Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine is truly one of our favorite restaurants in Pasadena. We've been coming here for the past few years, and the food is consistently extraordinary. Their kebobs are cooked over actual coals, and you can absolutely taste the difference. The chicken is always incredibly tender and flavorful, the beef is tender and perfectly cooked, and I have a friend who could probably live on their tzatziki. Everything is fresh and thoughtfully prepared every day. But as wonderful as the food is, the people are what make Sahara so special. Ana owns the restaurant with her husband and runs the kitchen, and she and the entire staff are simply amazing. This is a true family-owned restaurant where you can feel the care that goes into both the food and the way they treat people. After we lost our home in the Eaton Fire, in Altadena, we were living in a hotel and would come to Sahara for dinner. Every time we came in, they insisted on sending us home with extra food so we would have something to eat later. At a time when our lives had been completely turned upside down, that kindness and generosity meant more to us than I can possibly express. Extraordinary food made by genuinely wonderful people. We love Sahara, and I feel very lucky to be able to support a local family-owned business that puts so much heart into what they do. If you haven't been, go. And get the kebobs. And definitely the tzatziki. And, the tahini...but leave some for my husband because he loves it on the lamb skewers. read more

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I have to be honest I tried so many different middle eastern restaurants and this one was not my favorite Food was just ok no more than that Pretty expensive especially for what you getting I don't think it's worth it I don't think that I'll be back here Food tasted like it was prepared yesterday and not really fresh read more

My family and I frequent a lot of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern restaurants, whether it's a sit down restaurant or takeout--and Sahara might just be the best we've ever had! We heard good things about Sahara and decided to check it out yesterday; and it exceeded expectations. I had the beef kebab plate, while my mom and brother had the chicken kebab plate. We loved how they had complimentary snacks (olives, cheese, and cucumber) and also that the plate came with either soup or salad. The meat dishes were so flavorful and honestly the best we've had at any restaurant. They gave a lot of meat too; 8 pieces each dish. The baba ghanoush was also great. Last but not least, Mary, our server, was extremely pleasant and attentive. We can't wait to go back! read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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How many times have I driven past this restaurant and never noticed? A lot, but now that I'm acquainted, well, that's going to change. My first impression was how friendly everyone is, both employees and customers. I also noticed the aroma of mesquite smoke, which is a principle difference between their food and many others that use gas grills. The wonderful lady at the counter welcomed me and suggested the split kabob plate with half each beef and chicken. She also gave me the lunch and dinner menus to peruse. I grabbed a table and didn't wait long before my order was ready. Lots of rice pilaf, hummus, and tabouli. Additionally, there was a portion of garlic sauce. The portion of meat was equally impressive. I was still afflicted with recent dental work so I had to eat slowly and carefully. Their food is very crushable if not for that. They also quarter the pita bread which allows easier dipping or making mini wraps. Anyhow, I'm sure I'll be back sooner than later to try the Lula (aka koubideh), lamb, and other unique house specials. The essence of wood smoke is especially good, so that's a high mark. 4.5 overall My only criticisms are the rice could have been warmer, and the sauce more garlicky. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Mixed plate with half each of chicken and beef kabobs. - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

I'm continually impressed with the outstanding flavorsome steak kabobs. I immensely enjoy medium rare steak kabobs which they cook to perfection. Add to that... tasty hummus and lentil soup along with olives, rice and chilies. Or swap out the rice for crispy fries. Such an immaculate pristine enjoyable kabob restaurant. Certainly worth a trip to Pasadena for fine quality food with great hospitality from a warm kind family run restaurant read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Hummus and pita bread - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Been back several times since my first review, always good food and great service, no matter how crowded, they really make you feel at home here. Lule kabob meal yesterday was excellent with cabbage salad; portions are big so two can share. Only wish the basmati rice were more al dente and fluffy. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Cabbage salad - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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This is one of the most friendliest restaurants in Pasadena. I come for the tasty food and amazing service. They have combo plates and small plates for lunch. Very generous with their condiments and extra pita bread. Beef is super tender as well as the other meats. Alway plenty of seating. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Chicken Kebab - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Food here was Delicious and Fresh. The service was top Notch. The restaurant was cleanly and the ambiance was nice. They had nice background music. The staff was the best. I am going to have my birthday Gathering here in two months... read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Sahara Combination Dinner Entree with Garlic Sauce - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Excellent food. Run by a lovely family. Service great! Try to go there at least once a week. Food is very healthy.

