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Kabob By Faraj Restaurant & Kosher Meat Market
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Kabob By Faraj Restaurant & Kosher Meat Market
8.3
A Persian-Mediterranean institution that pairs a full grill counter with a butcher-market backbone, making it a go-to for koobideh, barg, and saffron-rice plates. The kabobs are the star—smoky, well-seasoned, and built for takeout or a simple sit-down meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Koobideh kabob plate, Soltani (barg + koobideh), Ghormeh sabzi stew
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Market-plus-kabob house with deeply seasoned Persian grill mastery.
Who should go: Kabob fans and practical neighborhood diners.
When to visit: Weeknights for easy ordering and pickup.
What to order: Koobideh, soltani, ghormeh sabzi.
Insider tip: Grab marinated meats from the market for a next-day home grill upgrade.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Pico and nearby residential streets; generally manageable but can tighten during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and neighborhood-friendly; anything from jeans to simple everyday wear is appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate – counter ordering and grill activity add ambient noise, but conversation is comfortable at most tables.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on takeout volume; rarely a long sit-down wait.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; fast counter service and plenty of turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of sides, rice, salads, and stews; no dedicated vegetarian menu but easy to build a satisfying plate.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—rice, salads, grilled vegetables, and select stews may qualify; confirm ingredients for assurance.
Gluten-free options: Most kabobs, rice, and grilled items are naturally gluten-free; sauces and stews vary, so check at ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Best for low-key, comfort-driven dates where great kabobs matter more than atmosphere; the room is casual and practical rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service with quick turnover. Even at peak times you can usually sit after a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—easy seating, generous portions, mild kabob options, and a casual setup make it suitable for families with kids of any age.
Best For
Better for: Consistently seasoned Persian kabobs, generous portions, and the ability to buy high-quality marinated meats from the market for home grilling.
Skip if: You’re looking for a polished dining room, table service, or a broader Mediterranean fine-dining experience.
Kabob By Faraj Restaurant & Kosher Meat Market
8.0
A Persian kosher market-restaurant hybrid that’s family practical: quick counter service, big plates, and straightforward kebab comfort. Rice and grilled meats are the reliable core, with stews adding depth for adults. Great for takeout nights or casual sit-downs with kids.
Must-Try Dishes:
Koobideh plate, Chicken barg, Ghormeh sabzi
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Persian kebabs and stews served market-style.
Who should go: Families doing easy takeout dinners.
When to visit: Late lunch for calm ordering.
What to order: Koobideh, chicken barg, herb stew.
Insider tip: Grab marinated meats to cook at home too.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Pico and the side streets is usually accessible, especially midday, though it tightens around dinner rush. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and practical — come as you are. Families and takeout diners fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate. The counter-service setup means a bit of bustle, but it stays conversational even at peak hours.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on kebab demand; lines move quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait beyond ordering at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a couple of sides and stews may work, but the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited — rely mostly on sides like rice, salads, and grilled vegetables.
Gluten-free options: Good coverage — kebabs, rice, and many stews are naturally GF. Always confirm sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it’s more functional than atmospheric. Great food, but the counter-service format isn't built for lingering or ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s entirely walk-in. Tables turn quickly and many guests do takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — portions are big, flavors are familiar, and the casual setup works for toddlers through teens. No dedicated kids’ menu, but koobideh and rice are easy hits.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable Persian kosher comfort with consistent kebabs and large portions — ideal for family meals and repeat takeout nights.
Skip if: You want a sit-down atmosphere, wider vegetarian options, or a more polished Persian dining experience.