Service is excellent, food is good quality, authentic, and you get a lot for the price.

Coming to Shish Taouk Restaurant is an experience, not just a meal. Bilal, the owner, is so welcoming and genuinely eager to share his culture and love for food with his guests. You can feel the heart and soul he puts into everything he makes. As for the food--it's top-tier. The lamb and beef shawarma is an absolute flavor bomb, and I was so impressed by how moist and tender the chicken shawarma is (so many places dry theirs out!). They wrap it in pita that is crisped to perfection, giving it the ideal texture. The sides are just as good: perfectly seasoned potatoes, fresh tabbouli, and wonderful lentils that left me feeling so healthy and satisfied after eating. An amazing neighborhood spot with incredible food and even better hospitality. I can't wait to come back! read more

The restaurant owner Bilal was super friendly and was very hospitable. He told me that everything is freshly made and the grape leaves are made by his wife. I really enjoyed my conversation with Bilal and he told me shawarma actually means spinning. That's why the meat is on the spinning machI got the 3 combo plate that came with beef, lamb and chicken shawarma as well as very fresh hummus, fluffy fragrant rice pilaf and a pita bread. Everything tasted very fresh and delicious. I also got the grape leaves that Bilal's wife made and it was amazing. He also gave me a sample of the falafel that they hand make from scratch from chick peas instead of powder. He also taught me to eat it properly one bite falafel one bite pickled vegetable and the contrast made it crunchy and delicious. The restaurant has a few tables and it is very clean filled with lots of Lebanese art. Bilal pointed to a painting of ancient downtown Beirut and he said today the same place is full of luxury stores. This place is a definite must try if you want fresh authentic Lebanese food! read more

Casual family owned Lebanese spot serving up foods made with quality ingredients and homemade recipes. Their shawarma wraps are a must try here, especially their beef topped with molasses sauce. They make sure to put it on the grill so there's a nice char and crispy crust for the outside of the wrap. It's super cool that they use olive oil and no canned preservatives. Falafel was delicious and potatoes also a savory must. I will admit the chicken was honestly a bit dry but the sauce made up for it. And I like how there are many vegetarian sides to choose from beets to tabouleh. This is one of those places that screams comfort food in a very casual, low-stakes setting. You can eat outside or inside. read more

Ok...so I have to tell you right away that I don't get the hype at all. I came here after a medical appointment shortly after 11am right when they opened. I had been eyeballing this place for a long time and was excited to finally have the chance to go. What I ordered; 1) Mixed shawarma plate #3 - 2/5. Served with chicken and beef, came with rice, salad and a pita bread. I was hoping for the meat getting shaved off the vertical spit, but he grabbed meat out of the covered trays. I didn't think anything of it and thought he may have just shaved some off to fill the bin before I got there. The two types of meat were very dry. Very. Dry. It was a bit upsetting biting into the meat. 2) I didn't really order this one. I don't know how to say this other than, it was mentioned and made to sound almost like it was being gifted as a welcome sampler until I got charged for it. I didn't know what to think. I was honestly a bit dumbfounded. I was already running late to go back to work, so I just paid and left. The veggie welcome platter - 2/5. I chose cauliflower, roasted zucchini, roasted eggplant, a tomato something that I don't remember the name of and baba ghanoush. The tomato one was interesting, I sort of liked it but wasn't absolutely positive. My taste buds were a bit confused on that one. Service was fine. I met the owner. He was super nice, very friendly and talkative. It was a great conversation. Maybe too good because as I mentioned above, he sold me a welcome veggie platter that sounded like a gift. I was weirded out afterwards and felt like I just left a car dealership. Yes, I could've asked how much that was, but when it sounds like he's just gifting it to you, you just happily say thank you. Right? Anyway, would I go back? I don't think so. It seems I had the same complaints about the really dry meat as others did, but I do wish them well. read more

