Located in the lively downtown Redwood City, Mazra is known for its friendly environment and delicious Mediterranean dishes. Mazra’s self-serving ordering system—allowing people to scan a QR code to place their order—makes the restaurant stand out. The staff creates a welcoming environment with their restaurant slogan, ‘Take it Easy Habibi,’ and their fast service and reasonable prices make Mazra bustling with locals.
Fried Olives: 7/10 ($10)
Mazra’s fried olives are served piping hot and fresh. The crunchy coating overpowers the tangy olive taste, causing this dish to be underwhelming and bland. The olives overall lack any enticing flavor, but still remain strangely addicting, creating a suitable dish to nibble on throughout the dining experience.
Dip Trio: 6/10 ($14)
This appetizer is not only visually appealing, but a delectable mesh of classic Mediterranean tastes. The hummus is an adequate staple dip, but is not a standout side. The baba ghanoush starts out with a kick of spice, but ends with a watery aftertaste that makes it an acquired taste. The tzatziki, however, has a powerful, sour taste studded with cucumbers and dusted with chives, creating a refreshing and textured dip. This tzatziki was the standout of the trio, pairing perfectly with the warm, toasted pita.
Double Kebab Plate: 6/10 ($26)
The double kebab plate provides a sample of Mazra’s wide selection of kebabs. Out of the six options provided, the chicken and lamb kebabs stood out as a simple yet delicious dish. The chicken is nicely grilled and tender on the inside, and goes well with Mazra’s staple basmati rice. The lamb kebab is crunchy on the outside with a soft center, providing an enticing contrast. The fries served on the side are an elevated take on regular french fries, generously seasoned with the bright and citrusy Mediterranean spice sumac.
Chicken Shawarma Plate: 9/10 ($22)
The chicken shawarma plate is a specialty at Mazra and, deservingly, the star of the menu. Featuring grilled chicken pieces, rice, and authentic spices, these elements blend together seamlessly, creating the perfect bite every time. The addition of Mazra’s classic tzatziki or hummus further elevates the dish, bringing a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the grilled chicken and rice.
6-Hour Lamb Shank: 7/10 ($36)
The six hour lamb shank arrives piled high over rice, covered in dark, slightly sweet tomato sauce. The lamb itself is slightly too chewy, but complements the sauce well enough to distract from its subpar texture. The rice is more flavorful than traditional white rice and ties the whole dish together. Alone, the dish’s elements are underwhelming, but together they transform into a robust, indulgent plate.
Baklava Trio: 8/10 ($10)
This classic Mediterranean dessert comes with three delicious flavors—pistachio, Nutella, and walnut. It’s a perfectly balanced dish rich with nutty flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. The pistachio flavor features a perfect crunch as you bite into it, while the Nutella has a stronger flavor, making it much sweeter than the pistachio. The walnut has a potent aftertaste and is by far the stickiest to the touch. The baklava is a wonderful addition to Mazra’s selection, but the minuscule portion size leaves customers unsatisfied and wanting more.
Milk Cake: 6/10 ($8)
Mazra’s caramel milk cake does not live up to its hype, only faintly tasting like caramel at all. The cake itself is drenched in milk creating a cold, moist desert that unfortunately lacks any distinct flavor. While the name may be misleading, the milk cake is a refreshing option for those who will appreciate its simple flavor profile.
