When a friend asked where to find the city's best gyros, I quickly rattled off Melita's Greek Cafe & Market, mostly because it was the last gyros I'd eaten. But later, even after racking my brain, I couldn't come up with another place to recommend.

That is, until I dined at Gyros King, a bare-bones Lebanese spot on the corner of East Hampden Avenue and South Chambers Road. Given the constant stream of diners coming through the door, the family-owned eatery is obviously a neighborhood favorite.

I waited in line and ultimately decided on the gyros plate—as opposed to a tzatziki-drenched sandwich—so I could taste all the components individually. Plus, by ordering a plate, you get the addition of creamy hummus, saffron-tinted rice, and crunchy fattoush salad.

The well-spiced meat (which, ironically, the owners get from Melita's) is sliced thinly and isn't overly greasy, and the sides are freshly made. The smooth hummus is especially delicious. My only wish is that Gyros King made its own pita bread. Either way, I plan on returning—next time to order the gyros sandwich with a side of hummus.

15102 E. Hampden Ave., Aurora, 303-693-6755