Gaby's is great, but you've got to do it right.  There are a couple of locations, but I can only attest to the Culver City spot, which I've been to close to 50 times.  For us, Gaby's is better for takeout.  Let me explain.

The restaurant is psuedo-outdoors, with most of the tables under a tent.  This isn't a problem - if you like to smoke.  Personally, we aren't in to breathing hookah (this is a popular hookah joint) while we enjoy a meal.  But the food is good enough to make this one of our go-to favorites for Mediterranean food.

We've eaten inside a handful of times (you don't have to brave the smoke every time), but we usually opt for the takeout.  See, when we want Gaby's it is because it is both great AND cheap.  The takeout option eliminates the tip and if you order the right dishes it is seriously reasonable.  I highly recommend the "chicken pita kebab sandwich," which is really just a chicken kebab (Julie likes the shish kebab pita sandwich).  It's fantastic - the chicken is smoky and tangy, right off the grill.  Unlike the other menu items, these are only like $6 and come with a side of fries or a salad.  That leaves a few bucks for an order of hummus - also fantastic.

Gaby's is great in a pinch - if you are looking for a more romantic and classy sit-down meal, opt for Cayenne.