Best of Boston

2017 Best Middle Eastern/Mediterranean Restaurant

Sarma

Maybe it’s the enticing dim-sum-style presentation of the specials that keeps us coming back. Or perhaps it’s the bold Mediterranean/Middle Eastern flavor combinations with a comfort-food spin: brisket shawarma with rhubarb hilbeh, pork-belly biscuits with jalapeձo-whipped feta. Put simply, four years after chef Cassie Piuma and her partner, Ana Sortun, debuted this vibrant small-plates spot, dining here is still a most exhilarating journey.

249 Pearl St., Somerville, 617-764-4464, sarmarestaurant.com