The wait is over, Aladdin's fans.
Sittoo's, the fast-casual spin-off of
Aladdin's Eatery, is now open in Playhouse Square (1621 Euclid Ave.).
"Sittoo's is similar to Aladdin's, but the food is lighter with smaller portions, but also lower priced, with an average of $4-5," explains founder Fady Chamoun, who along with his wife Sally launched that flagship brand in 1994. Since then, they've grown the Aladdin's operation to 40 locations in four states.
Despite the fast-casual setup, the Sitoo's menu and food quality are consistent with what diners have come to expect from Aladdin's.
All the classics are here, from hummus, baba and tabbouleh starters, to fattoush, shawarma and shish tawook salads. Rolled pita sandwiches are stuffed with falafel, chicken shawarma, spicy kafta and grilled beef tenderloin. Entrees starring those same items along with rice, salad and pita are also available.
Diners can expect a relaxed, casual eatery with dining counters, couches and communal seating.
In addition to Downtown, Sittoo's has locations in Parma (5870 Ridge Rd., 440-885-2525) and North Olmsted (24930 Lorain Rd., 440-716-8755). The restaurant group also offers a higher-end Middle Eastern experience at Taza locations in Woodmere (28601 Chagrin Blvd., 216-464-4000) and downtown (1400 W. 6th St., 216-274-1170).
Sign up for Scene's weekly newsletters to get the latest on Cleveland news, things to do and places to eat delivered right to your inbox.