The section of Valley Village near Los Angeles Valley College has welcomed a bevy of Middle Eastern restaurants in the past two years. Cafe Florentine may be the best option. I’d highly recommend this small café from Israeli chef Ofir Arbel and business partner Liran Sankesh for shakshuka and Jerusalem bagel sandwiches. I learned they also excel at sahlab.

Their description for Sahlab ($3.95) leaves plenty to the imagination, listing just walnuts, cinnamon, and coconut. I expected a cold drink, but instead received a hot mug filled a fragrant milk-based drink crafted with rose water and walnuts that arrived showered with cinnamon, crushed pistachios, and shredded coconut. I suggest stirring to integrate the flavors and textures. I also recommend ordering sahlab for a post-meal treat, since the sweet beverage isn’t a natural pairing for Cafe Florentine’s savory specialties and works better either standalone or for dessert.