Vancouver’s tastiest shawarma joints
Who doesn't like spicy meat prepared on a rotating spit? Shawarma has quickly become a staple in Vancouver for those looking for a fast and delicious meal with some international flair. Related to gyros and donairs, they're not exactly known as a healthy food item, but you would be hard-pressed to find something quite as delicious.
Falafel Cafe
1385 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5V 3E3It's easy to miss this hidden gem among the sea of tattoo parlours and nail salons found along this part of Kingsway, but you’ll be glad when you find it. With fresh ingredients and tasty sauces, you can enjoy some of the best shawarma in the city here. In particular, the shawarma platter is a great choice, with huge portions and plenty of fresh salad. While this little shop offers a quaint dining area, it's the delicious food and excellent service that will bring you back.
Mr. Shawarma (Food Truck)
Robson and Hornby, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1A1If you happen to spot the bright yellow Mr. Shawarma food truck while wandering within the downtown core, you're in for a delicious treat. Offering some of the best food-truck treats in the city, you can dive into authentic chicken shawarma with hot sauce and onions, or whatever your preferences are. Made fresh right in front of you, you can be on your way and enjoying your mobile meal in no time.
Babylon Cafe
1156 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2M9Near Stanley Park, this little place offers a crowd-pleasing chicken shawarma platter that includes salad and hummus. You can also find succulent lamb and beef shawarma if you prefer. While there might be a bit of a wait, this popular Middle Eastern takeout spot is bound to please both your stomach and your wallet. Keep in mind that seating is limited, so you might need to enjoy your food on the go.
Mitra Canteen Uncle Abe's
3034 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3G5As one of the few shawarma places outside of downtown, this is an excellent place to grab some Middle Eastern inspired grub while in the area. Satisfy those hunger cravings with flavourful and juicy chicken shawarma, made with savoury spices and fresh vegetables. While this little hole-in-the-wall doesn't offer much seating, it does have a small patio so you can enjoy your food outdoors. With very reasonable prices and generous portions, you can fill yourself up in no time.
Baghad Cafe
548 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3J5Another busy spot downtown is the Baghdad Café. It offers many of the staples of Middle Eastern cuisine, including kabsa dishes, kebabs and, of course, shawarma. It has chicken, spicy lamb and roast lamb platters, but the chicken shawarma seems to be the favourite choice. While there is a small seating area, this popular place is often full with regulars, so be prepared to take your shawarma to go.
Eistein Wrap House
1107-88W Pender St E, Vancouver, BC V6A 3X3Another popular shawarma place near downtown, Einstein offers great service and excellent food. The always-favourite chicken shawarma wrap is made right in front of you and uses fresh ingredients of your choosing. You can also select from a wide range of platter options. The bar seating is limited, but the generous portion sizes with low prices make up for it.
