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Ara's Shawarma
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Ara's Shawarma
8.4
Ara’s Shawarma on Sunset focuses on fast, filling Middle Eastern plates built around juicy rotisserie shawarma and charcoal-grilled meats. It’s a workhorse counter spot that feeds everyone from nearby workers to late-night Hollywood crowds with big portions and long hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma plate with rice and salad, Beef shawarma wrap, Family mixed grill platter
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: High-output shawarma counter balancing speed, price, and charcoal-grilled flavor.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners wanting hearty shawarma near Hollywood studios
When to visit: Lunch and late night when spits are fullest and turnover is high
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, beef wrap, mixed grill for sharing
Insider tip: Upgrade from wrap to plate if you want better leftovers and more meat-to-salad balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Sunset and Western is hit-or-miss; meters open up more after 8pm. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, tees, and work clothes all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate; counter-service bustle but still easy to talk while waiting or eating.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes in line; food comes out quickly even during rushes.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait beyond ordering at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel plates, salads, and sides work well.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—falafel plate and some salads are fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Yes—shawarma plates without pita are the cleanest gluten-free option.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for ultra-casual, fast counter-service. Great for quick bites, not ideal for atmosphere-driven dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service with open seating. Tables turn fast, but peak late-night hours can mean hovering for a minute or two.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like shawarma or simple grilled meats. No high chairs or dedicated kid’s menu, but portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Fast, filling shawarma at low prices with generous portions and reliable late-night hours.
Skip if: You want a sit-down experience, craft cocktails, or a quieter room—this is functional and fast, not atmospheric.
Ara's Shawarma
8.4
Ara’s Shawarma on Sunset leans into fast, filling Mediterranean plates built around juicy rotisserie meats. It’s a workhorse counter spot where chicken shawarma bowls, beef wraps, and falafel plates fuel everyone from nearby workers to late-night crowds heading back from Hollywood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma plate with rice and salad, Beef shawarma wrap, Falafel plate with hummus
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: High-output shawarma spot balancing speed, price, and well-seasoned meat.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners needing a fast, filling Mediterranean meal.
When to visit: Lunch and late night when the spits are turning most.
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, beef shawarma wrap, falafel plate.
Insider tip: Upgrade to plates instead of wraps for better leftovers the next day.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Sunset and Western is hit-or-miss; expect metered spots and occasional open residential spaces on side streets.
Dress code: Very casual—come as you are, from gym clothes to work attire.
Noise level: Moderate; it’s a fast-casual counter with steady traffic but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes depending on takeout orders; lines move quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even during peak lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel plates, hummus bowls, salads, and veggie sides.
Vegan options: Yes—falafel and most sides are vegan; ask for no sauces containing yogurt or tahini if needed.
Gluten-free options: Yes—shawarma plates without pita are generally gluten-free; bowls are a safe go-to.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional date—it’s counter-service and casual—but great for a low-pressure, quick meet-up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—seating is first-come, first-served and turnover is fast; reservations are not used.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for casual meals; simple plates, quick service, and easy seating work well for families with kids of any age.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable shawarma bowls and wraps with consistent seasoning and generous portions.
Skip if: You want a sit-down Mediterranean meal with ambiance or expanded mezze and grill selections.