Little Egypt Cafe, Kansas City

Brightly painted arches greet patrons as they walk into Little Egypt Restaurant, easing the eyes into the vivid murals of pyramids and ancient-Egyptian-style figures painted onto the brick walls inside. Under the watchful gaze of the Sphinx, tables fill with a menu of Egyptian and Mediterranean fare that centers around hummus, falafel, and spiced meats. A slow-simmered lamb shank steams in a garlic and tomato sauce, and at a grill, gyros, chicken kebabs, and kitta kebabs crackle alongside veggies. Pita bread emerges freshly baked from the oven, ready to hide the treasures in floury confines like a baker’s wallet.