Restaurant review: Aladdin's Eatery
4245 Fairfax Dr.
Arlington, Va.
703-528-0078

Lebanese food is growing in popularity. From the upscale Layalina and the Lebanese Taverna chain to the speedy Aladdin's Eatery, there are more options than ever.

A new Aladdin's outpost opened in January in Ballston, in the space formerly occupied by the Flat Top Grill. It joins its cousins in Shirlington and Burke.

Aladdin's is a great addition to Ballston, open for lunch and dinner. From soups and salads to sandwiches and "pitza pitas," there's a little of everything (though most are just different ways of serving the same half-dozen meats).

The sandwiches, or rolled pitas, are great quick lunches, all between $5 and $6. The rolled shawarma is a nice version of this traditional fast-food staple; the rolled shishtawook is also tasty, with chicken in a garlicky sauce.

The soups and salads are nothing special, but make for a healthy meal. At just $3 a bowl, the lentil soup--with swiss chard, celery, potatoes and sauteed onions--is a tasty veggie option. The salads are a bit more pricey, $8-$10, and a recent plate with lamb was overcooked.

There's a nice range of appetizers, though they skip muhammara, hummos' red pepper cousin. The menu also has a handful of "specialties," usually the same range of meats served on rice.

Most of Aladdin's menu offers great value for tasty, healthy meals. The rolled pitas in particular are great for lunch or a light dinner. An excellent replacement for the very sub-par Flat Top Grill and deserving of a healthy clientele.