I moved to Lansing in 1997. One of the very first restaurants I went to was Aladdin’s in Frandor Shopping Center. The inexpensive, flavorful Middle Eastern food quickly became one of my lunch and dinner staples. The menu has changed very little over the years and I’ve managed to try just about everything on it. It’s easier to say there’s nothing I recommend skipping than to make recommendations, because I’ve never had a dish I didn’t enjoy. The atmosphere is very casual. There are many vegetarian options, and the service is great.

Nassar remembers the order of all the Aladdin’s regulars. He is fluent in tons of languages and it seems like he has been and lived everywhere. He says he speaks better German than English, but I don’t know how that is possible. He always asks about my family and my friends (by name) if they aren’t with me. It’s really nice to go somewhere and know you’ll be greeted by a friendly face.

For many years when I was still working in Lansing, my friends/coworkers and I would go to Aladdin’s for lunch and everyone else would order chicken shawarma with fattouch salad. I would order my usual — a piece of vegetarian baked kibbee and a samosa. I fell off the vegetarian bandwagon several years ago and last night I finally decided to try the shawarma. It is delicious! (I’m eating the leftovers for lunch as I write this.) The garlic sauce is incredible, and can also be ordered as an appetizer. I highly recommend it, but I also recommend making sure your significant other has some, too, or you will not be getting any kisses for the remainder of the day.

Try the anise tea with your meal and the Turkish coffee if it is offered. The tea is light and pleasant; the coffee comes in a tiny cup and will knock your socks off. The cookies in the deli cooler are pretty yummy, too.

There are belly dancers some nights but I’m not sure about the schedule — I think it’s a specific Friday of the month. I try to avoid them because I find it incredibly embarrassing to have someone dancing right in front of me (I feel the same way about strolling musicians) but I think I’m in the minority and other less-awkward people seem to enjoy the entertainment.

You’ll find Aladdin’s in Lansing’s Frandor Shopping Center, just to your right if you pull in the main Frandor entrance off Clippert St. They deliver and cater, and the hummus is great to take to parties if you’re in a hurry.