La Gruta Ehden is one of the oldest and most beloved Lebanese restaurants in Mexico City. This culinary gem stands as a testament to a fascinating yet often overlooked chapter in Mexico's rich cultural tapestry – the story of Lebanese immigration and its profound impact on Mexican society.
From the street entrance at the original location in Colonia Florida, it looks a bit nondescript, save for the restaurant's sign above the door. However, once you walk in, you're in a lush green tunnel headed toward the covered front patio seating, flanked by a beautiful stone waterfall wall and tropical plants. Beyond that, the traditional dimly-lit dining room, and if you keep going, the covered dining area with a high ceiling and more tropical greenery.
A Surprising Cultural Fusion
The presence of Lebanese cuisine in Mexico City might seem unexpected at first glance. After all, Mexico and Lebanon are separated by thousands of miles and vastly different cultural traditions. Yet, this unlikely pairing is the result of a significant wave of Lebanese immigration to Mexico that began in the late 19th century and peaked in the 1920s and 1930s.
Today, Mexico is home to one of the largest Lebanese diaspora communities in the world, with estimates suggesting over 400,000 Mexicans of Lebanese descent. This community has left an indelible mark on Mexican culture, influencing everything from business and politics to, of course, the country's diverse culinary landscape. There's even a Lebanese social club in Mexico City, Centro Libanés, which opened in 1962.
La Gruta Ehden stands at the intersection of these two rich cultures, offering a unique dining experience that bridges the gap between the Middle East and Latin America. It's a place where the spices of Beirut mingle with the warmth of Mexican hospitality, creating a culinary adventure that's as unexpected as it is delightful.
La Gruta Ehden's Story
La Gruta Ehden's story begins in 1930 when, like many immigrants, the grandparents of the current owners brought with them the flavors of their homeland. They established the first Lebanese restaurant in Mexico upon their arrival. This bold move laid the foundation for what would become a culinary institution in Mexico City.
In 1976, building on the success of their family's pioneering efforts, La Gruta Ehden opened its doors in Colonia Florida, in the South of Mexico City. The restaurant's mission: to bring authentic Lebanese gastronomy to this bustling part of the Mexican capital, introducing locals and visitors alike to the flavors of Levantine cuisine.
Today, La Gruta Ehden continues to serve as a bridge between Lebanese and Mexican cultures, offering a taste of authentic flavors and family recipes passed down through generations, and a unique window into the surprising and delightful ways that global migration has shaped Mexico's cultural landscape.
What to order at La Gruta Ehden
Each of these dishes offers a unique glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Lebanon, expertly prepared and served in the heart of Mexico City. Whether you're new to Lebanese cuisine or a longtime fan, La Gruta Ehden's menu has something to satisfy every palate.
Remember, part of the joy of dining at La Gruta Ehden is the experience of sharing multiple dishes with your companions. Don't hesitate to order a variety of mezza to start your meal – it's the traditional Lebanese way to dine and a perfect opportunity to explore the diverse flavors on the menu.
Please note that the prices listed on the menu below are from September 2024, and may have changed since these photos were taken.
Here's a guide to some of the most delectable dishes you should try on your visit:
Mezza (Appetizers)
The mezza selection at La Gruta Ehden offers a perfect introduction to Lebanese flavors:
Jocoque Seco: This strained yogurt dish is a must-try. Don't miss the variations prepared with Lebanese spices or za'atar, which add layers of flavor to the creamy base.
Berenjena Molida: Better known as baba ghanoush, this smoky, roasted eggplant dip is a Lebanese classic. It's perfect for spreading on warm pita bread.
Kepe Crudo: Also called kibbeh nayyeh, this is the Lebanese version of beef tartare, but made with lamb. Made with ground beef and bulgur wheat, it's seasoned with olive oil, mint leaves, and green onion. It's served with fresh pita and thin pita chips. A true delicacy for adventurous eaters!
Chanklish: This unique cheese is made from curdled yogurt that's strained and fermented that is most similar to feta cheese. It's typically served with finely-chopped tomato, onion, and a drizzle of olive oil, offering a tangy and rich flavor profile.
Sopas y Arroces (Soups and Rice Dishes)
Lentejas con Arroz: This hearty and comforting lentil and rice dish is a staple of Lebanese cuisine, offering a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates. I love the fried onion mixed into it!
Entradas (Main Dishes)
The main course options at La Gruta Ehden showcase the depth of Lebanese cuisine:
Kepe Charola (Kibbeh Charola): This baked dish features ground beef mixed with bulgur wheat, onion, Serrano chile, cumin, and mint. It's cut like a pie slice and served with a refreshing side salad.
Shawarma de Carnero: For meat lovers, this lamb shawarma served in a pita with lettuce and tomato is a must-try. The tender, spiced meat is a hallmark of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Taco Fuad's: A unique fusion dish, this "taco" uses pita bread as a base, filled with slices of beef filet and topped with a special salsa. It's a perfect representation of the Lebanese-Mexican cultural blend.
Repostería Libanesa (Lebanese Desserts)
No meal is complete without something sweet, and when you ask to see the dessert menu, they'll bring a big tray of desserts to your table:
Baklava or Dedo de Novia: A classic for a reason, this traditional treat is worthy of being chosen over more standard Mexican desserts on the tray, such as flan. The "dedo de novia," or "bride's finger," is a type of baklava. Phyllo dough is rolled with nuts and honey into a finger shape, resulting in a crispy, sweet treat. It goes great paired with a cup of café arabe.
Pastel de Dátil: This classic Lebanese date pie is made with pecans and a cookie crust. Often also popular to serve around Christmastime among Lebanese families, it's a delightful way to end your meal any time of the year, and the restaurant carries it on the menu year-round.
Knefe: You can get this traditional Arabic dessert (also called knafeh) plain or flambeed with Licor 43. It's made with spun pastry called kataifi, soaked in a sweet, sugar-based syrup called attar, and typically layered with cheese, or with other ingredients such as clotted cream, pistachio or nuts.
To visit:
Check La Gruta Ehden's website for hours of service and phone number. Reservations are recommended.
The original location in Colonia Florida:
Pino 69, Col. Florida, between Río Mixcoac and Moras. Alcaldía Álvaro Obregón, CP 01030, CDMX, México
The location in Polanco:
Lope de Vega 334, Col. Polanco, between Horacio and Masaryk. Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, CP 11550, CDMX, México
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