no frills middle eastern food. Tasty, mildly seasoned. Enjoyed sides, especially carrot salad

Had such high hopes! But a few key things made this unpleasant. 1.) First, we tried to order the marinated olive appetizer and they were out of it. Hey, that's OK. 2.) Then, after about 40 minutes of waiting for our entrees, our server came back and said they were out of rice, and all of our platters would be served over hummus. What? A Mediterranean restaurant who doesn't stock a spare bag of rice? This place is two blocks from a Trader Joe's. If you do, somehow, some way, run out of rice on a quiet night, run next door and get more. I worked at a restaurant for a long time and we did this often. I understand running out of a specialty item like marinated olives, but it's truly unacceptable to run out of rice. 3.) In total, it took an hour for our entrees to come out, in a mostly empty restaurant on a Tuesday night. 4.) Food itself was good, not great. Pita was clearly store bought. Hummus was creamy and flavorful. 5.) There's no ambiance. We were seated at a table that was separated from the kitchen by a partially closed shower curtain. It was quite loud. 6.) My party of 5 got 5 entrees and a soup for $100 + $20 tip. That's pretty expensive for a deeply lackluster experience. Wouldn't recommend, and certainly won't be back. read more

I've loved this family-owned place since it opened. I'm a vegan and their Sabich sandwich (with no egg) is one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. Warm mushroom hummus is epic too. Great salads, grape leaves, mint tea, baklava...the pita is to die for. I could go on and on! read more

Everything is fresh made. Chicken was so good. I did not get the spicy chicken just the regular.. never ate anything that tasty so yummy. However I think it has a little more fat and grease then I am used to so my stomach gave me an issue for about an hour later which I walked off. I went for lunch and it was late.. had business to do in Media and we finished up after 2:30. Service was great. I was the forth table by the time I left I was the only table. Pita is fresh baked. Salad was fresh cucumber, to notes and olive oil. Even the olive oil tasted better than mine at home.. Really good and different. Next time I am getting small entree but only eating half of the chicken.. portion is very big and I think stomach will thank me!!! read more

Walking in to the place I had really high expectations from all the reviews I had read online and friends who had recommended. The place was a disappointment!!! Review Food : The food was not seasoned well and it was cold other than the pita bread. Everything we ordered was not up to the mark. Price: The price of the dishes on the menu is way to high for the food. I have had better food at hole in the wall places for 50% to 60% less price for sandwiches and platters. For 3 dishes they charged is close to $50 dollars where as it was only worth maybe like 22-25 dollars! Service: There were a total of 6 people-3 servers/hosts and 3 kitchen workers. As you walk-in into the restaurant you will notice the chaos as it takes a while for the servers/hosts to attend to your party. There is no explanation of the menu for first timers as to what the dishes are and if there are any specials. The lead hostess seems rude at times almost as if she is least interested. It takes a whole lotta time for them to bring the food out and also get the check to you. The only reason for the two stars is that the pita bread was hot!! Overall it was s disappointment and would not go there again. They could improve their service and also need to work on the pricing which could do wonders. They need a overhaul of the interior and need to separate the dining and kitchen area. Definitely doesn't deserve all the accolades posted on their wall. read more

I found this place on yelp and had high expectations because of the reviews. Unfortunately it didn't live up to my expectations. The service was good but the food wasn't. I ordered the chicken shawarma wrap. The chicken was under-seasoned and there was too much tahini in the wrap. It was all I could taste. I hate to say it but it was the worst chicken shawarma wrap I've ever had. I wish I could leave a better review because the service was good. read more

Desert Rose - Chicken Shawarma wrap - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

