San Diego is home to a diverse range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood to savory Mexican food. But when it comes to a quick and satisfying meal, nothing beats a delicious shawarma.
This Middle Eastern dish is made with marinated meat, typically chicken or beef, that is slow-roasted on a spit and then sliced thinly. The meat is then wrapped in a pita bread and topped with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces.
San Diego has no shortage of restaurants and food trucks serving up this flavorful dish.
Whether you're a local looking for a new spot or a tourist wanting to sample the best shawarma in town, there are plenty of options to choose from. From traditional Middle Eastern eateries to fusion restaurants, San Diego has it all.
In this blog post, we'll explore the best places for shawarma in San Diego. We'll take a look at the different types of shawarma, the best places to get it, and what makes each location unique.
So whether you prefer your shawarma with a side of hummus or a cold beer, there's sure to be a spot on this list that will satisfy your cravings. So, let's dive in and discover the best shawarma spots in San Diego!
1. Fairouz Cafe & Gallery
Fairouz Cafe & Gallery is a Middle Eastern restaurant and art gallery that offers delicious shawarma wraps and a cozy atmosphere.
The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Mediterranean dishes, including hummus, grape leaves wraps, and Mansaf.
The lemonade is freshly squeezed, and the hot sauce is a must-try. The owner is friendly and welcoming, and the artwork on the walls adds to the ambiance.
The restaurant is a hidden gem that offers an authentic dining experience.
2. Alforon Mediterranean / Lebanese Cuisine
Alforon Mediterranean / Lebanese Cuisine is a hidden gem for those who want to taste authentic Lebanese food.
The owners are warm and welcoming, and the menu offers a variety of plates that are unique and delicious.
The shawarma pie is a must-try, and the homemade pita bread and babaganoush are freshly made and full of flavor. The restaurant has a cozy, family vibe and the service is friendly and attentive.
If you're looking for a place to try Lebanese cuisine, Alforon Mediterranean / Lebanese Cuisine is definitely worth a visit.
3. PITA 22
PITA 22 is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Middle Eastern food. The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, but their shawarmas are a standout.
The meat is tender and juicy, and the pita bread is freshly baked, making for a perfect combination.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making the whole dining experience enjoyable.
Prices are reasonable, and portions are generous. For a satisfying and delicious meal, head to PITA 22.
4. Medina
Medina is a cozy and authentic Mediterranean restaurant that serves up some of the best shawarma in town.
The menu is simple but packed with flavor, and the portions are generous. The staff is friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home.
Whether you're in the mood for a meaty shawarma wrap or a fresh and healthy veggie bowl, Medina has got you covered.
The prices are reasonable, and the ambiance is relaxed and inviting. If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, be sure to check out Medina.
5. Mr. Shawarma
Mr. Shawarma is the place to go for the best shawarma in town.
This food truck offers authentic Mediterranean dishes, including juicy chicken and beef shawarma, crispy falafel, and homemade sauces and sides.
The customer service is exceptional, and the portions are generous.
Head over to Mr. Shawarma for a flavorful and satisfying meal that won't disappoint!
6. Abraj Mediterranean Restaurant
Abraj Mediterranean Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic and delicious shawarma.
The meat is juicy and flavorful, and the yellow rice and spicy hummus are the perfect complements to the dish. The made-to-order style ensures that everything is fresh and tasty.
While the wait may be a bit longer than fast-food chains, it's well worth it. The friendly staff and excellent customer service make for a pleasant dining experience.
This small strip-mall eatery is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit.
7. Shawarma Shack
Shawarma Shack is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Mediterranean cuisine. The beef and chicken shawarma are cooked to perfection and seasoned perfectly.
The wraps are light and grilled to perfection. The toppings, sauces, and hummus are fresh and delicious.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making the dining experience even better. The portions are generous and fairly priced.
The restaurant is clean and well-lit, providing a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy your meal. All in all, Shawarma Shack is a great place to grab a quick and delicious meal.
8. Shawarma Guys
Shawarma Guys is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves delicious shawarma. The food is reasonably priced and the portions are large.
The customer service is friendly and the food is served quickly. The restaurant has limited seating, but it's worth stopping by to try their shawarma.
The hot sauce is a must-try and the beef and chicken shawarma are outstanding.
The felafels are also divine and the garlic sauce is like nothing you've ever tasted before. Don't hesitate, go check it out!
9. Baba Kabob
Baba Kabob is an Afghan cuisine restaurant that specializes in shawarma. Their chicken shawarma salad is a must-try for anyone who loves tender and crispy chicken with fresh salad.
The family-owned business takes pride in preparing their food fresh daily, and it shows in the quality of their dishes.
The lamb and beef shawarma sandwiches are also highly recommended, as well as the spicy gyro shawarma sandwich.
The portions are generous, and the prices are fair. Baba Kabob is a gem of a restaurant that should not be missed.
10. Wild Thyme Bar & Grill
Wild Thyme Bar & Grill is a Mediterranean restaurant that serves delicious shawarma. The menu includes gyros, kabobs, dolmades, hummus, salads, sandwiches, and lentil soup. The restaurant is small but nicely furnished with indoor and outdoor seating.
The staff is friendly and hospitable, and the service is great. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The food is fresh and made to order. The flavors are excellent, and the spices are well blended.
The vegetarian plate with crispy falafel, savory stuffed grape leaves, and hummus and baba ghanoush is a must-try. The lentil soup is also very good. The venue is beautiful with great modern music playing in the background.
The ambience is all around great, and the atmosphere is awesome. The staff are the most kind and friendly people you will ever meet. The restaurant is definitely worth trying and makes a habit of frequenting.
11. Yalla Habibi
Yalla Habibi is a must-visit place for shawarma enthusiasts. The food is simply amazing and authentic, with Lebanese-style Arabic dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience. The beef kebab plate and fries are highly recommended, as is the hummus presentation, which is beautifully topped with olive oil.
The inside of the restaurant is clean and well-presented, with nice Lebanese-style artwork that adds to the ambiance.
Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food you get. If you're looking for a place to enjoy some delicious shawarma, Yalla Habibi is definitely worth a visit.
12. Secret Shawarma
Looking for some mouth-watering shawarma that will leave you wanting more, look no further than Secret Shawarma.
This Mediterranean restaurant serves up some of the best shawarma south of the 94 Freeway. The food is fresh, made to order and the staff is friendly.
The menu offers a variety of options including chicken and beef shawarma, falafel, greek salad, and hummus.
The prices are reasonable, and the seating area is comfortable. If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal, Secret Shawarma is the place to go.
13. Kebab Craft
Kebab Craft is a must-visit place for shawarma lovers. Their shawarma sandwich and gyro meat are incredibly delicious.
The restaurant offers a variety of options to customize your meal, including bowls, plates, and pita.
Kebab Craft also has modern chef creations like the Cali Kebab, a wrap with fries, and shawarma-loaded pita chips. The portion sizes are generous, making it perfect for sharing.
Don't forget to try their Moroccan Mint iced tea and baklava cheesecake. The customer service is outstanding, making for a great dining experience.
14. Micheline's Pita House
Looking for delicious shawarma in town without breaking the bank, Micheline's Pita House is the place to go.
Their gyro meat is delicious, and they have a variety of hummus flavors that will satisfy your cravings. The food is exceptionally good, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
The prices are reasonable, and the portion sizes are generous.
Don't forget to try their garlic sauce and green goddess tahini sauce to add more flavor to your meal. Micheline's Pita House is a must-visit for shawarma lovers.
