Simon's Cafe is a wonderful little gem of a place, located in an awkward intersection just under the 405 freeway at Ventura Boulevard, but this Mediterranean/Moroccan treat is well worth the trip. Stop in tonight to say hi to Simon himself, who is often in the kitchen and serving the guests with speed and politesse. If you enjoy your meal, he's also giving a cooking lesson next Sunday morning on house specialties like feuillettes aux poulet, vegetarian couscous, and Moroccan beef kefta. First, enjoy an appetizer of houmous, baba ganoush, or the "spicy cigars" -- tightly rolled puff pastries filled with a ground beef mixture.

Simon's Cafe also makes its own merguez sausage, which is mildly spicy but with a snappy bite to it (get it served with their crispy skinny fries). Another reliable pick is one of the house's tagines -- fragrant pots full of chicken, beef, or lamb, stewed with rice and sweet fruits or dark olives. Simon's also serves beer and wine, so drop in tonight for a quick trip to Morocco.

Simon's Cafe. 4515 Sepulveda Blvd., Sherman Oaks. Cooking lessons by Chef Simon on Sunday, June 15th @ 11:00am, $45 per person, call 818-783-6698 or email the restaurant to reserve your spot.

Spicy Cigars at Simon's Cafe

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