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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Sterling Heights' best

Authentic shawarma

Shawarma that stays true to its roots instead of catering to a watered-down version of the original.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
Al Nejoum Restaurant image 1
Al Nejoum Restaurant image 2
Al Nejoum Restaurant image 3
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Small space with a family-run atmosphere and clean, unpretentious setting offers generous portions of authentic Iraqi and Arabic cuisine. The vibe stays warm and welcoming, making it a comfortable spot for hearty meals. Shawarma and kabobs stand out for their perfect seasoning and tenderness.

Creamy hummus delivers authentic flavor with every bite. Generous portions of high-quality cuisine come in a comfortable, unpretentious setting.

Shawarma here stands out for its tender, flavorful chicken and rich, savory beef. Plates come with juicy meat and tasty sides like rice and harissa.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The Mediterranean food, especially the shawarma, is tender and flavorful."

"The shawarma here is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portions that can feed more than one person.

2

Prices for Arabic/Iraqi food are considered decent.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and sanitary environment.

02
Falafel and Amba restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Rustic decor and soft lighting create a warm, welcoming atmosphere with the smell of freshly fried falafel filling the air. The space feels cozy and family-oriented, inviting guests to relax as if at a kitchen table. It stands out for serving authentic Iraqi-style falafel that many consider the best in the area.

Falafel and Amba restaurant serves authentic Iraqi falafel with a sharp Amba that brings back childhood memories. The spot offers genuine Middle Eastern delicacies that stand out in the US.

Falafel and shawarma sandwiches taste exactly like home. Chicken shawarma is good but not exceptional compared to other places.

People are saying

"This falafel tastes just like home, especially the authentic Iraqi flavor."

"The falafel here is so authentic, with a crispy outside and soft inside."

"I found the shawarma sandwiches tasted just like home."

Good to know

1

The restaurant stays open 30 minutes past closing time.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

The sandwich costs $6, which some may find too much.

03
Alrafidyn Restaurant image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant with Babylonian murals and decor inspired by regional art creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Seating resembles a school cafeteria, offering a casual dining experience. The place draws people seeking authentic shawarma and generous portions at reasonable prices.

Middle Eastern breakfast and Iraqi dishes come out incredibly fresh and authentic. Beef and chicken shawarma stand out for their authentic flavors.

Beef and chicken shawarma come with tender meat that falls apart easily and a generous amount of ingredients. The sandwiches taste authentic and pair well with yellow rice and hummus.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The Middle Eastern breakfast here is so fresh and authentic."

"I found the shawarma sandwich to be excellent."

Good to know

1

The portions for the combo trays are suitable for 2-3 people, not 4.

2

Combo trays are priced under $50, making them affordable for families.

3

Carry-out menu pricing is cheaper than dining in.

04
Pattternz (Authentic Damas Gourmet) image 1

Small space with authentic Syrian decor creates a cozy, calming atmosphere reminiscent of a family home. The environment stays clean and comfortable with dim lighting enhancing the mood. Known for home-cooked Middle Eastern cuisine, it serves some of the best shawarma and falafel around.

Food features rich, authentic Syrian flavors made with care by a loving chef. Traditional dishes taste just like home with outstanding, genuine Damascus cuisine.

Chicken shawarma comes crispy on request and serves with salad, hummus, and pita bread. Beef shawarma sandwiches and lamb shawarma also appear, all paired well with tahini sauce and fresh Fattoush salad.

People are saying

"I found the Syrian food here to be the most delicious and authentic I've had in years."

"The ice cream here is authentic and crafted with care."

"I thought the chicken shawarma here was the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

A $3 service charge applies per person for dining in.

3

Expect high prices for menu items, especially sandwiches.

05
Sahara Mediterranean Grill & Catering | Shelby Township, MI image 1

Modern, bright interior with a cozy, inviting vibe and authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere. Loud music creates a lively energy, often making conversation difficult. Popular for flavorful shawarmas and fresh Mediterranean dishes, it attracts groups and families, blending casual hangout with dining.

Middle eastern dishes come with fresh flavors and well-prepared ingredients. The atmosphere matches the food, creating a truly authentic experience.

Beef and chicken shawarmas stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Chicken shawarma comes in a pita sandwich that holds up well and tastes great.

People are saying

"The chicken shawarma here is amazing, so tender and flavorful."

"The chicken shawarma here is amazing, especially with the fresh bread and garlic sauce."

"The food here is so fresh and tasted truly authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a beautiful banquet room for events.

2

Expect large portions for a decent price.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including modern bathrooms.

06
Saj Alreef Restaurant image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers an elegant interior with bright lighting and tasteful decoration. The atmosphere feels lively and warm, enhanced by Arabic music and interactive tea preparation shows. Tables are arranged closely, creating a crowded but vibrant setting.

