Our New Year’s trip had a few unexpected bumps, and after spending the better part of the day at Primary Children’s Hospital, we wanted to settle into our hotel and enjoy a good meal in. As the sun sets over the picturesque hills of Salt Lake City, we were drawn to place an order for take away from one of my wife’s favorite spots for Middle Eastern cuisine in SLC, Mazza. Nestled in the heart of the 15th and 15th neighborhood of boutique shops and restaurants that sits above the city, Mazza beckons with its enticing menu of Mediterranean delights. We left with warm paper bags wafting the scent of aromatic spices as we returned to our hotel to enjoy a night in.

Mazza's Muhammara & Lettuce Leaves is a tried and true favorite. This traditional Aleppan dip is a harmonious blend of walnuts, pomegranate molasses, toasted bread crumbs, olive oil, roasted bell peppers, and an array of spices. The rich, nutty undertones of the walnuts perfectly complement the sweetness from the pomegranate molasses, creating a velvety texture that dances on the palate. Paired with crisp lettuce leaves, this culinary masterpiece offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making every bite a journey through the authentic and vibrant flavors of the Middle East.

We reveled in the delightful sampler featuring Mazza's Baba Ganooj & Pita, Labneh & Pita, and Hummus & Pita. The Baba Ganooj, crafted from fresh roasted eggplant blended smooth with lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and olive oil, offered a smoky and savory delight. Transitioning to the Labneh, a traditional Lebanese thick strained yogurt, adorned with olive oil and sprinkled with Zaatar, it presented a refreshing and tangy sensation complemented by the medley of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and pillowy pita bread. The journey culminated with the Hummus, where fresh cooked garbanzo beans, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and olive oil seamlessly blended to create a creamy and irresistible concoction. Together, this trio formed a symphony of flavors, showcasing the diverse and authentic tastes of Mazza's Mediterranean culinary expertise.

What better comfort food than the simplicity and perfection of Fresh Cut Fries? And Mazza’s fries do not disappoint. Prepared with precision, these fresh-cut potatoes twice-fried to golden perfection. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior provided a textural delight, while the accompanying aioli sauce for dipping elevated the experience to new heights. Mazza's execution of the aioli was commendable — a velvety blend of garlic, lemon, and olive oil that enhanced the fries with a rich and flavorful touch. Each bite was a celebration of the mastery behind a seemingly humble dish, showcasing Mazza's commitment to excellence in every aspect of their culinary offerings.

Rounding out the comfort food experience, Mazza's Red Lentil & Roasted Tomato Soup was full of warmth and comfort. This aromatic creation combines red lentils, onions, garlic, roasted tomatoes, and a harmonious blend of spices, slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a velvety and hearty soup that embraces the palate with each spoonful. The slow-cooking process and meticulous blending enhance the flavors, creating a comforting bowl that not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers a sense of culinary nostalgia. Mazza's Red Lentil & Roasted Tomato Soup stands as a testament to the artistry of transforming simple ingredients into a soul-soothing comfort food experience.