This was my first time dining at Shawarma Guys, and it definitely did not disappoint. One of the biggest highlights for me is that they offer gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options—which is a huge plus for someone like me who has celiac disease. Of course, as with any restaurant, there’s always a risk of cross-contamination when dining out, but I appreciated that they were accommodating and understanding of my dietary restrictions.
I had been in Tijuana earlier in the day and hadn’t eaten since 8:00 AM, so by the time we made it to La Mesa, I needed something safe and satisfying before the long drive home. I’m still new to managing celiac, so I try to be as careful as possible.
When we arrived, we were greeted promptly by staff. They were polite, welcoming, and offered great recommendations. I explained my allergies, and they were quick to suggest substitutions, including a gluten- and dairy-free salad that featured garbanzo beans—it was flavorful and a nice surprise!
I ordered both the Chicken Shawarma Bowl and the Wagyu Beef Shawarma Bowl. The flavors were amazing—everything was well-seasoned, fresh, and cooked to perfection. While the bowls are on the smaller side and a bit pricey, they are filling and definitely satisfying for one person. Just something to keep in mind if you’re hoping to share.
We also got a side of fries (per my mom’s request), and they were delicious—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. On top of that, we tried their Philly Wagyu Fries (I believe that’s what they’re called). I ordered them dairy-free by removing the cheese and gravy. They came topped with bell peppers, onions, their flavorful garlic sauce paste (which they confirmed is both gluten- and dairy-free), and juicy Wagyu beef. These fries were impressive—not soggy at all, and the portion was large enough to share between two people (or one if you’re really hungry!).
They don’t have a soda fountain, but they do carry a good selection of bottled drinks and refreshers. The restaurant itself was spotless, including the restroom, which I always appreciate. Service was top-notch—the staff even checked in with us after our meal and kindly cleared our plates. It’s clear they take great pride in both their food and service.
One small downside is that parking can be limited, but there’s usually street parking nearby if the lot is full.
All in all, this was a fantastic experience. The food was flavorful, the service was exceptional, and the staff went above and beyond. I’d definitely recommend Shawarma Guys—especially if you have dietary restrictions and still want to enjoy something delicious!