See all

My partner and I tried Shish Taouk a couple months ago. I've thought long about posting a review or not, as our experience was so out of the ordinary that I doubt it will be replicated for most, but I think it needs to be done. When we arrived, we were the only people in the shop. The owner was extremely friendly and started a long and fun conversation about pro football ("soccer") and his sons' team and their games. He gave us a couple of small sample plates while we waited for our ordered food, and told us to grab fountain drinks too at no charge. Our ordered food then arrived, and as we ate he switched the conversation to the lack of sports and business opportunities during the Covid pandemic and how he proudly didn't get vaccinated. I had been prioritized for a vaccination due to my profession and gotten it, and as soon as I mentioned that (in conversation, not confrontationally cos it was so long ago anyway and the subject doesn't need to be divisive) his mood and attitude to my partner and I soured. The conversation abruptly and awkwardly ceased, and we felt very unwelcome. Sure enough, when I went to pay the bill we were charged for the supposedly-free fountain drinks, and I didn't feel I could risk furthering ill-feeling towards us by disputing it. We left, regretting our choice of dinner. The food itself was at least good (albeit not outstanding compared to other local Mediterranean options) hence the star rating I've still given, but with the extra fountain drink cost that we wouldn't otherwise have incurred it turned into an expensive meal. In addition, and needless to say, the negative interaction left a very sour taste. I can't see myself going back. TL:dr; Go for the food, or get delivery, but beware that offers of 'free' items may not remain so. read more

Hands down one of the best shawarma sandwiches I've had in California. I'm pretty picky when it comes to shawarma since I've had some incredible ones outside the U.S. so I was a bit skeptical, especially about the beef, because it can easily be dry. But I gave it a chance, and I'm so glad I did. It was absolutely delicious, and I'll probably be going back twice a week! The owner is fantastic, so welcoming and a truly great host. You can tell he's mastered exactly what goes into making the perfect shawarma. I highly recommend this place to everyone! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

I'm updating my review from a few years ago because this place still deserves the praise. I'm picky about Lebanese food, and this is one of the few spots that actually feels like someone's mom is in the kitchen. It doesn't taste commercial or pumped out in bulk. It tastes real. The owner is warm and genuinely hospitable, and his wife prepares the food fresh. They use quality olive oil and key ingredients sourced from Lebanon, which makes a difference. The fattoush salad is excellent. The falafel is flavorful. I've also had the lentil salad and the tabbouleh, and both were fantastic. If you're anywhere near the area, go! Places like this are hard to find now, and that kind of quality and authenticity is rare. I will always be a reoccurring customer. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

Really impressed with the food and, even more so, the customer service. The Shawarma has authentic flavors and everything tasted fresh and delicious. The beef & lamb was my favorite. What really stood out to me was Bilal, the owner. He was incredibly welcoming and went above and beyond to make sure my son's food was safe because of his food allergies. That level of care and attention meant a lot to us. You don't always come across an owner who genuinely cares this much about his customers. Bilal's customer service is truly second to none. We'll definitely be coming back! read more

Wonderful experience visiting. Fantastic food, the beef was delicious, succulent, smoky flavor. Sides were wonderful

Only my second review on yelp and they are both here. The best Lebanese food in the area! Get the #3 for your first try...

Funny enough I came here to leave a review only to see I had left one over 7 years ago! Still my #1 favorite restaurant in MV. I love the beef and lamb shawarma, my wife likes the chicken shawarma. Chef Bilal is the best!!! The restaurant is always clean and has some nice patio seating. Bring an appetite, the portions are filling and you won't be able to stop yourself. read more

See all

The food reminded me of our last trip to Beirut. Great food at a very reasonable price. Will go again.

came here on a rec from a friend and it was the best decision ever. Bilal at the counter is the nicest human ever, and his and his wife's food are AMAZINGGGG !!! tried the chicken and beef shwarma + beef kabob and they were all delicious. it's so hard to find thin crispy pita anywhere and it was the perrrrfect vehicle for all the sauces, meets, and veggies. GET THE EGGPLANT GOOD GOD, the char on all the veggies honestly are fucking amazing. the falafel too holy crap. most places i go they either make it too crispy and then its dry, or too moist and then it's got no crust, but THIS falafel was perfect. they make their own hot sauce from scratch and it goes sooo perfectly with the falafel and the potatoes they add (which are also amazingly spiced). plsplspls do yourself a favor and come here you will not regret it. i will definitely be back !!! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

