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ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Sandwiches in Westwood
Master Critic Review
Falafel Inc
7.9
A counter-service Mediterranean spot built on Palestinian family recipes, with za'atar sourced from the founder's own farm — the kind of provenance detail that shows up in the food. Every $10 spent feeds a refugee through the World Food Programme, which gives the low price point a second purpose beyond just being one of Westwood's cheapest solid lunches. It runs like a college-town fuel stop — fast, clean, no frills — and the 84% five-star rate across 276 reviews says the falafel and shawarma wraps land consistently.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Sandwich, Chicken Shawarma Wrap, Zaatar Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Social enterprise where every $10 spent feeds a refugee for a day through the World Food Programme, built on the founder's Palestinian mother's recipes with za'atar imported from the family farm.
Who should go: UCLA students and budget-conscious eaters wanting fast, fresh Mediterranean
When to visit: Weekday lunch to avoid the UCLA campus rush
What to order: Start with the zaatar fries, get a falafel sandwich or shawarma wrap, add hummus to share — everything is under $5 so order freely.
Insider tip: Ask for extra garlic sauce (toum) on the shawarma wrap — regulars swear by it.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking or paid public lots in Westwood Village — expect to hunt for a spot, especially evenings and weekends near UCLA
Dress code: Come as you are — counter-service walk-up with a couple of outdoor tables, college-area casual
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Virtually the entire menu works — falafel sandwiches, bowls, hummus, salads, and zaatar fries are all vegetarian
Vegan options: Most of the menu is vegan by default — falafel, bowls, pali salad, tabouli, and shawarma sandwich all plant-based; avoid the white sauce (mayo-based), habibi sauce, and invisible sauce which contain animal ingredients
Gluten-free options: Falafel itself is described as gluten-free and a gluten-free modifier is available at ordering; bowls over greens are a natural fit
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — this is a fast-casual counter-service spot with no indoor seating and limited outdoor tables. There's no ambiance, table service, or intimate setting. It's better suited for a quick, casual bite together than a proper first date. If you're looking for something low-key and affordable before heading somewhere else in Westwood, it could work as a pre-date snack stop.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations here. It's walk-up counter service: you order at the register, grab your food when it's ready, and find a spot. There are only a few outdoor tables, so during peak lunch hours near UCLA you may need to eat standing or take it to go. Off-peak times you'll have no trouble grabbing a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, with caveats. There's no dedicated kids menu, but the simple, affordable options (falafel pita, hummus, za'atar fries — all under $6) are easy wins for most kids. The casual outdoor setup means no worries about noise or fussiness. No high chairs available. Best for kids who are comfortable eating at a basic outdoor table.
Is it good for groups? Difficult — the outdoor seating is very limited with only a couple of small tables. Since it's counter service there's no issue ordering for a group, but finding enough seats for more than 4 people will be a challenge during busy times. For groups of 5+, plan to eat standing or grab your food to go and find a nearby spot in Westwood Village to sit together.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a few small tables outside the storefront on Broxton Ave. No indoor seating is available, so outdoor is your only dine-in option. The tables are uncovered sidewalk seating with no heaters. Fine for LA's mild weather most of the year, but limited capacity means you may not always find an open spot during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: A fast, filling, plant-forward meal under $10 — order a falafel sandwich and zaatar fries and you're out the door in minutes
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down dining experience — there's no real indoor seating, just a couple of outdoor tables and counter pickup
Hours
Monday12pm - 9pm
Tuesday12pm - 9pm
Wednesday12pm - 9pm
Thursday12pm - 9pm
Friday12pm - 9pm
Saturday12pm - 9pm
Sunday12pm - 8pm