Middle Eastern Restaurants near Albany, CA

“Was really sad to see my favorite unique + quality brunch spot in the bay change format to being fast casual. It was such an easy brunch pick to take out of towners or friends to.

Now instead, they've become easily one of the best fast-casual food in the bay. So I really can't complain. I guess their format changed worked because I've eaten here more often than when they were full service. The value for the money you get here is pretty nuts. Still just as good ingredients & just as good preparation, all at a more approachable price point & form factor. What really gets me is I'm truly getting restaurant quality cooking for a unique cuisine I don't see very often, just a version that works better to-go. When you compare to some of the other casual lunch/dinner places in the area that have a similar format, it's really no competition. You'd be hard pressed to find a better way to spend $20-30/pp. I also love that they kept some of my favorite guilty pleasures from when they were a full service restaurant, like the knafe pancake.

Their in-house online ordering system is pretty slick and a good deal too. Works just as well as doordash without any of the bloated prices. Wouldn't mind seeing this spread around to more restaurants.“

“Un rendez-vous avec la bonne gastronomie le service rapide et l’endroit agréable merci 🙏“

“Upbeat generous dude with tasty wholesome food.“

“What a wonderful dining experience at Old Jerusalem Restaurant! Everything was absolutely delicious, and the portions were generous and satisfying. The food was incredibly flavorful and tasted fresh and authentic.

The overall experience was great, and it’s clear that a lot of care goes into the food. I left very happy and completely satisfied. I would definitely recommend Old Jerusalem to anyone looking for delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food in San Francisco. I’ll definitely be coming back!“

“We tried Lamb Shawarma plate and the Chicken Shawarma plate, and they were both delicious! The vibes were great, and we learned some interesting facts about Eritrean history/culture. We also had a really tasty balaclava. There’s plenty of Middle Eastern menu items, and it sounds like more traditional Eritrean foods will be added soon. We’re looking forward to coming back :)“

“Absolutely delicious!“

“I always thought there was a lack of authentic middle eastern food in SF until me and my dad came here. Food is absolutely amazing (it is halal if you need) and the owner Yaman is extremely kind. Highly recommend the kibbeh since it is so hard to come by!“

“The food was perfection the best Middle Eastern food in all of Oakland Ca“

“Amazing experience. Really excellent menu with good explanations. Nabulsi cheese was so good and falafel was the best I’ve had in a very long time. Everything felt balanced and extremely flavorful. If you’ve still got room, would recommend the kanafeh because that was awesome.“

“Some sandwiches are incredible (sichuan chicken comes to mind), others just pretty good. Being open only 11-3 and being closed two weekdays entirely I unfortunately tend to forget this place exists, even though I walk past all the time. Also the best sandwiches often sell out past the first couple hours, so you really got to get there 11-1.“

“5 stars. Amazing food from the lentil soup to dessert. Highly recommend.“

“they have nice Hookah last long, nice service, and they service nice tea 🍵 also, but the decorations is not so good“

“Ordered on a whim and so glad I did. The bowl was delightful. The steak delicious and I’d definitely come back here. I’m going to be thinking about this meal for a while! Finally have somewhere to go when my husband goes to cheesesteak shop.“

“The BEST meal! We absolutely love this place. Every dish we’ve tried has been fabulous. Definitely start with the mixed place to try a bit of many appetizers. And the Khan Plov is so so good. I had never had Azerbaijani food but this is our new go-to with guests or for a date night in Oakland.“

“Really great spot for some Egyptian food. The restaurant is tiny and has an authentic feel to it but is fine for take way for very small group dining. We tried the shawarma and it was amazing. One of the best shawarma I've ever had. Very unique. The sauces and the veggies really make it but the chicken itself is very tasty too.“

“Heck yes it’s good! I’ve had this from time to time at middle eastern restaurants and never knew what it was called. Got my a few days ago and it’s amazing. Definitely check it out.“

“We visited on a Saturday afternoon at 2:15pm, so caught the tail end of the lunch rush. Waited in line about 10ish minutes before ordering and got seated outside. The food is delicious, flavors are complex and layered. The chicken shish tawook plate was a generous portion and with a side of babaganoush, perfect lunch for two. Will definitely be back! Cannot recommend enough“

