Middle Eastern Restaurants near Culver City, CA

“If you’re reading this, here’s the short version: this is easily one of the best restaurants in Culver City, and you need to try it now!

It’s a small spot in downtown Culver City that you could walk past without noticing. I’m glad I didn’t. There are a couple of tables outside, but most of the seating is indoors. The space is modern, clean, and relaxing.

We ordered three dishes, all recommended by our waiter. The mussel toast is a must. Every bite is savory and packed with seafood flavor. For mains, we had the short rib and rainbow trout. The short rib was perfection. Cooked over fire and served with crispy potato strings. It’s something you get at high-end steakhouse but at half the price. The rainbow trout looked beautiful and tasted fresh, though the citrus was a bit stronger than I prefer.

For dessert, we couldn’t resist the churro and ice cream sandwich. The ice cream (another must try), sourced from a Persian maker, was rich with rose, honey, and pistachio. The presentation was just as impressive. The churros were decent, though I wished they were crispier and the dipping sauce was thicker.

Overall, I’d give this place a solid five stars. The food is close to Michelin quality without the Michelin prices. Go and you won’t be disappointed.“

“I gave 4 stars for atmosphere because it's at the mall and it's very loud but other than that the customer service I receive is always the best. Food is always delicious and I don't mind waiting at times because I know it will be steaming hot and delicious 😋“

“Great food and cocktails!! 🍸“

“This was my first time eating here. I must say the food was amazing. I'm used to going to Westwood for my Persian food however having this spot in the neighborhood is fantastic. They serve the same food here as they do in Westwood. Check out the menu it's amazing. I had an opportunity to meet with Reza the owner Chef a super nice guy.“

“Always a good interaction when coming to Z Falafel. The cooks are such nice guys and always so helpful when I may ask about one of their many options on the menu. I always try to switch up my plate when I come here and not once have I had a disappointing meal from this location. Keep going hard!“

“Great and Tasty Halal Food in town.“

“Our first time and we will definitely go back!!“

“I order from here almost every week. Favorite pita and hummus in town. Adding the wagyu to the hummus is great, but honestly love just getting the hummus straight up. The chicken and wagyu shawarma sandwiches are good, though a bit greasier than the average shawarma spot. Overall one of my favorite spots!“

“Had a wonderful time dining here! ⭐️ The wrapped prawns were absolutely delicious; definitely the star of the meal! The steak 🥩 and eggs 🍳 were decent, nothing too special but still enjoyable. Service overall was fantastic — friendly and attentive“

“Love love this little gem. The food was amazing. The owner was so kind. I felt like I was in someone's home. They way they served our food, and brought it out to us. Felt like aunty was cooking just for us. We love you guys so much. And I will definitely be coming back more regularly. Viva Palestina!!!!“

“Great food! Excellent service! 😍“

“Incredible food and service. Our waiters name was Christian; he was personable, kind, and hospitable. The food was mouthwatering and had such unique flavors. HUGE portions and definitely comfort food as they state. Will definitely be returning to check out the new menu each month.“

“I like the food Jamil n actman is the best“

“Very impressed with Javan! Service was so helpful and friendly, especially our server Victor. The food was outstanding and so fresh. The combination of flavors in the Alex salad was absolutely outstanding. Our vegetarian Koobideh was delicious. The hummus and babaganoush were perfect. Thank you - we will be back!“

“Great food fast and great service“

“Highly highly recommend. Awesome food. Great owner. Great servers. Best babaganoush ever!“

“We traveled to California and because of friends recommendation My wife and I chose Darya restaurant to have a quality time and happy about it .Thanks you Darya restaurant Specially Mr.Amin to help us at the restaurant and finding places to visit.“

“Delicious! Really interesting and tasty food.“

“This was my second visit to Carousel Hollywood and it was nothing short of amazing . The service , ambiance , selection was outstanding . We tried the Carousel Family Style dishes for 2 . The assortment of dishes (11) and meats (4) was simply a smorgasbord of culinary taste and delight. Can't wait to bring friends and family to Carousel Hollywood and experience this culinary delight with them ....“

“Great Chicken 🐔 Kabob plate.“

“I went here with a group of coworkers on a Tuesday afternoon for lunch (~12pm). Surprisingly, at that time, it wasn't busy. This is a very tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant that isn't found on the main street of LA. Inside the restaurant is small, so they have tables outside. There is a lot of shade, so it's pleasant to sit outside. Parking, however, could be a hassle if you drive here. The tables are located on the street and near the parking lot. Meaning, it felt like a car could hit a table if it got out of control.

I ordered the combo plate (~$16 at the time of this writing). They gave us extra pita bread because our party was pretty big. Everything tasted fresh and home made. The kebabs were sizzling hot right off the grill. The salad was seasoned and crunchy. The hummus wasn't as flavorful or beany tasting, but I preferred it that way because everything else had flavor. The rice balanced any overwhelming flavor.

