Al Bawadi Grill's mixed grill platter is more than a meal—not to mention a great breakfast alternative to that which is ho-hum. [Photographs: Jennifer Olvera]

Really, there's nothing wrong with omelets—I'm just not a breakfast girl. That's why, nine times out of 10, I'm the one ordering a burger or BLT first thing. It's not necessarily what I want, per se; it's just more appealing to me than standard morning fare. Unfortunately, my kind of stance can be limiting, especially since I live in the suburbs. Fortunately, I know of Middle Eastern gems that offer the perfect fix.

Check them all out by clicking on the slideshow, or check out each individual dish below.

Al Bawadi Grill

My hands-down favorite for Middle Eastern is Al Bawadi Grill in Bridgeview.

• Relishes
• Motawma
• Mixed Grill
• Fresh-squeezed OJ
• Meat-filled Arayes

Al Bawadi Grill, 7216 W. 87th St., Bridgeview, IL 60455 (map); 708-599-1999; albawadigrill.com

Al Mawal

Just down the road from Al Bawadi is an unassuming but wholly satisfying alternative: Al Mawal. Whether you carry out or settle into the simple, welcoming dining room, a feast of epic proportions is in store.

• Hummus
• Musabaha
• Mixed Grill

Al Mawal, 10718 S. Harlem Ave., Worth, IL 60482 (map); 708-361-5100

Fattoush

While at Al Mawal, wander further down the same strip mall and find Fattoush, its cheery coffeehouse-like confines an inviting place to linger, starting at 7 a.m.

• Lunch Special and falafel

Fattoush,10700 S. Harlem Ave., Worth, IL 60482 (map); 708-671-9999; fattoushchicago.com

About the author: Jennifer Olvera is a veteran food and travel writer and author of "Food Lovers' Guide to Chicago." Follow her on Twitter @olverajennifer.