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Mima's Mediterranean & Homemade Food
Master Critic Review
Mima's Mediterranean & Homemade Food
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Family-owned Syrian and Armenian spot serving fresh shawarma, falafel plates, and housemade hummus in the Jewelry District. The small counter-service operation focuses on authentic recipes with generous portions and warm hospitality that makes regulars feel like family.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Plate, Falafel with Tahini, Filet Mignon Kebab
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Family recipes with exceptional freshness at prices under $15
Who should go: Downtown workers seeking authentic homemade Mediterranean
When to visit: Weekday lunch when everything's freshly prepared
What to order: Chicken kabob plate, muhammara dip, baklava
Insider tip: Outdoor seating on Saint Vincent Court is surprisingly peaceful
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street metered parking on 6th/7th or paid lots within 2 blocks ($8-15). Public transit via Metro to Pershing Square is easiest.
Dress code: Ultra casual - work clothes, gym wear, whatever. Counter-service spot with zero pretense.
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - small space but mostly takeout traffic, easy conversation at tables
Weekend wait: Closed weekends - weekday operation only
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min during rush (11:30am-1pm), immediate service otherwise
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - falafel, baba ghanoush, fattoush, lentil soup, stuffed grape leaves
Vegan options: Very good - most mezze and salads are naturally vegan, just skip yogurt sauces
Gluten-free options: Limited - can do plates without pita, but shared prep area and no GF bread
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for romance - it's counter-service in the Jewelry District with basic seating. Better for casual lunch dates or testing if they appreciate authentic hole-in-the-wall spots.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed or accepted - it's walk-up counter service. Grab your food and snag one of the few tables or head to the courtyard seating outside.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - casual vibe, familiar flavors like chicken and rice, quick service. No high chairs or changing tables though. Best for ages 5+ who can handle simple Mediterranean food.
Best For
Better for: Authenticity and value - homemade Syrian/Armenian recipes at prices that shame the competition. Choose this over Zankou or fast-casual chains when you want genuine family cooking, fresher ingredients, and that neighborhood spot warmth.
Skip if: You need weekend access, want a sit-down dining experience, require extensive seating, or prefer Lebanese over Syrian flavors. Also skip if you're entertaining clients - this is too no-frills for business meals.