situated in a rather "has-been" strip mall at the corner of Alexis and Monroe, technically in Sylvania but don't picture it on Main Street in Sylvania. On the positive side, however, there is plenty of easy parking as many businesses in this strip mall are no longer open. There is a laser tag/game type of business still remaining as well as a Bingo Hall. This elegant restaurant just doesn't seem to fit in this location, but wanted to try it based on so many positive reviews. Upon entering the restaurant, it is very pleasant, sophisticated, and clean, with hardwood floors and appropriate decor. For seating, there is a choice of booths or tables. I was there on a Friday night and there was no need for a reservation, though many tables and booths were taken. On a Friday night, I was surprised that the restaurant is only open until 8pm. I would say that the clientele is mostly a mature crowd. Now I was there too, so just saying it's not a late night establishment. However, it's a very pleasant and comfortable place to enjoy a delicious Syrian/Mediterranean dinner. We each started off with a margarita, which was nothing to complain about nor rave about- except that the price was very reasonable ($5/drink). Our server, one of the daughters of the original owners, was very pleasant and attentive. In addition, she offered honest opinions when asked about entrees. I inquired about the Chicken Shawarma or Tawook and ended up ordering the Picnic Chicken based on her recommendation. She definitely knew the best selections and I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. My friend knew exactly what she wanted and our server didn't attempt to change her mind. My friend's entree came with a salad (not sure why mine didn't) and it looked fine though not amazing. She didn't finish it and chose not to take it home with her leftovers. I ordered a small side of hummus, which was very good. However, the hummus came in its own bowl without extra pita bread- though complimentary pita and butter packets were served in a plastic baggie upon being seated. I think the presentation could have been better- maybe putting it in a basket or even on a plate, but the pita itself was very light and delicious. The hummus was creamy and likewise delicious. Loved my picnic chicken, which came with a choice of steak fries or rice with green beans. I opted for the latter and found that it perfectly accompanied my meal. It also came with a delicious side of garlic sauce, which was great with my meal though I still taste it in my mouth hours later! My friend also commented on how delicious the rice was, though I'm not sure if garlic sauce was part of her beef kebab meal. Overall, I definitely recommend this restaurant based upon its food and value for your money. I would also recommend carryout. The only reason I deducted a 3/4 star is because it didn't feel like a 5-star dining experience. The food was excellent and I would definitely return, but I didn't have a special "dining out" feeling based on the location of the restaurant and it lacked a certain energy that you might feel in a restaurant that is open later and is more bustling on a Friday night. However, it is a very nice ambiance in which to converse. My friend and I had a delicious meal and an enjoyable experience that I highly recommend! Also looking forward to leftovers tomorrow thanks to the generous portions!
David Henderson
Very good food, stiff competition for another of our favorite Middle Eastern restaurants on Monroe
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Corey S.
Delicious food! Great flavor and everything prepared fresh.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Christine Ruspaj
One of our favorite restaurants! We have dined there numerous times & the food & service are outstanding.Vegetarian options: This would be an excellent restaurant for vegetarians as there are numerous choices that can be easily adapted to accommodate their diets.Parking: Plenty of parking close to the restaurant.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Kabob, Hummus, Rice and Green Beans, House Salad, Chicken Shawarma, Picnic Chicken, Fatoush Salad, Salad
Kathy C.
Delicious! The three of us loved our entrees. Had the cheese bread as an appetizer on the suggestion of our waitress. Really good/stuffed with feta and tomatoes and served hot. Hubby had a combo entree with kafta, kibbi and more. I had the Granny's fave, beef tips with onions, mushrooms and green peppers in a red wine sauce. Son had a dish with chicken fixed in different ways. All of us had the rice/really good. We will be back! Pics were taken after we already dug in for a few bites.
Andar
Family owned restaurant with authentic high quality food. The best Mediterranean restaurant in Toledo area!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jill Fleetwood
Always the best! You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Food is consistently great! I don’t think we’ve ever had a poor experience coming here.
