My favorite falafel isn’t from a hole-in-the-wall Greek joint, but from Maria Hines’ Golden Beetle in Ballard. Instead of making it with chickpeas (the most common way), she uses fava beans, which may have something to do with the lighter consistency of her brightly-flavored Herbed Falafel. It’s also surprisingly delicate, not overly greasy as is so often the case. Served with her cabbage slaw and tzatziki, I can easily make a meal out of this small plate, or eat it as an accompaniment to many of the other delicious Middle Eastern dishes here.

1744 N.W. Market St., 706-2977, golden-beetle.com

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