Tried this place for the first time today and the food was delicious! Everything was freshly made. Definitely going back.

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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

Fresh food, superb service, and the best rice I've ever tasted!!! I think I found my favorite Mediterranean place.

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

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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

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

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 one of my favorite restaurants in Riverside. With great hospitality and excellent customer service, I felt very welcomed and encouraged to try their Middle Eastern dishes, which are packed with so much flavor. Every bite feels authentic and thoughtfully prepared, making it a standout spot for anyone looking to explore something new. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff truly go above and beyond to make your experience enjoyable. I would definitely recommend Baladi to anyone looking for delicious food and a memorable dining experience. read more

Th most intimate and personal experience we've experienced in a very long. We felt like we were visiting our auntie and received, not only the blessing of a home cooked meal, but experiencing a connection with a very nice family who cares. We shared some taste testing and talked with the sons about Formula 1 racing. This made our experience. Now, about the cuisine, it was nothing short of amazing. The food was freshly made with love and care. We both got the chicken kabob plates and absolutely loved it! My favorite! You have to try the spinach Fatayer and the Knafeh cheese cake! I love this place. It feels like home. We are already anticipating a new experience at Baladi. read more

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

Had lunch at Baladi today. What a wonderful experience! The owner is so thoughtful and conscientious. The food was delicious, made on the spot and seasoned to perfection. The restaurant is comfortable and inviting inside. We sat at a table outside with comfortable seating. This is my third time... it's now a regular! read more

The food was excellent! I especially loved the hummus and the falafel. Highly recommend the homemade pita bread! It was so fluffy and delicious! 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

The meat Is amazing I recommend the kofta plate and the knafeh was delicious. Great service

The food was amazing the food came out pretty quick and I recommend there steak kabob plate the steak is cooked to perfection and the hummus is amazing highly recommended read more

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

Had the absolute best experience here at Baladi! The food was fantastic and service was so sweet, warm and homely! I will definitely be back. read more

The staff was very friendly from the moment we walked in. We ordered the chicken shawarma wrap, kafta wrap, and a side salad which were all great choices! Would recommend checking this place out! read more

Baladi - Chicken shawarma wrap Kufta wrap Side salad - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

The food was delicious, great customer service and ambiance was inviting, clean, fresh and I felt welcome. An overall excellent experience. Best wishes to this family on their new journey creating memories and a future succession in their son Iman who was so friendly. The food was so good I finished it before taking pictures. We had the chicken kabobs plate with extra pita bread and hummus read more

Baladi - Dessert baklava - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

Delicious! My husband and I were looking for some Mediterranean food and came across this place accidentally. The chicken was super flavorful and the service was outstanding. We will be back for sure! read more

Baladi - Chicken Kabob Plate - Arabic Near Me - Riverside, California

Go to place, we have been a few times now and love the food! I have the beef kabob plate and loved the meat, the rice, the hummas, the salad. Definitely say yes to the upgraded pita option! Worth the money!! Can't wait to go back. read more

I recently stopped by Baladi in Riverside and had a really great experience. I ordered the kafta sandwich and it was honestly one of the best I've had. The meat was flavorful, perfectly seasoned, and cooked just right. Everything tasted fresh and well put together, not rushed. One thing that really stood out to me was how clean the restaurant was. You can tell they take pride in their space, which makes a big difference when you're dining in. The service was also excellent. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and made the whole experience smooth from start to finish. Overall, great food, clean environment, and solid service. I'll definitely be coming back. read more

We ordered 5 chicken kebab plates from Baladi for our family, and everything was absolutely delicious! The chicken was perfectly seasoned, juicy, and cooked just right with that amazing char from the grill. Each plate was generous and came with fresh sides that paired so well with the kebabs. The restaurant itself is very inviting and welcoming. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt warm and comfortable, the kind of place you can bring your whole family and feel at home. The staff was friendly and efficient, and our order was prepared quickly even though it was a larger order. Everyone in my family was happy (which says a lot!), and we'll definitely be back again. Highly recommend the chicken kebab plates! read more

I wanted to love this place so much. Extreme lack of customer service and overpriced for what you get - shared it was our first time visiting them and live in the area. Gentleman didn't engage at all. Fine, perhaps he wasn't in the mood. 4 chicken shawermas and $80+ later (crazy) for a very dry, thin sandwich (which I asked about), fries, and zero engagement from the team working (it was not busy). Fries were good which is why it got two stars. I wish he would have spent more time speaking with me about different options, I ended up adding extras to our meals when we got home. Went from being very excited to unsatisfied with the sandwich and feeling unwelcome in person. We cater middle eastern food A LOT and would have loved for this to work out because it's so close by. This is not the typical experience I've had with similar restaurants in other areas. Maybe it was bad timing (Sunday evening) but incredibly disappointing experience all around - I am not quick to leave a low star review but this place really left a bad "taste" in my mouth. read more

Food was really good I recommend chicken kabob plate and the dessert also good and the service was great always asking if I need anything and if the food was good really nice people read more

My husband and I went and had a falafel and mixed grill! The food was very fresh and delicious they also have a catering menu and family deals! I will definitely be back for more read more

Had an amazing first experience at Baladi! Came with my girlfriend and we both loved the food--everything was fresh and flavorful. The staff was super friendly and made us feel welcome. Definitely coming back! read more

Food is amazing! Great service love the hospitality from the owners. Must try the shawarma is the go to

We went for a family lunch to the new restaurant called Baladi, the food was really good we ordered the family meal that came with chicken, beef kafta and steak the meat was premium quality super tender and well marinated the sides of rice, French fries and the house salad was delicious. Lena the owner was very nice and gave us a coconut dessert on the house that was delicious too. I will highly recomend it . read more