Cassandra Kazmierczak
Intimate and family friendly dinner setting, delicious food and wonderful
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Henry W.
Stellar food and service. We chose this place on a whim (we live 2 hours away), and we're already talking about our next trip to this restaurant. There was no component of our meals that wasn't delicious and savory. Highly recommend!
Wonderful! I went with a group of women. We all loved our meals. It's quiet too, so we could talk! I'm anxious to take my husband there.
Sam
I live close to this place and cannot believe that this is the first time I tried it. The food is delicious. The service is excellent and the restaurant is very clean. I will be coming back again and again and you should do yourself a favor and do the same
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mary Henderson
The young lady running the business and I believe she is the owners daughter. What a hard working nice, polite young lady. Not to mention that she recommended great choices on the menu and she was patient and polite. I can't say enough good things about this restaurant. And by the way, the food is excellent! Thank you for a great experience. My hat is off to you young lady!
Bess Cochran
First time here.This is my new favorite place. Awesome food good portions.Parking: Plenty of parking
Jason Shuherk
Great food and good environment around friends and family! Had a hard time figuring out which plate to order. There are so many interesting options. Appetizers are excellent! They are short staffed, but it was worth it. You have to reserve in advance, so call ahead at least a day before to get a table.
Went here as the reviews were all quite stellar. The food was subpar at best, and the atmosphere is horrible. The service was questionable as well. Why? Let me fill you in...We were seated immediately as there were only about 6 other people in the restaurant total. The tables were covered in paper, not tablecloths, and I fully expected someone to hand me some crayons to color with. Although there were only two tables occupied there were two servers, and it still took almost 15 minutes for our drinks to come out. They brought out store-bought pita bread, as they don't make their own. They set it on the table in a ziplock bag with a few packets of butter. Not heated or on a plate, or presented in any way, just cut and quartered into a ziplock baggie.The lowest priced meal on the menu is $19. So if you get anything to drink and a meal, you're at $22 a person. Our family of five spend $134 before tip. The hummus is excellent, and would be phenomenal if paired with fresh pitas or naan. However, that was the end of excellence.The kabobs are moist, but not well seasoned. There were honestly two bell pepper slices and one slice of onion on the kabobs. The presentation and color of the deliverables were not good. The Chicken Pieces meal had half the serving of chicken as the Chicken Schwarma meal, had half as much rice, but cost more? Make it make sense...The Shish Tawook was over cooked and dry, but had good flavor. The rice is good, but not great. Everything needed salt.Last but not least, our kids sat with empty glasses for over half their meal, as our server never came back to check on us. She finally asked when she came to ask if we needed a box... we left the leftovers as it wasn't worth taking home.Damascene clearly caters to a clientele of a certain age demographic who typically dine before 5PM. If you enjoy flavor, or expect a certain level of attentiveness when spending your hard-earned money while dining out, do yourself a favor and head somewhere else. This was a major disappointment.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 3
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Hummus
4.25 This restaurant is situated in a rather "has-been" strip mall at the corner of Alexis and Monroe, technically in Sylvania but don't picture it on Main Street in Sylvania. On the positive side, however, there is plenty of easy parking as many businesses in this strip mall are no longer open. There is a laser tag/game type of business still remaining as well as a Bingo Hall. This elegant restaurant just doesn't seem to fit in this location, but wanted to try it based on so many positive reviews. Upon entering the restaurant, it is very pleasant, sophisticated, and clean, with hardwood floors and appropriate decor. For seating, there is a choice of booths or tables. I was there on a Friday night and there was no need for a reservation, though many tables and booths were taken. On a Friday night, I was surprised that the restaurant is only open until 8pm. I would say that the clientele is mostly a mature crowd. Now I was there too, so just saying it's not a late night establishment. However, it's a very pleasant and comfortable place to enjoy a delicious Syrian/Mediterranean dinner. We each started off with a margarita, which was nothing to complain about nor rave about- except that the price was very reasonable ($5/drink). Our server, one of the daughters of the original owners, was very pleasant and attentive. In addition, she offered honest opinions when asked about