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.“

“Good good food. The tabolue was my fav I came back for seconds then thirds lol. The service was dope asl too. Mind u this the mall. Xavier Alejandro P was my server btw. I’m shouting him out bc if he didn’t let me sample the taboule I wouldn’t have ate here.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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!“

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

“Great food! Excellent service! 😍“

“I visited Orla by Michael recently. The ambience was really nice and made the experience feel elevated. The service was okay, and the food overall was good. The standout dish for me was the lamb shank hummus — really delicious and definitely worth trying.“

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

“Great food fast and great service“

“Situated in a run-down mini mall with difficult parking, one might easily bypass Carousel unless one already knew its reputation and was specifically looking for the restaurant. For starters, we tried the hummus, Baba Ganoush, and Falafel (with pita bread). All some of the best we have every eaten. This was followed to Chicken Kabob and Lamb Kabob plates with rice and salad. Dessert was Basma topped with ice cream. Wonderful. All dishes were excellent and good portion sizes. Service was quick and attentive. Food arrived reasonably quickly. Decor was suitably Lebanese. A good place for business or social meals. I hope to definitely eat here again.“

“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!!!!“

“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 Chicken 🐔 Kabob plate.“

“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!“

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

“This place is so great. They have the best salmon. My phone is acting up so I did not get a photo of it, but trust me, it is the best. It is a nice portion and it is cooked to perfection.\n\nThis Darya is in Santa Monica, but I consider it the West Side. It matters not. The food is amazing.\n\nWe love Persian food and often forget to go, but we have been to a few in the past month and are hooked again.\n\nDarya is just lovely. It is very comfortable and the lighting is perfect. It is clean inside and out. It has an adorable awing outside so you won't miss the place.\n\nThe service is very nice. It takes a minute to get your food, but when you do it is cooked to perfection and ever so good. There is nothing we don't like on the menu. They carry a yogurt type soda and that is just weird, but everything else is great.\n\nI love their salmon and all of their chicken dishes. Their Zereshk Polo has steamed white rice mixed with barberries and is served with the best seasoned slow-boiled chicken. We also love their lentil soup, which is something I never order elsewhere. It is just so comforting. All of their salads are great, our favorite being the Darya Salad which is a combination of Romaine lettuce, mixed greens tossed with tomatoes, cucumbers, lentils, raisins, dates, imported feta cheese, walnuts, and great olives.\n\nYou just can't go wrong here. The prices are fair for what you get and you will want to nap when done.“

“A++++++++++++++++++++++++“

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

“First time I ordered the delivery (3rd party) from Mizlala , and despite the courier getting lost and bringing the order in 45 mins - the food was still very fresh and delicious. Next day I was craving it again and decided to visit the place in-person, and my experience was absolutely outstanding: from service to food to
atmosphere at this very cozy location. Most kind and welcoming service by Alex & (the manager, sorry i forgot your name ) . Huge portions, very fair prices, and the food is so delicious and fresh, that you can taste it was made with love ! This is my favorite spot now whenever I crave this cuisine! Thank you so so much !“

“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!“

“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“

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

“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!“

“Delicious! Really interesting and tasty food.“

“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.“

“This is probably my best middle east restaurant in Los Angeles. Today I prefer to eat boiled lamb with rice . I checked near me i found Yemen Kitchen. I placed an order lamb khabsa togo and some boiled vegetables and fried chicken. Food was really cooked well and delicious. I would like to eat there . They have a good taste in their foods .“

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

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“Amazing upscale middle eastern fusion restaurant in LA! Beautifully designed, wonderful staff, delicious food and on Thursday and Saturday nights turns into a restaurant/bar with live DJ (practically a club party in a restaurant) with amazing vibes! They also had Valet service.“

“I’ve been living abroad for years, and this is the first time I’ve found an Iranian restaurant that truly feels like home. The food tasted just like real homemade meals — fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, and the restaurant’s location is super convenient and easy to reach.

I wish I lived in Los Angeles, because I would honestly eat here every single day! Their menu is quite large, and I wish I could try everything, but the portions were generous and I couldn’t finish my plate — otherwise, I would’ve definitely ordered more.

I truly wish them success, and I highly recommend everyone to visit this place!“

“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!“

“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“

“the Best Persian restaurant....♡ it !!!“

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

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

“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.“

“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.“

“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!“

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

“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.“

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

“DELICIOUS 😋HEALTHY FOOD AND VERY NICE AND FRIENDLYCUSTOMER SERVICE .“

“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.“

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

“Had a great experience at The Kebab Shop! The manager, Juan, was super helpful and welcoming—great customer service makes all the difference. I ordered the grilled chicken bowl and it was fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. The bathrooms were clean, which is always a plus in my book. Even though they opened a new location in Santa Clarita, this one remains top tier—the taste here is always on point. Definitely my go-to spot!“

“I have been coming here since 22 years ago. I was happy to see it open again. The guy and his sister are very friendly and nice. Food is amazing . Best Mediterranean food in town . Live it . I'm a fan of this restaurant and I go back on time everytime I come here. Thanks for this amazing place“