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Al Basch Chicken
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Al Basch Chicken
8.2
Al Basch Chicken is a counter-service Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spot on Sunset known for shawarma, kabobs, and overstuffed pita sandwiches. Portions run large for the price, and regulars praise the char on the meats and the brightness of the salads and pickles. It’s one of the more dependable quick-shawarma options in the area.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Plate, Mixed Kabob Plate, Falafel Pita Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: High-value shawarma and kabobs with standout char and generous portions.
Who should go: Budget-conscious diners wanting filling Mediterranean plates.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner for the fastest turnover and freshness.
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, mixed kabob plate, falafel pita.
Insider tip: Add extra pickles and garlic sauce if you like punchy flavors.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking on Sunset; adjacent side streets often have better availability before 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—athleisure, jeans, and everyday wear are all entirely appropriate.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy for conversation, especially during non-peak hours.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on takeout volume; lines move quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait aside from brief ordering lines.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel, hummus, salads, and several mezze options.
Vegan options: Limited but present—falafel, salads, pickles, and certain sides; verify sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes—plates without pita work well; shawarma, kabobs, and salads are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal first date, but good for a casual meet-up—fast service, relaxed environment, and big portions keep it low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service with open seating; tables turn quickly even during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and mild options like rice, chicken, and fries make it easy for families with kids 5+.
Best For
Better for: Quick, filling shawarma plates at budget prices with consistently good char and generous portions.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down Mediterranean experience with ambiance or broader mezze-style dining.
Al Basch Chicken
8.0
Al Basch Chicken is a counter-service Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spot known for its charry shawarma, kabobs, and overstuffed pita sandwiches at strong value. The focus is on big portions, straightforward flavors, and reliable takeout rather than polished dining-room trappings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Plate, Mixed Kabob Plate, Falafel Pita
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: High-value shawarma and kabobs with noticeable grill char and big portions.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners craving hearty Middle Eastern takeout.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner for fastest service and freshest turnover.
What to order: Chicken Shawarma Plate, Mixed Kabob Plate, falafel-filled pita.
Insider tip: Load up on pickles and sauces at ordering time to customize plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Sunset can be tight at peak hours, but you can usually find a spot on side streets within a short walk.
Dress code: Totally casual—come as you are; most guests are in everyday streetwear.
Noise level: Low to moderate; counter-service hum but easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on takeout volume; seating is generally available.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even during the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including falafel, salads, hummus plates, and veggie sides.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—falafel plates, salads without dairy, and certain sides.
Gluten-free options: Many plates are naturally gluten-free (shawarma, kabobs, salads), but pita and shared surfaces mean no dedicated GF prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates fast-casual Middle Eastern meals. It’s functional, tasty, and affordable but not a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed. It’s a counter-service spot, and tables turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for casual family meals. Portions are large, flavors approachable, and service quick. No high chairs or kid-specific amenities, but plenty of shareable dishes.
Best For
Better for: Bigger portions and stronger grill char than most nearby quick-shawarma spots, plus consistent pricing value.
Skip if: You want polished ambiance, sit-down service, or a slower, more curated Middle Eastern experience.