Here we go...

It's an age-old question..."what's for dinner?"

I've been asked many times by friends and colleagues to suggest some places to go for a good meal. Word has apparently gotten around that I love to eat. hmmmmmm...wonder how that happened...

As a Tempe native, I have seen the city grow and change as I grow and change. Some of my favorite memories are food-related. My family wasn't, correction, *isn't* typical when it comes to food choices. I grew up taking Chicken Korma and Naan leftovers for lunch. I remember fellow classmates in Catholic School at first hesitant to inquire about my food, but soon into the meal would offer a trade of Doritos Chips or some such for a bite of my lunch.

I do not claim any special qualification for my recommendations. I simply have a particular taste for ethnic foods and would like to spread the word. Most restaurants I frequent are a bit off the typical "American Diet." I didn't try casserole until I was 16 and eating dinner at a friend's house.

With that said...let me rate my top 5 Tempe restaurants (nom nom nom nom nom)

1. Haji Baba: 2131 E. Apache Blvd.

This place is a gem. The food is amazing. It's cheap. The service is good. My favorite part? The place never changes. I can walk through the door and Ali already knows my order. The Chicken Shawarma special comes with their hand-made pita - so soft and delicious. The chicken is seasoned perfectly and comes with a yummy little dollop of garlic sauce. I've never found better hummus in my life. I've had it all around town, in New York, in L.A. (ick...L.A. *shudder*). SO good! The iced tea has a hint of rose water. OH and the gyro? Hands down, the best in town.

Did I mention they have a market attached? Talk about the best price on spices in town! The spices come in little plastic sealed pillows, so get some spice jars from Ikea and stock up!

I couldn't get through this without mentioning the lamb tongue. I am no connoisseur of organ meats, but this sandwich is like the most tender lamb you've ever had in your life. Shut up and try it.

The only sad part about Haji's is that they close early. Usually 8pm on a week-night, but totally worth getting to-go orders if you can swing in on your way home from work!

2. Delhi Palace: 933 E. University Dr.

I have yet to find a better mix of service and food at any Indian food restaurant. The place is dark, cool, and the food is incredible.

Palak Paneer - good for your vegetarian friends
Chicken Korma - sweet and savory flavors in a creamy
yellow sauce
Lamb Boti Kabab - the onions will melt in your mouth
Chicken Tikka Masala - tomato base with a little kick
Garlic Naan, I could go on and on...

Have the papadum and ask for the mango chutney as your appetizer. If you are so inclined, the veggie samosas are delicious with some of the tamarind sauce drizzled on top. Have some Indian Tea to drink, but save room for the Kheer for dessert.

They are also good for to-go orders and it's usually ready in minutes!

3. Byblos: 3332 S. Mill Ave.

For a special occasion, there is no better place to go than this great Lebanese restaurant. The owners are such wonderful people. They always recognize your and your family when you come in to visit - even if it's only a few times a year. There is always the lamb special - leg of lamb stuffed with a blend of rice, pine nuts, and almond slivers roasted for 5-7 hours until it's falling off the bone. The lamb is served on a bed of the rice and has SO much flavor. My father always enjoys the lamb shank - in a beautiful tomato-based sauce. The meat is always tender and scrumptious.

I almost forgot to mention the soup! If you are lucky enough to get there on a night when they have the tomato soup, DO IT! The lentil is also quite tasty, however. Don't forget dessert...they make a delightful pudding with rosewater and sprinkled with crushed pistachios and drizzled with honey. Oh man...

4. Cafe Laibela: 849 W. University Dr.

I've heard all the jokes..."Ethiopian food? I thought they didn't have food in Ethiopia?" Hilarious. Now go and try this place!

It's basically piles of meats (Wat) or veggies cooked slowly with lots of flavors and served on Injera, a sourdough-tasting spongy bread that resembles a large crepe. You tear off pieces and scoop up the forms of Wat or veggies. I cannot pick a favorite of the meats, although the Alicha Sega Wat is very good. I love the Misir Wat (lentils) and Gomen (collard greens - very garlic-y).

Save room for dessert. A little known fact, but they have some of the Valley's best Tiramisu. I happen to love their Tres Leches cake also. A smooth sweet finish to an otherwise spice-filled meal.

5. House of Tricks: 114 E. 7th St.

A great place to celebrate and laugh...the patio is gorgeous with open fire places and lots of beautiful trees. The food by Chef Kelly is, well, to die for. For a certain chicken dish I might commit murder. It's called the Ballantine Chicken. Imagine if you could make chicken into an orgasmic experience. A crispy skin that oozes juices as it is pierced with your knife. The stuffing made with brioche and all presented on a puree of fresh butternut squash. OMG! The raspberry iced tea is delightful, as is their wine selection. Sometimes it's nice to find a place in the middle of the city that makes you feel as if you are on vacation. The historic houses that make up the indoor seating are adorably rustic with modern twists. Take someone you love here...