By Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host Published May 15, 2023 at 11:02 AM

Damascus Gate
807 W. Historic Mitchell St., (414) 509-5975
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Middle Eastern
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There are few things more delightful than a trip Damascus Gate, where Syrian fare is both showcased and celebrated. 

Staples like kefta are packed with flavor and crisp falafel is well prepared, complete with a flavorful, fluffy interior. There’s vibrant, lemony hummus and hand-rolled stuffed grape leaves which offer the memorable tang of pomegranate molasses. And don’t miss the fatayer (handmade pies); the spinach is deliciously nuanced and the cheese pies are both tasty and beautiful, flecked with black sesame seeds.

Also be on the lookout for daily specials like stuffed baby zucchini or Syrian börek (flakey pastry stuffed with beef). They're often unique and always delicious.

A variety of Damascus Gate's options are also presented as both individual dishes and platters, allowing you to sample your way through numerous dishes in a single trip.

Recommended: Fatayer; kefta; grape leaves; specials

Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host

Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with each and every dish. She’s had the privilege of chronicling these tales via numerous media, including OnMilwaukee and in her book “Milwaukee Food.” Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. 

When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or recording the FoodCrush podcast, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.