Lebanese Taverna

David returns to being a kid in a candy shop at this fragrant cafe and market. "Growing up, my father had a butcher shop, and I loved to visit and peer into the deli windows. Whether you're 4 or 44, it's still a thrill to look into a deli case and see an abundance of food," the chef says. "My boys love to get involved and pick out their meal." David and his family enjoy selecting several small plates and appetizers for their meal, including Lamb Shawarma sandwiches with tahini sauce, Kibbeh (fried beed-and-lamb meatballs made with bulgur, almonds, and pine nuts), Fatayer B'Jibne (fried cheese pies), Warak Inab (grape leaves stuffed with rice, chickpeas, tomatoes, mint, and parsley), Traditional Hommos, and M'saka (oven-roasted eggplant with chickpeas and tomatoes).

4400 Old Dominion Drive, Arlington; 703/276-8681; lebanesetaverna.com