This is one of our favorite authentic Lebanese restaurants that one can find here in Orange County. Shish Taouk has delicious Shawarma, and perhaps the best Kebab, and most popular falafel in town. Additionally, their food is authentic, made from scratch, And has the right ingredients. The owner reminded us that they don't use any preservative in the food recipes and it's 100% natural too! I love anything delicious that involves extra virgin olive oil. :) We always get a combination plate, my personal favorite is homemade vegetarian dolma. The owner consistently provides a welcoming, loving, multicultural atmosphere. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Shish Taouk & Beef Kabob! - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Shish Taouk is a small, family run Lebanese shawarma spot that is a pure labor of love. Bilal is an excellent guy and the service was outstanding. The beef and lamb combo was generous, flavorful and fresh. All of the vegetables were crisp and the pita bread tasted homemade. I told him it was my first time and he treated me incredibly well. I sampled some of the grilled veggies and a divine falafel. Definitely going to be my go to for a nice and quick work lunch. read more

See all

I had family coming in to town for a celebration. My wife and i placed our order two weeks ahead and paid for the order upfront. Bilal the owner is the nicest gentleman. We scheduled our pick up date and time and the day as i arrived to pick the order up my cell rang and it was Bilal calling to confirm he had everything ready to go. The food was outstanding and my guests went back for seconds plus more. Bilal deserves your custom, i know that you will be just as impressed as we were. I almost forgot to mention that he informed us that he doesn't use any preservatives in his food. read more

Great service and really kind owners/wonderful food. Easy parking and causal spot where you can grab and go or stay awhile. Would come again! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Combo plate #3 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

One of my go-to spots! I come here often and usually get the falafel or one of the pita wraps. They have so many good vegetarian options and everything always tastes fresh. The owner is genuinely so nice and always makes you feel welcome. Great food, lots of options, and such a friendly local spot! read more

See all

Amazing food and Customer Service! Portions sizes sure to make you full! Definitely go try it!

Shish taouk is a classic Lebanese spot with great food and great vibes, the falafel is amazing and don't forget desert !

Delicious vegetarian options, lots to chose from. Very clean, healthy and they make everything from scratch. The owner was very friendly and passionate about his food. The vegetarian welcome plate is a great option if you want to try a little bit of everything read more

The owner is friendly and kind man. The food is great I got the Shwarma plate! He piled the plate!! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - The food is good! - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

First time ordering and I'm already planning my next visit. I'm Romanian and grew up on homemade meals with similar flavors, and this place truly impressed. I ordered takeout with the idea of eating family-style, and everything we tried tasted fresh and flavorful. Even my kids loved it. They were literally fighting over the last falafel, and the chicken kabob was perfectly juicy and seasoned just right. The food might be the closest thing to homemade without making it yourself. When I went to pick up the order, Bilal made the experience even better. He was incredibly welcoming, chatted with my son and made him laugh, and even offered us samples so we could try more of the menu. He even included a few extra samples for my husband since I mentioned he gets home late and ends up eating leftovers. That kind of thoughtfulness is rare. Highly recommend for both the food and the genuinely warm service. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Sampling apps: Fattoush, Tabouleh, Pickled Veggies, Falafel. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

Always the best food!! Their service is fast and love the TVs to watch soccer and other sports! The atmosphere is clean and family friendly!! read more

Absolute phenomenal service and food. The staff were really warm and welcome! I particularly enjoyed their big portions and the place felt pretty cozy with a fairly pleasant outdoor seating area. Would highly recommend anyone looking for Lebanese food on the go to come and try this place out! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

Another highly satisfying lunch at Shish Taouk today. We can never have enough of this place. The food is always amazing and we Love Bilal, the owner. A Visit there is always a memorable experience. Although everything is delicious. I recommend my personal favorite, the beef and lamb shawarma wrap. It comes with garlic, tomatoes, onions, pickles, Parsley and tahini sauce. A true Lebanese Shawarma. The meat is tender and juicy. I like the Pita bread well toasted. It is crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is to die for. Thank you Bilal for the Quality food, the excellent service and the laughs. Good vibes :) read more

See all

I love this place, I come here after I go to archery and it has become a tradition. The food is so delicious and fresh! I have a sensitive stomach and never have problems eating the food here. I also love the owner Bilal, he is so friendly and accommodating. If you love Lebanese food as much as I do, this is the place for you! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Chicken Shawarma Plate- # 1 & Mix Shawarma Plate- # 3 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

