Those with a jones for some quick and super cheap Middle Eastern fare should head down to Lulu’s Deli at 1626 Selby Ave. With one small table in the back of a mini-mart, it is a bare bones experience. The décor is very Frito Lay, but you are here for cheap falafel ($1.99), crispy fries ($1.49, or $.99 with a meal) and homemade hummus ($2.50 for either an appetizer with pita, or a 10oz deli container).

The falafel is good for bland St. Paul, served in a pita with tahini, lettuce, and cucumbers. The hot sauce typical of falafel was noticeably absent, and when I asked for some, I got a weak substitute. The owner/cook apologetically remarked that Minnesotans often complained because they couldn’t handle the power of his family’s recipe. Feh! Bring it on!

The spinach pie ($2.59) is delicious, with layers and layers of buttery Phyllo dough, feta and spinach filling and plenty of oregano and thyme. It can be purchased, like many of their salads, prewrapped; it’s perfect for lunches or sliced into finger food for parties.

Drinks are in the cooler (Fanta Orange was on sale for $.39). The dessert menu includes ice cream sandwiches, Creamcicles and assorted candy bars. A savory three-course meal with a drink for under $5. Bring a couple of friends (the table seats 4) and share a variety of salads for a Middle Eastern feast!