Middle Eastern Restaurants near Pasadena, CA

“Ohhhhhhh so good. I think I met the owner behind the counter, making our lunch. He is making his Armenian grandmother (his tatik) proud. He loves his customers. This is both a catering kitchen and walk-up restaurant with a few tables.
Only three items on the restaurant menu. Got one of everything and split it. You can tell it’s all hand made. The dumplings are flavored perfectly, and maybe a bit of mint on top? On the herbaceous and acidic side, not sweet, but also richer and deeper than a meatball. Can get spicy or regular. Some of the dumplings have crunchy edges. Really unique and tasty. Need 100 more.
The cheesy layered bread was INCREDIBLE. Like. Fly across the country incredible. Flakey, salty, buttery. Melty. Chewy. Crisp. Perfect everywhere.
The salmon sandwich is generous and seasoned well, cooked well, and holds together well. Really really great and I want to go back already.“

“Would recommend this place. Especially the falafel, might be the best I've ever had! Very crispy on the outside with a soft and tasty filling. Big portions, we had enough to also bring home some of it for breakfast the day after. Liked the variety of all the different food such as feta, salad, humus, pita, lentil soup. Also very kind and genuine family who runs the place, thanks a lot!“

“Never had batter beef Showerma in usa thumbs up for ABU KABAB I highly recommend it you must try“

“We were invited to this restaurant. Food was average. I had better Persian food. It was on the blend side. They will spice it up of you tell them.
Service was not up to par. The lady who took our order was confused. Our host repeated it a couple of times. They also mentioned to serve everything on a family platter. However it can as an individual dish. The host was upset as they come here regularly and this was not what they expected for their guest. We assured they it is fine.
The kabob and kubbedieh were very soft and juicy. They also serve extra butter. Kids enjoyed the fried and burger. They said it was good.
They have a nice spot for salah. I wish it was bigger for more people to pray. Us ladies had to wait along time till the guys are done.
Restaurant is very old but clean and taken well care of.

Parking: You have to park on the street next to the restaurant. It is hard to find during peak hours.

Wheelchair accessibility: Easy access but hard to maneuver inside the restaurant.“

“Recently my nephew got married and on his reception taken place on universal city Hilton hotel and we found Mazze banquet from Pasadena for catering. The food was excellent the service was excellent everything was on time. We had 250 guests and everything went smoothly. Food quality was 10 out of 10. Service was 10 out of 10. So happy so happy. Definitely recommend.“

“The food was great!! and good company.“

“The lamb gyros are the best things ever. 😊“

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐😍😍😍😍😍 every meal is made fresh. Hands down a favorite“

“goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood“

“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!“

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

“Great food! Excellent service! 😍“

“Great Lebanese taco joint. Vegetarian options. Generous portions. Very satisfying.“

“Great food fast and great service“

“A++++++++++++++++++++++++“

“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!“

“We have been to Golden Skewer many times in the past, but had not been here for several years (don't know why not). But it was my birthday and Mediterranean food sounded good. We were pleasantly surprised by the updated decor, and the menu had a few items I didn't remember seeing previously . . . we found out that the ownership changed a few years ago.

We shared a Greek salad, which was very fresh (and was enough for a party of 4 to share, although there were only two of us). I had the chicken kabob plate which was excellent, and chose only the rice pilaf, but was offered a choice of two sides. There are plenty of entrees to choose from -- and they all look good!

Pita and hummus was complimentary. We were not rushed in any way.

The restaurant has a large banquet room (we held my father-in-law's 80th birthday party here in 2003) and there was a large birthday party in progress, but you wouldn't really know it except for the folks entering the restaurant and heading to the back.

Golden Skewer is an excellent choice . . . prices are modest and the service was very attentive.“

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

“Mima's is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, offering an exquisite culinary journey through the flavors of Syria. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in the warmth of Syrian hospitality and the tantalizing aromas of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.

The ambiance is inviting, with cozy seating and elegant décor that transports you to the bustling streets of Aleppo or Damascus. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of Middle Eastern cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, Mima's caters to all palates with its diverse menu and impeccable service.

Each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted with the freshest ingredients and infused with traditional spices and flavors that awaken the senses. From the silky hummus (best in the U.S> in my opinion) to the smoky baba ganoush, every bite is a delight for the taste buds.

The kebabs are succulent and perfectly grilled, bursting with flavor, while the shawarma is tender and aromatic, a true testament to the culinary expertise of the chef at Mima's. Don't miss out on their signature dishes like the mouthwatering lentil soup or the eech, each a culinary masterpiece in its own right.

But what truly sets Mima's apart is the genuine warmth and hospitality of the staff, who treat every guest like family, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.

