Cafe Munir

Behold white stucco, arched doorways and airy interiors accented with wood: Rajah Gargours CAFE MUNIR is a sophisticated oasis in Loyal Heights near Larsens Danish Bakery. Here, the flavors of Lebanonlemon and feta, lamb and oreganowork their magic when tucked into pliant flatbread served warm and fragrant. Start with a shareable portion of muhammara ($4.50), a dip so deliciously nutty (made primarily of roasted red peppers and walnuts), its a wonder its not as well loved as hummus; and pickled beets with labne, a tangy, thick cheese made of yogurt and cilantro leaves ($4.50). Depending on the day, one might find on the menu sensational roasted chicken marinated in sumac and served with a garlic sauce atop soft flatbread ($15). Tom Douglas, who lives nearby, praised the restaurants falafel on his radio show, and he is right: The fried chickpea patties ($5) are moist, fragrant and just about perfect when laced with the restaurants tahini dressing. Munir is well removed from the heart of the Ballard restaurant whirlyou shouldnt have trouble finding a place to parkand its an affordable destination for a lively and authentic taste of the Mediterranean. Dinner TuesdaySunday. Loyal Heights, 2408 NW 80th St.; 206.783.4190; cafemunir.blogspot.com.