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The Thrifty Gourmet: Bite-sized bios

March 19, 2010

by Simone Wren

Habibi
1012 SW Morrison
(503) 274-0628
Most of you have probably enjoyed your fair share of Habibi-induced food comas, but for those of you who haven’t, here’s the sitch.  Habibi, located on  SW Morrison just three blocks up from the Raz stop, is the place to go for filling, thrilling Lebanese fare.  Your meal always comes with a smile from the charming owner and an enormous round of steaming pita bread.  My favorite is the vegetarian mezza platter for $8.50, which includes creamy hummus, crispy falafel, baba ganouj, tangy dolmas, and other equally tempting items.  It is generally big enough for two. The menu is huge but don’t be nervous; I have never eaten anything at Habibi that wasn’t delicious. Also, if you go in on your birthday you get a free meal (I even got some free shots on my 21st!)

Nicolas
318 SE Grand Ave.
(503) 235-5123
Nicolas’ Restaurant, like Habibi, serves Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine. They have many of the same classic menu items.  I would like to especially highlight the $6 falafel sandwich, which is crunchy, garlicky falafel heaven. Prepare your taste buds for the ride of their life.  I am going to be honest and tell you that I have never even tried the other menu items because the thought of not eating the falafel sandwich sends me into fits. If you have never had a falafel then go…just go.  Beware- there is usually a line out the door, and once inside, you will have to wedge yourself into a seat alongside all the other excited customers. This is not a place for a quiet and romantic dinner, but with falafels like these, who needs love?

Dalo’s Kitchen
4134 N. Vancouver Ave.
(503) 808-9604
This north Portland establishment serves Ethiopian food to die for.  Now, I have never had Ethiopian food in its place of origin, but even so, I can’t imagine anything better than the $10 all-you-can-eat buffet at Dalo’s. If you haven’t had Ethiopian food before, then get ready for a unique experience.  Take a chunk of spongy injera bread in your right hand (traditionally you eat with the right hand while the left is used for unclean tasks) and carefully scoop up the wat or stew with your bread. The injera serves as your communal plate and all-purpose utensil. Vegetarian options are available, as are a wide array of meat dishes. Some are spicy, so try a small bite before diving in face first…which you will do.