“I've been living in the neighborhood for years and I've noticed this spot and I've always wanted to check it out. Thank God I finally did. The food was excellent. The chicken was tender. The lamb and beef shawarma was delightful
Falafel was seasoned and cooked to perfection.
I will be back!“

“Marhabah Cafe brings a wonderfully warm and authentic taste of Yemeni coffee culture straight to Oakland. The cozy, inviting atmosphere is the perfect spot to unwind or catch up with friends. From their richly spiced traditional Qishr to exceptional pastries, every item is crafted with incredible care. I will absolutely be stopping by again soon.“

“WOW the food is delicious. I never liked lamb before, but the lamb was to die for, it was so juicy and tender and flavorful - I added it on top of hummus and ate it with their warm pita bread. Also that was the best falafel I've ever had in my life, hands down -crispy and flavorful and NOT DRY. The pickles were amazing too. 10/10 will return.“

“האוכל הזכיר אוכל של בית. מה שחסר לנו פה בארה״ב מוסיקה ישראלית משובחת וחומוס טעים. הרגשה של ישראל באמריקה👏👏👏“

“Great food, service & outdoor seating!“

“Put it in two words. Dam good. Had a lot other Ethiopian food, but this one tops them all in Bay Area. Plus the prize is much understandable.“

“We never come to The City without a trip to Aicha. Wonderful little spot with fabulous service & delicious food. Highly recommend.“

“We live in this neighborhood and if you know the North Shattuck and Northbrae Neighborhoods, there is no shortage of walkable dining. We just love Jerusalem Organic Kitchen for a consistently well prepared meal, friendly staff, and really good ingredients! They serve a quick, casual, healthy, and absolutely delicious meal. Everything we have tried is great with balanced seasonings. My personal favorite is the Shawarma Platter. Don't miss the perfectly prepared salmon platter with a generous serving of salmon that won't set you back an arm and a leg. The salad with chicken shawarma on top is great too. And they, of course, prepare a great middle eastern platter and falafel platter. And if all you want is a sandwich or burger - you won't be disappointed. Get the idea? We like their food and for good reason - they don't try to be all things to all people - they do middle eastern cuisine and do it really well. Try it - you'll like it!“

“I have eaten here every day for the last 5 days, twice today - something I have never done anywhere else in my life, and I'm almost 73. The food is delicious and nourishing, and the owner and the people who work here are warm and delightful.“

“Definitely San Francisco Bay areas. Best burgers, amazing fish and chips very favorable, savory kebabs and great tasting Gyros.“

“Everything looks just amazing. Truly Mediterranean came highly recommended!“

“Great food lovely location“

“We both had lambs ( the Mrs had the kebab with salad and soup and I had the lamb & beef platter). My plate was made special by the dressing , but my wife’s was the better deal as the smokey flavored meat was out of the ballpark sarap!“

“Super yummy hummus plates, falafel, kebabs and salads. Found this gem while on a walk in China town. Not easy to find, but once you know where to find it you will come back again and again. Sooooo good.“

“The food is amazing you should try their flafle. It’s amazing and staff super nice fellas“

“Consistently delicious for decades“

“I give the highest caterer recommendation to Ikaros To Go (catering by the team that ran Ikaros restaurant). They planned and managed a very delicious memorial dinner for us for approximately 75 guests. The customer service and food were excellent - our menu included roasted salmon, vegetarian mousaka, rice, Greek salad and garlic bread, plus dessert of Baklava and sugar cookies which everyone also loved. They also handled dinnerware, water, lots of set up and clean up, soft drinks and pretty bottled Greek waters for the tables. They were extremely considerate, thoughtful, flexible, organized and reliable. Ikaros to Go went above and beyond and made our event very special. We are very grateful - Thank you Ikaros to Go!“

“Not open for the past couple weekends and weeks in between - everyone that populates 11th street miss our guy so much!! He is a pillar of stability that supports the action taking place on the “Club Corridor”.We’re all hoping he returns soon and in good health.Joe is a treasure on 11th. Every day I look to see if he’s opened back up - it’s been a rare day to see this place not taking business. Truly, you never know watcha got til it’s gone ?We all hope to see you soon, and are sending the best wishes and loves and positive vibes. ??“