This place was recommended by a friend, Harry. He didnt steer us wrong. The food was so delicious and fresh to order. The meat was so flavorful and filling and thr ice was buttery. Of course we had to try the baklava... yum! The decor is very simple and casual, but very clean. The lady at the counter was extremely helpful. She guided us through the menu and suggested the combination plate so we could try multiple items. I would highly recommend Sahara's to anyone with the Hunger for some delicious Mediterranean cuisine! read more

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The food is amazing!!!! Highly recommend this great restaurant. My favorite part is the service they make us feel like we're family. Bertha always goes way above and beyond to make our visit fantastic!! read more

The most amazing family style Mediterranean restaurant in Pasadena. Phenomenal food, excellent family orientation, and great vibes.

I've been to this restaurant a few times. Everyone is so welcoming, attentive, and friendly. I think it's family run, and energies with whom I've interacted is lovely. The food is amazing. I love the babaghanouj - the perfect smokiness. The hummus is lovely. I order the feta cheese plate appetizer every time, forgetting as soon as I see it on the menu that I tell myself to not order it because the dinner portions are so large and I don't want to fill up on appetizers. So ... leftovers are wonderful also. The falafel is the perfect balance of crispness and softness. The spicing is superb. I've had every kabob they offer and each one is absolutely wonderful... juicy, flavorful, & aesthetically pleasing. The lamb kabob is just what one would dream of. They have a combination plate so that makes it easier to decide what to order. The khash-khash kabob is really unique and I really enjoyed it. There isn't a much on the menu that I haven't tried, and I don't have a negative thing to say about any of it. The restaurant is only a few blocks from me and I never noticed it until I did a search for restaurants near me. There is a sign, but you kind of have to look for it. There is a parking lot in back (you can't enter from Colorado Bl though - you have to go around back. The parking lot is only accessible through Jones alley behind the building, and it doesn't go through to the street east of the restaurant so drive down S. Grand Oaks Ave (not S. Roosevelt Ave). There is also street parking that's pretty easy. There is no shortage of Middle Eastern restaurants in Pasadena, so it has to be good to survive. Sahara is so good it's beyond surviving. It's thriving, and I'm so happy about it. read more

Food is good with a lot of variety. Service is friendly and prices are reasonable Food is good with a lot of variety. Service is friendly read more

This is my boyfriend's favorite lunch spot and I was able to join him! It's a casual family-friendly spot. The staff is so welcoming! The portion sizes and flavor cannot be beat! It is definitely my favorite Middle Eastern spot in Pasadena. The shawarma plate includes a hearty serving of meat, saffron rice, onion, hummus, tabbouleh, and pita bread. Parking: street or lot to the side (all free) read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Shawerma plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Always one of the best chicken kebab in Pasadena. Quaint family restaurant with fresh food. The spices on the kebab is what makes it so tasty. And of course the sides are no joke especially the cabbage. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine sells authentic, well-cooked food. I ordered the Lamb Kebab plate ($20.99, To-Go) at lunch around 1PM. The cubed lamb meat exudes that smoky, charcoal grilled aftertaste. The lamb is thick and tender. Personally, I really enjoyed the fluffy rice and thick, velvety hummus. The accompanying tabouli salad is zesty, bright, and fresh. If you enjoy your protein with that smoky grilled taste, I recommend Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine. The location offers excellent customer service. The entire staff is extremely friendly!! "Thank you so much!" "Have a good one!" "Bye Bye, thank you." Three different staff members chimed those exact phrases as a customer left. Staff is consistently quick to "welcome" and "wish you farewell." The business was busy and filled with cheerful customers. There's private parking (in rear) and street parking. Around 1PM, it was difficult finding an open spot to park. Overall, Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine customer service is supreme. In addition, the food is filling and well-cooked. It's a pleasant experience. read more

