Low tables and cushioned seating areas add pizzazz to the spacious dining area at Cousin's Turkish restaurant. The coveted seats are understandably in high-demand, so make a reservation to get the real-deal experience. Ornate decorations fill the dimly lit dining area that becomes fun, friendly and fast-paced as the dinner crowd rolls in. A second dining area is typically opened for large parties and banquets and to handle large summer crowds.

Cousin's offers traditional favorites like hummus, falafel and baba ganush; fork over $12 to try all three plus dolma (grape leaves stuffed with rice, currants, onions, fresh mint, almonds and tomatoes). The entree menu cares for both the vegetarian and the carnivore, though specials of lamb and seafood favor the meat-eater. Those in the latter category can choose between Mediterranean-style lamb, lamb chops, lamb mousakka, lamb hummus and lamb couscous. Entrees for both palates range from $9-$15.

And what's a Turkish restaurant without kebabs? Here you'll find a yogurt kebab of marinated beef tenderloin served on a toasted pita with garlic yogurt sauce. Sides include home fries with tomato sauce and grated feta, garlic-yogurt sauce and Moroccan steamed couscous. Cousin's also offers a variety of crowd-pleasing Turkish beers and wines.

Centerstage Reviewer: Erin Delahanty