Tucked away in a nondescript strip mall north of the Galleria is a surprisingly delightful Mediterranean resturant. We showed up with no reservations. But we were greeted by a very friendly host and quickly seated. Our waiter was attentive but not obtrusive. Although the wine list is not extensive, there was a nice selection. The manager/owner was very willing to help us make our selections. My date chose a simple Merlot that he described as velvty and delicous (one of the best glasses that he has had in a long time). For me, the manager chose a Chardonnay that was perfect for my tastes. The menu is extensive -- covering seafood, chicken, beef, lamb, and other poultry. There is something for everyone. We decided on a quail dish and lamb shishkabob.
Before our meal arrived, the waiter provided us with complimentary warm flat bread similar to indian naan. It was accompianed by a dish filled with fresh walnuts, feta cheese, cilantro, radishes, and butter. It was an excellent start to dinner. Our entrees arrived very shortly after, and each was accompanied by a plateful of wonderfully delicous basmati rice and roasted onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The lamb was cooked to a perfect medium rare -- tender and incredibly flavorful. The quail was superb and perhaps one of the best dishes I have ever tasted. All in all, one of the best resurants I have eaten at in Birmingham.

I have no specific time to talk about, however, I've been going to Ali Baba's for as long as I can remember. I grew up eating Persian food, as my father is Iranian, and I can say that their Ghorrmeh Sabzi is wonderful. It's my personal favorite. Their Chelo Kabob Kubideh is amazing. My sister gets it everytime. I also recommend dookh, which is a salty, spicy, yogurt-based drink. It's very different. Their staff has always been wonderful and I can't think of a place that has given me such a consistantly wonderful experience as Ali Baba's has.