Having met the owner some 24 years ago, it was something of an ambition to see her restaurant and possibly get a surrepticious glance at the old girl.\r
She was nowhere to be seen, so I sat down and was quickly served my Espresso, which was so 'right' it was almost salty. Superb. This was followed by my order for Falafel, an order I was helped on; I'm used to conjuring up something with a bit of Hummous and some pickled Jalapenos as served back in Leeds(home to a large Jewish community-and their restaurants don't open Saturday), but was told they don't do Jalapenos. Not being bigoted about my food choices I took the guys advice and ordered the standard job off the menu.\r
While I was waiting, I was offered iced water, which I turned down for a beer.\r
The Falafel arrived quickly. Everybody was scrupulously polite and efficient, which is much better than dollar-chasing obsequiousness; this is why I gave a reasonable tip.\r
The plateful was beautifully presented, with rich, golden hummous, fresh pitta and three, large Falafel pieces. These were of such size and superlative quality that they were easily enough for lunch.\r
I ate the lot, smothered in the Hummous, down to the last piece of fresh, colourful and delicious salad.\r
The beer was refreshing, and to top it all the old lady came down and said hello, by which time I was trying to hide behind my credit card. Needn't have been that scared however, because the owner is equally polite, even friendly, which goes above and beyond the call of duty where rapscallious geezers such as me are concerned.\r
I've been things and seen places, but few of them put as big a smile on my face as this one, and frankly I'll go back every time I'm over, if they'll have me.\r
To the people who are complaining, I say with all politeness, you don't know you're born.
Pros: Quality experience
Cons: I'm in San Mateo
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