This modest diner and cafe on Dongfeng Xilu, is one the best. That's not because the food is more spectacular than any of the others scattered among the nearby streets, but because of its quite wonderful setting and truly relaxed atmosphere. You can lay back on the couches here, amidst brick-lined arches and stucco walls, while folks in the next room smoke on their shisha.
Al-Khalil's plates are mostly standard fare for Arab food, with low to mid-range prices that never top 55 RMB. Their fried falafel is particularly tasty, and both the lamb with potatoes and the chicken shish, are worth trying. While you're there, you can choose from an array of teas, including Yansoon, Karekadeh, and Mhalabeyeh. Far better, though, to blend in with a strong shot of Turkish coffee.