San Diego is a city that is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. One food that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the kebab.
This Middle Eastern dish is made up of grilled meat, vegetables, and spices, and is typically served in a pita or on a skewer. San Diego has a plethora of options when it comes to kebab, with many restaurants and food trucks offering their own unique twist on this classic dish.
Whether you are a local or a visitor to the city, finding the best kebab can be a challenge. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start your search.
That's why we've put together this guide to help you find the best places for kebab in San Diego. From traditional Middle Eastern restaurants to trendy food trucks, we've got you covered.
Our guide will take you on a culinary journey through the city's best kebab spots, highlighting the flavors, atmosphere, and overall experience of each location. We'll explore the different types of kebab available, from the classic lamb and chicken to vegetarian options like falafel and hummus.
So whether you're in the mood for a quick bite on the go or a sit-down meal with friends and family, we'll help you find the perfect spot to satisfy your kebab cravings.
1. Olympic Cafe
Olympic Cafe is a family-owned restaurant serving up delicious Greek and Mediterranean food.
Their in-house made kebab and gyro plates are a must-try for anyone craving authentic flavors. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience. Olympic Cafe is the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner with friends and family.
Don't forget to try their homemade desserts, including their famous baklava. Olympic Cafe is a hidden gem that shouldn't be missed.
2. Arslan's Gyros
Arslan's Gyros is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Mediterranean food. This colorful eatery offers a variety of kebabs, gyros, and other traditional favorites that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The friendly staff and the owner's warm hospitality make the dining experience even better.
The portions are generous, and the food is always fresh and flavorful. The outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying the sunny weather while savoring the delicious food.
Whether you're in the mood for a gyro sandwich or a spinach pie, Arslan's Gyros won't disappoint.
3. Hanna Garden
Hanna Garden is a family-owned Lebanese restaurant that serves up some of the best Mediterranean food in town.
Their chicken and beef kebabs are marinated to perfection and the falafel is crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.
The hummus is smooth and well-seasoned. The restaurant is spotless, and the friendly staff make you feel right at home.
Hanna Garden is a great option for those looking for fresh and delicious Mediterranean fare.
4. Zgara Greek Grill
Zgara Greek Grill is a must-visit for anyone in the mood for authentic Greek food.
The pork souvlaki and gyros are cooked to perfection, and the feta spread is a delicious addition to any dish.
The prices are great, and the owner's experience in Greek cooking shines through in every bite.
Give Zgara Greek Grill a try and experience the taste of Greece in every dish.
5. Tigris Mediterranean Grille
Tigris Mediterranean Grille is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Mediterranean food.
The portions are generous and the food is fresh and flavorful.
The chicken kabab sandwich and chicken tikka plate are highly recommended. The staff is friendly and provides great customer service.
The prices are reasonable and the restaurant is clean and inviting. Don't miss out on this gem!
6. Fatuma Restaurant
Fatuma Restaurant serves up delicious Somali kebabs in a casual setting.
Their meat is tender and perfectly seasoned, and the portions are generous for the price. The staff is friendly and helpful to new customers.
While the location might not be the nicest part of town, the food more than makes up for it.
This is a great spot for anyone looking for affordable, authentic Somali cuisine.
7. Yalla Habibi
Yalla Habibi is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic and mouth-watering shawarma.
Their chicken and beef shawarma sandwich is expertly crafted with perfectly seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and a delicious garlic sauce. The pita bread is soft and fluffy, making for a satisfying meal.
The staff is attentive and friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Yalla Habibi is a great option for anyone looking for an excellent halal dining experience with well-cooked and flavored Arabic food. Highly recommended!
8. Grill House Cafe
Grill House Cafe is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves delicious kebabs, rice dishes, and stews.
The restaurant is family-owned and run, and the food is cooked with love. The owner sources the tea directly and shares the story behind it.
The service is friendly, efficient, and accommodating. The dining room is open and airy, with a patio setting that is well shaded.
Grill House Cafe is a hidden gem that is worth a visit for anyone looking for authentic and fresh Persian food.
