When most people go to this South Philadelphia neighborhood, they are looking for a cheesesteak at one of the cities two most popular spots, Genos or Pat’s. However, just around the corner from these two giants is a small Middle Eastern restaurant called Bitar’s. It is easy to miss because two-thirds of the building is occupied by a small specialty grocery store. The store features a delicious assortment of middle-Eastern treats like fresh pita, salads, and spices.

At the far end of the store lies a small restaurant with just a few tables, but don’t be deceived by the size of the establishment. The food is wonderful. All the dishes that you would expect such as falafel, gyro sandwiches, hummus and tabbouleh salad are there, but Bitar’s has come up with some exciting twists on the standard fare.

Their take on pizza is aptly called the Bit-zza and it combines ingredients normally found in a wrap such as Greek salad or chicken kabob and presents it open face on a toasted pita. My favorite is Wilson’s Sandwich which is a delicious combination of a chicken kabob and falafel cooked together and served in a pita wrap. So, once you have had your fill of cheesesteaks, stop by Bitar’s for a Middle Eastern change of pace.