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After passing by many times throughout the years I finally decided to give Sahara a try and ordered delivery. To get the best of all the flavors I ordered the Sahara lunch combination. I enjoyed all the flavors, but I was not a fan of their rice, it reminded me a bit of ricearoni. The meats were each so delicious, I especially liked the chicken as it had a nice smoky flavor. Their hummus and tabbouleh are very tasty as well. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Sahara Combination Lunch Plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Great place for delicious and authentic Mediterranean food. They have lunch plates that come with rice, hummus, and salad, and you get to choose the type of kebab meat. The beef was very juicy and tender. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, treating everyone like family. You order at the counter and they bring the food out to you. Very clean and casual interior. read more

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I hadn't been here in about 20 years, and wow was I blown away. A little mom and pop kebab restaurant with delicious food and incredible service. I ordered the beef kebab, which was delicious and very tender. Tasted like it was off of a charcoal grill, not baked or gas grilled. The portion sizes are generous, and everything I ordered tasted great. Great natural light, relatively comfortable seating, but for me the most important thing was the service. Everyone was nice and respectful, we didn't feel rushed at all, and the food was great. Will definitely be coming here more frequently than once every 20 years. Highly recommend 10/10. I'd share photos of my food but I ate it too fast. read more

Food: Falafel Vegetarian plate (i think LOL): 10/10 The portions are huge and they'll definitely fill you up. You get so much good quality food for such a great price. The falafel and hummus is well seasoned and so flavorful. Service: 10/10 The staff are great and very nice! Ambiance: 6/10 Frankly it's not the most aesthetically pleasing place but that's not the type of restaurant this place is but this shouldn't stop you from coming. I believe this is a family owned place and they make a lot of their stuff in house. I tried their baklava and it was amazing. I've only been here twice but I plan on visiting again! Definitely recommend checking this place out :) read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Falafel Vegetarian Plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

This is the best middle eastern food I've ever had. Some of the best CHICKEN I've ever had. The staff is so incredibly kind and friendly - they go above and beyond to make sure you have a great experience. Will always recommend Sahara!!! read more

I've been visiting this restaurant since 1980 and it still hasn't changed in terms of the food. Ownerships have changed, but not Cori highly recommend. read more

Great family run restaurant! Great food, friendly service, love this place and the prices are very reasonable

Man, some of the best Middle Eastern Food in Pasadena. Me and my boys had lunch here a few days ago. I like the Lentil Soup which was good. It had a nice Middle Eastern twist taste to it. I also ordered the Beef and Rice plate Kebabs. Food was seasoned and not bland. Service was good. I love their menu choices too. I will be back for more. read more

Five stars all around. Since Armenian food is part of my heritage, I tend to be a little pickier as I compare it to the cooking of my aunt and grandma. The food was delicious. Everything was flavorful and well prepared. We had the Sahara combination plate and added a side of baba ghanoush. I would recommend all of it. The thing that likely sets this restaurant apart from other places is the service. Regulars were welcomed with their names and questions about work or a recent surgery were asked. This staff knows their customers. People were treated like family. I even saw a staff member come around to give a customer a hug. Our server was kind, helpful, and actually got to know us. To say I would visit again is an understatement. If I lived closer I would be here once a week. Loved loved loved Sahara. read more

I've been to Sahara many times and I'm giving it five stars because it's consistent. If there's anything there you have enjoyed once, it'll always be exactly the same in the future. Meals I especially like there are the steak and chicken kabobs, the arayis, baba, cabbage salad, the French fries are some of my favorite, hummus, and the garlic sauce is excellent. The ambiance is fine. It's one big room with a handful of tables and relatively uncomfortable seating. The service is always great: always. Taking everything into consideration, Sahara is a great spot for lunch or dinner. read more

My mom loves this place, and has been going here for years. I was craving Mediterranean and decided to stop by and I'm so happy I did! Excellent food and service, I was so full I could barely walk out of there. You can tell they are very loved by the community and have many frequent customers. As soon as I walked in they were extremely warm and welcoming even tho they were closing within the hour! I will definitely be stopping by again when craving some yummy Mediterranean food. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Sahara Combination Dinner Entree, Babaghanouj, tzatziki - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Just enjoyed a superb time here with my Spanish Windows10 classmates and professor from PCC. I think we ordered $500 worth of food from Hummus to Beef entrees and I finally experimented Armenian coffee the first time, well that turned out super delish and drinks....we split the cost after some one paid $100....I was pleasantly surprised most everyone paid cash including myself. Parking was free on the street only a short block down. We had at least 3 tables of a celebratory feast of our course completion night on December/11/24. I'll be back with this same group of classmates and professor again. read more

