Al-Misk'

by Theresa Regli

Like many other take-out joints and casual eateries around town, Al-Misk' was born from a pushcart. This lunch counter, which opened last November, is owned by two brothers who sold Middle Eastern food from carts near BU and Northeastern -- until they became successful enough to pay rent on their own place, just across from the BU chapel.

It's obvious why their food has been such a hit among the students. Al-Misk' unquestionably serves some of the best inexpensive Middle Eastern food in town. Deliciously spiced and full of fresh ingredients, the pita roll-ups ($3.35 to $3.95), combination platters ($4.95), and salads ($2 to $4.75) are festively presented and filling. Cleopatra's Delight -- a dish of savory grilled chicken tenderloins with fluffy rice pilaf and garlicky hummus -- was the best $5 lunch I'd had in a long time. What makes the roll-ups excellent is not so much the main fillings (choices include shwarma, chicken, sirloin steak, lamb, and sausage) as the fresh, crispy extras, which include lettuce, tomatoes, onion, parsley, and green peppers.

Al-Misk', located at 714 Comm Ave, in Boston, is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Call 437-9955.