“Authentic Afghan cuisine. Try their chapli kabobs. Perfect blend of spices, beef and texture. One of the best I have tasted in the US. Comes with a generous portion of rice, bread and side salad. Also give their Bolani a try. Excellent quailty. Owner is very gentleman.“

“The pomegranate chicken… I’m sure on this earth there must be better chicken but I haven’t found it yet. Every childhood event, you’d open the tray and there would be the pomegranate chicken and the yellow rice. Nothing better. I was lucky then, and I’m luckier now that La Med is still here and is still so good! Tastes the same: perfect“

“I love it because it's more then just grocery & grill. I consider it to be or it should be called "Multi convenience." Or maybe even "Some of this & Some of that!" would also be a good name. It's a small store, but most of the time they still have just what you need. The owner is cool too. He gives great customer service as well. Try this store or“

“Outstanding Persian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco!

Alborz Restaurant exceeded all expectations. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm hospitality that made us feel like honored guests. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegant and welcoming.

The food was absolutely incredible. Every dish was beautifully prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors that transported us straight to Iran. The portions were generous, and the presentation was lovely.

Whether you’re familiar with Persian cuisine or trying it for the first time, the menu offers something wonderful for everyone.

The service was attentive without being intrusive, and our server was happy to offer recommendations and explain dishes we weren’t familiar with.“

“The chicken halal plate from this place is Beyond DELICIOUS! If you like halal food, you won’t be disappointed eating here. It’s pretty good. The block it’s in can be sketchy at times, so practice caution when parking, stay alert and quick purchasing. They also have really good herbs, seasonings and products to purchase.“

“I come here every time I land in SF. The best food in the city, quick, great service, and great flavor. I left my purse behind once and came back when they were closing, the employees were really kind and had saved it for me. Forever grateful!“

“Perfect spot for a quick lunch. I first tried the food from Sajj in San Mateo. It was a "regular" lunch place for many at my office. Now that I occasionally work in SF, I was please to find a Sajj just a block away. Love that the food is fresh and bonus that it is full of flavor. I take advantage of ordering ahead and picking up on my schedule.“

“I love this place and go at least once or twice a month..My wife loves the chicken shawarma either the plate or the wrap..I love the falafel, and the lamb shawarma..This time I hooked up with a dear friend, she and I ordered the lamb shanks..the serving is huge!! Wonderful rice, and a separate plate with yogurt , cucumber sald and a cabbage salad..tremendouws value, but to much meat for me..So I am sticking with my go to items mentioned above...We had the Kanefa(?) it was not the best i have had..that was in Dearborn, but my friend di not care for it, so the baker gave her two more different dessert servings..so typical of the genorisity of this place. I grew in this neighborhood and must say or Muslim neighbors eatery is a welcome addition!!“

“I don't remember how many times i've been here lol. Whenever I was too lazy to prepare lunch for myself, I usually bought gyro in this place and then went back to my lab/class. The price is affordable for Berkeley Standard (i remember it was around 12 usd before tax).

This place was also in UC berkeley north gate before, so it was close to my building. Then the one in north gate was closed. However I didn't mind to go back and forth from my lab to this place in southgate, my lazy ass didn't mind to go downhill then uphill lol.
And yeah, this place also offers halal food, so that's a plus“

“I smelled it before I got there no always looking for “the right food cooked by the right people!” I had a bowl with chicken which I could cut with a the plastic spoon 😍 with rice and lentils very flavorful too with the Israel salad all that flavor in one bowl was the best by far! My friend who’s vegan was very satisfied had a falafel bowl which she started eating as we walked down the street! She had smashed it by the time we made to the tables at Union Square. The food delicious the portions huge and the price right! On another note when we arrived they were out of rice and of course they made me some fresh very much appreciated ❤️“

“Buena experiencia, es un lugar sencillo, su comida y servicio son buenos. Me comí un Lentil Soup con un pita bread, satisfecho y como dice el boricua “ jarro como lechón”�������������“

“Good size portions of good food at a good price. Great location too. They will see me again many times. Limited menu, but that’s not a bad thing. Perfect before or after a show or event. Plus they are open late.“

“LOVE the COMBO Platters with the FRIES and the FALAFELS 😋😋😋“