I'm typically picky and if I find a Mediterranean food that's good, I just stick with that and don't try anything else until someone else recommends or invites me out to eat. Having said that, I would definitely return here.

Summary:
- CLEANLINESS. Clean. They placed spill pads (almost like the one you'd find in the Boiling Crab) for our tables outside.
- COSTS. $ Affordable. $16 for a decently portioned meal. It will definitely fill you up.
- CUSTOMER SERVICE. The staff was friendly. They gave us extra pita because we had a large party.
- FOOD QUALITY. Good and perfectly balanced. Not too overwhelming on any one specific dish.
- FOOD QUANTITY. Large portion size.
- BATHROOM. I saw a one gender only bathroom near the cash register. (I didn't enter or use it, so I don't know the condition of it.)
- WAIT TIME. About 10-15 minutes total for our group of 6 people to get everything.“

“Everything was delish!! No doubts, all of it was fabulous!!“

“The best service and the food always amazing! Tastes like its homemade and with so much love! Such nice people with the family vibes is my favorite part! Thank you for always providing at my events! Always my go to spot!“

“Great food!

I got the schnitzel plate and it was a very generous portion (more on the pricey side but you do get a lot). I picked my side and got the rice, that was good. You also get a pita.
I really like the meat, the hummus was great. Overall, it was great.

We also got some fries and the mushrooms. The fries unfortunately were a bit soggy but that’s to be expected when ordering - if you don’t eat right away - but still tasty.
The mushrooms - there could be mixed feelings but I love seasoned mushrooms and they had a great one! Very interesting, but I really liked it!“

“Welcome To Massis Kabob The Original Out In Glendale, California! I am here with Eduard who Highly Recommended this place because of their Very Delicious Persian and Armenian Food that they Specialize In! For Lunch: We are having their Lamb Chops with French Fries which Tasted Very Delicious! I want to personally thank Eduard for taking the time out of his day to do an Interview with ME and participating in my Youtube Channel! I also want to personally thank Eduard for taking ME there as well back on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025. Sincerely yours, Howard Paul Shore Executive, Volunteer Tourism Promoter For Google Maps And Youtube Massis Kabob The Original Visitor And Customer /HPS PS: Please Subscribe To My Social Media Under: Youtube Channel: socialmediawriter Instagram: socialmediawriter Facebook: Howard Paul Shore Tiktok: socialmediawriterr #massiskabobtheoriginal #glendale #california #food #restaurant“

“Service was great, food selections were many, food portions was huge, food quality amazing! Outdoor seating arrangements was proper, huge screen playing selective live music songs was enjoyable. Highly recommend!“

“Hello Page Administrator, We regret to inform you that your page is scheduled for permanent deletion due to violations of our trademark rights. This decision has been made after careful consideration and in compliance with our user protection policies. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. If you have any questions or wish to contest this decision, please contact us through our page: Mike be Best regards, Mike_bee“

“Delicious , authentic Israeli food just like I’ve had during my visits to Israel. Great staff and welcoming to all!“

“My son is in love with your minestrone soup.. Your pizza..and your tiramisu!!“

“Falafel Queen is a neighborhood GEM!
Falafel Queen, get the FALAFEL!!!

Add cabbage, baba ganoush, tomato cucumber salad! Get the order of CHIPS, if you want more!!! Try the hot sauce!!!
Wonderful, friendly family owned, delicious falafel spot!!!

Perfectly situated on the corner of a great neighborhood!“

“A++++++++++++++++++++++++“

“Great foods and good portions too. 2nd time there and still delicious. 👍🥰“

“Today, for the first time, I had the pleasure of tasting borsh (soup) and I have to say was the best soup I have ever tasted. It had enough spicy-tart ratio. I appreciate good food and this was absolutely perfect. Thank you!“

“What a Great Find! First time there and Junior took time to explain the whole menu to us. He also prepared the Delicious meal! We tried the chicken kabob, Shawarama, rice, Mediterranean salad, and hummus with pita bread. Fantastic meal!!! We also watched him prepare a Wrap which was Huge. We definitely be back!!! This great little place is located in the CVS shopping center on Hollywood Way and Verdugo.“

“One of my favorite place. I love the food and especially the kobedeh. :)“

“My family and I recently had the pleasure of dining at Sadaf Restaurant, and what stood out to me most beyond the delicious food and warm atmosphere was the exceptional service. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with genuine hospitality that immediately set the tone for the remainder of our visit.

