Hold your pearls, this one is going to be expensive! Fresh ingredients. However, to-go orders were drenched in dressing. I didn't realize I should say 'on side' but they have taught me!! I had the poke bowl ($27) and wifey had the grilled chicken salad. Very little lettuce and a good amount of chicken. This is tandoori style with good flavor. The poke bowl I asked no onions, even the 'not even crunchy onions?' Question I said NO. My poke : 'no onion' was 2:1. Geesh! Brown avocados. Brown avocados on this $27 bowl that was to have a 'mixed' base of rice and mixed greens. More rice and drenched in dressing (and onions!!!). Small amount of poke. The website is antiquated or at least not mobile friendly. Call in your order and again, clutch your pearls. The tabouli salad was great and so was the cucumber lemonade. Cute small place with outside patio. They host music nights with no cover. I'd go back for the lemonade because I was not impressed with the amount of poke for the cost. I could hit up a sushi place instead! read more

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absolutely delicious food and really nice ambience, the only thing was that the day that we went the service was not that great. There were nine of us, and it took quite a while for anyone to really acknowledge us. Outside of that, the food was super flavorful, fresh, and amazing serving sizes. I will absolutely be returning! read more

Malelani Cafe - Build Your Own Bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Welcoming service, fair pricing! Food was delicious, the feta tasted high quality and it was a hearty portion I took half home. Everything was seasoned and very flavor. I only have one complaint, the baklava was so thin, not layered, barely syrup so it fell apart, not worth $5 but I wouldn't give them less than 5 stars for that because they make a lot of things homemade even hot sauce and all that being considered the bowls are only $14.50 and very good! The restaurants vibes were very laid back, good chill music playing too right on the corner easy parking. I'd definitely recommend for the bowls, platters and pitas!! read more

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Always tasty food. Fresh and healthy. They service was quick and accurate. There was a live band there that evening as well. The crowd was engaged. read more

I enjoyed the Mediterranean bowl I received here. It was fresh, flavorful, and filling. The ambiance is great -- relaxing and not overstimulating since it's a smaller cafe. The service was friendly. There was an issue where an ingredient was missing. After alerting them, it was addressed right away. They're on par in terms of price point, but the bowls are smaller in comparison to similar restaurants. But if you're looking for good, quality food and chill vibe, Malelani Cafe is a solid choice. read more

This place is situated on a cute street in Mt Airy. Although a rather small cafe inside, it has some outdoor seating as well which is nice when the weather permits. This place has absolutely delicious Mediterranean bowls. I ordered the Volcano bowl, which was marketed to be a spicy option. Although not super spicy in my opinion, the chicken had tons of flavor and I loved the sauce they used. The jalapenos in the bowl added a little bit of the extra kick I needed. Overall I would definitely come back and I'd want to try the poke bowls as well! read more

Malelani Cafe - Volcano Bowl - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Wow! What a great little neighborhood spot - wish I still lived in West Mt. Airy! We went with a group of people a little after the usual lunch hour, but the food was excellent and nicely presented and the service was outgoing and friendly. I had the spicy tuna bowl and a couple of our group had falafel pitas and we all loved our choices which were delicious and prepared with excellent, fresh ingredients. It's a small storefront on a Germantown Avenue corner, but the vibe is friendly and welcoming and they make the most of that small space. Highly recommended!! read more

I went here about a week ago, and I got their pizza for falafel bowl. It was so tasty, and the falafels were perfect! It did kind of take a long time to get the food, but that's just because there were a lot of people there, and only two workers/chefs. We came for the food, but it turned out that there was live music that day! Overall it was a pretty good experience! read more

The food was delicious but my legs swelled up and hurting when leaving the restaurant so water pill was taken to stop the swelling from getting worse. No recommendation because weight gain just sitting there eating food was not healthy but said to be healthy vegan diet food was good but salt was bad for my legs and knees . Be careful with this diet. read more

Malelani Cafe - The shared receipt for lunch was delicious thanks for letting us borrow it. - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Happy music welcomes you into this quaint cafe situated in the area where Mt. Airy meets Germantown. The menu has something for meat lovers to vegans and plenty of freshness in between. I had an afternoon meeting in the area and found free street parking directly out front. My coffee was hot and full flavored. Sounds silly but in my opinion it really is the little details that keep consumers loyal. The expectations when going out for food is that it should not just satisfy your hunger, it should be a fulfilling dining experience made so by serving food that honors the ingredients, service that makes you feel welcome, and an environment that encourages enjoyment of the space or the company you keep. Malelani Cafe hits all of those targets and surpasses expectations. Admittedly, my expectations for food in the area is quite low due to past experiences however that is not the case here. They should call the Chicken Shawarma Pita a double, cuz it was HUGE and could easily serve 2 people. Okay maybe one super hungry person or a parent and child haha. Definitely a large and in charge lunch that allowed each ingredient to show off. The chicken was cubed and boasted big flavor and juiciness while the pickled cabbage was sharp enough to stand up to its savory counterparts. Roasted eggplant, greens and tahini balanced the bite. All wrapped in fluffy and chewy pita. Order take out or eat in, I have no doubts that you will be pleased with the fast, fresh, and healthy selections. read more

