Traditional versus modern Falafel — which wins?

I've now had Falafel prepared traditionally and in a modern interpretation. Both are interesting. The traditional version emphasises sumac in the way the cuisine shares roots with the broader Levantine tradition. The bright and balanced character is more pronounced and direct.

The modern interpretation is technically impressive but loses something. The a Middle Eastern restaurant abroad context for the traditional version adds meaning that plating alone can't provide. fresh mint lemonade with the traditional version made more sense than with the modern. Traditional wins, but the modern is worth trying once.