Aladdin's Market & Kitchen - A Magic Carpet Ride to Amazing Middle Eastern/Mediterranean Homecooked Food

Chicken Shawarma Plate

1180 Holcomb Ave Reno, NV 89502 (Midtown)

(775) 737-4244

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Website

Reviews & Pictures on Yelp

Menu

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If you've ever wandered the streets of New York with a growling stomach and a love for good eats, chances are you've spotted the legendary Halal Guys' food carts. They're hard to miss, with lines snaking down the block and the smell of grilled meats wafting through the air.

People flock to these carts for their mouthwatering dishes – think grilled meats, rice, hummus, and veggies all smothered in a delicious tahini/hummus sauce that brings everything together in perfect harmony.

But if you're in Reno and craving that same flavor without the wait, look no further than Aladdin's. Tucked away in a local Mediterranean market, Aladdin's Market & Kitchen is the creation of a friendly owner, Radi.

I recently tried their sampler and chicken kabob plate (a personal fave), and let me tell you, I was practically doing a happy dance after that first bite. The chicken kabob plate? Pure perfection – juicy chicken, a kickass garlic tahini sauce, and tzatziki that had me licking my fingers clean. Don't be shy about asking for extra sauce!

The beef kabob (or kofta) could've used a bit more oomph in the flavor department, but it was still pretty darn good, especially considering how fresh it was.

Now, let's talk desserts. Some of them were a tad too sweet for my liking, but hey, if you've got a sweet tooth, give 'em a shot – they're popular for a reason.

Their tabouli salad was a refreshing side dish, packed with parsley, tomato, cucumber, bulgur wheat, and a zesty citrus dressing.

I'm already planning my next visit to dig into their kibbeh, fries, and soup. And can we take a moment to appreciate Radi? He moved to Reno four decades ago and saw a gap in the food scene – Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. I'm so glad he took the leap and brought us this gem of a spot. Here's to good food and following your passion!

Aladdin's Sampler

What You Will Find at the Market:

-Hot, Fresh Food Made to Order

    Kabobs

    Sandwiches

    Appetizers (Dolmas, Hummus, Fries, Flatbreads)

    Shawarma Plates (thinly sliced meat, stacked, and roasted)

    Vegetarian and Vegan Options (Falafel Plates, Hummus, and Sides)

    -Desserts like Baklava

    -Specials

-Grocery Items - Frozen and Pantry (No Fresh Produce), Snacks, and Drinks

-Hookahs

Their Tabouli Salad is the BOMB

Notes:

- While waiting, feel free to browse the grocery side for some added excitement.

- Customizing your meal is a breeze; just give them your preferences.

- For ultimate convenience, order online for pickup or delivery via their website (link provided above).

- Depending on the time of day, the parking lot might be packed, but you can usually find street parking nearby.

- Inside the market, you'll find a few tables available for dining in.

- Rest assured, their food and products are Halal Certified, meeting Islamic Law standards.

- Don't forget to check out their selection of prepackaged sides and desserts for sale.

Falafel Wrap

Categorized Under Good Eats and International Markets

A Surprising Place in Reno to Get Tasty Donuts & Delicious Breakfast Sandwiches 24/7

Address:

1750 S Virginia St.

Reno, NV 89502

*More reviews and pictures on Yelp

Business Snapshot

Jelly Donut is a local donut shop in Midtown Reno that offers tasty donuts and breakfast sandwiches at affordable prices.  This shop is open 24/7 and is run by a nice family.

Their jelly donuts are the jam!

It's hard to miss this shop while making a trip to Midtown.  If you're one of the people that have been wondering about Jelly Donut, wonder no more.

Jelly Donut is legit, with friendly service, fresh and tasty donuts, and hot and tasty breakfast sandwiches.  

It's incredible that we have a donut shop that's open 24/7.  Late night/early morning cravings?  No problem!  

Why is this shop so surprising to me?  It's outdated.  You'd think you were on a movie set taking place in the 1950s.  Let's just say that this is a great "don't judge a book by its cover" example.

Outdated shop, but don't be deceived.  They have yummy food!  People are always here buying boxes of donuts to-go.