I've been waiting and waiting for a good Mediterranean restaurant to open in the area. Desert Rose isn't much to look at inside, but it's nice enough. More importantly, the food is fantastic. I had the red falafel which uses in-house roasted red peppers instead of parsley and herbs. It was piled high into a homemade fresh pita with hummus, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, citrus slaw, and mint tzatziki. Loved every second of this sandwich. The meat eater had the short rib sandwich and didn't talk the entire time he ate...a sure sign he was loving it too! My youngest devoured some pita and Harissa. Really friendly people and you can watch the chef fry up your falafel. Can't wait to go back and try something else. read more

So I checked out the Media food fest yesterday, and I'm so happy I did! They had all the local restaurants offering up cheaper versions of their menus for the masses! I've never tried Mediterranean & Middle Eastern Cuisine before, and I figured, now would be the best time to do it! The chef that was creating the food was putting on an awesome show while creating the Chicken Shawarma and Falafel, which is what intrigued me in the first place. The woman at the register (I'm assuming an owner?), was extremely pleasant and helped to explain to me what everything was, since I've never had it before. I ended up ordering 2 of the Chicken Shawarma's (still saying it wrong! hah), and took them home for me and the guy to eat while watching the Eagles game. They were HUGE! The chicken was spilling out of them, with all of the delish juices and super fresh stuffings, I didn't mind licking my fingers with this meal. I will definitely be going back to try more at the restaurant, I'm really glad the Media Food Fest gave me the opportunity to try foods outside of my comfort zone! read more

Desert Rose - Tabbouleh Salad, super fresh and light! - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

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Desert Rose is our favorite, go-to dinner restaurant in Media. My wife and eat dinner there a couple times a month because we know we can always count on the food being fresh and delicious. We've lived in Media for 25 years and have eaten in every restaurant at least once (I just checked--we've eaten in every one of the first 30 Yelp listings for Media). We always have at least one favorite "go-to" restaurant where we go when we don't feel like cooking at home. Our "go-to" changes over the years as restaurants peak and decline. Desert Rose has been our go-to for two years. I don't believe it'll be replaced any time soon because it keeps getting better as they add to their kitchen and expand the menu. We almost always get one of the salads--the orzo is a favorite, and the beet salad is to die for. We've tried all the entrees, starting with the shawarma. It's all good. Never disappointed. The last few times there we've gone for the specials-- they really are specially made, whatever Jason is trying out and thinking of adding to the menu. Try the lamb! And the baklava for dessert! Turkish coffee if you have the guts! Desert Rose is small--one room, really. The kitchen is right there where you can see all the food being cooked and prepared. The shawarma post dominates the view, and you can watch them slice it. Jason is owner and head chef and he's always behind the counter. The waitresses are friendly and explain anything you want to know about the menu and specials. A few cons: the service can be a little slow if the dozen or so tables are all full. We always go early and get fast service. If you have to wait a while it's because Jason and his crew are preparing each dish fresh and to your taste. It's not fastfood. It's all about good food! The decor is simple, and the lighting isn't the best. But I know they have plans to remodel and improve the ambiance. But again, the food is so good, it trumps the lack of 'atmosphere.' I'm looking forward to our next meal there. The last dozen times, after eating at Desert Rose, my wife and I always say, "Damn, that was good! Let's come back soon." read more

Visited this location last week since we were checking out the shops in the area and I'm super happy to have stopped in. Waitstaff greeting us was very friendly, there was a large selection of great food, and the hummus and pita appetizer was enormous and delicious. Ended up getting the sandwiches instead of a platter and they were also humongous. The chicken shawarma and braised short rib sandwiches are simply amazing, and I highly recommend them. Definitely a great place to eat! read more

Don't bank on all menu items being available, they are often out of some selections. And though it may seem like a vice, it does support their greatest virtue in that all their food is fresh. They have the best pita I have every eaten, bar none, and their falafel sandwiches are incredibly fresh and vibrant. I come here on the reg and plan to be a regular for as long as their in Media. read more

After years of wanting to try this restaurant, my wife and I finally did it. We were left a little disappointed. The food was just bland. It smelled and looked great but flavors were muted. It was takeout due to covid 19 so we are giving them another shot once we can sit down for a meal. Staff was very friendly! read more

