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Hummus and tahini

The quality of the tahini is the true measure of a good hummus, and you know exactly what you are looking for.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food image 1
Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food image 2
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Five floors up, a huge patio offers an ocean view and gorgeous outdoor seating. Warm, inviting atmosphere with amazing energy creates a great spot to eat and hang out. Fresh, flavorful Middle Eastern dishes come with great vegetarian options.

Incredible flavor and texture stand out in the hummus here. It tastes authentic and pairs well with falafel.

Cilantro tahini sauce stands out with a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements dishes like pita with steak and rice bowls. Sauces here add extra flavor and variety, enhancing meals with options like sriracha tahini and garlic sauce.

People are saying

"I found the food to be extremely good and tasty."

"I loved the delicious tahini fries and amazing food."

"The hummus here is amazing, and the staff are super friendly."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of about 30 minutes even during off-peak hours.

2

Prices for meals can be higher than similar options off-campus.

3

Parking is available in the underground garage at the UCSD campus.

02
Hummus Republic image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small, brightly lit space with bar seating and outdoor patio creates an upbeat, inviting atmosphere. Offers authentic Mediterranean food with many vegan and healthy options served in a chipotle-style format. Patio seating on the street adds a casual, social vibe.

Offers a choose-your-own, chipotle-style serving with a variety of hummus flavors like kalamata, harissa, and original. Combines fresh, flavorful Mediterranean ingredients with nutritious options.

Sauces include grandmaโ€™s hot sauce and tahini as toppings. The tahini shake stands out as a notable option.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"The tahini here is delicious and has so many flavors."

"The hummus bowls here are filled to the brim."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required; order directly at the counter.

2

Expect a variety of healthy, low-carb Mediterranean options.

3

Vegan options are clearly marked, catering to dietary preferences.

03
Razan's Organic Kitchen traditional and classic shawarma. image 1

Small cafe with open kitchen and upstairs cozy seating offers a friendly, homey atmosphere reminiscent of a Mediterranean family kitchen. The vibe balances clean, casual comfort with a welcoming energy suitable for relaxed meals. Organic ingredients and fresh-made wraps define the experience.

Owner makes daily fresh hummus that tastes even better the next day. Wraps and plates come with generous portions of hummus paired with meat and veggies.

Falafel comes with creamy tahini that coats it richly. The Egyptian wrap packs falafel and crisp veggies with a generous drizzle of rich tahini.

People are saying

"I found the falafel here to be the best I've ever had."

"I had the best falafel sandwich with tahini Iโ€™ve had in a long time."

"The owner's daily-made hummus is terrific."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers pickup and take-home options only, no dine-in service.

2

There are plenty of Halal options available on the menu.

3

Vegan options are clearly labeled on the menu.

04
Habayit Restaurant image 1
Israeli restaurant

Tiny space with 4โ€“5 tables and fun art creates a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere. Warm lighting and wonderful music add to the inviting vibe. Quiet kitchen oversight fosters an intimate setting rarely busy.

Creamy hummus comes with soft pita and pairs well with falafel and baba ghanoush. The hummus has a smooth texture and fresh flavor that complements grilled meats and green sauce.

Tahini sauce appears on all dishes, pairing well with falafel and complementing the soft pita and garnishes. It comes alongside a spicy green sauce, enhancing flavors across the menu.

People are saying

"I found the falafel here to be ridiculously good."

"I've never had better falafel and hummus."

"The tahini here is herb-forward and almost spiritual."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend over $20 for a meal, especially with tips.

2

Portions are small, with sandwiches costing around $21.

3

Calling in an order usually takes about 10 minutes to prepare for pickup.

05
Sababa Falafel Shop image 1
Palestinian restaurant

Palestinian restaurant offers a clean, modern space with beautiful indoor seating featuring Palestinian embroidery and a vibrant, joyful atmosphere. Guests enjoy free falafel samples and unlimited toppings, creating an inviting and easygoing vibe. The food area feels busy and lively, balancing grab-and-go with comfortable dining options.

Ribeye hummus stands out with rich flavor and smooth texture. The garlic hummus offers a sharp, impressive kick. Falafel and hummus here consistently deliver strong, memorable tastes.

