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It’s easy to work up an appetite fighting the crowds for those last-minute holiday gifts. We found a solution at this Moroccan eatery-slash-boutique. You can pick up exotic handicrafts, lamps or jewelry in the shop ($15-$200), then sit down to a relaxing dinner. Start with zaalouk, grilled mashed eggplant with tomatoes, cilantro and spices ($4.50); then head for a steaming bowl of harira, an aromatic chickpea, veggie and pasta soup that will soothe your frayed nerves ($3). For entrees, try couscous with lamb and vegetables ($10); fes tagine, lamb shanks braised with onions, dried prunes and almonds ($10.50); or chicken pastille: crispy baked phyllo stuffed with chicken, mushrooms and seasonings ($14). 1413 N. Ashland Ave. 773-227-6451.