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One of the best Mediterranean Food in Pasadena. I definitely recommend their "plates", since it comes with hummus. The service is always spot on... attentive, friendly, and quick. The restaurant itself is very homely and has casual vibe. Highly recommended for anyone in the area looking for Mediterranean food. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Lula Kebab Plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

This was my first time trying this restaurant. I love Middle Eastern food abs this place was top-notch. I ordered the cabbage salad and chicken kabob. The cabbage salad was delicious and the chicken was filled with flavor and tenderness. The service was outstanding. The owners are very nice and cater to you. Cool atmosphere. I will be back to try the lunch specials. Great place to dine if you like. Mediterranean food. read more

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Enjoyed the *Lamb Kebab plate* for lunch today. The huge chunks of juicy lamb had great flavor. People are very friendly here. It has been some time since I was here last and I was very glad to see it still doing well. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Lamb Kebab plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Got some lunch with Dave. Nice family run restaurant, a clean well lighted place (pretentious Hemingway quote ). The service was friendly and quick. Food was great, the falafel was excellent and better than a lot of other local places. Great dips, well seasoned. Plenty of street parking. We got the food to go, truly a moveable feast . 5 stars read more

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Was looking for food after orangetheory and this place was only minutes away! I ordered the lula kebab plate. The lula was juicy, the rice was flavorful without being overly greasy, the tabouleh was a refreshing palate cleanser. They gave a generous amount of hummus and two slices of pita. Pita didn't really hit the spot but food was otherwise really good. Would come back! read more

We decided to try a new Mediterranean restaurant closer to home. While the service and hospitality were excellent, the chicken and steak kabobs were a bit dry. Unfortunately, we still like Café Bravo in Glendale much more. The value is similar but the meat tenderness is far different. Their kabobs were a little tougher than Cafe Bravo's also. Not bad but not at the top of our list. read more

I'm not even done eating and I'm leaving a review! Came while on my lunch/dinner break, ordered over the phone it was ready, warm and delicious!!!! Everyone in here is so pleasant. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Beef Kebab Dinner Entree - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

They greet you with an immediate 'Hello' when you walk in. Everyone is very friendly. The rice is very mushy and over cooked. Opt for fries instead of rice!! The pita bread was dry and not heated or cooked. They had a bunch on the side ready to just go to a table. Pita bread did not taste fresh. - Beef Plate 3.5/5 I thought the beef was quite tender, but chicken was definitely better. - Chicken Plate 4.5/5 The chicken was juicy and you could taste the char. They didn't have hot sauce cause 'the guy didn't come in yet.' We also didn't get a charred tomato or jalapeño like the other pictures. Parking is free in a lot. read more

Sahara Middle Eastern Cuisine - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Great food; great service. Chicken kebabs were juicy with just the right amount of spice. Lentil soup was surprisingly tasty. Family atmosphere with multiple family members working and making everyone feel at home. read more

The service is so friendly and the lady running this place is soo sweet so I feel really bad writing this (which probably explains why there are so many good reviews).... but to be honest, the food just isn't good. The lamb/beef kabob was ok, but the rice was weird- it was like over cooked rice-a-roni.... Maybe because I'm used to Persian rice and that's what I was expecting but this rice just isn't it. The grape leaves were in such a thick coating of oil- the first this my husband said was that they're canned- yup. The lentil soup was thin and flavorless. Won't be back. read more

Good food at this Mediterranean restaurant. This restaurant has good options on food choice with beef/chicken/lamb kebab. The rice was a little bit different as they use pilaf. Their tzatziki was fresh and tasty. The pita bread was good. However, we would have preferred not having to take it out of a store bag. We noticed they have lots of regular customers and good take out service. The ambience was basic. Lots of space for large groups. Parking is in the back. Drop in and pay them a visit. read more