Desert Rose - CC receipt. - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

Really, really delicious! We especially liked the glossary on the back of the menu describing what we were ordering. A shawarma is not a gyro and they BUILD it, they don't make it. We tried the stuffed grape leaves (good) and we all had hummus platters; one order with warm with mushrooms and onions and one with falafel. We also had lebnah (outrageous, creamy, tangy yogurt-like cheese). The pita was insane and fresh from the oven. We bought more to take home with the leftovers. I like the casual setting and the State Street location a lot... I wouldn't have turned down silverware over the plastic cutlery, however. read more

Looking for a date night spot, I saw the good reviews for Desert Rose and decided to give this place a shot. We ordered two Turkish coffees, the Spicy Chicken Shwarma Platter, and the Warm eggplant entree with egg and paprika. For sides, we chose the spicy carrot and the beets. The Turkish coffee had a wonderful hint of tobacco that I really liked. The Spicy chicken shwarma, while not particularly spicy, was seasoned very well and bursted with flavor. The eggplant was charred perfectly and combined with the hummus, paprika, and egg, really hit the spot. The sides were notably delicious as well: the beets were prepared well and the carrots were nicely pickled and had a good kick. All around, our dinner at Desert Rose had a nice assortment of well cooked and distinctly, but strongly flavored dishes. read more

My wife and I spotted Desert Rose while waiting in the car just killing time before we dined at Bittersweet one day. We both love chicken shawarma and thought it would be a great place to try. Unfortunately, we were a little disappointed. I ordered the shawarmas for take out. When I walked in, I kind of liked the quaint atmosphere. The location is not bad as I was able to find a parking spot on State Street with no real issue. In regards to the shawarma itself, it lacked seasoning. There were plenty of vegetables. In fact, it may have had too much vegetables and not enough chicken. The taste did not stand out. The pita bread was a nice surprise as I am accustomed to having shawarmas in something much thicker. I may need to give Desert Rose another chance, but not with the shawarma. After having great chicken shawarmas at other locations, it just does not compare. read more

A friend of mine introduced me to this place, and I am so happy she did. The food was AMAZING! I got the the portobello mushroom pita, and it was very tasty. I also got some of the baklava to go, and it was delicious. The portions are big, and the prices are reasonable. Also got a chance to talk to the owners. They are very friendly and were willing to answer any questions about the food. I am already planning to go back with my mom and my boyfriend. read more

Yup. You guessed it. Spicy shwarna. So good! And oh yeah, tell 'em Big Texas sent you! read more

Very unique Israeli food-a different take on the usual Mid East stuff you're probably used to. Tebouleh salad-hand-crafted and delicious. The pita pocket sandwiches are gigantic! Loaded with good stuff! My chicken schwarma pita pocket sandwich was enough for two. The actual pita pocket bread was exceptional. Just a shout-out to those of you ordering some of their pita pocket sandwiches. They are loaded at the bottom with huumus and tahini-so if you're not a fan-ask for one without these two ingredients. I am going to do that next time. Other customers were ordering intriguing platters on which everything looked super homemade and delicious. A tad pricey for what you get-but food is fresh and delicious. read more

Went here with my boyfriend for dining under the stars. Was pleasantly surprised by food and service. Lamb chop special was seriously amazing. Hummus was great. Baclava was OK. Selection of baclava was impressive. read more

Wow so glad I yelped and found this place for my birthday lunch. Fresh, flavorful, absolutely mouth watering food. Shared the Greek salad which I'll be craving for the next two months for sure.. The falafel sandwich, crunchy, creamy, spiced just right. That warm pita... So dreamy. Then to finish with some baklava. Couldn't of been a more perfect lunch and then the cherry ontop, awesome service! We don't live super close but it'll be worth the trip to come back again. I can't wait to try more of their menu! Thank you Desert Rose for a fantastic birthday meal! I highly recommend trying this place. read more

