Alsalam is filled with enticing aromas that invite exploration, but don't expect table service.
During the busiest hours, dine-in customers squeeze together on a half-dozen stools along one ledged wall. But there's always room for one of the terrific made-to-order sandwiches, dressed with pickles, tomatoes, and lemon juice. Garlic spread and onions, too, unless you wave them off. If you don't love chicken livers ($4) as much as I do, there's always the shwarma.
Previously: Ramzy licorice drink mix (approx. 200 g., $3.49) hails from Syria. It improves with a spoonful of sugar, but the taste, even the aroma, won't let you forget that it's made from a root.
Alsalam Restaurant & Meat Market
7206 Fifth Ave. (72nd-73rd Sts.), Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
718-921-1076
