Sarma

   Sarma is a Turkish inspired restaurant in Somerville with a menu consisting of small (meze) style dishes with influences from all over the Mediterranean. It is part of the same restaurant group as Oleana and Sofra, and I've been dying to go since it opened a few months ago. Last night I finally made it in, when a friend and I spontaneously decided to go for some drinks and apps.  We sat at the bar, and the bartender was extremely helpful. He was knowledgeable about the food and drink selections, gladly answered all of our questions, and make several recommendations for vegetarian options. I'm not vegetarian, but my friend is and we had no trouble finding a TON of dishes that sounded amazing. We also appreciated the glossary on the menu, which helped us decipher some of the ingredients listed on the menu.
   In addition to the regular menu, each night there are specials. Servers bring them around on trays and you can take one if you like. These aren't published and they have a limited number, so definitely go early! The specials last night included sesame fried chicken, grilled Vidalia onions, fried cheese, and a couple of others that looked amazing!
   I started with a cocktail with rum, ginger, and cardamom. I loved both the presentation and the flavors.

   We placed an order for a few small plates, but couldn't pass up the Grilled Vidalia Onions with Romesco Sauce while we were waiting. I would never have considered onions as the main component of a dish, but this just worked. The sauce was a little spicy, and a perfect combination with the charred green onion.

   Next were the squash fritters, dates, and brussels sprouts. They were all delicious, but my favorite were definitely the dates... you just can't go wrong with warm goat cheese!

Squash Fritters with Cilantro, Chickpea, and Walnut    

Hot Dates with Goat Cheese, Pistachio, Cranberry-Harissa  

Brussels’ Sprout Bravas with Hazelnut Migas
     Since we weren't uncomfortably stuffed and the food was all so good, we decided to order one more thing - the seven layer hummus with falafel crackers. We weren't able to finish it, but were definitely glad we tried it!

   I can't wait to go back to Sarma, next time with even more people so we can try more dishes!