Welcome to Al-Ha-Esh in West Hills! On today’s episode of Eat Live Love San Fernando Valley, we’re diving into their sizzling shawarma, juicy kebabs, and crispy falafel.
Sean, the owner, greets us warmly and shares the inspiring story behind Al Ha’esh. Having grown up in the restaurant business with his father, Sean always dreamed of opening his own place. Al-Ha-Esh, meaning “on the fire” or “on the grill” in Hebrew, encapsulates the essence of what this restaurant is all about – barbecuing delicious, fresh food. This kosher restaurant ensures every ingredient is blessed by a rabbi, and all utensils are treated with the utmost respect. Sean explains that kosher practices are integral to their operation, with all meat and utensils blessed before use, adding a layer of authenticity and spirituality to their meals.
As we chat about the menu, Sean highlights the crowd favorites: the shawarma, kebabs, and falafel. Their chicken shawarma, made from juicy chicken thighs, and the beef shawarma, served on Sundays and Tuesdays, are marinated with secret spices and cooked to perfection with lamb fat for added flavor. I can personally vouch for the incredible taste, having enjoyed the marinated spices that make their shawarma unforgettable.
Portion sizes at Al Ha’esh are generous, almost family-style, ensuring no one leaves hungry. Sean emphasizes the importance of giving customers value for their money, with everything made fresh daily. The beef kebabs, a mix of ground beef and lamb seasoned with a special blend of spices, are another highlight, offering a juicy, flavorful experience with each bite.
The falafel, a staple of Israeli cuisine, is made fresh in-house every day. Sean describes it as green, earthy, and light, with a crunchy exterior and moist interior. Paired with their homemade hummus and salads, the falafel is a must-try. All salads, from the Israeli salad to the cabbages, are prepared fresh in-house, adding to the overall quality and authenticity of the dishes.
Sean invites us into the kitchen to see the rib-eye kebabs being prepared. These skewers feature succulent pieces of rib-eye steak, seasoned with their secret blend and grilled to your liking. Most customers prefer it medium rare to medium, but the team at Al Ha’esh is happy to cater to individual preferences.
Sean’s passion for fresh ingredients and proper cooking techniques shines through as he explains how to make the perfect falafel – fresh oil and high-quality, fresh ingredients are key. The same dedication applies to all their dishes, ensuring a top-notch dining experience.
As we sample the food, the flavors are nothing short of spectacular. The falafel, soft inside and crunchy outside, combined with various salads and sauces, creates a mouthwatering symphony of tastes. The Merguez spicy Moroccan baguette, with its flavorful sausage and spicy sauce, is another standout, offering a unique, satisfying bite.
Wrapping up our visit, Sean points out the generous portions and the loyal customer base they’ve built in a short time. Located at the corner of Fallbrook and Vanowen in West Hills, Al-Ha-Esh is a haven for those seeking authentic Israeli food. Their commitment to quality, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in the West San Fernando Valley.
Remember to like, comment, and share this video to support local gems like Al Ha’esh. We look forward to seeing you next time on Eat Live Love San Fernando Valley!
22950 Vanowen St Unit 100 B, West Hills, CA 91307
Website: https://al-ha-eshkoshergrill.com/
Facebook: Al-Ha-Esh Kosher Grill
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/al_ha_esh/reels/
