San Francisco's Best Shawarma [Updated 2025]

Having sampled countless shawarmas from various vendors across the city, I’ve narrowed it down to twelve standout places that truly capture the essence of this beloved dish.

From the succulent meats to the fresh, vibrant toppings and sauces, each spot offers a unique twist that reflects the diverse culinary landscape of San Francisco.

Join me as I take you on a flavorful journey through these must-try locations, highlighting what makes each one special.

Whether you’re a shawarma aficionado or a curious newcomer, there's something for everyone in this guide.

Mezze and Mooore

Highlights
Cozy interior with friendly service
Delicious chicken shawarma plate
Exceptional baba ghanoush
Fun Mediterranean pastries
Warm and inviting atmosphere

Mezze and Mooore is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of San Francisco, and I couldn’t resist diving into their enticing shawarma offerings. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cozy interior that felt both warm and inviting. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, setting the stage for a culinary adventure.

I opted for the chicken shawarma plate, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Each tender bite was bursting with flavor, perfectly seasoned and accompanied by an array of fresh toppings that added a delightful crunch. But it was the exceptional baba ghanoush that stole the show—smooth, smoky, and absolutely irresistible.

To top it off, I indulged in some playful Mediterranean pastries that offered a delightful sweet contrast to my savory meal. If you’re searching for a place that serves an unforgettable shawarma experience wrapped in a friendly ambiance, then Mezze and Mooore should definitely be on your radar. With its emphasis on quality ingredients and a welcoming vibe, this spot is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the art of good food.

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TRULY Mediterranean

Highlights
Authentic Middle Eastern flavors
Tasty lamb shawarma
Amazing service
Complimentary falafel
Worth visiting multiple times

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, TRULY Mediterranean offers a delightful escape into the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine. Stepping inside, I could already sense the authenticity permeating through the air; the aroma of spices was utterly inviting. As I settled in, the welcoming staff immediately made me feel at home with their exceptional service—a warm smile and genuine enthusiasm always go a long way!

Now, let’s talk shawarma. I opted for the lamb shawarma, which was expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Each bite was a flavorful journey, where tender meat met a symphony of spices that danced on my palate. It was a dish bursting with layers of flavor, making it difficult to put down. To my surprise, I was treated to complimentary falafel on the side, which offered a delightful crunch that balanced the rich shawarma beautifully.

In a city filled with options, TRULY Mediterranean stands out as a must-visit—perfect for those craving delicious fare. With its amazing service and mouthwatering dishes, I found myself wanting to return time and again. If you're in the area, don’t miss this gem! 🥙✨

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Oasis Grill

Highlights
Quick service
Cook to order food
Generous portions
Flavorful beef shawarma
Community support

Oasis Grill truly shines as a beacon for shawarma enthusiasts in the bustling city of San Francisco. As I approached the colorful eatery, the welcoming scent of grilled meats tantalized my senses, setting the stage for a delightful meal. What really captured my attention was their quick service, allowing me to revel in the anticipation without waiting too long.

Upon ordering the beef shawarma, I was thrilled to learn that all the food is made to order—a testament to their commitment to quality. When my generous portion arrived, it was almost too magnificent to eat. But one whiff of the flavorful spices enveloping the beef had me diving in headfirst!

Each bite was a joyous explosion of taste, the marinated meat perfectly complemented by fresh vegetables and their tangy garlic sauce. But what makes Oasis Grill even more appealing is their genuine support for the local community, engaging in initiatives that contribute to the neighborhood’s vitality.

In the end, Oasis Grill is not just a spot for delicious shawarma; it's a community haven, blending rich flavors with a passion for service. If you're on the hunt for your next meal, skip the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary at Oasis Grill!

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Fanoos Grills

Highlights
Delicious lavash wraps
Tender, juicy chicken shawarma
Friendly, attentive service
Halal options available
Clean and welcoming ambiance

Fanoos Grills in San Francisco is an absolute delight, especially for shawarma enthusiasts like myself! As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the clean and welcoming ambiance that sets the stage for an enjoyable meal. The service was incredibly friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the chicken shawarma. Wrapped in a freshly made lavash, each bite was a harmonious blend of tender, juicy chicken that practically melted in my mouth. The spices were perfectly balanced, showcasing that authentic Middle Eastern flair. Add to that the generous portions and you have yourself a meal that truly satisfies!

What I also appreciated was the availability of halal options, which is increasingly important for many diners today. It’s nice to know that Fanoos Grills caters to a diverse crowd while maintaining a commitment to quality. Overall, my visit felt like a little slice of culinary paradise. If you're searching for the best shawarma in SF, your quest should definitely lead you to Fanoos Grills! Trust me, it’s a wrap you won’t want to miss.

