Al Noor: Ann Arbor's Finest Middle Eastern Food

While downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan is the optimal eating destination, what with its cultured collegiate ambiance, one of the city's best kept secrets lies in a revamped Taco Bell on the outskirts of town. Dare I suggest it - we're flirting with Ypsilanti here. Head toward Ypsi on Washtenaw, and you'll find a mecca of ethnic restaurants, one of the finest being Al Noor.

Walk into the small Middle Eastern restaurant and seat yourself. Best not to wear bulky clothing, as the booths are a tad quaint. This is not a five-star dining atmosphere, but the owners have done an admirable job transforming the interior with pictures of Lebanon, paintings, and festive lights. Besides, the food is the main attraction.

First things first - do not skip the hummus. Yes, you may be trying to cut back and save a few calories, but Al Noor's hummus is well worth the indulgence. Its creaminess is unparalleled, and it arrives at your table drizzled with olive oil and dotted with olives. A basket overflowing with packages of pita triangles will accompany the dip.

Also not to be missed is the tabouli. It is loaded with parsley and has a bright lemony flavor; you will not feel guilty about this choice. Portions are plentiful at Al Noor; the medium parsley could be split among two people. It takes a hefty appetite - or a strong love of parsley - to consume the large size.

For a main course you can order one of the dinner entrees, which will be served with rice, or you can opt for my favorite, one of the delicious pita sandwiches. My dining companions have recommended the lamb kebab sandwiches, and I can vouch for the eggplant and feta. Chicken Tawook, on the numerous occasions I have ordered it, has been consistently good. The chicken is moist and flavorful, and it comes wrapped with pickles and a heavenly garlic-yogurt sauce in a perfectly crisped pita. Be sure to request extra garlic-yogurt sauce on the side; although the aftermath of the meal will linger in your mouth a good twenty-four hours or so, it's worth it. Just stash some breath mints in your pocket.

Take-out is an option, but the food tastes best fresh from the kitchen. On your way out, don't forget to sample the desert case - or head across the street for some soft serve ice cream. Prices are quite low compared with other similar establishments. Sandwiches are filling and cost around $4. Hummus and other appetizers are equally reasonable.