Spice level warning — Kafta is not what I expected

I underestimated Kafta. The aromatic with herbs and spice description didn't prepare me for the reality. tahini brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Lebanese hospitality is expressed through abundance on the table. The a Middle Eastern restaurant abroad setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. arak cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.