I had a tremendously delicious experience here a little while ago. I had the desert rose shawarma in a pita and it was super fresh and tasty. Not traditional and a little spicy, but very good. I sampled the falafel and the hummus as well and it was terrific...almost as good as the Israeli eats in LA. The best was the pita itself, definitely some of the best I've ever had...anywhere. The service was just ok. Nothing to write about it. They stayed open later on a Sunday than advertised which I know the late comers appreciated. I would suggest calling them even if it's after hours, they might actually be open. I wish I lived closer or had another reason to go to Media for another visit. Thanks to my BIL for the recommendation. read more

Four stars for food, 2 stars for service. I very much enjoyed my hummus and short ribs, and my table also really liked their food. However, the service was terrible. We attending for Dining Under the Stars, and granted, arrived at 15 minutes before closing (7:45 pm), so perhaps this was why our server was not interested in serving us. However, it took awhile to be greeted, and she did not greet us warmly or offer to help us with the menu. I had to go out of my way to ask her about the special, and we could see her glaring at us from inside as we were finishing up. I'm sure the service is better if you arrive earlier, but I will not return for these reasons. read more

Really great food and service! My 7yr olds food ended up tasting way better than mine She ate the short rib and I had the chicken schwarma (I'll get the spicy one next time). Our waitress was amazing. I will definitely go back, especially for that mint tea. read more

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My dad told me to check this place out and finally we went there together. I wish I hadn't waited so long because this place was delicious and authentic. Food was soo good and located in a prime spot of media. read more

Desert Rose - Cleaned my plate after I took this picture - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

Such a hidden gem and my favorite go to spot when I'm in Media. I've tried just about every dish on the menu and everything is delicious! Don't forget the amazing baklava for dessert! read more

What I ordered was good, but not very impressive. Ordered with a group, tasted: labeneh sandwich, which was good. hummus, which tasted a little raw, bland shakshuka, good flavors, overall very tasty pita was very fresh, I assume house made, but was $1 per piece. As a vegetarian, I did not try any of the meat dishes, but they were highly recommended by another party member. Don't let my mixed review convince you. This was just my experience. read more

I was excited to have Mediterranean food this close to my home but after my last visit I will never go back. I asked for a soda with my dinner and the can of diet coke I got was expired. No big deal, just kindly asked the waitress for a coffee instead. When the waitress brought the soda to the owner of this restaurant, HE THREW IT ACROSS THE BACK OF THE RESTURANT! He then stated loud enough for us to here, "It's just a soda who cares!" we then got up to leave and told the owner how rude and ridiculous he was being. He said, " I'm not Wawa, I don't check expiration dates". It was all very weird. We hadn't made any deal about the soda, I just asked for a coffee instead, He must be going through something wacko in his life right now, I have no clue, Anyway I will never be back or recommend this place to anyone. read more

Very friendly staff, fast service. The owner and chef I'd very passionate about his food and restaurant and it shows in the quality of the food. Little things like the water pitcher being left on the table illustrate the owners enthusiasm for a quality customer experience. The food is very fresh with ingredients and sauces made fresh each day. The falafel is the best I've had in the area. Additionally the shawarma is exceptional. Attention is paid to every little detail of the food and it shows. The pita bread is even imported from Israel! I highly recommend Desert Rose to anyone looking for a quality, fresh meal in the area. This is definitely one of Medias hidden gems. read more

