Specialties
Mr. Shawarma is officially open in Houston! From our roots as a booming San Diego food truck in 2018 to expanding into three successful California storefronts, we are proud to bring our 100% Halal Middle Eastern menu to Texas. We specialize in premium, slow-roasted chicken, beef, and lamb shawarma wraps, famous loaded fries, and authentic vegetarian favorites like falafel and fresh hummus. Known for massive portions and bold flavors, we offer fast, friendly counter service built for a quick lunch, family dinner, or satisfying late-night bite. Come experience the best shawarma in town!
History
Established in 2018.
2018: The Food Truck Beginnings
Founded by food enthusiast and chemical engineer Mohammed AlMahdawi, Mr. Shawarma launched on December 4, 2018, as a single food truck in a Pacific Beach gas station parking lot. Guided by a mission to serve 100% Halal, authentic Middle Eastern street food, the truck utilized traditional family recipes, spit-roasted meats, and fresh Saj bread. Fueled by a booming late-night beach crowd, it quickly generated massive lines.
2023: Brick-and-Mortar Success
After four years on wheels, the brand opened its first permanent restaurant in El Cajon, Ca (April 2023), introducing new items like Turkish Kumpir potatoes. Months later, a flagship storefront opened on Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach,Ca, cementing its status as a local culinary staple.
2025: Multi-State Expansion
By late 2025, Mr. Shawarma scaled rapidly, opening a North County location in San Marcos and officially expanding outside of California to launch a brand-new storefront in Houston, Texas.
Meet the Business Owner: Mohammed A.
Mohammed AlMahdawi is the visionary founder and owner behind Mr. Shawarma. His journey from a technical professional to a multi-state restaurant owner defines the brand's rapid success.
The Engineer Turned Chef: Armed with a background as a chemical engineer, AlMahdawi used his precise, systematic mindset to perfect his culinary operations. He applied engineering precision to scale recipes and maintain tight quality control across kitchen lines.
Hands-On Entrepreneur: AlMahdawi built the business from the ground up. In the early days, he personally drove the original food truck across Southern California, catering to schools, mosques, churches, and local events to establish a loyal following.
Cultural Visionary: A self-proclaimed "shawarma lover," he crafted the entire menu around traditional family recipes, premium marinades, and strict 100% Halal sourcing to bring authentic Middle Eastern street food to new communities