Aya specializes in authentic Lebanese preparations that emphasize traditional charcoal grilling techniques and aromatic spice profiles. Guests encounter a diverse selection of skewered meats, including tender shish taouk and seasoned kafta, alongside signature cold mezzes like silky hummus and baba ghanoush. The menu focuses on fresh ingredients integrated into robust, flavor-forward dishes that represent classic Middle Eastern culinary heritage. Vibrant tabbouleh and crispy fattoush salads provide essential textures that complement the savory protein offerings. Each plate highlights a commitment to traditional preparation methods that maintain the integrity of regional staples. The dining space features an uncomplicated, functional aesthetic designed to facilitate efficient service for patrons seeking consistent flavor profiles. This establishment prioritizes the delivery of high-quality, grilled specialties within an accessible setting that reflects the fundamentals of Levantine cooking.
Aya offers an upscale and elegant dining experience featuring authentic, flavorful Lebanese cuisine prepared with high quality ingredients and expert skill. The restaurant serves generous, fresh portions that are beautifully presented, with standout dishes ranging from classic mezzas and charcoal grilled items to a variety of delicious tasting menus. Guests frequently praise the chic, calming atmosphere and the beautiful, spacious interior, making it an ideal destination for everything from intimate date nights to large celebrations and corporate events. The service is often described as warm, professional, and attentive, complemented by a curated selection of cocktails and fine wines. While some diners note that the experience can be an investment, many find the exceptional food, welcoming hospitality, and sophisticated environment to be well worth it, cementing Aya as a standout culinary destination.
Je compte mes calories chaque jour & une application m'a suggéré ce restaurant. J'ai choisi l'assiette avec le tartare, car sa teneur en protéines convenait parfaitement. Le plat était bon & le service était rapide.
I went there a bit skeptical about the whole experience, but honestly, the food was really good & I was initially going to give it 5 stars. However, when the cheque came & I paid, the waiter looked at the tip, then looked at us disgustingly & made a comment about it. Mind you, I left a 15% tip on the total bill, which is more than reasonable. I completely understand that servers rely on tips, but making customers feel uncomfortable or judged because of the amount they chose to leave is completely inappropriate. At this point, it's not even about the tip - it's the attitude & the lack of professionalism that ruined the experience for me. Again the food was great, but unfortunately, the service & the way we were treated left a really bad impression.
The food was so good
But when i left the server beefed me because i only tipped him 10$
I literally stayed in the restaurant for 40 minutes
I dont think any server should beef anyone for a tip especially if someone like me working 17$/hr & who wants just to go to a resturant to have a nice dinne
We have a feeling that many West Islanders are not aware that we have a magnificent upscale Lebanese restaurant right here in Kirkland & thought I throw them out a little love. My husband & I have been to Aya ( 16977 Autoroute Transcanadienne…corner of St. Charles) several times & it's always a beautiful date night out…without the hassle of driving downtown…potholes, traffic, finding/paying for parking, etc. The food is constently fresh, flavorful, cooked with skill, & presented with attention to aesthetics, the service is professional & warm, & the atmosphere is surprisingly chic. They offer hot & cold mezzas, charcoal grille items, a gorgeous full bar of cocktails & wines, & a variety of tasting menus. Some of our favorite items are the hummus, baba ghannouj, kibbe nayyeh (beef tartare), grilled octopus, grilled rack of lamb with roasted potatoes, & their homemade freshly baked pita (they bring to you hot). Although we have not experienced a private event or wedding there, we've seen the pix, & what a WOW way to make a fancy affair! The owner, Maurice, puts his heart & soul into his business, & you can feel it while you're there. Now that the snow has cleared, they offer terrace dining as well. We've turned on so many friends & family members who have also fallen in love with Aya, so felt compelled to put it out there to WIC. Hope you enjoy it too! Now I'm hungry, damnit, & they're closed on Sundays! 😉
