food and drink, culture, shopping
Taking a hint from Peter Condic (see post dated April 2) I high tailed it to Lawrence and Kedzie as quickly as possible to check out a swell Midddle Eastern food resource, Al-Khyam at 4738 N. Kedzie. Armed with a variety of brands in quart containers, I 
approached the man at the counter for his expert opinion, settling on the Tazah brand. It's really excellent. Check out the photo at left so that you can pick it out easily from its' bretheren.
A mainstay in this largely Middle Eastern neighborhood, Al-Khyam has been in the area since 1986 and takes up a large portion of the block with a daunting array of exotic foods. There are fig and quince jams, both rose and orange blossom water, 
pomegranate molasses and impressive looking 6 pound cans of vegetables, including one of grilled eggplant pulp.
The pastry assortment is astonishing, including date, walnut and pistachio mammoul, a semolina-based filled pastry or "moon cake." Many varieties of baklawa and other luscious looking temptations fill a huge display case in the front of the store.
A handmade-looking metal store fixture with numerous windows affords views of all kinds of seeds and nuts at reasonable prices. A large quantity of spices are also well-priced for budget minded shoppers. In the same area is a display of traditional Turkish water pipes, the perfect off-beat gift for those who have everything.
Al Khyam grocery and bakery, 4738 N. Kedzie.
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