Plenty of creamy tahini and hummus keep sandwiches moist and flavorful. Fresh toppings like pickled vegetables and spicy chili sauce add vibrant layers to the soft pita.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with rich, well-balanced flavors."

"The hummus here is so creamy and rich."

"The tahini here is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The dining area closes at 7:30 PM on Sundays.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so expect potential wait times.

3

The restaurant does not accommodate parties of 10 or more.

06
WOW KABAB image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Bright, clean, and modern dining area with air-conditioning and diverse music creates a welcoming atmosphere. The space is a large square that causes some echo, making it loud during peak times. The vibe suits families and those seeking high-quality Mediterranean food with standout shawarma and kebabs.

Generous portions of authentic hummus come with sides like rice and pita bread. It pairs well with dishes like falafel and Mediterranean salad, offering a tasty and complementary experience.

Tahini sauce stands out with its authentic flavor and pairs well with crispy falafel and fresh pita. The tahini dressing with chili sauce adds a spicy kick that ties the whole dish together.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The hummus here is velvety, smooth, and delicious."

"The tahini sauce here is great and ties all the elements together."

Good to know

1

Wraps cost about $10-13 and are large and juicy.

2

The portions served are generous and worth the price.

3

Parking at WOW KABAB is easy and convenient.

07
Lucia Mediterranean Grill image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Small dining area with cozy seating and Arabic music creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor seating and interactive games add to the experience. Known for exceptional Mediterranean food served on beautiful plates, it offers free drink refills and complimentary desserts.

Hummus here stands out for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with fresh pita and plump naan bread, both soft and flavorful.

Hummus comes super smooth and creamy with the perfect amount of garlic and tahini. Kebabs and falafel sandwiches feature generous portions of tahini that balance well with the meat and salad.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the hummus tasted homemade and was the yummiest I'd ever had."

"The hummus and tahini with chickpeas were so yummy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for food as everything is cooked fresh.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Happy hour specials are offered from 4-6pm on weekdays.

08
Georgie's Mediterranean Cuisine - Oceanside image 1

Cozy restaurant with a warm and welcoming atmosphere and soft music playing alongside a slideshow of Mediterranean scenes. Seating accommodates couples and groups with comfortable chairs and a clean, simple interior. The place fills up, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe.

Creamy texture stands out with the hummus served alongside dishes like chicken kebab and falafel plates. Spicy hummus adds a bold kick to meals, pairing well with sides like red cabbage salad and grape leaves.

Sauces include smooth tahini with a very flavorful profile, paired with garlic and chili options. The tahini stands out for its rich taste and creamy texture.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The hummus here is unbelievably silky and creamy."

"The tahini here is so flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant prepares everything fresh on the spot.

2

Expect a wait during busy lunch hours due to limited staff.

3

Parking can be difficult to find due to the restaurant's tucked-away location.

09
AMMATOLI image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large Mediterranean restaurant with tasteful decor inspired by family travels and authentic Middle Eastern music creates a fantastic ambiance. Outdoor seating includes a pet-friendly patio and a small market offers olive oil and spreads. Full bar features Lebanese wines and beers that complement the excellent food.

Tahini appears as a lemony dipping sauce that perfectly complements the falafel. It also features in a tahini salad and pairs well with the hummus side, adding rich flavor to the dishes.

People are saying

"The homemade pita bread here is fantastic and the best I've ever had."

"I loved the spicy hummus and the roasted beets hummus."

"The tahini on the chicken shawarma was tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at AMMATOLI is from 3 to 5 pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

There is a 2-hour free parking lot 2 minutes away.

10
Chick N Falafel image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious interior with a beautiful, clean design creates a cozy, family-like atmosphere. Board games and classic guitar music add a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The place feels casual yet well-organized, making it suitable for groups and special events.

Creamy hummus comes with fresh ingredients like bright purple cabbage and perfectly caramelized eggplant. It tastes homemade and pairs well with pita bread or falafel wraps.

Fresh salad comes with creamy tahini and tzatziki. Tahini sauce appears inside wraps instead of on the side. It pairs with shawarma, falafel, and garlic sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"The tahini here is delicious and amazing."

"The hummus here tastes homemade and is incredibly creamy."

Good to know

1

Kabob events happen every weekend, perfect for meat lovers.