Whether you're craving a quick lunch or planning a special catering event with loved ones, Mima's is the perfect destination for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of the Middle East with every delicious bite. Mima's is not just a restaurant; it's an experience you'll want to savor again and again. Five stars doesn't seem enough to truly capture the excellence of Mima's!“

“Hey...everybody I would like to encourage you to support our local business during this pandemic times.I DO highly recommend DONA MARTA'S KITCHEN RESTAURANT because she has that special SAZON which reminds me to my grandmother. There you can eat a variety of ANTOJITOS MEXICANOS....of course mine is ENCHILADAS ROJAS DE SALSA GUAJILLO....“

“Գլենդելում հայկական ուտեստների իրական համն ու հոտը վայելել հնարավոր է միայն հրաշալի ,,Մեր Երեւան ‘’ռեստորանում Highly recommended“

“The food es excelente!! My first time buying there, definitely worth it!!“

“Amazing food. Great family run business. It’s just like eating a home cooked meal every time. The family is one of the nicest you will meet. Been coming here for a lot of years and the food is consistently great. Also, they do catering for any sized parties.“

“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!“

“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.“

“As a Persian American, I am so glad I found this place. It offers something I’ve been wishing for my whole life, modernized Persian food. Traditional is unbeatable, but I’ve always wondered what it would be like if people took those recipes and updated them. Azizam offers that. I came specially for the kuku sandwich and it was excellent, simple and very fresh. Same with the shallot yoghurt and Kipteh. We also tried the secanjaben spritz which if you like those flavors you will love. I really love this whole concept and would love to see more dishes! The ambience is friendly and warm. Highly recommend.“

“Way fancier inside than I expected. It was empty at the time, so we got amazing service: quick and attentive. The food was a bit pricey but came with so much and was absolutely delicious! Excited to go back and to bring more people next time!“

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

“We came in with a group of 5 people for lunch at 12 PM and ordered the Hummus & Grilled Chicken Plate. The plate has tons of flavor from every bite, with each ingredient serving its own purpose. Everything was perfectly balanced. Nothing too salty, sweet, spicy, or savory. The portion sizes are pretty large. There are small outdoor and indoor seating, with some tables only able to hold 2 people at a time.

Summary:
- CLEANLINESS. Very clean and organized. There are some tables inside and outside.
- COSTS. $$ Decently priced for the quality and amount served. (About $22 per plate at the time of this writing.)
- CUSTOMER SERVICE. The staff were very fast and professional.
- FOOD QUALITY. The ingredients were freshly prepared. You can tell none were prepackaged or left sitting there for hours.
- FOOD QUANTITY. A large-sized portion.
- WAIT TIME. We went in around 12 PM, which is generally the peak lunch time. Quick service. 10-15 Minute wait.“

“Yes I haven't been here since the pandemic but I recommend it with all of my friends and family“

“Delicious and beautiful food!“

“The standout feature was undeniably the flavorful food, with each dish boasting a perfect fusion of spices and seasonings. Portion sizes were impressively large, ensuring that even the heartiest appetites left fully satisfied. What made the experience even more enjoyable was the great price point, averaging around $15 per dish, making it a budget-friendly yet high-quality dining option. The efficiency of the service was notable, with our orders arriving promptly despite the bustling atmosphere. Without hesitation, I would recommend Downtown Kabob to friends and family“

“Best of the best I was amazed 💯🙏🍗🍖“

“I love it here, and just doing a review as I was about to go a 2nd time this week (I usually only get to go once a week due to my schedule, but I’m on vacation this week) and was checking the menu online and noticed a ridiculous review from someone scared of the dark and unable to digest iceberg lettuce (seriously, buddy learn to cook and stay away from restaurants ) . So this place is a hidden GEM! The food is fresh and amazing, the staff is sweet, caring and highly efficient, the prices are fair and reasonable, and the hummus is literally my favorite hummus and I’ve had many. I normally go once a week and get 2 of the chicken bowls, one with lettuce (because I’m normal) and shrazi and hummus and cucumber yogurt, and a 2nd bowl for my wife that is exactly the same except every item is separated (she is a Virgo). After only the first few weeks they remembered my order including my wife’s packaging modifications. Some months back I came in after a bad hand injury, and to this day they always check how it’s healing.
I could go on but getting hungry and have to get my bowl (or might try a wrap for fun)
GE 2024“

“Excellent veggie and cheese pizzas and spinach/ chicken with crumbled blue cheese!!“

“First time coming here and the food was fantastic. I honestly can’t wait to try their other offerings. Located on the east side of Glendale Ave, just north of the freeway. Small parking lot, but street parking is also available. Outdoor seating is also available. The lamb shank was calling to me and I absolutely enjoyed every bite. Substituted for a different rice as well.“