Every single donut I've tasted from here was really good and I love that they're not too big and have just the right amount of sweetness.  They have that traditional yeast flavor everyone loves from a good donut and will keep you coming back for more.

You must try their lemon-filled jelly donut.  The sweetness of the glaze with the freshness of the jelly paired with the right amount of moist dough makes for a great treat.

For an option that's not too sweet, try their Hawaiian style donuts called Malasadas: donut balls filled with jam and coated with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.  They are bit more chewy with a bread like texture and not as sweet as their traditional donuts.  Like their jelly donuts, the jelly fillings in their malasadas are super fresh tasting.  Try their guava filled with powdered sugar.  Malasadas are a great alternative for people watching their sugar intake and are the perfect treat for children.

Lemon filled jelly donut, glaze, plain old-fashion (from left to right).  All yummy.

If you're the type that doesn't accept donuts on their own as a complete breakfast, you'll have all of your traditional breakfast sandwiches to choose from.

Bread: croissant, sliced bread, bagels
Protein: bacon, sausage, egg, tuna, ham, turkey
Veggies: lettuce, onion, tomato
Condiments: mayo, mustard, black pepper

Their croissants are made in house and make the best breakfast sandwich when paired with a nice and fluffy egg, gooey cheese, and meat of your choice.   

Croissant, egg, & cheese breakfast sandwich. Yum!  They make a nice and fluffy microwaved egg.  Sandwich served hot.

I tried their bacon, egg, and cheese croissant and love that they give a decent amount of bacon that's not too salty and fatty.  

I also tried their tuna sandwich and loved it.    

Classic tuna salad with onion, lettuce, & tomato on a bagel.  Everything was fresh and yummy.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a great spot for donuts and breakfast sandwiches, you can depend on  Jelly Donut 24/7 to help fulfill your donut, breakfast, and lunch needs (yes, you need these foods in your life).

Friendly service and great tasting food @ great prices.

Know of any other rad hole-in-the wall places in Reno?  If so, please let me know on Instagram.  I'll make sure to check them out and show them some love.

Notes

*They have coffee, juice, milk, smoothies, and boba available.  The time I visited, they didn't have boba on hand.

*If you're looking to complete the meal with good quality coffee, head around the corner to Magpie Coffee Roasters (1-2 minute walk).

*DoughBoy's Donuts is still the best, but this is another great option around the Midtown area.  I prefer Jelly Donut over Sprinkles and Donut Bistro.

Categorized Under "Good Eats" ---> "Donut Shops"

Photography

©Katherine Fung

*All opinions are my own.  Information subject to change.  Please check in with business for latest updates.

Where to go for Some of the Best Authentic Italian Food in Reno, Nevada

Updated 3/2/2024

6135 Lakeside Dr #138

Reno, NV 89509

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More pictures & reviews on Yelp

Riverside Farmer's Market 

(You can find them here year-round)

Winter - Saturdays 9am-12 pm

Summer - Saturdays 4pm-8 pm

Business Snapshot

Pasta Fresca is an authentic Italian restaurant in Reno that makes amazing homemade pastas and sauces (always organic when possible).  They offer indoor seating in a bistro-like setting and have various types of fresh pastas and sauces on hand in store for to-go orders.  You can also purchase their food at various farmer's markets throughout the year. Gluten-Free and vegan friendly.

Organic flour for their homemade pastas.

How I Discovered Pasta Fresca

I first discovered Pasta Fresca while visiting one of my favorite ice cream shops in town, Icecycle Creamery, which is right next door.  

Of course, I pulled up my handy dandy Yelp app to see how others liked this restaurant.  I was so happy to see their rating of five stars and was eager to learn what the raves were about.  

I called in and placed a to-go order and the worker, kind and enthusiastic, suggested their ravioli tarfuto - Spinach ravioli, ricotta cheese, porchini mushrooms, black truffle, and white wine truffle cream butter sauce.  

The moment I opened my container, I was met with comforting scents of cream, garlic, and butter.  

My first bite of pasta was bursting with flavor and had the perfect textures, bringing a big smile to my face. In that moment, I knew Pasta Fresca would become a regular stop in my rotation of restaurants to enjoy in Reno.