Excellent Israeli style Middle Eastern cuisine. The sandwiches are HUGE and very filling. The kabob sandwich was very homemade and the chicken schwarma was tasty. Cucumber tabbouleh salad was the best I've had yet. It was excellent and full of tasty spices and lots of mint. Alright, so the negatives. Half a star lost for its waitstaff, if you can call it that. They only had one waitress for the dining room and outside dining area, this was during a busy lunch rush. The dining room was full. On top of that, she corrected us on our pronunciation of nearly EVERYTHING. I get that you're trying to help, but I'm a Jew, I know how to pronounce tabbouleh and schwarma, I grew up with that stuff. It was very off putting. Secondly, the prices were up and down. Our huge pita sandwiches were $9-$10 a piece. That's a good price. A hummus platter was $6, stuffed grape leaves $5. Maybe just the appetizers are overpriced. It's also super ala carte. Nothing comes with any of the sandwiches or platters (a little Jewy, just saying). I'll be back for dinner. read more

Interesting take on mediterranean food, great grape leaves although I got the chicken shawarma sandwich and didn't enjoy it all that much. I'd still recommend the place though! read more

Desert rose is the best!!! Everything on their menu is so good, you can't go wrong. The falafel platter is great and the short rib platter was delicious as well. The Greek salad was fresh and we liked the beet salad too. We always enjoy the spicy chicken shawarma. Their portions are substantial so make sure you are very hungry. The traditional walnut baklava is heavenly. We tried a unique dessert the other night that was a mix between a yogurt and custard. It was made with whole milk and came with a hibiscus sauce. I have never tasted anything like it. It was really good. I wouldn't exactly classify it as a dessert in the American sense but we enjoyed it. read more

Desert Rose - Short rib platter with beets - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

This place has the best hummus and freshly cooked pita bread. My favorite was the mushroom hummus platter. This place is an hour drive for me but I come here every time I crave it. Everything is freshly made and service is great. I'm a fan! read more

Desert Rose - This is seriously the best hummus I have ever tasted. Front: spicy chicken hummus platter Back: mushroom and hummus platter. - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

It's like being at someone's house here. The food is cooked to order. No frozen food here! Hummus is very good. Lamb kebab was wonderful. Baklava is very good. read more

Great food, spartan atmosphere. Wonderful falafel, shawarma, hummus, pita bread, and salads. Friendly owners, fast service. I, too wouldn't mind being able to use metal cutlery, since it's really hard to cut the falafel balls with a plastic fork. The menu isn't huge, which is a possible downside if you have a picky eater in your family who won't stray far from chicken fingers. (We miss being able to feed that errant family member at Zac's next door, but consider this a flaw with the family member, not the restaurant.) I'd give it at least a 4.5 if I could use a metal fork! read more

We tried Desert Rose tonight for the first time. We got take-out and it was one of the best meals we've had in Media! The hummus was smooth and flavorful. Pita was fresh and the shawarma was delicious. Highly recommend! read more

This has been my very favorite spot since it opened in Media. I've gotten the same dish each time. Falafel sandwich. My favorite. The last few times that I've gotten it tastes different. Falafel more dry. All around something missing. I'm sad because in the past it we always perfect. Maybe a different chef?! Still a great spot but I may need to find a new veggie dish. read more

Good, delicious food. Hummus was awesome. Reasonable prices. Chicken tasted great. Everyone at the table loved their food

Outstanding, unassuming spot. Friendly and fresh. The falafel was so good and the chicken shawarma came with a tasty tomato & cucumber salad. Great portions. Just right. read more

Desert Rose - Mediterranean Near Me - Media, Pennsylvania

long story short. Wife and i felt like trying something different. Wife suggested this place. So we drive down and reach this place at 7:50 pm, i read online that this place closes at 8 pm. I quickly walk in with my wife and asked if i can still get take out. A blonde lady behind the register responded " sure but let me check the time" she looked at the clock on her register and continued "you have 8 minutes left and we are out of most things" Which is understandable. So we ordered what was available. However all this while the lady is acting grumpy. I have done service and even after a long hard day , i was never grumpy in front of customers. It just leaves a bad impression. Food was OK. Will we go back, Maybe. read more

Desert rose is consistent and delicious. Flavorful, great portions and quick delivery, too. Thanks!!