Noon-O-Kabob By: Susan Klein Bagdade

I always love to dine at Noon-O-Kabab because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere and the outstanding cuisine. The babaganoush is luxurious and the food is not your standard Middle Eastern/Persian fare.  I always start with the spinach soup (Aash-E-Reshteh).  I even order it on a hot night because it's so good!  This rich and delicious soup is filled with chick peas, lentils, beans and is topped with caramelized onions and yogurt.  There are many kabobs to choose from all perfectly prepared and some amazing Persian delicacies.  I try and order a different entree each time I go to Noon-O-Kabab, so I can really get a sampling of the large and varied menu.  The Persian tea is fragrant and served in a glass. Also, be sure to try the Persian gelato (Bastani).  Go outside your comfort zone and try the fig flavor -- you won't regret it! The fig gelato is both creamy and earthy, but not too sweet.  The gelato flavors change seasonally.  You can also get Lebanese wine by the glass.  It all lends itself to a great and authentic ethnic dining experience.  Go early or expect to wait some time for a table (they don't take reservations), but the wait is worth it!  The staff is friendly, helpful and efficient. They also have a parking lot (although small), but street parking seems to be plentiful. For me, it is the finest Middle Eastern/Persian food in all of Chicago, and I'd like to be having a bowl of that spinach soup right about now!