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Upon entering, this cafe looked hectic. There were people getting ready for live band. They had to clear up a table for us to sit. The menu consists of Mediterranean food and poke selections. I ordered chicken schwarma platter served with pita. Chicken was tasty and not dry. Perfect size with some hummus. read more

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I stopped at Malelani today for lunch. I ordered the cured salmon platter. What a treat! I knew it would be good based on the beautiful presentation alone. It was super fresh, healthy and delicious! The staff were helpful and friendly. An overall awesome experience! I will return soon. read more

Went here for dinner tonight because I wanted to see the musician that was performing. The acoustics were excellent but it was a small place and half the seats had no view of the performers. The artworks on the walls were all for sale and were fun to look at. It was our first time there and the counter staff was very helpful in explaining the menu. The orders were then brought to the table. It was my first time ordering a poke bowl. The food was all very fresh with excellent flavor. I do plan to go back again. read more

The food at Maleilani has been delicious and always different. I can't believe that they have been open for 10 years now!!! In fact, this weekend is their 10th anniversary, and there will be a street fair to celebrate right outside! read more

Despite the many challenges that COVID has brought to this world, I am grateful when I get an opportunity to meet wonderful people and enjoy great food! George was great host. During my wait, I was educated about the historical roots of Mt. Airey. I am still "new" to the Philadelphia area and I am always looking forward to learning about new restaurants and new areas to visit. I ordered the smoked salmon platter with all the fixins! I mentioned that I was tossed about ordering the falafel platter and George was so gracious to drop a few freshly fried falafels in my to go container. The black bean and the original hummus were so creamy and the grape leaves were also tasty. I am not a grape leave fan and I are all three of them! A little bit of a drive for me but I am always willing to make the ride for good food and great customer service. I will definitely return. I look forward to trying the Covfefe (for shitz and giggles of course!). read more

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The food was excellent. The service was excellent also. The place. Is nice and quiet. Enjoy it will go back again.

I had the baklava cheesecake and it was to die for0. Nice ending to a clean healthy lunch. And they have live music, but I can't stay out that late. read more

Great tasting food, BUT they got my order wrong and the manager (Caucasian male) LIED about me getting a refund after reassuring me that I would, twice. Will not be coming back, you guys can keep my refund. read more

Such a friendly atmosphere, most times they have live music. Food never ever ever disappoints. Thanks, I appreciate y'all. read more

I wrote a review a few years ago, but had to update it in light of our experience today. My wife and daughter wanted something to eat but we didn't have a car. I called the cafe and was told they had delivery and I could order through DoorDash or the website. I ordered through the website (because you could order coffee that way) not realizing the website was pick up only. After an hour i called and discovered I needed to use DoorDash for delivery. I decided to cancel the order. Someone called me a few minutes later and committed to drop the order off! They came through and my wife raved over the falafel pita - the smoothies were good too! And that customer service was really exceptional! read more

So freaking good and fresh! The portions are very generous. Great customer service. Love, love, love. I will definitely be back. read more

Malelani Cafe - Gyro Platter was amazingly flavorful - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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After a morning at Morris arboretum, I searched for a medi lunch spot and found a lovely, shady garden spot and ate a scrumptious salad with two types of hummus on the side and a mango lemonade. The roasted red peppers were done perfectly The service was not up to the food. The counter person continued a conversation with someone on his earpiece while taking my order. He forgot the hummus. Luscious, but I won't go back to pay $22 for another. read more

Stopped here after having my wisdom teeth removed after not thinking I could eat anything, and ended up getting the Gravlax side with no toppings and original hummus with the tropical smoothie + vegan protein and the AMOUNT OF FLAVOR in just what you see here is immaculate 10/10 will return again. The smoothie is delicious and fresh, some of the best smoked salmon I've ever had and homemade creamy hummus. Don't miss! (couldn't help but wait on the photo) read more

Malelani Cafe - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Enjoyed this place very much. It's cute and small. Staff is amazing. They do not take Apple Pay. read more

Malelani Cafe - Chicken Sharon's plate ! Phenomenal ! Sweet potato pie and hot chocolate - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Malelani is truly an international spot located in the Mt. Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia. One of its two owners is of Greek descent but born and raised in South Africa. In fact the name Malelani comes from one of the languages spoken in South Africa and means 'Place of the Palms.' The food however is Mediterranean. Go figure. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Malelani is fortunately open for takeout and indeed it makes for a tasty meal during these trying times. Call ahead to reserve your meal and it will be waiting for you when you arrive. I enjoyed very much my recent order of a chicken schwarma pita. The ingredients were fresh and very ample making eating this sandwich with your hands a challenge. It's a challenge I happily undertook! read more