9. Safi Mediterranean Grill
Safi Mediterranean Grill is a must-try for anyone who loves kebab.
This small and friendly restaurant serves up high-quality Mediterranean food that is authentically seasoned and deliciously tender. The portions are generous, and the prices are great.
The young man working there takes pride in the food he prepares and provides excellent customer service.
The falafel wrap and fries are especially tasty, and the chicken shawarma wrap is a must-try. This low-key spot has become a favorite for many and is definitely worth checking out.
10. Kebab Grill
Kebab Grill offers an authentic Mediterranean dining experience with their flavorful and juicy kebabs.
Their lamb and steak kabobs are tender and well-seasoned, while the falafel and rice are also delicious.
The veggie plate is a standout, with fresh tabbouleh and homemade grape leaves.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the service is quick. This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for great Mediterranean food.
11. Micho'z Fresh Lebanese Grill
Micho'z Fresh Lebanese Grill is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic and flavorful Lebanese cuisine.
The restaurant serves up tenderly marinated meats, refreshing salads, and delicious spreads like hummus and baba ghanouj.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the atmosphere is relaxed and casual.
Don't miss out on the kafta kebab wrap or the chicken shawarma – they're both delicious. And be sure to save room for the baklava – it's one of the best around.
12. The Kebab Shop
The Kebab Shop is a local chain that offers Turkish-Mediterranean cuisine.
The counter-serve eatery has a trendy and modern atmosphere and offers a variety of protein options for their kebabs, shawarmas, and wraps.
The portions are generous, and the food is of good quality. The staff is helpful and friendly, and the sauces are delicious.
The restaurant also has a rewards program for frequent customers. The Kebab Shop is a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner.
13. Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant
Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant offers delicious Mediterranean food at premium prices.
Their kebab dishes, including the Baby Lamb Kebab Pita Wrap and Chicken Kebab entree, are of excellent quality and cooked perfectly.
The hummus is a must-try and the portions are generous. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and the service is friendly and fast.
Although the prices are a bit high, the food and experience are worth it.
14. Ocean Beach Kabob
Ocean Beach Kabob is a family-run restaurant serving up delicious Mediterranean cuisine in a casual setting near the beach in San Diego.
The menu includes a wide range of Middle Eastern dishes such as kebab and shawarma, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.
The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the staff are friendly and provide quick service.
Don't miss out on their homemade hummus, juicy gyro, and crispy falafel.
15. Luna Grill Mission Valley
Luna Grill Mission Valley is a Mediterranean counter-serve eatery that serves kebabs, salads, and other Mediterranean dishes.
The restaurant has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and the staff is welcoming and helpful. The food is fresh, flavorful, and filling, with options for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
Customers recommend trying the chocolate chip cookie and the Harissa sauce. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food and the service make it worth it.
The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for lines and limited seating. Luna Grill Mission Valley is a great spot for a quick and delicious meal.
16. Aladdin Hillcrest
Aladdin Hillcrest is a must-visit for anyone craving Middle Eastern cuisine.
The restaurant serves huge portions of authentic and delicious food that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Their kebabs and shawarma are particularly noteworthy. The service is great, and the ambiance is comfortable and inviting.
If you're in the mood for Mediterranean food, make sure to check out Aladdin Hillcrest.
17. Khyber Pass Zarparan Restaurant
Khyber Pass Zarparan Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving Middle Eastern food. This Afghan eatery serves up delicious kebabs, lamb specialties, and curry dishes in a sophisticated setting.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the portions are generous. Vegetarians will also find plenty of options on the menu.
Prices are reasonable, and the food is flavorful and aromatic. Don't miss out on the saffron and rose water ice cream with pistachio or the Baklava for dessert.
Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, Khyber Pass Zarparan Restaurant is a great choice for a meal that will satisfy your cravings.
18. Sadaf Restaurant
Sadaf Restaurant serves up some of the best kebabs in town. The meat is tender and well-seasoned, and the portions are generous.
The menu also features other Persian specialties, such as pomegranate stew and baklava for dessert.
The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. If you're in the mood for some authentic Persian cuisine, Sadaf Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
