Any insider tips for Kokos Mediterranean Cafe?

Ask to swap salad for hummus or tabbouleh

What should I order at Kokos Mediterranean Cafe?

Lamb kebab, chicken shawarma, extra garlic sauce

Who should go to Kokos Mediterranean Cafe?

Office workers seeking authentic quick lunch

Any insider tips for Green Street Café?

Free city parking garage immediately next door

What should I order at Green Street Café?

Lula kebab is the standout, pair with house-made hummus

When should I visit Green Street Café?

Lunch for outdoor seating, closed Sundays

Who should go to Green Street Café?

Health-conscious diners, families, neighborhood regulars

Any insider tips for Panini Kabob Grill?

Free parking for first 90 minutes underground

What should I order at Panini Kabob Grill?

Kabob combo, specialty panini, fresh hummus

Who should go to Panini Kabob Grill?

Shoppers and convention center visitors

Any insider tips for CAVA?

Download the app for faster ordering and loyalty rewards

What should I order at CAVA?

Greens & grains bowl with harissa, falafel crunchy pita chips

When should I visit CAVA?

Weekday lunch or early dinner to avoid peak crowds

Who should go to CAVA?

Health-conscious diners wanting fresh, customizable Mediterranean bowls

Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Pasadena (91101)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Kokos Mediterranean Cafe

8.4

$$ Shoppers Lane

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance

This family-owned gem has been a Pasadena institution for over 20 years, serving authentic Armenian-Lebanese cuisine with lightning-fast service. The owner Koko personally ensures quality in every shawarma wrap and kebab plate, while locals line up for the legendary garlic sauce.

Must-Try Dishes: Lamb Kebab Plate, Chicken Shawarma Wrap, Homemade Garlic Sauce

What makes it special: The garlic sauce locals dream about between visits

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#2 Green Street Café

8.1

$$ Playhouse Village

Vibes: Family Friendly Favorites Outdoor Dining Oasis Business Lunch Power Players Hidden Gems Heaven

This women-owned Mediterranean restaurant in Playhouse Village specializes in authentic Lebanese kebabs and mezze with a focus on sustainability. Fresh ingredients and careful spicing distinguish the lula kebab and charcoal-grilled meats, while generous portions and friendly service create a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.

Must-Try Dishes: Lula Kebab Plate, Chicken Kabob, Beet Salad

What makes it special: Women-owned with commitment to compostable containers and plant-based options

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Worthy Picks

#3 Panini Kabob Grill

7.8

$$ Downtown Pasadena

Vibes: Outdoor Dining Oasis Business Lunch Power Players Family Friendly Favorites

Located in The Paseo shopping village, this scratch kitchen prepares Mediterranean staples from fresh ingredients daily. The menu balances traditional kebabs with California-influenced paninis and pastas, offering convenient quick-service dining near the Pasadena Civic Auditorium with consistent quality across the regional chain's locations.

Must-Try Dishes: Beef Koobideh, Mediterranean Panini, Chicken Kabob Plate

What makes it special: Only Mediterranean spot with panini fusion menu

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#4 CAVA

7.6

$ South Lake Avenue

Vibes: Healthy Haven Quick Bites Champions Solo Dining Sanctuaries Business Lunch Power Players

This fast-casual Mediterranean chain brings customizable grain bowls and pitas with fresh vegetables and quality proteins to South Lake Avenue. While modified for American palates, the build-your-own format delivers healthy, flavorful meals with transparent calorie counts and consistent execution across 50+ ingredient combinations.

Must-Try Dishes: Harissa Avocado Bowl, Chicken Shawarma Pita, Crazy Feta

What makes it special: Chipotle-style customization with Mediterranean flavors and premium ingredients

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