Tucked away in West Philly, Renata’s Kitchen has the kind of neighborhood charm that makes you want to linger a little longer over your meal (sitting outside is a must). Known for its Mediterranean-inspired menu and cozy, bustling vibe, it’s the kind of spot that promises comfort with a dash of adventure. On my recent visit, I found plenty to love. Still, not everything hit the mark, and while the overall experience was enjoyable, a few details kept it from being truly unforgettable.

Instead of diving straight into food, I began with the Tinto de Verano Renata. This Spanish-inspired drink, a refreshing blend of red wine, blackberry, and sprite, was light and sparkling. It was the kind of cocktail that sets the tone for a relaxed evening (slightly fruity, not too sweet, and perfect for summer evenings). And it was easy to sip on its own but also went well with our meal.

Not pictured was my friend’s margarita. Neither of us were a fan. They have so many other great cocktails, so unless you are absolutely craving a margarita, I would order something else. Her T’s Peach Ember was delicious. Yes I stole a sip (or two)!

I love eating out with the type of friends who love sharing the meal. Ordering a bit of this and that, to try everything!

For starters, we ordered labaneh and spanakopita. While they both tasted good, the spanakopita could have used a few more minutes cooking (half of them were cold inside).

The labaneh was exactly what you wanted it to be, creamy, tangy, and drizzled with olive oil. This strained yogurt dip was simple but comforting and flavorful (a theme of this meal). Paired with warm pita, it was irresistible. I would come back just to have a glass of the the Tinto de Verano Renata, labaneh, and carrots. They were the highlights of the evening.

I could go on and on about the Moroccan Carrots, which were covered in a harissa and citrus dressing. They were tender without being mushy (I hate mushy carrots) and were sweet, earthy, and refreshing all at once.

The Turkish Hummus Dish was so homey, I have no notes. This dish reminds me of fall. When it’s chilly out and you want something that is filling without feeling heavy. By contrast, while the grilled kofta tasted good, the balance of the dish was off between the rice to yogurt sauce to grilled kofta. I just wanted there to be less rice and more of everything else.

No Mediterranean meal is complete without dessert. The basbousa, a semolina cake soaked in syrup, was sticky-sweet and fragrant. Each bite was moist but not too heavy, with just enough sweetness to satisfy without overwhelming.

If you’re looking for a place to share plates, sip something refreshing, and let conversation stretch late into the evening, Renata’s Kitchen should be on your list. After dinner we took a stroll through the neighborhood. There’s a reason why Philly always ranks as one of the most walkable cities!