Chef Brian White announced this week that Lalime’s will feature a Lebanese-Armenian menu, for their Thursdays prix fixe dinner during November.

Lalime’s in Berkeley is often touted as the “affordable Chez Panisse” by locals. The new menu was influenced by chef White’s Armenian roots, and his recollection of great meals prepared by his mother Nevart and aunt Shoghig. Combined together with recipes from owners Haig and Cindy Krikorian, who are Lebanese. While still using local organic, sustainable ingredients.

The 5-course meal ($48) starts with Oghi (Armenian fruit vodka), along with hummus, olives and pita bread. Followed by two versions of Madzoonov Koofta, vegetarian (pumpkin) and lamb. Koofta is made by mixing the pumpkin or meat with onions, pine nuts and herbs, cooked in yogurt (madzoon), add a cracked wheat crust, and served with a dried mint topping. The third course is a traditional Lebanese Fatoosh salad.

Customers choose the main course in advance: either grilled rack of lamb or seafood kebab, served with vermicelli rice and Imam Bayildi (braised eggplant stuffed with onion, garlic and tomatoes). For dessert, homemade baklava or chilled watermelon served with a slice of feta cheese.

This special dinner is only available thru reservation (call the restaurant or reserve thru Opentable), and you must specify meat or seafood.

Lalime’s

1329 Gilman

Berkeley, CA 94706

(510) 527-9838

Hours: 5:30 – 9:30pm (Fri – Sat until 10pm, Sun until 9pm)

Closed Tuesdays

• Tag: Berkeley, Chef Brian White, Lalime's, Lebanese-Armenian cuisine, Restaurants