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Tahini Mediterranean food in California

The distinct, toasted profile of tahini is the essential backbone of a proper Mediterranean meal.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Arais Machane Yehuda LA image 1
Arais Machane Yehuda LA image 2
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Kosher restaurant

Small kosher restaurant with vibrant Jerusalem market dรฉcor and indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, upbeat atmosphere. Energetic music and a lively DJ contribute to friendly, inviting vibes. The space fills quickly, reflecting its popularity and intimate setting.

Creamy hummus comes topped with silky tahini that adds a smooth, rich texture. Velvety tahini complements fresh salads and traditional Israeli dishes, creating a balanced, flavorful experience.

Menu features spicy shakshuka, creamy hummus with tahini, and mouthwatering grilled meats seasoned with authentic spices. Fresh tabbouleh and vibrant salads add bright, tangy flavors to the traditional Israeli dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The Mediterranean food here is delicious and packed with bold, savory goodness."

"The lamb arais paired amazingly with the tahini."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is kosher certified, ensuring compliance with dietary laws.

2

Parking is available nearby, making access convenient for visitors.

3

Expect fair prices for large portion sizes of appetizers and sides.

02
Rotana Elsham Shawarma image 1
Shawarma restaurant

Food truck with an awning and about six tables creates a small, semi-private dining area under a tent. Atmosphere feels clean and comfortable with a simple setup near the truck. Known for authentic, high-quality shawarma with mindful prices and late-night hours.

Beef wraps come with tahini sauce that matches Middle Eastern styles, paired with onions and pickles. Shawarma gets extra tahini and garlic, and tahini with fermented veggies is available on the side.

Shawarma here stands out for its authentic Syrian flavor and perfectly toasted wraps. Both chicken and beef options deliver high quality and generous portions at low prices.

People are saying

"I found the beef shawarma here to be authentic and delicious."

"This Mediterranean food, especially the shawarma, is authentic and delicious."

"The tahini here is so delicious, I loved its juiciness."

Good to know

1

They open at 6 pm and operate late at night.

2

Prices for shawarma start at $20 for two shawarmas and fries.

3

The parking lot is sketchy but indicates good food.

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.

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

Falafel stands out with its herb-packed green color, soft and moist inside, and crispy outside texture. Wraps like the shawerma, shish kebab, and Jordanian feature tender chicken and plenty of vegetables, paired with creamy tahini and smooth hummus.

People are saying

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

"The Mediterranean food's falafel is crunchy outside and moist inside."

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

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
Tasa2Go image 1
Egyptian restaurant

Small restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers a cozy, authentic Egyptian atmosphere filled with Egyptian music and freshly baked baladi bread. Games and activities keep families and groups entertained while dining. The space feels like a hidden spot with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and thoughtful Egyptian decor.

Tahini sauce comes on the side and pairs perfectly with the dishes. It is freshly made along with garlic sauce, torchy, and pickled turnips, all tasting delicious.

Variety of Egyptian delicacies like hawashi, liver, tarb, brain, sojouk, and kebab fills the menu. Shawarma tastes like authentic street food in Cairo, matching flavors found in Egypt.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and delicious, it feels like home."

"The Mediterranean food here feels like family, thanks to the owner's warm welcome."

"The owner Remon was so welcoming and helpful explaining the Tahini dishes."

Good to know

1

Tasa2Go is located behind Cafe Cultura on Orangethorpe and Euclid.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant.

05
Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food image 1

Middle Eastern restaurant offers casual, authentic atmosphere with cool lantern decorations and ample indoor and outdoor seating. Lighting creates a comfortable, inviting vibe that complements the charming decor. The place draws those seeking fresh, well-seasoned street food with standout items like falafel and shawarma.

Tahini here is consistently on point with fresh, flavorful servings. The tahini fries stand out as a favorite, complementing the delicious bread perfectly.

Falafels have a crisp exterior and soft center with a fresh herbaceous flavor. Beef shawarma stands out as well seasoned and tender, matching the quality of the chicken shawarma. Bread, sauces, and vegetables are made fresh and complement the dishes well.

