Bites Nearby: Lebanese Market

Danbury has many eateries that cater to an international flavor, but if you want a taste of exotic that isn't too far from town, the Lebanese Market at 10 Stony Hill Road in Bethel about a mile from the Hawleyville town line might be a good option.

Sam and Lina Baddour opened their shop about a year ago, intent on catering to a Lebanese and Middle Eastern audience eager to find a taste of home closer to – well, home. Since then, the shop also has been able to draw a fair number of non-Middle Eastern customers looking for something different for lunch.

Sandwiches and platters are a speciality and several options are available, such as the falafel sandwich ($6.37).

Visitors to New York City may be familiar with falafel, or deep fried patties of ground garbanzo beans, which when mixed with plenty of parsley, onions and an assortment of pickled vegetables in a pita wrap, provide a fresh and healthy tasting sandwich.

Hummus, another Middle Eastern staple made of chick peas and tahini, also is popular among customers.

The many non-meat options make the market a good choice for vegetarians.

The Lebanese Market is at 10 Stony Hill Road, 203-617-0604. Hours are Mon - Thu, 11am - 6pm; Fri - Sat, 11am - 7pm; Sun, 11am - 3pm.