Pasta Fresca at The Riverside Farmer's Market

Super kind Carlos (left) & Paolo (right)

Pick up their packaged pastas in store and at the farmer's markets

A few years back, during a leisurely stroll at our fantastic year-round Riverside Farmer's Market, I had the delightful surprise of stumbling upon PF and their fridge brimming with fresh, uncooked pastas and sauces.

I was ecstatic at the thought of bringing home their incredible noodles.

Riverside Farmer's Market stands as our sole year-round market, dedicated to showcasing local farmers, artisans, crafters, bakers, and services.

Situated at Idlewild Park, the market features a picturesque setting, offering ample grassy areas for picnics, towering shade trees perfect for escaping the summer heat, live performances by local talent, and the beautiful and inviting Truckee River, conveniently lined with a biking path.

It's an incredible spot for the whole family to unwind and connect with local businesses, forging new friendships and creating cherished memories along the way.

Cooking Their Incredible Pasta and Sauce at Home

At home, I cooked Pasta Fresca's fresh pasta, specifically fusilli, and was shocked when I read the cooking instructions. Three minutes?!?!

I don't know about you, but that screams freshness to me. Compared to the usual 10-13 minutes required for packaged pasta from the grocery store, that's definitely a remarkable feat.

The pasta was simple yet incredibly fresh, delicious, and had the perfect texture.

Tweak to your liking.  Add veggies, meats, seasonings. 

I added one finely chopped yellow onion, plenty more garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Topped it off with a sprinkle of pepper flakes.

Dining at Their Restaurant

Dining at their brick and mortar is always a lovely experience.

The atmosphere at Pasta Fresca is comfy and welcoming and includes tables lined with traditional checkered tablecloths (upgraded to a nice blue), fresh herbs on the counter, and a nice selection of wines on display.

Did you know that the traditional red-checkered tablecloth usually symbolizes that a restaurant is affordable, friendly, and authentic? (source)    

I love that each table is stocked with extra condiments. Whip up a nice balsamic vinegar and olive oil combination to dip their house bread in or adjust your dish to your liking, though their dishes are always tasty on their own without any adjustments. 

Suggestions: Caprese, charcuterie appetizer (cheese, crackers, and honey), ravioli tarfuto, vincenzo, rigatoni in spicy tomato arribiata with shrimp added.

Conclusion

If you're looking for the perfect place and atmosphere to enjoy authentic and delicious Italian fare that's made with the best ingredients, lots of passion, and served with a smile, Pasta Fresca is the place to visit.  

Notes

*Gluten-Free and Vegan-Friendly options available

*They offer seasonal selections to keep things exciting

*Paolo learned authentic Italian cooking from his grandmother

*Follow them on Instagram for updates on their locations and specials, including holiday offerings

*You can usually find them at our year-round Riverside Farmer's Market

*The restaurant is situated in the Shops at Bartley

*Their desserts are so fresh, delicious, and not too heavy on the sugar.  Enjoy handmade cannoli and tiramisu.

*They offer a wide selection of wines

*Nearby - Audrey Harris Park has a beautiful overlook that features beautiful western themed Bartley Ranch Park

*If you're passionate about Italian culture, make sure to mark your calendar for the annual El Dorado Great Italian Festival held every Columbus Day weekend in Reno. This event showcases authentic Italian cuisine from the El Dorado Casino, hosts a thrilling pasta sauce competition with delectable samples from numerous participants, invites the public to join grape stomping contests, and offers a wide variety of craft and food vendors. Enjoy live entertainment across multiple stages, indulge in train rides and bounce houses, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Don't miss out on this celebration of all things Italian!

Love their drink selections in their cold case.

Why Support Local?

*Buying local fosters the preservation of diverse and unique businesses, typically managed by passionate local proprietors who deliver exceptional service and offer high-quality products and experiences.

*Local businesses often serve as excellent employers, valuing their employees and investing in their growth and well-being.

*Local businesses frequently prioritize supporting other local enterprises, thereby uplifting community ties and fostering a more vibrant and interconnected neighborhood.

