Five Star Phoenicia in Glendale was the restaurant chosen by the Academy of Culinary Professionals to open its eighteenth year as one of Southern California's premiere dining groups.  It was conceived and created by the late Doris Crandall and James Woodin who continues to head the AOCP.
For the occasion the menu was designed to display traditional Lebanese cuisine and served family style.  At Phoenicia Proprietor Ara Kalfayen has showcased the classic foods and wines of Lebanon  for decades earning the title of being the best place in Southern California to experience this interesting cuisine.
Some fourteen difference appetizers and specialities were on the table along with some traditional wines as well.  Some of the specialties included Sambusik, Labni, the traditional Lebanese Hummus, Baba Ghanouj, roasted eggplant and one of this Writer's favorites., Shenklish, and Kibbeh Nayeh,  classic Tartar.  Then there was Shish Taouk, marinated chicken breast on skewers, Lehem Meshwi, choice marinated beef cubes, also on skewers as well as Muhamara, a spicy dip.  And the dishes continue to arrive including Basturma, slices of cured beef, Smoked salmon,  and Beef Kafta, ground beef with onions, parsley and  grilled on skewers.
 Through the years Ara Kalfayan has always featured  excellent wines from Lebanon in his cellar.
When it comes to wine Lebanon has a history that extends back almost six thousand years. The land and climate was friendly to viticulture and it was peopled by Phoenicians who were renown principally for their wide travel and trading. They were shipping wine to Egypt two thousand years before Christ. Modern vineyards and winemaking received fresh stimulus when the French arrived in the country during the last half of the 19th century. First by Jesuit monks and then by French vintners.
This is a restaurant where everything is done well and most professionally.
Phoenicia is located at 343 North Central Avenue in Glendale with off street parking. It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. except on weekends there is live entertainment with a 2 a.m. closing time. For more information or reservations call 818 956-7800.