2

Every Sunday, a special dish is offered that is popular among customers.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it accessible for most diners.

11
Carmel image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines modern elegance with Mediterranean charm through warm lighting and vibrant decor. Live music plays almost every night, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere suitable for groups and couples. Open kitchen seating offers a direct view of chefs at work, adding to the authentic dining experience.

Spicy hummus stands out with a bold kick and smooth texture. It pairs well with a crispy sesame Jerusalem bagel and appears alongside staples like schnitzel and kebabs.

Warm Moroccan bread comes with creamy tahini alongside matbucha and Syrian olives. The bread is crusty outside and soft inside or fluffy and perfectly salty.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"The hummus here is bold, vibrant, and truly insane."

"The warm Moroccan bread comes with tahini."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant gets booked quickly.

2

Happy hour offers a chance to try more of the menu at reduced prices.

3

Brunch is available on weekends with a great selection of dishes.

12
Dama Grill - Best Kebab & Shawarma image 1

Rotisserie meat fills the air with a spiced aroma that defines the space. Casual seating includes indoor and outdoor options with a family-run vibe that feels welcoming. The atmosphere blends clean comfort with lively, authentic energy.

Creamy texture and rich flavor define the hummus here. It pairs well with the chicken shawarma, creating a satisfying combination.

Garlic and tahini sauces add essential flavor to dishes. The falafel wrap includes tahini and harissa, with fries inside, making it a flavorful combo.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the chicken shawarma, is amazing."

"The chicken shawarma wraps are juicy, flavorful, and melt in your mouth."

"The hummus is smooth, rich, and perfectly tangy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:30 PM.

2

Expect wait times exceeding two hours during peak hours.

3

The menu is 100% halal.

13
Shawarma House image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant with clean, bright dining and shaded outdoor seating offers a warm, Mediterranean atmosphere that feels authentic and inviting. The vibe blends fast food convenience with a welcoming, family-like energy. The space balances neatness with a local, diner-style charm.

Creamy texture and rich flavor make the hummus stand out. It pairs well with beef kebab and comes alongside dishes like Baba Ghanoush and fresh salad.

Sauces include creamy tahini that adds a tangy touch and balances well with garlic and spicy options. Tahini pairs nicely with rice and hummus, enhancing overall flavor.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the shawarma, is unbelievably delicious."

"I thought the hummus was the best I ever had."

"The shawarma meat is so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

The family package is sufficient for a family of five, with leftovers.

2

For $55, you get 2 pounds of beef and chicken shawarma, rice, salad, and pita bread.

3

Credit card payments are accepted, but tips start at 20%.

14
Cali Kabob image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large dining area offers ample seating with USB ports on every table for charging devices. Atmosphere feels upbeat and positive but can be heavy with cooking smells inside. Drive-thru option adds convenience uncommon for Mediterranean spots.

Housemade hummus comes with garlic olive oil that enhances its flavor. The owner shares details on preparing both hummus and babaganoush. Pita served alongside is also very delicious.

Spicy tahini sauce and garlic sauce stand out as bold flavor options. Garlic spread adds a creamy contrast to grilled meats, offering more depth than plain tahini.

People are saying

"The hummus here is amazing, creamy, and warm."

"The drive-thru makes it so convenient, especially for moms on the go."

"The owners and staff here are super friendly."

Good to know

1

Cali Kabob has a convenient drive-thru for quick orders.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially for family packs that cost $10 less than competitors.

3

Happy hour offers discounted prices on select menu items.

15
Zankou Chicken Long Beach image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean fast food spot with cramped seating and a dim, grungy atmosphere. The space feels busy and loud, with outdoor seating available to escape the indoor crowding. Tables are tight, making movement difficult during peak times.

Creamy texture stands out in the hummus here. It pairs well with dishes like chicken kabobs, pita with garlic sauce, and sides such as taboulleh and grilled vegetables.

Tahini sauce plays a key role in meals here, often paired with garlic sauce. It sometimes replaces tzatziki sauce, which can change the expected flavor profile, especially with falafel.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I found the hummus to be really creamy and nicely done."

"I thought the tahini was the best Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be awkward at Zankou Chicken.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait for food during busy hours.

3

Lunch crowds are large, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

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