This place is awesome! The food is simply delish!! Nice cozy atmosphere with a wide selection of favorites. Recommend getting the no. 3 mixed plate. Can't go wrong! Also the side are fabulous! Grape leaves, tabouli, babaganoush (sorry for any mispelling!) read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - No.3 mixed with sides. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I normally don't write reviews, but I had to after visiting this restaurant for the first time. There were so many plate options to choose from, but I went with a vegetarian plate since I'm plant-based. If you're vegetarian/vegan, you'll definitely have plenty of options to choose from, so don't worry! The inside of the restaurant is clean, the atmosphere is relaxed and casual, and the artwork throughout the restaurant was also really nice to look at. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and comfortable. The food itself was absolutely incredible - home-cooked, fresh, flavorful, authentic, healthy, high-quality, and clearly made with love. Everything was amazing: the falafel, pita bread, hummus, baba ghanoush, Lebanese moussaka (eggplant), stuffed grape leaves, roasted potatoes, Fattoush salad, lentil salad, tabbouleh...everything was so good! The owner is incredibly warm, friendly, and welcoming, and it was a pleasure chatting with him. He's a real one! I honestly would not let some of the negative reviews deter you from giving this place a try. Everyone has a different experience, so I'd recommend coming in and finding out for yourself. I've had authentic Lebanese cuisine before, and I can confidently say that Shish Taouk might be one of the best Lebanese restaurants in Orange County! I'll definitely be coming back soon for another vegetarian plate :) read more

Tasty food prepared and served by friendly appreciative owner. Best low-key patio in the area for lunch. Do yourself a favor and eat here. Healthy options for both veg and meat eaters. read more

While waiting for our car to be serviced, my wife and I stopped in for lunch. We tried the chicken and beef shawarma plates and were underwhelmed, as the meat on both plates was dry and bland. The beef was not fresh off of the spit as I would expect, but tasted like it had been sitting in the steam table for quite awhile. The side dishes were adequate, though the pita was dry and not fresh. The owner was very friendly, which is why I give this place two stars. read more

The food is always yummy, the kids love their rice, and plenty of food is served. The staff is also very friendly. We've never had a bad experience here. Can't wait to come again! read more

Delicious food and I got to watch some of the soccer game playing on the tvs in Arabic. Owner is super nice and the place is clean and delicious. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Delicious chicken shawerma - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

I just had the most amazing chicken shawarma wrap I've ever had! The owner was so helpful and gave wonderful suggestions on what I should include in my wrap. I'll be visiting this place very frequently (I already know this)! A great local spot for flavor and REAL/clean food options read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - I wasnt planning on taking a photo, but halfway through, I decided I had to document - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

This is one of my favorite restaurants in all of OC. I've been coming for some time now and it's amazing each time I go. I started picking up from here while I did DoorDash. Once I decided to get lunch one day I was hooked. The food is absolutely amazing. It's fresh and authentic. Never a bad meal. One of the only restaurants that I go back to time and time again. Chef Bilal is a big reason why I go back. He's one of the kindest and most generous people I've met. I will continue to come here for many more years. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Number #9 plate - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

The food was really good and fresh. The owner was very friendly and informative and the service was friendly. The patio was nice and clean. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Mix Shawarma Plate- # 3 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I was recently in Mission Viejo to buy a car. We stopped by Shish Taouk for a quick bite to eat to kill some time. What struck me the most was the friendliness of the staff and the overall hospitality of the owner. It was our first time here and even though we live over 100 miles away , the kindness and hospitality felt made me feel like we were respected regulars. My favorite thing we got was the beet salad that was made for us . Tender juicy beets with tomato and lettuce and parsley. Excellent flavors that really hit the spot. If we are ever back in mission viejo this would be my first stop. read more

Some of the friendliest and best service I've ever experienced. I was ready to return before I had even finished placing my order. We got baba ganoush as an appetizer and it was smoky and delicious. I would highly recommend it. We got a chicken shawarma wrap, a beef&lamb shawarma wrap, and a mix shawarma plate. The hot sauce on the wraps wasn't overly spicy and would recommend getting it. The meat on the plate was on the dryer side and didn't have much flavor on it's own, but when combined with the garlic sauce was tasty. Happy to support a small local business. Patio is dog friendly. read more

Great Mediterranean food! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and delicious. The portions were generous, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was great. Definitely recommend this place and will be coming back! read more