The Oasis Cafe

"Genie, wake up and smell the hummus!" - Aladdin

The Oasis Cafe, located at 21 Wabash, served as the second contender in The Loop Lunch Club circuit (Unfortunately I had not yet joined The LLC for the inaugural consumption at The Berghoff Restaurant at 17 W Adams, though I've heard their root beer is excellent). 

Much like the speaker of today's quote, The Oasis Cafe could carry the moniker "Diamond in the Rough." A jewelry store stands in as the Cave of Wonders, challenging hungry patrons to resist the shimmering jewels that surround them as they make their way to the counter in the back of the store.  Long lines of LED bulbs and flashing diamonds create the feel of a paparazzi laden, possibly magic, red carpet ride for anyone strolling to the cafe.  The reality is far less glamorous as the scene quickly shifts from elegant jewels to food court cafeteria, complete with personal trays and styrofoam cups.  Like most mediterranean joints there isn't much need to read the menu as most entrees have been photographed and plastered along the counter in a series of blown up laminates.

Dan Spira, who had dined at The Oasis Cafe "more than five...but less than ten" times prior to the LLC meeting was responsible for the choice but failed to offer any recommendations to the group as he quickly made for the counter.  Service was quick and efficient, maintaining a steady flow of customers that made the duplex dining area appear busy but never overly crowded.

In no time our table found itself supporting a smorgasbord of shawarma, falafel and kabobs.  "Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside," said Rob Anderson, declaring his falafel to be "maybe the best I've ever had." My chicken shawarma, on the other hand, tasted a little dry and I found the rice to be lacking in character.  Despite these shortcomings, I left feeling highly satisfied and without fear of an afternoon food coma.  As the meal concluded the general consensus was that we had discovered a serious competitor. Delicious, affordable, and fast. 

Looks to be lacking character, right?

Week 2 Notes:

• Absence of Chris "Crisis" Hartemayer, who couldn't attend this week's meeting due to a crisis.
• Much discussion of strippers, pontoon boats, and the perils of combining the two on inland Wisconsin lakes.
• Abrupt, abrasive adjournment of the meal by Rob's obnoxious ring tone