Great Gyro at Mirage Diner - Lebanese Food on Central Ave.

Just had a wonderful experience at the Mirage Diner, near Food Town, on Central Ave. between Douglas and Secor. It's located pretty far back from the road, but highlighted with red neon outlines on all the windows.

The gyro (spouse's choice) was one of the best in town -- and he eats a lot of gyros, so he knows whereof he speaks. For $7.99, he got a fresh, tasty salad, a huge portion of rice pilaf, and a two-fisted gyro (plus basket of pita chips and pita bread). I had the lentil soup, which was nicely seasoned with lemon -- almost like a Greek avgolemeno soup, but with lentils. I could slurp a half gallon of it -- very tasty. For an entree, I had hummous and beef tips. The beef was soft and flavorful.

Grape leaves, kabobs, kibbie, and some sampler plates are all on the menu. Chili mac is also available, and I'm curious to see whether there is a Lebanese twist to it. We'll be going back soon to try more things. A point in their favor is that you can order a lunch portion even during dinner time -- at about half price -- and you'll still be served more food than you can finish.

The owners are very friendly, and both stopped by the table to check on us. Open from 11 to 9, Monday through Saturday.