925 W. Randolph St., West Town
The owners of this West Loop eatery hail from Jordan, Yemen and Palestine; so the cuisine--including items like baba ghanoush and a falafel plate--takes its cue from the Middle East. Diners can nosh on homemade hummus and several salads (or, if they're in the mood for a more U.S.-centric sandwich, try a traditional Philly cheese steak). Of course, lamb, chicken and other kabobs, cooked on a metal rod, are also on hand. Place your order at the counter and your meal wil be brought to your high-top table. Half of the dining room offers a view of the kitchen, where you can watch your kabob cook--and until it's delivered, snack on warm pita, brought to each table in a basket when you sit down. READ MORE
1509 W. Foster Ave., Ravenswood
Everything at this hole-in-the-wall Lebanese spot is good, but the falafel--crisp outside, soft inside and always fresh--is great. Other specialties are the chicken shawarma wrap, hummus platter and vegetarian stuffed grape leaves. Sheets of baklava rest on the back counter. Sodas and bottled water and tea are displayed in a cooler. READ MORE
