Mediterranean civilizations invented many lasting concepts, developing astronomy to explain the cosmos and democracy to equally divide lamb kebabs. Split a skewer with today's Groupon: for $16, you get $32 worth of Mediterranean fare during dinner at Caspian Bistro in Overland Park. This Groupon's value increases to $34 if used Monday–Thursday.

Caspian Bistro's earned attention on PBS's Check, Please! for its menu of flame-kissed kebabs, unique Persian-style stews, and house-made desserts. An appetizer sampler ($12.99) pairs five savory starters such as salty chunks of feta that contrast with creamy hummus and dollops of spiced broiled eggplant. The scent of saffron basmati rice rises from 16 kebab platters ($9.99–$23.48), where morsels of Alaskan salmon, filet mignon, and cornish hen rest after marinating for up to 48 hours and charbroiling over grills that emit steam and sweet nothings to leave the meat impeccably tender. Chefs simmer walnuts with pomegranate gravy to ladle over boiled chicken fesenjon ($13.99), and sauté a trio of fresh herbs with dried limes and kidney beans to create hearty spoonfuls of vegetarian ghormeh sabzi stew ($10.99).

Trickling fountains and romantic, candlelit tables make Caspian Bistro a cozy spot to escape winter's wrath with a date or favorite flame-retardant stuffed animal. Guests who drop in on Friday and Saturday nights can also feast their ears and eyes on live music and belly dancing, which starts both evenings at 8 p.m.