*Local businesses are deeply engaged in community improvement efforts and are inclined to contribute to charitable causes and initiatives.

*By patronizing local establishments, you're actively supporting your neighbors' aspirations and endeavors.

Categorized Under "Good Eats" ---> "Italian"

Photography

© Katherine Fung 

All rights reserved.

*All opinions are my own.  

*Information subject to change.

MOD Pizza - Not Your Ordinary Pizza Chain

4945 S Virginia St Suite A 

Reno, NV 89502

(775) 826-0232

directions

Other reviews and pics on Yelp

Website

Menu

What's to Love

*High quality ingredients

*Great tasting

*Build your own

*Gluten free, Vegan, vegetarian Friendly

*Fast & Friendly Service

*Wide variety of toppings and Sauces

*Helps out community

*Wide selection of beverages

*Rewards program

I walked into this build-your-own-pizza joint not having any previous knowledge of it, not even information from reviews. The name alone caught me and I had to find out what or who put the Mod into Mod pizza.

Upon entry, I was stunned at how many toppings were available and how they charged a flat fee for each size pizza regardless, of how many toppings one would choose.

Upon pickup, I noticed how many sauces they offered, free of charge. If you don't know, sauces, when combined in different ways, can make the world go round. Balsamic and honey anyone? Buffalo and BBQ was a favorite of a worker that handed me my pizzas. Needless to say, I had to give it a try and surprise — it was also a winning combination of their sauces. Have their sauces on the side (to prevent pizza from getting soggy for to-go orders) or put them on before they hit the oven, if dining at their place.

Their pizzas were amazingly fresh, with delicious-tasting, thin-crust dough that was perfect in texture- light, chewy, and fluffy. I ordered their equivalent to BBQ Chicken- Caspian (with pickled onions and roasted garlic added), a build-your-own hawaiian-style pizza (ham, pineaaple, onions, olives), their cheesy bread (dough, cheese, dried rosemary), and a build-your-own vegetarian pizza that I topped with all veggies except for jalapenos.

The veggie pizza was sooooo good. It surprised me because it looked like it was going to taste like a plain salad. Boy was I wrong. The Caspian and Hawaiian were equally satisfying. The only selection I wasn't too excited about was their cheesy bread (it's a favorite with other customers), which I felt was good, but a little heavy on the cheese. I did forget to ask for marinara sauce, so next time, I'll give it a second chance (light cheese next time with parm added), since at Mod, they're all about second chances.

These pizzas were so satisfying, esp. dipped in their sauces (veggie in ranch; veggie in balsamic and honey; Caspian in ranch and Buffalo BBQ). I had a mad scientist moment with my food and it was fun.

With good food, must come good drinks. They had that covered. Their drink case was loaded with different selections and among them, a favorite- San Pellegrino (carbonated fruit juices). I also found beer on tap and additional fountain drinks on top of the usual.

Service was outstanding. The workers that served me were down-to-earth and downright friendly.

To my surprise, I found out that this company not only churns out great pizzas, it is also making a lasting impact in many communities around America. As mentioned before, Mod is all about second chances, hiring those who have disabilities, those who've been out of the work force, those (like mothers) who need a more flexible schedule, and those who have gotten into trouble in the past.

They believe that a happy workforce creates a perfect work environment.

Another goal of theirs is to provide delicious gourmet food at an affordable price (come on over college students).

They are all for profit, but the creators have also carefully thought out how they can contribute to the greater good at the same time.

I am digging this restaurant and its mission and I know now the meaning behind its name. Just when I thought the ordinary chain couldn't get any better, Mod comes along and proves me wrong. You must try them out; you won't be sorry.

P.S. You see that No Name Cake at checkout? They didn't name it because there was no name good enough for it. I dare you to test it out and see what you think.

Notes

-Download MOD App and earn rewards toward menu items. Order ahead and reorder favorites.

-Gluten-free crust and Vegan cheese available upon request

-get free food with Mod rewards

-Delivery available with Uber Eats and Door Dash

-build your own salads

-Can be found in the same plaza as Hallmark, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, World Market, Nordstrom Rack

Categorized under "Good Eats"