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Bowery Bungalow
4156 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 663-1500
bowerybungalow.wix.com

The holidays are right around the corner so pretty soon you know you're going to be shelling out that hard earned (debatable) cash for all the gifts you're obligated to buy.

Just think, you've gotta buy for your parents, siblings and that special someone who of course just happens to have the most expensive taste known to man. 'Tis the season to be jolly indeed.

So with the most costly season of the year upon us, we know it's important to save a buck where you can, and that's where Bowery Bungalow comes in.

More: E.S.P. Eat. See. Play. Los Angeles

Consider this quaint little restaurant-cottage your new go-to date spot for when you're looking to impress, while simultaneously saving some cash. Seriously, what better way to impress her than with farm-to-table modern Middle Eastern cuisine, that's focused on the rich traditional flavors of exotic places such as Levantine, North Africa, Anatolia and the Mediterranean? Plus, you can try these unique flavors for $25 or less. Bet your listening now.

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With tons of different plates on this menu, make sure you bring your appetite because you're going to want to try everything (and you actually can afford to). There are vegetable and cheese (just try not to cut it) plates like Whole Tabouli, Za'atar Bruschetta, and tons of tasty meat plates like the Olive Wood Smoked Lamb Belly, Baby Back Ribs and Hummus bi Tahini. If you'd rather sling back some fish, there are amazing dishes like mussels and pan roasted Sea Bass. They've also got tasty desserts like Konafah and Maamoul, if you need something to satisfy that sweet tooth of yours. Don't worry, there's also a selection of top wine and all the craft beer you could ever want or need in order to build up the courage to ask her to come in for "coffee" later (wink wink).

So head to Bowery Bungalow for a cheap and quick tasty trip to the Middle East and Africa. You'll be glad you did.

By Stephanie Hartmann

Stephanie Hartmann writes and edits E.S.P. Eat. See. Play. lifestyle content for CBS Los Angeles.