Falafel Faves : <i> When only deep-fried garbanzo beans will do.</i>

Amer’s Falafel, 17334 Ventura Blvd., Encino. (818) 995-6332. Style: Falafel in a shopping center. Setting: Red and white with lots of greenery. Recommended dishes: Falafel sandwich, $2.10; falafel plate $4.75.

Eat A Pita, 465 N. Fairfax, Los Angeles. (213) 651-0188. Style: For a falafel fix on a Saturday. Setting: Pretty in pink. Recommended dishes: Falafel sandwich with hummus, $2.95; Falafel plate, $4.

Falafel King, 10940 Weyburn, Westwood. (213) 208-5782. Style: Where frats feed on falafel and fritters. Setting: Tacky red shiny booths and open kitchen. Recommended dishes: Falafel sandwich, $2.50; fritters, $1.

Tempo, 16610 Ventura Blvd., Encino. (818) 905-5855. Styl e Dinner house/piano bar for the Valley Israeli community. Setting: Bright and open with lovely patio. Recommended : Falafel sandwich, $3.50; falafel plate, $6. Vegetarian Gourmet, 231 N. Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills. (213) 276-1400. Style: Falafel served in whole-wheat pita--ideal for hyper-health fanatics. Setting: Indoor garden look. Recommended dishes: Falafel sandwich, $5; falafel plate, $5.