People are saying

"This Middle Eastern food is the freshest I've ever had."

"The chicken shawarma with cilantro tahini was fantastic."

"I thought the Mediterranean food here was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, making it easy for walk-in customers.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including pita and bowls.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere suitable for both lunch and dinner.

06
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.

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.

Falafel stands out as the best falafel ever tasted, with a falafel sandwich that impresses deeply. The menu also features Ribeye hummus that ranks highly among Middle Eastern dishes.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Mediterranean food here was the best falafel I've had in years."

"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.

07
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.

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.

Shawarma here is perfectly seasoned and considered the real deal with generous portions. Kebabs come simply seasoned with salt and pepper, letting their natural taste shine, and sides like hummus, mutabal, and tabouleh complement the meal well.

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.

08
Fanoos image 1
Shawarma restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and street-facing counter creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, enhanced by psychedelic music and charming tile work. Known for authentic shawarma and generous portions, it blends casual dining with high-quality food.

Falafel comes with a vegan tahini sauce that stands out. The Thoom and Tahini Tarator Sauce offers good flavor, while the tahini and garlic aioli sauces lack depth.

Falafel here is hot, fresh, and crispy, often called the best in the area. Chicken shawarma offers generous portions with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors, matching authentic tastes from Turkey.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"I found the Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, to be the best I'd ever had."

"The chicken shawarma's tahini sauce is delicious."

Good to know

1

Vegan customers should verify the ingredients of the white sauce.

2

All meals at Fanoos are halal.

3

Fanoos is open until midnight.

09
Sincerely Syria (Pasadena) image 1

Syrian restaurant offers a casual and authentic atmosphere with comfortable couches and basic decor. The space feels clean and organized, though lighting and music levels may be bright and loud for some. The menu is curated and focused, emphasizing quality and traditional flavors.

Toasted bread comes with rich tahini and garlic sauces. Plates include fries, pickles, and a generous serving of tahini that complements the shawarma well.

Shawarma here stands out for its authenticity and next-level delicious flavor. Bread gets dipped in fat and crisped, adding a fresh, warm touch that enhances the chicken shawarma experience.

People are saying

"I had the best shawarma I've ever tasted."

"The tahini sauce here is amazing with the shawarma."

"It's a nice, chill spot with authentic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient with a building directly across the road.

2

The restaurant offers a curated menu with fewer than five items.

3

Expect quick service; food is made and served promptly.

10
Kimo Shawarma image 1
Shawarma restaurant

Shawarma restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with authentic Middle Eastern music creating a warm and inviting vibe. Seating is available both inside and outside, providing a comfortable dining experience. The place is known for serving some of the best shawarma in Southern California.

Creamy tahini sauce appears on the pita loaded with fresh vegetables and pickles. Shawarma comes with tahini and garlic dip, and the Friday beef special includes extra toppings like tahini.

Shawarma here stands out with its rich flavor and perfectly cooked chicken. It consistently delivers a top-tier Mediterranean taste that many find unmatched.

People are saying

"I thought the Mediterranean food here was the best I've ever had."

"These shawarma wraps are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled."

"The shawarma wrap is loaded with creamy tahini sauce and fresh vegetables."

Good to know

1

Beef shawarma is available only on Fridays at Kimo Shawarma.

2

The restaurant is open from 5:30 PM to 2 AM; arrive early to avoid selling out.

3

Expect a long wait if you arrive late on Fridays for the beef shawarma.

11
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.

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.

Chicken shawarma comes out juicy and bursting with taste. Falafel is crispy outside and soft inside, paired with warm, fluffy pita. Meals include fresh salad with creamy tahini and tzatziki.

People are saying

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

"The Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, is the best I've ever tasted."

"The tahini here is delicious and amazing."

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.

12
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 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.

Falafel, hummus, and pita stand out as highlights here. Plates like falafel laffa and chicken shawarma offer solid Mediterranean flavors at low prices.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be authentic and amazing."

