Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Mediterranean in Little Village & Lawndale

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Tanoor Kabob 7.8
Little Village
A counter-service Middle Eastern grill that leans on shawarma, falafel, and rice plates built for quick pickup and reliable portions. It’s at its best when you order one hot protein plate plus one classic side, then finish with a traditional dessert instead of trying to sample the whole menu at once.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken shawarma over rice, Falafel wrap, Kanafa
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 8.3 Atmosphere: 6.2 Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: A no-frills kabob-and-shawarma counter anchored by falafel and classic desserts.
Who should go: Shawarma and falafel fans who want fast pickup
When to visit: Weekday lunch for quickest turnaround
What to order: Chicken shawarma over rice, falafel wrap, kanafa
Insider tip: Stick to one plate plus one wrap—timing stays hotter and cleaner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along 26th Street; usually manageable during lunch, tighter after 6pm.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, hoodies, work clothes all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate — counter-service buzz, easy for conversation but not quiet.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dinner rush
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of the noon hour
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel plates and wraps, hummus, rice, salads, and sides.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, hummus, rice, salads; confirm sauces to avoid dairy.
Gluten-free options: Mostly — rice plates and meats are gluten-free; wraps and pita contain gluten.
Best For
Better for: Fast, reliable shawarma-and-rice plates with classic Middle Eastern flavors and strong value.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for a sit-down Mediterranean dining experience or grilled kabob variety beyond shawarma.