The Grape Leaf

       "During the warm-weather months, I enjoy visiting the Grape Leaf, a 14-year-old Clifton fixture. It’s a laid-back, seat-yourself venue where you can indulge in long-lingering meals while seated at wrought-iron tables in a lovely outdoor garden dining area. An overhead red trellis covered with grape leaves shields the sun, while high wooden privacy fences and large flower-filled terra-cotta pots enhance the relaxing vibe.....When Al-Saba opened Grape Leaf 14 years ago, it was a pioneer Middle Eastern restaurant for Louisville. That’s changed, and while others seek pita perfection, the Grape Leaf remains near the forefront."

You can read the entire article here.

Recently, Marty Rosen had a chance to come down and review the Grape Leaf.

"In a city gifted with fine Mediterranean restaurants, the Grape Leaf comes closest to capturing the full, graceful pleasures of a North African meal. Indoors, the mood is set by stucco walls, a gurgling fountain, hanging lanterns and live flowers. Outside, 15-year-old grape vines shelter what's an exquisite oasis right in the heart of Clifton. In both areas, service is easy-going and expeditious.

The menu is generously stocked with affordable, classic dishes from throughout the Mediterranean world -- dips and sandwiches, omelets and grilled meats, stewed lentils and crisp salads. And I have yet to come across a dish that isn't beautiful presented and artfully spiced."

You can read the entire article here.

Lisa Hornung of Velocity Magazine decide to check out the Grape Leaf on one of her dates, and shared her experiences with a review on Metromix Louisville.

"This Clifton mainstay is still turning out great Mediterranean food at reasonable prices. I visited recently with a date, and once again, we were not disappointed. The décor is simple and elegant...I had the vegetarian biryani, which had fried potatoes, fresh ginger, tomatoes, cilantro, spices, saffron rice and tzatziki sauce. The flavor was perfect, and it was pretty filling for a vegetarian meal.

The restaurant was the perfect place for a lovely date. Our service was great and the waiter even suggested my entrée, so I can't complain"

Check out all the details at her Metromix Louisville Review.