“Best kabob plate in town! I drive from Rancho Cucamonga to eat here.“

“Nice place to enjoy well made food. The owner was super friendly and let us try a number of different appetizers on the house. We tried the beef and chicken lulah platters and they were nice. Would return again to try more of the menu. The plaza had plenty of parking. Prices are reasonable.“

“Hamlet's Kitchen in Glendale, CA, is the epitome of culinary excellence with a unique touch of comfort.The outdoor seating here is a quick, casual, and comfortable oasis. It's perfect for those moments when you crave a delightful meal without the fuss.When it comes to catering, Hamlet's Kitchen stands in a league of its own. Their catering service is unparalleled, offering a taste of their extraordinary flavors at your events.But what truly makes Hamlet's Kitchen shine is Mila. She takes orders with a genuine smile and ensures that your catering needs are not just met, but exceeded. Her dedication to customer satisfaction is truly remarkable.Whether you're looking for a quick outdoor bite, top-notch catering, or a warm and personal dining experience, Hamlet's Kitchen delivers on all fronts. It's more than a restaurant; it's a place where comfort meets culinary excellence, thanks to its exceptional team.

Vegetarian options: Hamlet’s Kitchen in Glendale distinguishes itself with an impressive selection of vegetarian options, particularly their array of fresh and flavorful salads. These vibrant dishes cater perfectly to those seeking delicious, plant-based choices in their dining experience. Their mutabal, hummus, carrot salad and beet salad are a must.

Parking: Hamlet’s Kitchen offers free parking to its customers, making it a stress-free and accessible destination for all.

Kid-friendliness: Hamlet’s Kitchen in Glendale excels in creating a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a hit with children and parents alike. The welcoming environment and specially designed kid-friendly amenities ensure a pleasant dining experience for the entire family.

Wheelchair accessibility: Hamlet’s Kitchen in Glendale stands out for its exemplary wheelchair accessibility. The thoughtful design of the outdoor seating area ensures comfortable and convenient dining for all guests, highlighting the establishment's commitment to inclusivity.“

“I had lunch with my family and the food was Delicious. Try you won't regret it“

“Their gormeh sabzi is so delicious… I can’t even say enough about it.Very authentic, delicious Mediterranean food made with love. I’ve only gotten food to go from here (never eaten in the restaurant—but I will—so can’t speak to atmosphere yet) but I loved how they so carefully packaged the order. It was a dinner celebration for my son’s birthday, with my husband’s middle eastern relatives (who have high expectations for food) and Olive Branch nailed it. The yogurt dip also is thick and creamy and amazing. Their dolma are so delicious, chubby and full of yumminess with very tender grape leaves wrapping the contents.I literally couldn’t wait for my lunch today and it Olive Branch leftovers. I mean who can say that about leftovers?! You can’t go wrong with this place. Their food is craveable.“

“Kabob Way is a fantastic restaurant that offers delicious food. I was introduced to this restaurant about two years ago and have been a regular ever since.

**Pros:**
- The service is great, and the staff is kind and friendly.
- The food is delicious, with many options to choose from.
- There is ample seating in the dining room.
**Cons:**
- No cons here. I can honestly say that each and every visit has been great.

This is a restaurant that I will continue to support. I hope that you will visit Kabob Way and enjoy it as much as I do.“

“Byblos Mediterranean bakery has the good food , amazing and excellent service, and all the staff at Byblos are very nice, helpful and friendly too. Wishing them all the best And the prefect place to sit and enjoy the meals I rate Byblos Mediterranean baker 5“

“Yummy food. Big portions snd economical Had chicken kabob plate. Comes with pita bread hummus abd cucumber salad abd rice. Couldn’t finish“

“Great food and excellent service“

“Very tasty cuisine. Highly recommend.“

“Food is Awesome!! So fresh and flavorful. Right around the corner from work.“

“Love the place. Ordered the chicken wings today with fries and drink. The wings are always large and tasty and fries are honestly awesome. Takes about 20 minutes to get your order but at least you know it is fresh and hasn't been sitting there for unknown time periods. Wish they were in other malls too. Would actually invest in them as I love family businesses that don't cut corners.“

“The service is great, very friendly and helpful with the menu. The atmosphere is nice, with a view of the Foothill mountains and on warm breezy days they have the long windows open for a nice breeze. The food is very delicious. We ordered the Veggie Gyro and the Vegan Gyro, with fries on the side. All were very yummy. We have been here a couple times before today, and we will definitely be back again.

Vegetarian options: They have vegetarian and vegan options that are both very tasty.“