PITA BON

1207 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary
919-468-1605
www.pitabon.com
Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m–10 p.m.

As I approach the entrance to Pita Bon, an older gentleman sitting at one of the sidewalk tables of the Mediterranean restaurant cheerfully tells me, “You made a good choice coming here!”

After a couple of pleasantries I make my way in, and as I do he adds, “Finish with the baklava!”

Pita Bon takes some fast casual conceptscounter service, moderate pricesand applies them to such fare as tabbouleh, falafel and kibbeh. There are 20 years worth of Mediterranean cooking experience in the kitchen, according to the family-owned operation’s website, and it shows up on your plate.

The Chicken Shawarma Platter ($9.50) arrives with a flavorful mound of chicken atop a bed of rice. The traditional shawarma spice blend contains cumin, black pepper, cinnamon and more. At times you’ll think you detect a note of this or hint of that, but no single taste overshadows another. Alongside the shawarma is a serving of smooth hummus that I can only describe as soothing. It comes with several soft triangles of bread for scooping it up, plus a ramekin of tahini. Unlike the Avengers, I hadn’t done battle with invading Chitauri from space, but the meal felt like a suitable reward for heroically completing (most of) my to-do list that day.

A Pesto Chicken and Sun Dried Tomato brick oven pizza ($7.50) makes a rewarding meal as well. It arrives about a foot long and a hand wide, cut into small horizontal triangles. Pita Bon’s pesto sauce is the foundation upon which they pile tomatoes and chicken, smothered under a coating of melted mozzarella. It’s perfect for one hungry person or two light grazers.

In addition to the various platters and pizzas, menu options include appetizers such as Spicy Feta with Pita, Triopita, Spanakopita and Lentil Soup (most apps are $3.95 and $4.95), salads ($6.25–$8.95) and sandwiches ($6.25–$7.50).

Although you walk up and place your initial order at the counter, the staff brings the food to your table. They are also good about checking on you during your meal to ensure all is well.

With Middle Eastern music playing over the speakers and its walls of bright blue and creamy gold, Pita Bon is a friendly little oasis among the shopping strips of Kildaire Farm Road.

The gentleman is rightit is a good choice. He is right about the baklava too.