entrees. I inquired about the Chicken Shawarma or Tawook and ended up ordering the Picnic Chicken based on her recommendation. She definitely knew the best selections and I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. My friend knew exactly what she wanted and our server didn't attempt to change her mind. My friend's entree came with a salad (not sure why mine didn't) and it looked fine though not amazing. She didn't finish it and chose not to take it home with her leftovers. I ordered a small side of hummus, which was very good. However, the hummus came in its own bowl without extra pita bread- though complimentary pita and butter packets were served in a plastic baggie upon being seated. I think the presentation could have been better- maybe putting it in a basket or even on a plate, but the pita itself was very light and delicious. The hummus was creamy and likewise delicious. Loved my picnic chicken, which came with a choice of steak fries or rice with green beans. I opted for the latter and found that it perfectly accompanied my meal. It also came with a delicious side of garlic sauce, which was great with my meal though I still taste it in my mouth hours later! My friend also commented on how delicious the rice was, though I'm not sure if garlic sauce was part of her beef kebab meal. Overall, I definitely recommend this restaurant based upon its food and value for your money. I would also recommend carryout. The only reason I deducted a 3/4 star is because it didn't feel like a 5-star dining experience. The food was excellent and I would definitely return, but I didn't have a special "dining out" feeling based on the location of the restaurant and it lacked a certain energy that you might feel in a restaurant that is open later and is more bustling on a Friday night. However, it is a very nice ambiance in which to converse. My friend and I had a delicious meal and an enjoyable experience that I highly recommend! Also looking forward to leftovers tomorrow thanks to the generous portions!
Very good food, stiff competition for another of our favorite Middle Eastern restaurants on Monroe
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Delicious food! Great flavor and everything prepared fresh.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
One of our favorite restaurants! We have dined there numerous times & the food & service are outstanding.Vegetarian options: This would be an excellent restaurant for vegetarians as there are numerous choices that can be easily adapted to accommodate their diets.Parking: Plenty of parking close to the restaurant.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Kabob, Hummus, Rice and Green Beans, House Salad, Chicken Shawarma, Picnic Chicken, Fatoush Salad, Salad
Delicious! The three of us loved our entrees. Had the cheese bread as an appetizer on the suggestion of our waitress. Really good/stuffed with feta and tomatoes and served hot. Hubby had a combo entree with kafta, kibbi and more. I had the Granny's fave, beef tips with onions, mushrooms and green peppers in a red wine sauce. Son had a dish with chicken fixed in different ways. All of us had the rice/really good. We will be back! Pics were taken after we already dug in for a few bites.
Family owned restaurant with authentic high quality food. The best Mediterranean restaurant in Toledo area!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Always the best! You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Food is consistently great! I don’t think we’ve ever had a poor experience coming here.
Intimate and family friendly dinner setting, delicious food and wonderful
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Stellar food and service. We chose this place on a whim (we live 2 hours away), and we're already talking about our next trip to this restaurant. There was no component of our meals that wasn't delicious and savory. Highly recommend!
Restaurantji Recommends
Wonderful! I went with a group of women. We all loved our meals. It's quiet too, so we could talk! I'm anxious to take my husband there.
I live close to this place and cannot believe that this is the first time I tried it. The food is delicious. The service is excellent and the restaurant is very clean. I will be coming back again and again and you should do yourself a favor and do the same
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The young lady running the business and I believe she is the owners daughter. What a hard working nice, polite young lady. Not to mention that she recommended great choices on the menu and she was patient and polite. I can't say enough good things about this restaurant. And by the way, the food is excellent! Thank you for a great experience. My hat is off to you young lady!
First time here.This is my new favorite place. Awesome food good portions.Parking: Plenty of parking
Great food and good environment around friends and family! Had a hard time figuring out which plate to order. There are so many interesting options. Appetizers are excellent! They are short staffed, but it was worth it. You have to reserve in advance, so call ahead at least a day before to get a table.