Sitti

Sitti is a Lebanese restaurant on South Wilmington Street in downtown Raleigh. The name is the Lebanese word for grandmother, and the place is a tribute to the sittis who were the caretakers and teachers of Lebanese culture, faith, and food.

The cooking follows that tradition closely, and the kitchen treats Lebanese food as something handed down through families. Every meal begins with house-made pita, baked fresh each day in a wood-fired oven and served with Lebanese olive oil and za’atar for dipping, which sets the tone for what comes after.

What to know

• The restaurant opened in November 2006 with the Saleh family, who own Neomonde.
• There is a courtyard for dining outside.
• Lebanese wine dinners are held during the year.
• Martini Monday and Wine Wednesday come around every week.
• Gift cards are sold, and the restaurant accepts donation requests.