Kebob is king at the Blue Line Moroccan Grill and Bakery in Old Irving Park. But you don't realize this at first, upon walking in and being greeted by the gleaming case of mouth-watering pastries (read: cherry turnovers, cinnamon rolls, and cream cheese croissants) up front.

Just like in Morocco, which boasts a diverse cuisine stemming from Jewish and Andalusian influences, meat steals the show here. Skewers of animal flesh derive their fresh flavor from being ground on the premises and then marinated in a pungent brew of paprika, olive oil and salt. Chicken, Merguez sausage (a Moroccan delicacy of lamb and meat), lamb, and ground beef form the kebob options, and all come with a choice of two sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes or zaalouk (eggplant dip). At $8.99-$9.99 a pound, these meat-on-a-stick entrees yield a good run for your money.

Free wi-fi and the opportunity to feast on an array of freshly made Moroccan delicacies (yes, even the bakery goods) keep locals streaming in this casual storefront eatery, just a stone's throw from the Irving Park blue line stop. Even the Merguez sausage is cased on site.

If you're in the mood for lighter fare, try the harira (Moroccan) soup, a heady stew composed of rich tomato base, chickpeas, noodles and spinach, for just $2.50. Add to that the classic Moroccan salad – a heaping platter of chopped romaine, cucumber, feta and olives dressed in olive oil and lemon. This beast easily feeds four, and costs only $3.99.

When you do invite a crowd, never fear: You can bring everyone to hang on the groovy low couches in back. Or you could invite that cute one back there on a Friday night to commingle over corn on the cob ($1.50) and half chicken BBQ ($8.99). Whatever the case, arrive hungry and be prepared to get stuffed, Moroccan style.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Marla Seidell