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I love the Chicken Pita Platter and Sandwich, Whenever they have the dessert Sweet Potato Poundcake, its a must to get! The staff is very helpful, respectful and fun! They have cool atmosphere with events in the evenings, live music and Art on the wall for Sale! read more

Absolutely amazing food and personable service. The food is healthy, the owners gushed about their goals of providing delicious portions, and I can't wait for others to experience this restaurant. Five stars, all the way! read more

I got their chicken shawarma platter (as I typically do) and it was just as great this time around. It, along with the veggies and dips, are simply amazing. Highly recommend. read more

Friendly small Mediterranean/Poke spot. Consistent live music. Can have a young artsy or older - probably hippies in the sixties :) - crowds. Chairs and benches and outdoor seating. Lots of free parking on Pelham if GTA is all filled up (like you will be after eating all the noms!) read more

Malelani Cafe - Falafel Platter, deeeeelicious. Ate with live music and a mocha latte. - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Friends from out of town are half vegetarian (husband is- wife is not) and so we always have fun finding interesting places to order from where everyone can not only be accommodated but actually enjoy what they get for lunch and this place was soooooo good! We'd been looking for a replacement Mediterranean go to spot after moving and Zorbas (the original most amazing Greek restaurant of all time) closing its doors and this fills our void. We each got platters (falafel and chicken x2) and everything was so flavorful and filling- we look forward to coming back soon! read more

I'm so confused about my last experience here. The first time I came here the food was delicious! I was so happy with the food and was looking forward to my next visit. Today I placed an order for two different plates, baklava and a side of falafel. The pickup time said 6:20 so we arrived at 6:20 for our food. When we got home the food was very cold. Nothing was warmed up, cold chicken, cold moussaka, cold falafel. We also were missing the baklava. We called to let them know the food was cold and we were missing the baklava. They explained that they cook all the food ahead of time and only warm it up for orders. There was no apology or move to try and make things right. They did refund the $5 baklava. Unfortunately, this just doesn't sit right with me. I won't be coming here again, which is sad because I wanted to support a local place! read more

Excellent atmosphere, incredibly filling food, great place to enjoy a weekend afternoon. read more

Malelani Cafe - Moussaka, pita and platter extras - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Fresh food prepared on the spot. Friendly service. Funky neighborhood atmosphere. The drink selection is selective: want a water, smoothie, or coffee? But not many options for other cold drinks. read more

Food is delicious, staff is accommodating and friendly. We love this place. From chicken schwarma to poke bowls, their offerings are packed with flavor. read more

Malelani Cafe - Chicken Shawarma Pita with side of grape leaves - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Great food, but they often mix/mess up your order. My friend has a business at the same block and we order on Yelp from time to time, always got the same chicken even if we ordered grilled/shawarma/other kind of chicken. read more

I went here on a date which was far out from where I live but I love Mediterranean food so I wanted to give it a try. I loved the service that I received and the restaurant was a really cute place to sit and eat with live music which felt very personal as we were right next to the performers (they were playing a well rounded set) and it added further to the environment of the place. The food was phenomenal, I got a salmon wrap and I couldn't have been happier with my order, I went a couple other times and have almost become a regular despite this cafe not being in my area, so i figured I would leave a review. Highly recommend for a date or quick stop by place ! read more

Ummmm, I need my Mediterranean fix. I took my niece here after school about 2 months ago, she wanted something a little healthy so I found this place on yelp. Well...let me tell you, I ordered the chicken shawarma platter and my niece got the grilled chicken platter and both were absolutely delish. Don't remember if I came up for air, but what does it matter! Portions on point and so was the food. Can't wait to go back, pls keep up the great tasty food! read more

I got a build my own chicken bowl, im from arkansas. We dont have many places like this. It did not disappoint. Best bowl i had ever. 10 out of 10 would recommend read more

Jared & I settled on Malelani for a cool lunch on a very hot and humid Saturday. This cafe is a cosy, yet is still set up to host some live music on occasions. It seemed like there was only a handful of tables, but we didn't have a wait to grab a seat. Given how hot it was outside, I was pleasantly surprised by the temperature inside. No I wasn't frozen, but was able to cool off. We were greeted with drink recommendations. I had the ice tea while Jared had a cold brew ice coffee. Both were very refreshing. A review of the menu was a bit surprising as everything was chicken - a bit unusual for a Mediterranean restaurant. However, my first bite into the dusk special eliminated any concerns. Each platter comes with potato salad or fresh fruit, and good portions of each. After finishing my meal, I was full but not stuffed. We chilled at our seats for a while after eating and were never rushed out. Little touches like this one are reasons why I'd recommend Malelani's and why I will be back. read more

Malelani Cafe - Dusk Special with fruit.... Great lunch choice - Mediterranean Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The food is amazing, the portions are plentiful, and the staff is just the nicest. The falafel, hummus, and black bean hummus are seriously magical. I'd go all the time if I lived closer! read more