The Desert Inn
The Desert Inn stands as one of Canton's most enduring culinary landmarks, serving authentic Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine for over 90 years. This family-owned establishment has preserved traditional recipes and cooking techniques passed down through generations, offering a dining experience that combines old-world flavors with warm hospitality.
Why It's Special
The Desert Inn offers a rare authenticity in today's dining landscape. Founded in 1925 by Lebanese immigrants, the restaurant remains in the same family, with recipes that have been preserved and perfected over nearly a century. What makes it extraordinary is the commitment to traditional preparation methods—from hand-rolling grape leaves to preparing kibbeh (ground lamb with bulgur wheat) using the same techniques employed by the founder's grandmother.
The restaurant's historic building in downtown Canton creates an atmosphere of refined comfort, with Middle Eastern decorative touches that transport diners to another place and time. The Desert Inn has become more than a restaurant; it's a living museum of culinary heritage where diners can taste dishes prepared exactly as they were generations ago.
The Cuisine
Signature Dishes
- Kibbeh Nayeh: Hand-prepared raw lamb with bulgur wheat and spices, considered the national dish of Lebanon
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: Hand-rolled with seasoned rice and served with lemon and olive oil
- Shish Tawook: Marinated chicken skewers grilled over open flame with traditional spice blend
- Rack of Lamb: Herb-crusted and perfectly grilled to order
- Baklava: House-made phyllo pastry with honey, pistachios, and walnuts
Menu Philosophy
The Desert Inn's culinary approach centers on:
- Authentic Lebanese recipes preserved through generations
- Fresh ingredients prepared daily from scratch
- Spices and specialty items imported directly from Lebanon
- Balance of traditional preparation with modern presentation
- Family recipes treated as treasured heirlooms
Culinary Approach
- House-Made Everything: From bread to desserts, virtually everything made in-house
- Spice Blending: Proprietary spice mixtures created on-site
- Slow Cooking: Traditional techniques that require time and patience
- Family Oversight: Multiple generations involved in preserving quality
- Seasonal Specials: Incorporating seasonal ingredients while maintaining authenticity
The Dining Experience
Historic Atmosphere
The restaurant showcases its heritage through:
- Original Architecture: Preserved 1920s building features
- Middle Eastern Decor: Authentic artwork, textiles, and furnishings
- Intimate Lighting: Warm ambiance with traditional lanterns
- Family Photographs: Visual history of the restaurant throughout the decades
- Multiple Dining Rooms: Each with distinct character and charm
- Outdoor Courtyard: Seasonal dining reminiscent of Mediterranean cafes
Traditional Service
The Desert Inn is known for:
- Family Hosts: Often greeted by family members of the founders
- Long-Tenured Staff: Many servers with decades of experience
- Educational Approach: Staff knowledgeable about Lebanese culture and cuisine
- Unhurried Dining: Meals meant to be enjoyed at a leisure pace
- Personalized Attention: Regular guests treated like extended family
Beverage Program
Complementing the cuisine:
- Lebanese Wines: Selections from the Bekaa Valley region
- Specialty Cocktails: Featuring Middle Eastern flavors and ingredients
- Turkish Coffee: Traditionally prepared and served
- House-Made Lemonade: Fresh-squeezed with orange blossom water
- Arak: Traditional anise-flavored spirit served with water
Signature Events and Offerings
Private Dining
- Family Room: Private space seating up to 20 guests
- Garden Room: Semi-private dining for medium-sized groups
- Full Restaurant Buyout: Available for larger celebrations
- Custom Menus: Lebanese feast options for special events
- Catering Services: Off-site options for events of all sizes
Special Events
- Lebanese Cultural Dinners: Educational dining experiences with cultural context
- Wine Pairing Events: Featuring Lebanese and Mediterranean wines
- Anniversary Celebrations: Special menus commemorating the restaurant's history
- Holiday Traditions: Middle Eastern holiday specialties during festive seasons
- Cooking Classes: Occasional demonstrations of traditional techniques
When to Visit
Best Times
- Weekday Lunch: Business crowd and relaxed atmosphere
- Early Dinner: More personal attention from staff
- Friday & Saturday Evenings: Lively ambiance with full menu offerings
- Sunday Family Lunch: Traditional time for Lebanese family gatherings
- Holiday Celebrations: Special menus and festive atmosphere
Recommendations
- Reservations recommended, especially for dinner and weekends
- First-time visitors should consider the tasting menu for a comprehensive experience
- Ask about daily specials, which often feature seasonal ingredients
- Save room for house-made desserts, particularly the baklava
- Try the Turkish coffee preparation to complete your meal authentically
Good to Know
- Parking: Street parking available, with public lot nearby
- Dress Code: Smart casual recommended, though not strictly enforced
- Gift Cards: Available for purchase on-site or by phone
- Specialty Market: Small selection of Lebanese ingredients available for purchase
- Dietary Accommodations: Many vegetarian options; can accommodate most restrictions
Nearby Attractions
While downtown, consider visiting:
- Canton Arts District (5-minute walk)
- First Ladies National Historic Site (10-minute walk)
- Canton Palace Theatre (5-minute walk)
- Centennial Plaza (7-minute walk)
- McKinley Monument (short drive)
Getting There
The Desert Inn is centrally located in downtown Canton on 12th Street NW. The historic building is easily identifiable by its distinctive awning and Middle Eastern architectural details. Street parking is available, with additional public parking lots within a block of the restaurant. The location is convenient to downtown businesses, government buildings, and cultural attractions.
Restaurant History
The Desert Inn's story began in 1925 when Lebanese immigrants Alexander and Mary Abdou opened a small restaurant serving the foods of their homeland. The original location featured just a handful of tables, with Mary preparing traditional dishes in a tiny kitchen while Alexander greeted guests. Their commitment to authentic preparation quickly earned them a devoted following.
During Prohibition, the restaurant became known as a gathering place for Canton's diverse community, serving traditional meals that reminded immigrants of home while introducing these flavors to a wider audience. The current location was established in the 1940s, with expansions over the decades as the restaurant's popularity grew.
Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, The Desert Inn maintains its connection to Lebanese culinary traditions while adapting to contemporary dining expectations. The restaurant has hosted notable visitors including politicians, celebrities, and professional athletes, but has always maintained its focus on treating every guest with warmth and hospitality.
The Desert Inn stands as a testament to the immigrant experience in Canton, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the power of food to build community across generations.
