Sultan Mediterranean Cafe: Near East in North Andover

When Issam (Sam) and Jill Ramey opened Sultan Mediterranean Cafe, they thought it would be mostly a carry out and delivery business. With a seating capacity for only 12, there is usually a wait for lunch and dinner.

Located in the Sutton Square Plaza, the Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and closed on Sundays.

Jill Ramey, a teacher for the Lawrence School system, is at the cafe after school and on weekends. Her husband Sam, his parents and his brother all work in the restaurant.

"It is truly a family-run business," Jill Ramey said.

Ramey explained the food is authentic Lebanese cuisine, including the fresh cut french fries which is one of the most popular items on menu.

The marinated beef and chicken shawarmas, homemade hoomus, grape leaves and pita roll-ups are also customer favorites.

"All the food is first quality and organic and as fresh as possible," she said. "We have at least 9 different items that are vegetarian."

While most of the advertising is word of mouth, Ramey said that they do advertise in the Spectrum and have participated in a fundraiser at

Customers can call ahead for carry out at 978-686-7867. They will deliver within a 3 mile radius for a $1.50 charge and up to 6 miles for $3.