"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.

13
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.

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.

Falafel stands out with its crispy outside and moist inside, packed with herbs. Fresh Israeli chopped salad and creamy hummus complement grilled meats like chicken shawarma and beef kebab well.

People are saying

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

"The Mediterranean food here is awesome, especially the falafel."

"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.

14
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.

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.

Plates feature authentic Mediterranean flavors with standout dishes like chicken kebab and falafel. Sides such as spicy hummus and red cabbage salad complement the meals well.

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.

15
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.

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

Shawarma stands out as the best in LA with both beef and chicken options. The chicken wrap with fries is a popular choice, showcasing top-quality Mediterranean flavors.

People are saying

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

"I found the shawarma here to be smoky and incredibly authentic."

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

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.

16
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.

Offers top-tier Mediterranean food with a focus on authentic flavors. The dishes deliver a great atmosphere that complements the cuisine well.

People are saying

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

"The mint lemonade here is impressively delicious and fresh."

"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.

17
Sincerely Syria (Sherman Oaks) image 1

Syrian restaurant offers authentic shawarma with a cozy, low-key atmosphere and friendly, warm vibes. Traditional music plays softly, creating an inviting setting that feels genuine and sincere. The space includes a nice front patio, enhancing the relaxed experience.

Tahini sauce adds a juicy, rich flavor that enhances the gyro bites and chicken wrap. It blends well with garlic sauce and hot sauce, making each bite perfectly balanced and worth asking for extra.

Shawarma here stands out for its authentic taste and top notch meat that rivals famous Middle Eastern spots. The flavor and quality make it a standout in the area.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is the best shawarma I've ever tasted."

"You'll want to ask for extra tahini sauce; it's worth going back for."

"The Chicken Shawarma here is authentic, just like in Arab countries."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially during peak hours.

2

Prices are reasonable with generous portion sizes.

3

They charge extra for sauces that typically come with dishes.

18
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.

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.

Shakshuka stands out with its rich, bold flavors paired with grilled challah. The spicy hummus comes with a crispy sesame Jerusalem bagel, and the shawarma offers tender, flavorful bites.

People are saying

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

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, creative, and unbelievably delicious."

"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.

19
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.

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

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

People are saying

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

"The Mediterranean food here is served by the friendliest, hardest-working staff."

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

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.

20
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.

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.

Shawarma here features tender, juicy beef and crispy, well-spiced falafel. Plates come with generous pickles and a great mix of chicken and rice, plus standout hummus.

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%.

21
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.

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.

Shawarma and kebobs stand out with fresh flavors and solid preparation. Housemade hummus and babaganoush come with garlic olive oil, adding rich depth to the dishes.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"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.

22
Sincerely Syria (Hollywood) image 1

Small hole-in-the-wall spot offers sidewalk seating with views of nearby landmarks. Atmosphere includes traditional Syrian sounds and a strong aroma that fills the air. Known for authentic shawarma, it attracts those seeking genuine Syrian flavors in a casual, open setting.

Homemade tahini serves as a great dipping sauce and appears inside wraps with fresh beef. Some dishes come with tahini both inside and on the side, though alternatives like fluffy white sauce or garlic sauce are also options.

Shawarma here tastes just like the ones from old Damascus and Beirut, offering authentic flavor that matches street-style originals. Both the beef and chicken shawarma are rich, succulent, and flavorful without being too heavy.

People are saying

"I thought the shawarma here was the best I'd ever eaten."

"The food here is authentic and really tasty."

"They put fresh beef and tahini on the bread."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is 100% halal, making it suitable for halal diets.

2

Cash is required for payment as the credit card machine often malfunctions.

3

Parking can be challenging due to its location on Hollywood Blvd.

23
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.

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.

Falafel stands out with a perfectly crunchy exterior and flavorful inside, unmatched in quality. The shawarma and chicken kebabs are juicy and delicious, especially the tri-tip shawarma plate. Tabbouleh salad and hummus with pita and garlic sauce also complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I thought the Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, was the best in town."

"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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