Los Angeles is known for its diverse culinary scene, and falafel is no exception. This Middle Eastern dish has gained popularity all over the world, and LA has some of the best places to try it.
Whether you're a vegan or a meat lover, there is a falafel for you in LA. From food trucks to sit-down restaurants, the city has a wide range of options when it comes to this delicious dish.
Falafel is made of ground chickpeas, fava beans, or a combination of both, mixed with herbs and spices, then shaped into balls or patties, and deep-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
It's often served in a pita bread with vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles. Some places also offer falafel bowls or salads for a healthier option.
While falafel is a staple dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, LA's falafel scene has been influenced by other cultures as well. You can find fusion falafel with Mexican, Korean, or even Jewish twists.
No matter what your taste buds desire, you're sure to find something to satisfy your falafel cravings in LA. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places for falafel in the city, from classic to innovative options.
1. Ta-Eem Grill, Inc
Ta-Eem Grill, Inc is a Mediterranean and glatt kosher restaurant that offers delicious falafel and shawarma dishes for dine-in and delivery.
The restaurant has a great selection of healthy drink options and the service is friendly and professional.
The chicken schnitzel is a must-try dish and the baklava is amazing. The pricing is more than fair and you get a full plate of food.
The seating area is clean and the restaurant takes all necessary precautions for Covid-19. If you're looking for authentic Israeli food, Ta-Eem Grill, Inc is the place to go.
2. Joe's Falafel
Joe's Falafel is a must-visit spot for Mediterranean food lovers. This quick-service eatery offers a range of dishes, including falafel, kebabs, and many vegetarian options.
The food is consistently great and the staff is warm and welcoming. The owner is passionate about the food he serves and makes fresh bread right in front of you.
The hummus is creamy, and the felafel is spicy and delicious. The laffa bread is made to order, and the gyro on laffa bread is a personal favorite.
The lemon chicken plate is a must-try. The restaurant is a great value, and the service is excellent. If you are in the area, you should definitely give Joe's Falafel a try.
3. Mizlala West Adams
Mizlala West Adams is a must-try place for falafel lovers.
This Mediterranean and Israeli restaurant offers fresh and delicious food with amazing flavors. The menu is simple but everything is worth having.
The outdoor patio is peaceful and inviting, with fire pits and olive trees. The service is friendly and helpful.
Mizlala West Adams is a great casual dining experience for those who appreciate good quality food.
4. Al Basch Chicken
Al Basch Chicken is a great spot for Mediterranean food. The falafel and hummus are particularly delicious.
The employees are friendly and welcoming, and the owner clearly cares about the quality of the food. The mixed platter and chicken kebab are also highly recommended.
Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but delivery options are available. The restaurant is informal and counter-serve, but the food is anything but basic.
If you're in the mood for some tasty Mediterranean fare, Al Basch Chicken is definitely worth a visit.
5. Anwar's Kitchen
Anwar's Kitchen offers authentic Palestinian cuisine with a modern twist.
Their shawarma and falafels are a must-try, especially the Anwar style. The food is freshly made, and the prices are reasonable.
The restaurant is clean, with indoor and outdoor seating. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the service is fast.
Highly recommended for a casual hangout for Mediterranean eats.
6. Falafel Arax
Falafel Arax is a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves authentic Lebanese, Armenian, and Mediterranean cuisine.
The restaurant is a hidden gem in the neighborhood, and the food is exceptional. They offer a variety of dishes, such as falafel, shawarma, kebab, sandwiches, and combo plates.
The falafel is some of the best that can be found since the owners come from a famous falafel stand in Beirut, Lebanon. The staff is very friendly and provides excellent service. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
The restaurant is perfect for take-out, and they offer free parking for customers. If you are in the mood for some delicious Mediterranean food, Falafel Arax is the perfect place to go.
7. X'tiosu Kitchen
X'tiosu Kitchen is a must-visit for falafel lovers.
This Mediterranean and taco restaurant offers a fusion of Middle Eastern and Oaxacan flavors that are truly unique.
The falafel is tender inside and perfectly crisp on the outside, while the fried cauliflower with lemony sauce is a fan favorite.
The service is friendly and the prices are reasonable. This small, window-serve venue is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out for an unforgettable meal.
8. Sidewalk Grill
Sidewalk Grill is a great spot for Mediterranean food. The falafel is a must-try, as it is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The service is friendly, and the ambiance is laid back.
The outdoor patio is a nice touch, and the indoor space is decorated with plants and lanterns.
Keep in mind that parking can be challenging during peak hours. In addition to falafel, Sidewalk Grill also offers kebabs, salads, and sandwiches.
9. Dune Downtown
Looking for the best falafel in town, Dune Downtown is the place to be. This Mediterranean restaurant offers top-notch falafel that's better than most other places.
The falafel sandwich is a must-try, with a generous portion that's easily shareable. The fresh herbs and mint give it a unique flavor that sets it apart from other falafel sandwiches.
The staff is friendly and provides great service, although it can be slow at times due to busy online orders.
Despite the limited seating, the atmosphere is cozy and efficient. If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal, Dune Downtown is worth a visit.
10. Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown LA
Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown LA is a casual Mediterranean-Italian cafe that serves delicious falafel.
The food is all made fresh from scratch and the portions are generous. The meat is tastefully seasoned and grilled to perfection.
The prices are reasonable and definitely worth it. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is kind.
It's a great place for a quick bite or a family dinner. Highly recommended for anyone who loves Mediterranean food.
11. Mirage Grill
Mirage Grill is a Middle Eastern restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes including falafel, shawarma, and kebabs.
The food is reasonably priced and delicious, with homemade hummus and garlic sauce being some of the standout items.
The service is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place for a casual meal. The restaurant also offers take-out options for those who want to enjoy their food at home.
Mirage Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
12. Hollywood Shawarma
Hollywood Shawarma is a bustling take-out spot that serves authentic Middle Eastern street eats.
The menu features chicken, beef, and lamb wraps, as well as falafel and hummus.
The friendly crew provides great service and the place is open late.
The authentic Syrian shawarma is a must-try and the garlic sauce is beyond imagination. For shawarma lovers, this place is a must-visit.
13. RoRo's Chicken
RoRo's Chicken is a Lebanese restaurant that serves up some of the best falafel in town. The falafel is made from scratch, and it's light and airy with a perfect texture.
The chicken roasted on a spit is also a must-try, and the shawarma sandwiches are highly recommended.
The service is friendly and quick, and the prices are reasonable.
If you're looking for authentic Lebanese food in a humble setting, RoRo's Chicken is definitely worth a visit.
