Al Ha’esh Israeli Grill is a new kosher restaurant located next to Moti’s Market, replacing Moti’s Grill. Although it is still owned by Gideon Sasson and Tracy Yitzhaky, it has a new look and menu. The restaurant is open from 12-2:30 p.m. for lunch and from 5-8:30 p.m. for dinner Sunday through Thursday. On Fridays, Al Ha’esh is open from 12:30-2 p.m. for lunch.

When I first arrived, I noticed the Al Ha’esh’s new decor. Sasson explained how the renovation was inspired by the book “Zahav: A World of Israeli Cooking” by Michael Solomonov and Steven Cook. It was very elegant while maintaining a Mediterranean style and included many different seating options for parties of all sizes. Although there were many customers, I did not have to wait to be seated. I was greeted by a very polite waiter who showed me to my table and explained the new menu options.

Salad Experience (Complimentary with any entree, salad, or fish.)

One new item on the menu was an assortment of small salads that you could order as an appetizer. The dish included many Israeli styled toppings including pickles, Israeli salad and hummus. Sasson described how the book “Zahav” was “all about the salads,” and he thought that a salad meal would be “something we can do here.” If you want to order the Salad Experience as your entire meal, it is nine dollars.

Al Ha’esh Burger and Green Beans ($19.00)

I ordered the Al Ha’esh burger as my entree. Despite the large portion, I was able to finish the whole dish. It was cooked perfectly so that it was not too dry nor undercooked. I ordered the green beans as my side and they were amazing. They were seasoned well with a deep flavor and a good use of salt. Green beans are generally my favorite side and these did not fail to impress me. It was a truly enjoyable and filling meal.

Chocolate Lava Cake ($7.00)

For dessert, I ordered the Chocolate Lava Cake to share with my party of three. Although the portion size could have been for one or two people, the three of us decided to split it. The dish came with ice cream and fudge on the top of the lava cake itself. The dish lacked flavor, but for a pareve chocolate dessert, it was satisfying. We only were able to eat half of it because it was very rich and filling.

Al Ha’esh was a fun, family friendly restaurant with a complete selection of kosher meals. I would definitely recommend Al Ha’esh to anyone looking for some filling and delicious Mediterranean food. I look forward to returning with my family.

Al Ha’esh is located at 4860 Boiling Brook Pkwy, Rockville, MD 20852. Hours are Sunday – Thursday, 12-2:30 and 5-8:30 p.m. Friday, 12:30-2 p.m.