Folks can get their fill of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines at a new restaurant in York County.
Shibam Mix Grill offers chicken, lamb and beef entrees, sandwiches and seafood such as branzino (sea bass) whole or fillet. It also serves a few vegetarian dishes such as shakshuka and grilled mixed vegetables.
Abobakr Gaber, who owns Shibam Yemeni Kitchen in Newport News, opened the cozy spot in Kiln Creek Shopping Center in December.
Baklava, a layered pastry made with nuts and honey, and other desserts tempted me from a display case as I approached the counter on my visit.
I diverted my attention to the menu, placed an order and found a table in the midsize dining room near the self-serve soda machine.
The appetizers arrived not long after. I tried three of the nine that were available. I hummed while eating the hummus with warm pita bread. The familiar taste brought me comfort like a reunion with an old friend. I wanted the feeling to last, but I had to leave room for more fare.
Shibam Mediterranean Cuisine’s grape leaves. As seen Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot)
The grape leaves also lived up to my expectations. They were packed with a citrusy, rice filling that gave life to the greens. Two thumbs up to the chef.
The falafel, however, bathed in the fryer too long. It made the exterior too hard for my liking. I felt bad for leaving four of the five pieces on the plate, but I knew I wouldn’t eat them later.
On the other hand, I nearly devoured my Mix Grill for two with rice and sliced tomatoes and onions. I selected it to sample five meats: chicken shish kebab, lamb shish kebab, lamb chop, grilled meatballs and spicy ground beef. All were tender, flavorful and delicious — no condiments needed. I also liked the fluffy rice and the char on the vegetables.
Shibam’s Mixed Grill for two provides a sampler of Mediterranean-style meats. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot)
I boxed up the leftovers and experienced another hearty meal at home.
Rekaya Gibson, 757-295-8809, rekaya.gibson@virginiamedia.com
___
If you go
Where: 1215 George Washington Memorial Highway, York County
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday
Prices: Start at $17.95 grill entrees, $3.99 to $7.99 appetizers
Details: 757-223-0041; shibammixgrill.com
Shibam Mix Grill’s hummus can be enjoyed with warm pita bread. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot)