the food wasn't bad but I feel like the portion is kinda small for about $27 dollars, it was my first time and the wait wasn't too long or too short but I suppose they make the food fresh so I didn't mind. maybe it's cus I got it to go but next time I'll just stick to the chicken plate if that means more protein, maybe bc the area has older people so these type of portions suit them read more

Baladi - steak plate no salad extra rice and homemade pita - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

The best Mediterranean food in Riverside. Their Knafeh in particular is an absolute treat and worth the drive! Seems to be run by a wonderful family that's always helpful and while small there's a nice lil patio on the outside. Overall the best Mediterranean food this side of Riverside! read more

The fluffy square bread and hummus is amazing. The chicken kabob plate was really good too. I will definitely be going back.

We found this place on Yelp and decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad we did! My husband and I both ordered the chicken and beef plate with the upgraded homemade bread, which is made fresh by the owners. I can honestly say this is one of the best Mediterranean restaurants I've ever tried. The meat was incredibly tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. The salad was fresh and topped with a delicious pomegranate dressing that was absolutely amazing and unlike anything I've had before. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. The owner deserves special recognition for being so friendly, attentive, and genuinely hospitable. You can tell they truly care about their customers and the quality of their food. If you're ever in the area and craving Mediterranean food, do yourself a favor and stop by. You won't be disappointed! Highly recommended, and we'll definitely be back. read more

See all

I am OBSESSED with their falafel and homemade pita. Sooo good! Got the kufta plate. Portion was good enough for 2 meals. Unfortunately the rice I got was beyond salty. We were some of the last guests of the day, so maybe that's why? Will be back to try other dishes for sure though. Owners were so nice and polite too. read more

Baladi - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

We got 3 beef shawarma wraps, and they were really good. It seems that they also make the garlic paste in house, it was different but in a good way! The owner came out to talk to us and made sure everything was taken care of before we left, they provided great customers service. I loved the declarations and the ambiance of the place, it was clean and very cultured. I can't wait to go back and try the variety of items on their menu. Will be back when I'm in the area! read more

Didn't know this place existed until I searched Yelp and thank god I did! We usually go to OC or Panini for some good food and this place hit the spot! Clean place and the staff are so friendly. Even gave us a homemade pita which we loved! Ordered the 3 Kufta Kebab plates and the steak ribeye plate! The Kufta kebab was delicious as well as the steaks (didn't get a pic of it) wish got more of the steak ribeye though for the price. The salad was delicious and the hummus (let me tell you that I am not fond of hummus) but their hummus was so good. Definitely would go back for it. Also decided to try the Knafeh cheese cake (first time trying it too) and I actually liked it! So glad it's close by so we don't need to drive far. We'll be back real soon! read more

Baladi - Knafeh Cheese Cake - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

See all

Family was feeling pretty hungry and we saw that they opened up where the old cafe stood. We ordered the family meal, and falafels. The family meal came with sodas, 3 types of meats (of your choosing), rice, hummus, pita, and toum. The meats we grabbed were the chicken, kufta, and beef. They were all tender, seasoned, fresh, and the rice was spiced and that helped cut through all the meat. The hummus, toum, and pita were great, but there was not as much as we'd like. The falafels were good. The service was good, they almost forgot the falafels but were super quick in fixing the problem. Id stop by again read more

Baladi - Family Meal + Falafels - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

This place is 100% delicious! We got here close to closing and they were out of kebabs, but they had a wings special that I ended up getting. The wings were some of the best I ever had. In addition to the wings, we got hummus with pita bread, fatayer, and the falafel bowl. The portions were a nice size and the food was heavenly. The staff were so friendly and accommodating to us. We felt special and will be making Baladi a weekly stop on our dining rotation. read more

Baladi - Falafel Bowl - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

The service is very kind and accommodating. Even though they only have beef and chicken for meat options, the quality of their meat is high quality. Im very glad that there is a place near by for high quality mediterranean food. My boyfriend and i were obsessed with the pita bread and hummus. read more

Baladi - Beef Kebab Plate - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

See all

As advertised! My GF had the falafel bowl, I had the schwarma wrap for lunch. A nice treat on their outdoor seating area on a sunny day after a day of shopping. Fast ... polite ... clean! Will go again! read more

I just came in this morning to have Falafel wrap and 2 Spinach Fatayer for breakfast, they're absolutely delicious , amazing service,, hospitality and food Love the vibes and the culture. Thank you Will definitely coming back soon. read more

I've been waiting for a new local Mediterranean place to open, so when I saw that Saturday would be opening day, I made sure to get there and try them out. I am so glad I did. What an amazing new restaurant. I ordered the falafel plate with hummus, salad and fries to go and shared it at home with my friend Jessica. I instantly regretted sharing. We had to fight over the last falafel. We devoured all the fries on the way home. It was pandemonium, lol. While we were waiting on our order, I noticed they had fried kibbeh. I've only had raw kibbeh before which I like, so I thought having it fried would be interesting. It was amazing. The blend of spices was so complex and having it fried definitely intensified the flavor you normally get in raw kibbeh. It was so incredible I'm rushing to write this review so I can rush back up there and and get some more. I already ate so I'm not even hungry, but I think I might be starting to develop an addiction to those things, but I'm just going to let it happen. I never eat in restaurants because I like to watch TV when I eat, but the woman that brought them out for me was just so lovely and kind, she reminded me of my mom bringing food for me, I really wanted to stay. So please, if you're thinking of trying this place, absolutely do it. We're always asking for nice, non-chain places to eat in our community, and this is definitely that place. I couldn't recommend it more. read more

Baladi - Falafel plate. Sorry for the bad picture, it's much less blurry in person. Several fries were already eaten. - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

See all

We checked out this new spot the week they opened and I wasn't very impressed . I really want to support local businesses, but I think they should have waited to open when they were really ready and offered all the items on the menu. Meat was a little dry and naan bread wasn't as good as I have had. I want to give them another shot in a few weeks and hope things improve. read more

See all

The food taste is okay, but nothing makes me want to return, especially considering the small portion of beef. This cost of the plate was almost $30. Totally not worth it. read more

Baladi - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

As a Middle Eastern native who has enjoyed Arabic cuisine across the U.S., I can say without hesitation that Baladi is the best in the area. Every dish, from the perfectly spiced kebabs to the creamy hummus is authentic and masterfully crafted. And the customer service is second to none warm, attentive, and truly the best I've experienced. Baladi is a gem I'll keep coming back to. read more

See all

Delicious Palestinian food for the area! I tried the kufta beef kabab plate (~$19) with fries which comes with 2 sides, fresh salad & hummus. Hummus tasted so good! The garnish was a little different to me. Fries were addictive -- the oils used are excellent. The kufta kababs were great as well, not too juicy or dry. I paired the hummus with the cheese fatayer ($3)! I only wish the shawarma were available for lunch on the weekday I went. No chicken or beef shawarma. Also, the spinach fatayer was sold out. I chose the regular pita bread, but there is homemade pita for $1.50 more I think. Pricey in general, but they are still a fairly new place. Would like to come back and try their shawarma, garlic sauce, spinach fatayer and rice! read more

Baladi - Kufta beef kabab plate with fries and cheese fatayer - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

The Chicken Kabob was moist and flavorful. I will be back again for sure. I also had the Baklava which was different than any I have ever had before. I am used to baklava being very very sweet this one was not. read more

See all

We had such a wonderful experience at Baladi! From the moment we walked in, you could tell it's a family-owned spot--everyone was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The restaurant is spotless and very well-kept. As for the food? Wow! Delicious is an understatement. We tried the beef and chicken kabob plates alongside the shawarma wraps, and everything was seasoned and cooked to perfection. The family even came over to check on us during our meal, which was such a nice, personal touch. We will definitely be back! read more

Baladi - Shawarma wrap - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

See all

The best middle eastern food in the IE. Whenever it's my first time anywhere I like to order a little bit of everything. It was all delicious. The shawarma sandwiches were juicy and full of meat. Kabob was flavorful. OMG the Falafel is hot and fresh so good I ordered more! We found out they even had fresh knafeh before we left and had to order it and it was perfect!!!! Leena was such an amazing host and ensured we were taken care of and food met our expectations. They truly care about their customers and food. read more

Best Mediterranean food in Riverside! We ordered the 2 chicken kabob plate and it was plenty for my husband and I to share. The chicken was cooked perfectly! The hummus was delicious and the rice so flavorful! The salad that came with the meal had the best vinaigrette too! We ordered the homemade pita and it was the best we've had! We finished our meal with an order of baklava which was perfect! The service was excellent! We ate our meal on their outdoor patio! They had really comfortable chairs! The owners came out to check on us after the meal which was really nice! We will definitely be coming back here soon and bringing our friends and family. Next time I'll take pictures read more

One of the best kebab spots in Riverside. The food was flavorful and perfectly cooked, the service was excellent, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. Highly recommended for anyone looking for great Mediterranean cuisine. read more

See all

The hummus and garlic dip here is the best I have ever had!!! The chicken kabob was soooo good!! The owner was so nice. read more

Baladi - Kabob plate - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

Came out from the Galaxy Theaters Mission Grove and noticed a new signage up on the wall where the French restaurant used to be on the corner of the plaza. Was getting hungry and swung by this place since my husband and I enjoy Mediterranean food. The restaurant is family owned. Greeted by a young boy. We ordered their mix grilled combo plate, falafel plate, and their housemade knafeh cheesecake. Food is cooked upon order. Three different types of skewers came in the mixed plate (kufta, steak, and chicken) along with three sides (hummus, salad, and a choice of rice or fries). We opted for the rice. The minced meat of the kufta was so juicy and tender. So far the best I have had in IE area. Perfectly mixed with spices/herbs, and grilled just the way we like it. The steak and chicken were cooked perfectly too. No dryness at all. As for the flavor chicken was lacking a tiny bit; it could use more seasoning. The falafel plate comes with 6 falafels with same sides and a pita bread. The falafels are slightly thick in texture but plenty of crunchiness on the outside and light and fluffy inside. As for the pita bread I don't think it's housemade. It tasted more like the generic ones, dry and flat. No softness or fluffiness. The knafeh cheesecake was to die for. Creamy yet not too thick. Light in texture, very smooth, and very satisifying to end the meal. We would definitely get the cheesecake again! The shawarma is not avaliable yet but will be soon! Plan on coming back to try the shawarmas and another housemade dessert. read more

See all

Stopped by after a dental appointment since the reviews were so great and was NOT disappointed. Food was freshly made, chicken and rice cooked to perfection. The hummus and pita bread were delicious. Even the salad that's included with the kabob plate was good. Had some pickles on the side. *chefs kiss* Customer service was A1. Will definitely come back if in the area again. Thank you ! read more

The food was delicious when I got home and ate it about 3hrs later. I can't wait to go back and eat at the restaurant fresh from the kitchen. They did take a long time to bring our chicken and beef kabob plates. We waited a half hour. I didn't have time to eat before the movie next door started. But like I said it was delicious when I got home. The use of charcoal gets two big thumbs up. The place is clean and the family that runs the place is very friendly. They were apologetic for the long wait and offered us some home made baklava. Soooo good. And the kind woman who made that also made the house made pita. Pay the extra and get the house made pita. Went well with the hummus. I will be back and I won't be in such a rush next time. Thank you Baladi. read more

I had three kebab mixed meal. All three meats were really good. The meat was seasoned perfectly and it was also very juicy. I particularly like the hummus. It had really great flavor. They give you a free side of garlic sauce and tahini. I also tried their cheesecake which was really good and fresh and not too sweet. Service was quick. The ambience is simple, but it looks really nice. I'm surprised this place isn't more busy considering how good the food is. I would definitely go back here again. I would love to try their coffee. read more

Baladi - Sorry I eat all my food it was so good - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

Top notch service, delicious food! I ordered the chicken kebab plate and it came with all the fixings. I even ordered some homemade pita bread on the side with a side of garlic sauce. All of it was so scrumptious! The place is newly opened and seems to be ran by a cute and kind family. I felt at home, and like they were my family members who constantly checked on me, trying to feed me. Even the young son working was attentive & cared about my experience. I also got a double serving of hummus- which looked and tasted homemade & fresh & was exactly what I was craving when I searched up Mediterranean spots in the area. Let me just say the 25 mn drive to the place was worth it- so if you live nearby MAKE SURE TO TRY THEM OUT! I'll be back, so maybe I'll see you there. PIC I ATTACHED: Includes the Chicken Kebab Plate, with the thick homemade pita bread. (The other is thinner and not as delicious as the homemade option- so just get that one). Didn't get a pick of the garlic sauce but it was tasty too. Enjoy! read more

Baladi - Chicken Kebab Plate, with the thick homemade pita bread. - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

ABSOLUTELY BLOWN AWAY WITH THIS PLACE ! Was a little scared to try because I had never tried Mediterranean food but man was it so good I highly recommend you coming here ! The owner was actually so nice and helpful with what to try first so she was very helpful on what to try ! Thank you so much for a really great experience and great food I WILL be coming back again. read more

Baladi - Chicken skewer plate - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

Everyone's taste, experience and expectations differ I suppose. Here's mine; This is a new business and I wish them well, but the food served was "just ok". The kabob plate with 3 skewers fell short in almost every way. There wasnt enough meat(for the price), the rice was not fresh or hot, and the salad was well just a salad. It didn't come with garlic sauce or tahini, I had to ask for that. The chicken wrap at first glance looked like just plain pita bread, once opened it had 3-4 pieces of chicken that were not seasoned well and felt dry and flavorless. I'll post the receipt so you can see what we paid. Nowadays everything is relatively expensive but for the amount of food, the taste, I felt there was no value related to the price. Our belief is charge whatever you want BUT make it worth our time. This particular location/building has seen a lot of businesses come and go. In my opinion, your main goal in a business should be "how do I get repeat customers" before anything else. The shawarma thing wasn't ready yet so I may be back to try that, but as i mentioned earlier the taste/value wasn't there so I most likely wont be a repeat customer. Lastly, there is a lot of competition in Riverside for this type of "kabob/rice/shawarma" type food like Georgie's, Elias Pita, & Yafa Grill to name a few. All those places in my opinion have better tasting food and value. I hope with enough honest feedback and more time, they can improve because I'd love this place to be around for a long time. read more

Baladi - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

Baladi is hands down one of the best restaurants in Riverside. From the moment you walk in, everything feels warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully done. The atmosphere is beautiful, the service is genuinely friendly, and the food is absolutely outstanding. Every dish tastes fresh, flavorful, and made with care -- the kind of meal where you can tell the kitchen knows exactly what they're doing. It's the perfect spot for a family dinner, a date night, or honestly just treating yourself to something great. Riverside is lucky to have a place like this. We'll definitely be coming back again and again. Highly recommend! read more

This place is beyond 5/5. It is sooooo good. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and their food is all made by their mom. God bless that woman. Thank god she opened a restaurant because her food is so deserving and amazing!!!! This is definitely a new favorite. 10/10 recommend to everyone. P.S.: I don't like hummus but I tried theirs just to give it a shot and it's actually really good too! P.S.S: The baklava and knafeh are both incredible. They're not too sweet. Everything is delicious. read more

They absolutely have the best pita bread, went for the first time and was recommended the chicken plate and I enjoyed every bite. Service was also great, they checked in to make sure I was satisfied. Will be my go to Mediterranean food spot! read more

Amazing falafel, hummus, homemade pita...great service, cozy spots to sit and enjoy - will be back!

YUM! agree with the others here. Baladi was what our neighborhood needed. Its a great lunch spot with really delicious food and service from the owner Lani was outstanding. I told her i work from home and she gave me the wifi password. Sitting outside was really lovely and it was a nice and quiet afternoon that allowed me to enjoy my working lunch. Also noting - The seating outside is patio furniture which is more comfy than inside. no pictures, i ate it all quickly and too late to take a photo read more

So was really craving baklava and was getting out of the theaters and found this place. So happy I did, I went around 3:15 and they said a fresh batch will be put in at 6 so I waited came back. And the kindest woman came with a large batch once I came in and let me try some. She cut me a fresh piece, It was amazing and warm. Please come here and experience the amazing hospitality and atmosphere. Next time I will be trying their food. read more

See all

Didn't know this existed. It's near the back of the shopping center across from the theater. Staff were very helpful and extremely friendly. Owner says they have been open a month. My wife and I split a mixed grill kabob plate. Meat was cooked to perfection. Hummus had good flavor. My wife's only suggestion was wishing they had a shawarma plate along with the shawarma wraps. Looking forward to our next visit. read more

Amazing food and amazing people! We just went for the first time and we loved it. Had some steak kebab and kufta- did not disappoint! Can't wait to try the shwarma next!!! Loved the place too. Cozy, humble, and rich with culture. Will definitely be supporting this place as much as possible! read more

Super fresh food, the falafel had great flavor, and the service is personable and kind. Looking forward to trying more items on the menu! read more

Baladi - So happy to welcome Baladi to Mission Grove! The falafel wrap was delicious, ask for a side of pickled turnips, you won't be disappointed. - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

If you're looking for Mediterranean food that will heal your soul, this is the restaurant for you. Haven't enjoyed food as delicious as this in decades. Thank you so much, Baladi! :) read more