Food offers authentic Iraqi and Middle Eastern flavors with fresh ingredients. Dishes taste like homemade cooking and come with top-notch service.

Chicken shawarma stands out with its authentic flavor and is often considered the best in town. The shawarma platter pairs well with a mixed appetizer featuring hummus, baba ganoush, and fattosh.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentically prepared."

"The food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"This shawarma is fresh, flavorful, and seasoned to perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on New Yearโ€™s Eve, with delays of 1-2 hours.

2

The restaurant specializes in authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.

3

Cleanliness issues have been reported, including flies and ungloved kitchen staff.

07
Zarzoor Restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a beautiful, classy interior with comfortable seating and a quiet, friendly atmosphere. Staff perform a tea-serving ritual with tricks and song, adding a unique cultural touch. The space includes a banquet room for larger gatherings, enhancing its appeal for special occasions.

Food features authentic Iraqi and Mediterranean dishes like dolma, hummus, and tabbouleh. The setting includes traditional Iraqi touches that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Beef shawarma sandwich in Iraqi bread stands out as exceptionally flavorful. The tashreeb shawarma and meat shawarma (Gus) also deliver strong, satisfying tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing with wonderful flavors."

"Matthew made us a custom tray with delicious beef/chicken shawarma."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

The restaurant offers complimentary desserts for birthday celebrations.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during special events like birthdays.

08
Baghdad Restaurant image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant with authentic Iraqi decor featuring old pictures of Baghdad creates a family-friendly, comfortable atmosphere. Staff offer kind, welcoming service that enhances the clean, recently remodeled space. Open late until 2 AM, it serves notably good shawarma and burgers at reasonable prices.

Very authentic Iraqi food with genuine flavors and warm hospitality. The service and owners focus on delivering a true taste of Iraq.

Meat shawarma stands out for its flavor and value. Chicken, beef, and kebab shawarmas come with rice Makloob and offer a delicious and inexpensive meal option.

People are saying

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

"I thought their meat shawarma was the best in town."

"I found the authentic Middle Eastern food to be delicious with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Baghdad Restaurant closes at 2 AM every day.

2

It is the only restaurant open until 2 AM in the area.

3

Expect to pay around $72 for two chicken dishes, three beef dishes, and three kebabs.

09
Kabob Hut image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Small dining area with about six tables and booths creates a casual, family vibe. Atmosphere feels welcoming and clean, supporting a busy, staple spot energy. Known for large portions and bold Middle Eastern flavors that offer great value.

Fresh falafel and hummus showcase authentic Middle Eastern flavors. Mediterranean dishes come out quick and affordable with a focus on stellar quality and service.

Chicken and beef shawarma come freshly cooked with a strong grill smoke flavor. The sandwiches and platters offer generous portions and pair well with garlic sauce, salad, and rice.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's shawarma sandwich is tasty and filling."

"The falafel and hummus here taste so fresh and authentic."

"This Shawarma is fantastically filling and a great value."

Good to know

1

The portions are very large, perfect for sharing or leftovers.

2

Pricing is reasonable for the amount of food provided.

3

Takeout orders are accepted, and dining in is available.

10
Ishtar Restaurant image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant with ancient Babylonian decor and authentic Iraqi ambiance creates a cultural dining experience. Live music and interactive tea service add lively and unique touches to the atmosphere. Seating is close together, contributing to a busy and energetic environment.

Flavors stay true to traditional Iraqi and Middle Eastern recipes with high-quality ingredients. Warm hospitality pairs well with authentic Mediterranean tastes that feel genuine and satisfying.

Chicken and beef shawarmas stand out with rich flavors and tender meat. The shawarma is affordable and pairs well with warm saj bread and hummus.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"I loved the authentic Iraqi food; it was so flavorful."

"I found the shawarma here to be absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

They host a tea show regularly, check the schedule for dates.

2

80% of the menu is often unavailable, plan your choices accordingly.

3

Expect high prices; dinner for eight can cost nearly $600.

11
Al Masgoof Grill image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Iraqi food with fresh grilled fish and live music creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Bright, clean, and elegantly decorated space feels cozy and welcoming for families or solo diners. Energy varies from calm to lively with occasional loud performances.

Offers authentic Iraqi food with flavors similar to eating at home. Serves genuine Middle Eastern cuisine that stands out for its traditional taste.

Beef shawarma stands out with its warm bread and rich flavor, often paired with beef kabob. Chicken shawarma tends to be drier compared to the beef options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tastes so fresh."

"The grilled fish here is amazing, truly the best I've had."

"I found the chicken Shawarma to be the most delicious food here."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays and Sundays, they have music and entertainment at no charge.

2

Free parking is available for all guests.

3

Expect a 40-minute wait for fish preparation.

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