Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine

"Sandwich: chicken shawarma According to sandwich 101, wraps are sandwiches, because it’s food surrounded by bread (in this case markouk). And the chicken shawarma from Aladdin Mediterranean is incredible. The fire-roasted chicken gets sliced into fresh bread, smooshed with tangy pickles, and smothered in garlic toum until well-saturated. And thanks to the foil wrap, you won’t get sauce all over your hands, but you should get some extra sauce on the side, too, just in case. " - chelsea thomas, gianni greene, julie takahashi

"Corkage fee: $0 (bring your own glassware) While Aladdin Mediterranean is mostly a takeout spot, dining here is even better because you are surrounded by the toasted smell of fresh, oven-roasted pita the entire time. You can also BYOB for exactly zero dollars and throw back a bottle of, perhaps, Lebanese rosé from the Bekaa Valley or a light grenache with a couple of orders of caramelized onion hummus. Just make sure to bring your own glassware." - chelsea thomas

"At this casual Montrose gem, massive portions of Mediterranean dishes are served in take-out-friendly combinations and family-style dishes. Create a spread for a group, starting with grape leaves or falafel, and then pair the kafta kabon with any number of sides, like crispy cauliflower, cucumber and feta salad, or baba ganoush. Platters include an entree like lamb shank or kebabs, sides, and two pieces of fresh pita for $15 to $23." - Brittany Britto Garley

"Aladdin stands like a pita bread beacon at Montrose and Westheimer, one of the neighborhood’s busiest intersections. The Mediterranean counter-service spot pumps out fresh pita all day, along with combo plates with lamb shawarma, kebabs, falafel and your choice of a long list of delicious sides. Here the only thing you’ll need to worry about is whether you want caramelized onion or traditional hummus—and, look, you want onion. Dine in for a quick lunch, or bring your takeout to Menil Park where you will be the envy of every overfed squirrel." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene

"Aladdin stands like a pita bread beacon at Montrose and Westheimer, one of the neighborhood’s busiest intersections. The Mediterranean counter-service spot pumps out fresh pita all day, along with combo plates with lamb shawarma, kebabs, falafel, and your choice of a long list of delicious sides, like stewed eggplant topped with fresh pomegranate. The only decision you need to worry about is whether to order caramelized onion or traditional hummus—and, look, you want the onion. Dine in for a quick lunch, or bring your takeout to Menil Park, where you will be the envy of every overfed squirrel." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene