Keeping his secret under wraps

(Wiqan Ang for the Boston Globe)

When Nader Azhdari arrived here from Iran in 1993, he had a hard time finding a job in his field. So the former teacher started working in restaurants, and opened his own place in 1999. His no-frills Pita Kabob, which recently moved from one side of Downtown Crossing to another, features a brief menu with basic Middle Eastern items such as chicken kebab in pita ($6.25). Azhdari, an affable fixture at the register, won't divulge the secrets to his tender, flavorful chicken or subtly flavored hummus. The food is consistently good, fast, and inexpensive which, along with the gruff-but-engaging owner, helps explain the lines at lunchtime. Pita Kabob, 2 Avenue De Lafayette, Boston, 617-542-7482. www.pitakabob.net. - LEIGH BELANGER