Master Critic Review
Oriental Bakery & Grocery Co
8.3
Okashah Abdelmonem opened this market-deli hybrid in 1972, and today his daughter Soha works seven days a week baking pita, forming kibbeh, and running the back counter where shawarma and falafel platters come together from scratch. The front aisles overflow with imported spices, loose-leaf teas, and hookah supplies; the back cafeteria serves some of the best beef shawarma in Miami at prices that feel like a time warp. Atmosphere is strictly utilitarian—fluorescent lights, no frills—but that's the point. Regulars who've been coming for 20-plus years don't need ambiance; they need the stuffed grape leaves and a bag of string cheese to take home.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Sandwich, Beef Shawarma Sandwich, Kibbeh
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Family-owned since 1954 with everything made fresh daily by the same family member who arrives seven days a week to bake pita from scratch.
Who should go: Budget-conscious diners craving authentic Lebanese home cooking.
When to visit: Arrive before noon to avoid the lunchtime line.
What to order: Get the falafel sandwich with extra tahini, add a side of hummus, and grab baklava from the pastry case.
Insider tip: Free parking behind the store—and try the habanero hot sauce if you dare, but it's legitimately spicy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot behind the store. Street parking also available. Easy to find a spot.
Dress code: Come as you are—super casual counter-service spot. Shorts and t-shirts perfectly fine.
Noise level: Casual deli atmosphere—not a place for long conversations but fine for a quick lunch chat.
Weekend wait: Counter service, minimal wait. Closes at 5pm on Sundays.
Weekday lunch: Quick service—order at counter, food comes out fast. Popular lunch spot but no long waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent—falafel, hummus, baba ganoush, tabouli, stuffed grape leaves, and many vegetable dishes.
Vegan options: Good options including falafel, hummus, and vegetable plates. Confirm ingredients for specific dishes.
Gluten-free options: Check website for updated information
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a casual market-restaurant hybrid, not a date spot. Small seating area in the middle of the grocery store. Great for grabbing shawarma or falafel together, but ambiance is utilitarian rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Always walk-in - no reservations taken. Small seating area fills up during lunch rush but turnover is quick since most customers do takeout. Best to grab food and go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - casual family-owned spot with a welcoming atmosphere. Easy shareable foods like hummus, grape leaves, and pita that kids enjoy. No formal kids menu but the relaxed environment suits families.
Is it good for groups? Not really - very limited seating with just a few tables in the back of the store. Best for 2-4 people maximum. For larger groups, order platters for takeout instead.
Is there outdoor seating? No - indoor seating only within the market. There is free parking behind the store. Most customers opt for takeout given the limited dine-in space.
Best For
Better for: Authentic, affordable Middle Eastern food from a family-run spot. Best falafel and shawarma in the area at unbeatable prices. Grocery items to take home.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down dining experience with table service. Or need a strictly gluten-free kitchen.
Hours
Monday8am - 8pm
Tuesday8am - 8pm
Wednesday8am - 8pm
Thursday8am - 8pm
Friday8am - 8pm
Saturday8am - 8pm
Sunday8am - 5pm