Chances are you know the secret that hides behind the doors of this nondescript Rice Village storefront: the food is amazing, which is why it's always packed. So packed that the Turkish restaurant's four measly parking spaces are always having to accommodate about ten cars. Everyone else hunts for parking in Rice Village proper where the rules say you're not allowed to park, but who hasn't gotten away with this? The food is just that good. Tender, seasoned, grilled meats; the tangy cabbage salad that hangs alongside each plate; the yummy, pizza-like lahmacun; the free, puffy, lovely bread that arrives at your table with your water. And though the dining room isn't much to look at, the wall decorations and friendly service make this a place you want to hang around.
Vibe: Friendly, chatty place that attracts college students and college professors alike.

Alison Cook says: Charming Turkish cafe offers tantalizing foods at bargain prices. The pizzalike lahmacun, the grilled kebabs, the creamy lentil soup and the baked rice pudding make the parking hassle well worthwhile.

Hours

• Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-10 p.m
• Monday: closed

Price

Additional Details

Additional details

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Standout item: Gyros

Take out: Yes

Delivery: No

Parking: Nearly impossible. You can park behind other parked cars in front of restaurant; the waitstaff will alert you if you need to move. Otherwise, take your chances parking unlawfully in the Rice Village lots, or park in the inordinately expensive Rice Village garage.

Kid friendly: Children's menu

Additional details

Smoking allowed: No

Meals served: Lunch, Dinner

Alcohol: Beer, Wine

Noise: Moderate

Reservations: No

Average price: $5 to $10

Handicap accessible: Yes

Elsewhere

• Food in Houston