Iman waited our table who was very attentive but without being intrusive, always checking in at the right time, offering thoughtful suggestions from the menu, and ensuring that every detail of our experience was perfect. It’s rare these days to find a team so dedicated to making guests feel welcome, and it left a lasting impression.
I genuinely enjoyed and appreciated the friendly and approachable attitude of Iman. It really felt like a true Iranian hospitality. The food was also excellent! We will certainly be back.“

“Saturday night at Basbussa are so much fun if you like international music. The vibe is young and energetic, the sushi is amazing and I would stick with that and drinks. I am not a fan of the meat dishes, it's too pricey for what you get. A great place for celebrations or a fun girls night out.“

“O. m. G. A must if you are in silverlake region - def get the mazeh plate - the mirsa ghasemi and the wild shallot yogurt were sooooo good. I got the ash e jo & it was so hearty but light at the same time- did not feel bloated afterwards. Super fast service & hella outside shaded seating, perf for people watching.“

“Clean, fresh and flavorful food - Cornish hen kabob plate and tabouli salad- was quite a nice surprise and delightful experience nestled in the heart of the Garment district.“

“This is the best Mediterranean/Lebanese food in LA. I have not tried a better falafel anywhere in the world yet... Definitely 10 stars!!“

“I’ve seen this place since 2017 but never decided to eat here once I found out it was a Greek restaurant (at that point I thought they just served chopped up grilled chicken on top of bowls of salads with olives) but boy was I wrong.
The service is as good as the food, both magnificent. I finally came here because of LATryGuy on YouTube review in one of his YouTube channel shorts and when I saw the chicken I said “OH it’s like Dino’s Greek style chicken with the seasoning and lemon juice on the bed of fries at Dino’s restaurant) I tried both types of lemon garlic chicken meals at Maisons so far the regular and spicy (which it’s actually not that spicy at all) and they were good. The gyro is good too, I’m just disappointed they have not re-upped on the LEGENDARY LAMB CHOPS for months after the review. Next I have to try the shrimp pasta like LA TRY Guy reviewed he said it was a 10/10 for everything.“

“Shaherzad is a standout spot in the heart of Westwood's Persian Square -- authentic, flavorful, and always welcoming. The food is consistently excellent, from their juicy kabobs and aromatic stews to the freshly baked bread that comes straight from the oven. You can truly taste the care and tradition in every bite.

The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive servers who make you feel like part of the family. The location is ideal -- right by UCLA and surrounded by the rich culture of Persian Square.

One of the highlights: live Persian music with a singer every Saturday night! It's a beautiful way to enjoy the culture while dining, but make sure to book a reservation in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly.

If you're looking for an unforgettable Persian dining experience in LA, Shaherzad should be at the top of your list.“

“just check your takeout meal is complete before you leave they forgot my pita bread huhu“

“Welcome To Massis Kabob The Original Out In Glendale, California! I am here with Eduard who Highly Recommended this place because of their Very Delicious Persian and Armenian Food that they Specialize In! For Lunch: We are having their Lamb Chops with French Fries which Tasted Very Delicious! I want to personally thank Eduard for taking the time out of his day to do an Interview with ME and participating in my Youtube Channel! I also want to personally thank Eduard for taking ME there as well back on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025. Sincerely yours, Howard Paul Shore Executive, Volunteer Tourism Promoter For Google Maps And Youtube Massis Kabob The Original Visitor And Customer /HPS PS: Please Subscribe To My Social Media Under: Youtube Channel: socialmediawriter Instagram: socialmediawriter Facebook: Howard Paul Shore Tiktok: socialmediawriterr #massiskabobtheoriginal #glendale #california #food #restaurant“

“Asteria Restaurant in Glendale is a true hidden gem that delivers an unforgettable dining experience from the moment you walk in. The ambiance immediately sets the tone—warm, cozy, and authentically nostalgic. You're greeted by the sight of an old-school piano, vintage black-and-white photos lining the walls, and charming little chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. It feels like stepping into a timeless Mediterranean home.

But the real star is the food. I ordered the **Chicken and Filet Mignon Beef Kabob Plate**, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. The filet mignon was melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfectly seasoned, and grilled to perfection. The chicken kabob was juicy, flavorful, and had that irresistible charred edge that makes every bite better than the last. Served with fluffy basmati rice, roasted vegetables, and warm pita, the plate was a masterclass in flavor and presentation.

Asteria’s menu is packed with mouthwatering options—from classic Mediterranean appetizers to hearty wraps and kabob combos. Each dish feels thoughtfully prepared and full of bold, satisfying flavors. Whether you're dining in for a special night or grabbing takeout, Asteria delivers on every level. This spot is the real deal—authentic, flavorful, and absolutely worth the visit.“

“The “Fried Chicken Shawarma” sandwich was one of the best chicken sandwiches I have ever tasted. It delivered on flavor and the chicken was so crispy. The spicy tahini and charmoula add such great notes that distinguishes it from your ordinary chicken sandwich. This is not your ordinary chicken sandwich.. This one is special.!!!!
Kudos to Chris for your wonderful service and hospitality…“

“Excellent Lebanese restaurant! The food was authentic, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The service was attentive, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. Highly recommend for anyone craving genuine Lebanese cuisine!“

“It’s the most place to hangout and enjoy caravans meal. Great food and excellent service Caravan restaurant is the best and awesome place“

“The Rotisserie chicken was amazing!! I give it a 10! The spicy coleslaw was really good as well! Glad we decided to order for dinner. Yum! 🙂“

“Everything is perfect , me and my family love the food it’s so yummy , Thank you.“