Bab El Salam Introduces Mediterranean Buffet in Portage

Portage's culinary scene has been enriched with the addition of a Mediterranean buffet at Bab El Salam, located at 129 W. Centre Ave. This expansion offers a diverse array of authentic dishes, catering to both longtime fans and newcomers.

Originally established in 2016, Bab El Salam has undergone significant changes under new ownership since 2023. The restaurant has transitioned from a combined eatery and grocery store to a full-fledged dining establishment, now featuring three buffet stations. This transformation reflects the owners' commitment to enhancing the dining experience for their patrons.

The buffet showcases a variety of Mediterranean favorites, including beef and chicken shawarma, grilled cauliflower, grilled eggplant, gyro meat, charbroiled chicken, and kafta chicken—a savory blend of minced chicken mixed with onions, parsley, and spices. Additional offerings encompass rice pilaf, mujadara (rice with lentils and caramelized onions), sautéed collard greens, garlic roasted potatoes, mixed vegetables, okra in tomato sauce, and both vegetable and yellow lentil soups. A separate station provides hummus, baba ghanoush, garlic sauce, tahini, yogurt with cucumbers, green salad, and rice pudding, with fresh pita bread served at the table.

The buffet is available daily, with lunch priced at $16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and dinner at $19. Children aged 3 to 6 can dine for $7 at lunch and $8 at dinner, while those aged 7 to 11 are charged $10 and $11, respectively. College students benefit from a 10% discount on dinner prices, making it an affordable option for the academic community.

In addition to the buffet, Bab El Salam offers a regular menu and daily specials. The Chef’s Special includes a choice of sandwich paired with soup or salad, plus fries, rice, or hummus, and a drink for $15. Another popular deal features two wrap sandwiches for $10, with options like chicken kafta, falafel, cauliflower and potato mix, and Iraqi kabob—a mix of grilled beef and lamb with tomatoes, onion, and tahini sauce.

Exclusive sandwiches such as the Shadia (falafel, tomatoes, pickles, sumac, lemon, and tahini), the Sarita (fried cauliflower, tabouli, and pickles), and the Lisa (falafel, eggplant, hummus, fries, lettuce, tomato, pickles, hot sauce, and tahini) are also available, each priced between $6 and $8. A specialty beverage, mint lemonade, complements the meal offerings.

The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity has garnered positive feedback from the community. One patron remarked, "Stopped by here during a road trip and was pleasantly surprised with the amount and quality of food." Another noted, "Feeling like something different yet healthy and delicious, this is the place." ([chamberofcommerce.com](https://www.chamberofcommerce.com/business-directory/michigan/portage/miscellaneous/2015688912-bab-el-salam-restaurant?utm_source=openai))

Bab El Salam operates seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., providing ample opportunity for diners to explore its extensive menu. With its expanded offerings and dedication to authentic Mediterranean cuisine, Bab El Salam stands as a notable addition to Portage's dining landscape.