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Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean
8.6
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean turns out shawarma, falafel, and sabich plates at a fast-casual pace, drawing heavy traffic from both neighborhood regulars and delivery platforms. Portions, salad spreads, and build-your-own options make it a reliable stop when you want something filling yet relatively light compared with heavier 3rd Street meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel pita, Chicken and beef shawarma plate, Sabich pita
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: High-volume Mediterranean counter spot known for customizable shawarma, falafel, and salads.
Who should go: Lunchers wanting fast Mediterranean plates with strong vegetarian options.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners to avoid delivery rush.
What to order: Falafel pita, mixed shawarma plate, sabich with extra salads.
Insider tip: Use plates with extra salad bar sides when you want maximum value and variety.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along 3rd Street and nearby residential blocks; generally manageable outside peak lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual — workout clothes, jeans, and everyday attire are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch rush; easy conversation at most other times.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on delivery order volume; counter moves quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the line can form briefly around 12:15–12:45pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — falafel, sabich, salads, and customizable plates.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, salads, tahini-based toppings, and most sides are fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Good options — plates and salads are naturally gluten-free; avoid pitas and wraps.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something casual and fast; it's counter-service with communal vibes, not a linger-and-chat setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only. Outdoor seats turn over fast, and you can usually find a spot after ordering.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu items, quick service, and outdoor seating make it easy for families with younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Build-your-own plates with generous salad bar portions, fast service, and lighter Mediterranean meals compared to heavier 3rd Street options.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down dinner, slower pacing, or more elevated Mediterranean cooking.
Soom Soom Fresh Mediterranean
8.3
Soom Soom is a fast-casual Middle Eastern counter built around shawarma, falafel, sabich, and build-your-own plates loaded with salads and spreads. It’s a go-to for quick, relatively light meals where you can keep things vegetarian or add grilled meats without feeling weighed down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Plate, Falafel Pita, Sabich Pita with eggplant and egg
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: High-volume Middle Eastern counter spot known for customizable shawarma, falafel, and salads with lots of fresh toppings.
Who should go: Lunchers wanting fast, filling, and relatively light Middle Eastern plates.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners to beat delivery and takeout rushes.
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, falafel pita, sabich with extra salads.
Insider tip: Ask for plenty of pickles and salads on the side; they stretch leftovers into an easy second meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on 3rd Street and nearby residential blocks; generally easy before 6pm but can tighten during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; gym clothes, workwear, and everyday outfits all fit the fast-casual vibe.
Noise level: Low to moderate; easy for normal conversation even during busy pickup times.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on delivery traffic; usually no true line for dine-in.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait beyond short ordering queues.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — falafel, sabich, salads, and customizable plates allow meat-free meals without compromise.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, hummus, salads, and many toppings are plant-based; skip yogurt-based sauces.
Gluten-free options: Partial — bowls and plates work well, but pita and some fried items contain gluten. No dedicated GF fryer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless you're aiming for ultra-casual; ordering at the counter and the quick-service format don’t lend themselves to lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service with self-seating; tables are typically available except during peak lunch hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for casual family meals; the menu is simple, customizable, and fast, though seating is limited and best for ages 5+ who can handle counter-style dining.
Best For
Better for: Quick, customizable Middle Eastern plates that feel lighter than most shawarma spots, plus strong vegetarian and vegan flexibility.
Skip if: You want a sit-down dinner, large-group seating, or a more atmospheric Middle Eastern restaurant experience.