Sahara Taste of the Middle East

This place has been consistently good for a long time. It’s a simple order-at-the-counter spot with dine-in or takeout options. I remember when they were especially known for their Sahara Fries.

I ordered the combination plate with chicken and beef kabob, which comes with rice, a side, and a grilled tomato.

The beef kabob was the standout—juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The chicken was decent, though not as memorable. The rice was a bit plain on its own, but adding the tahini or garlic aioli from the condiment counter makes a big difference. The pita was average; I’ve definitely had better elsewhere. The creamy chicken chop was crispy, flavorful, and one of the better items on the menu.

I also tried the flatbread (Middle Eastern-style pizza). It was mostly bread and sauce with only a small amount of meat. It was decent, but nothing special. Overall, this is satisfying grab-and-go food that fills you up, though you’ll probably want a drink afterward since some of the bread items are on the dry side.

The service was fast, friendly, and efficient. There are a few seating options inside, and I liked that the menu has large photos on the wall, making it easy to order.

If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth stopping by. It’s one of the better-known Middle Eastern spots around and a solid choice when you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 5

Great place and authentic meals from the middle east

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Highly recommend the vegetable flatbread.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Food is excellent. Staff are very nice. Tables and booths available for dinning in. High chairs available for kiddos.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The best Mediterranean food I had… very fresh and flavorful… I hope they open one in San Marcos.. I would love to go more often but it’s too far… 😔

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Falafel Plate, Chicken Shawarma, Chicken Tikka

Came for lunch and was not disappointed! The service was exceptional, food was delicious and i love the fact that all the sauces, napkins and utensils were all easily accessible. Great atmosphere and super clean bathrooms as well!

Great Mediterranean food from beef and chicken kabob, gyros and hummus just to name few. Service was great, seating was adequate, the restaurant was clean, however the food was delicious. I'm recommending it to everyone to try.

Recommended dishes: Beet Salad, Falafel Plate, Chicken Shawarma, Chicken Tikka, Chicken Tikka Plate, Laham Ajeen Spiced Ground Beef Flat Bread, Gyros, Beef Shawarma Plate, Shawerma

The chicken Shawarma and the french fries amazing the fries have a perfect crisp to them and the Shawarma‘s perfectly seasoned.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place is amazing, the food is so so good. I especially like all the different meat pies they have and the cheese one is amazing. Great customer service too all the staff is always friendly and welcoming. I wish I was rich I'd just go here every day 😅

Best food in SoCal!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I celebrate my bday i was very please for the yummy food affordable thank you very much

The beef and chicken shawarma were seasoned perfectly! This is potentially the best middle eastern food I’ve ever had.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place and the kind honest community of employee's are like a second family everytime I go here. They treat everyone with the same considerate service and guarantee such service with honest and sincere prices and recommendations. Thank you Sahara, you make the trip worth it everytime. My road dog Donut agrees and wants you to know he loves your chicken.

This is a perfect place. Immediately after walking in I was greeted and asked for any questions on the menu. I told the gentleman to just give me whatever he wants (this is my move at a new spot) and he did not disappoint.

I got the Beef Kufta plate (he threw on a chicken Kufta for me to try as well) with a beautiful spread of almond rice, pickled and grilled veggies, fresh bread, sauces, hummus, and salad. Everything was delicious.

I’ve been to many middle eastern and Mediterranean and this is by FAR the best service and most impressive food I’ve come across.

If you’re in the area you have got to give this place a try.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Been eating here for Years and it’s been a 5 star experience any time. Best middle eastern spot in town

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5