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Mediterranean Aroma

Highlights
Fresh and delicious hummus
Generous meat portions
Friendly and intuitive service
Tasty pistachio baklava
Variety of drink options

Mediterranean Aroma is a true gem nestled in the bustling streets of San Francisco, and my visit was nothing short of delightful. Upon entering, I was greeted by the friendly and intuitive staff who made me feel right at home. I decided to try their shawarma, and boy, was I in for a treat! The portion size was generous, showcasing succulent meat cooked to perfection.

What truly blew my mind, however, was the fresh and delicious hummus that accompanied my meal. The creamy, smooth texture paired beautifully with warm pita, setting the stage for a delightful feast. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but relish the robust flavors mingling together in harmony.

To cap off my experience, I treated myself to a piece of their tasty pistachio baklava. The sweet, flaky layers were a perfect contrast to the savory meal I had just enjoyed. Oh, and let’s not forget the variety of drink options available, which complemented my meal splendidly.

If you’re on the hunt for an extraordinary shawarma, make sure to stop by Mediterranean Aroma—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

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Abu Salim Middle Eastern Grill

During my visit to Abu Salim Middle Eastern Grill, I was greeted by an intoxicating aroma that promised a feast for the senses. Their chicken shawarma was a true delight, marinated to perfection and grilled to juicy, golden-brown perfection. Each bite offered a harmonious blend of spices, paired wonderfully with fresh vegetables and a luscious garlic sauce. The wrap was warm and soft, creating a delightful contrast to the tender meat inside. Though the ambiance was casual, the flavors were anything but. If you're on the hunt for a shawarma experience that sings, Abu Salim definitely delivers!

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Popstar shawarma

Tucked away in the vibrant streets of San Francisco, Popstar Shawarma is a delicious gem that truly shines. The moment I stepped in, the aroma of spices enveloped me, hinting at the culinary bliss to come. I ordered the chicken shawarma, and oh my goodness, the succulent, tender meat was perfectly seasoned, dancing harmoniously with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tangy garlic sauce. Each bite felt like a festival of flavors! The friendly staff and lively atmosphere only added to the experience. If you're on a quest for the ultimate shawarma, Popstar is a must-try that will leave you craving more.

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Faíruz Eatery

At Faíruz Eatery, I was immediately captivated by the tempting aroma wafting through the air. Their shawarma is a delightful fusion of spices, wrapping tender, marinated meat in a warm, fresh pita. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors – the garlic sauce is rich yet light, while pickled veggies add a refreshing crunch. What truly sets Faíruz apart is their commitment to quality. You can taste the care in every ingredient. Whether you're a shawarma newbie or a seasoned aficionado, this spot is a must-visit! With a cozy vibe and friendly staff, my experience was simply flavorful bliss.

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Yemeni kabab & Mediterranean

Tucked away in a bustling neighborhood, Yemeni Kebab & Mediterranean is a delightful gem that serves up a shawarma experience that’s equal parts flavorful and satisfying. As I unwrapped my generously stuffed wrap, aromatic spices danced with tender meat, creating a symphony of tastes. The tahini sauce elevated the dish to new heights, making my taste buds sing with joy. Cozy and vibrant, the atmosphere invites you to savor each bite. If you’re hunting for a shawarma that tantalizes and delights, this spot deserves a top place on your foodie bucket list. Don’t miss it!

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Old Jerusalem Restaurant

At Old Jerusalem Restaurant, shawarma isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience! The succulent lamb is marinated to perfection, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Wrapped in freshly baked pita, each bite is a delightful adventure. The tahini sauce adds a creamy richness, complementing the tender meat beautifully. The ambiance embraces you with a warm, inviting charm, making it hard to resist ordering seconds. If you're seeking a mouthwatering treat in the heart of San Francisco, look no further! Old Jerusalem serves up shawarma that is simply unforgettable!

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Bistro Mediterraneo

At Bistro Mediterraneo, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of spices wafting through the air. Their shawarma is a delightful symphony of flavors—a beautifully marinated blend of tender meat, served in a warm, fluffy pita. Each bite bursts with freshness, accompanied by crunchy veggies and a drizzle of creamy tahini. The secret lies in their house-made garlic sauce, which elevates the dish to new heights. Friendly service adds to the charm, making this spot a must-visit for any shawarma aficionado in the city. Absolutely delightful!

Palmyra

Stepping into Palmyra felt like a delightful escape into the heart of the Middle East. Their shawarma is a sensational experience—the tender meat is marinated to perfection and packed with flavor that nearly made me dance. The fluffy pita hugs a generous portion, while fresh veggies provide a crunchy contrast. To top it all off, their garlic sauce is the cherry on this shawarma sundae, adding a creamy zing that keeps you coming back for more. If you're wandering through San Francisco and craving a wrap that sings with flavor, Palmyra is an absolute must-try!