Moby Dick's House of Kabob
909 Ellsworth Drive
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301-578-8777
Downtown Silver Spring Town Center
This popular kabob joint got its start in a sparse basement location in Georgetown- fitting for the general theme of the restaurant: a hearty meal with few frills, but you’re sure to go home satisfied. Known as a reasonably-priced local Middle Eastern favorite, it has since spread to several DC metro area locations, all of which serve a mostly standard menu.
What makes Moby Dick’s most popular among locals is simply its almost perfected focus on all things kebabs. Beef, lamb and chicken combinations make up the meal options, though less popular vegetarian and seafood kebab options are also offered. If you’re looking for a filling, meaty meal, then this is your place. The fan favorite is clearly the Kabob-e Kubideh, a tender ground sirloin kebob minced with onions, but the Kabob-e Joojeh offers a mouth-wateringly juicy chicken alternative. If you’re up for a challenge, splurge the extra couple of dollars for the beef/chicken combination dish to get the best of both worlds.
What makes Moby Dick’s unique to other Kabob establishments is it’s equally impressive, but less-celebrated side accompaniments to the Kabob meals. The rice that comes with the combos is a treat unto itself- buttered to perfection, and sprinkled with a light dash of sumac to tease your senses. Make sure to ask for extra tzatziki sauce (the yogurt and cucumber mix that accompanies the kabobs)- given the size of the portions you’ll need it.
Unless you’ve got a severe craving, pass on the standard set of Middle Eastern appetizers. The Hummus and Torshi don’t match up to most other Middle Eastern or Mediterranean hot spots. Again, the meat and Kabob’s is what makes Moby Dick’s a well-known metro establishment.
What you shouldn’t go to Moby Dick’s for is ambiance, or an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience. The quick in-and-out setup has yielded criticisms along the lines of it being the “Chipotle” of Middle Eastern food, but the comforting reality is that it doesn’t try to be anything more than your favorite quick, and easy, Kabob experience.
Eat Here If:
• You love Kabobs
• You are hungry for Meat and Carbs
Do Not Eat Here If:
• You’re looking for a variety of Middle Eastern dishes
• You’re in the mood for strictly vegetarian fare
• You want a rich dine-in experience
J.Z. (07-14-08)
|
