Casa De Falafel

When people complain about Phoenix being too beige, they're likely referring to areas like Cactus Road and 67th Avenue. But Casa de Falafel, located inside a gas station at this intersection called Simon Xpress, is the opposite of suburban snooziness. A Mediterranean grill churning out authentic Arabic street foods, Casa de Falafel has a menu that's stretched above the prep station on electronic screens, promising falafel sandwiches, beef shawarma plates, salads, and falafel rings. Aside from the saj-wrapped falafels, lentil soup is a favorite. The shop was opened in 2016 by Ali and Madda Shakir from Iraq, who dubbed it Casa De Falafel only because Falafel House was taken. (So, no, this isn't a Mexican-meets-Mediterranean fusion eatery.) Both Casa De Falafel and the gas station have a retro vibe, sporting green and pink plastic booths, dark green tiles, neon signs, and a peppy, we're-here-to-serve atmosphere. Plus, you can get any drink you want — it's a gas station. New Normal: The Casa De Falafel family now offers soup to make at home, as well as takeaway frozen falafel rings.