Service was exceptional! Food was fresh, tasty and a good value. Plenty of parking and lovely patio seating area!

Absolutely recommend! Extremely friendly owner, and absolutely delicious food! The staff goes out of their way to make sure you have a great meal! 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

Was working in the area and stumbled across this amazing place. Everything is so fresh and delicious . You can tell it's all made from scratch without even being told it is. I had the mixed shawarma plate and the portion was HUGE. Enough for lunch and dinner. I also tried the falafel and grape leaves which were fantastic. Highly recommend this restaurant and will be back soon! read more

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

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

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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

Best food ever!! I been here twice and it's the best Arabic food I've ever tried!!! Service is really good and the owner is always with a big smile. Support local! read more

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

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Great food great and fast service Food is fresh and quality Thank you Belal I enjoyed the meal read more

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 love this place! Not only is the owner incredibly friendly and welcoming but he also goes out of his way to create a lovely gluten free dish for us! Consistently delicious. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Tabouleh Salad - 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

If you're looking for authentic, Lebanese food, with great and friendly service, and a happy ambience, in Orange County, don't look further. The family business owner will find your tasty favorite from his great menu options. I personally love their Shawarma, Falafel, Tabouleh and for desert you can try one of those fluffy, sweet Namura that I'm absolutely in love with its orange blossom's flavor, or baklava. Everything super fresh and made from scratch, with great quality ingredients and tasty. We keep going back! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Chicken Shawarma and special salad, grilled zucchini, eggplants, and cauliflower, beets, lentils, lettuce, and more. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I do not understand the high reviews The food was bland .. the garlic sauce was mainly mayonnaise . The chicken kabab was dry and tasteless .. it was very overpriced for the quality of the food. read more

My visit earlier today was truly impressive. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt inviting. The employee, who I assume was the owner, greeted me with a large smile and asked me if it was my first time eating there. When I said yes, he walked me through the whole menu and gave me a complimentary falafel. It felt like he was genuinely proud of the food he was serving. And it showed! The highlight of my experience was the food. The menu is very simple: shawarma, falafel, and kebabs. I ordered the beef and lamb shawarma. Ample portions of meat were accompanied by creamy hummus, soft rice, and fresh veggies. Everything served was outstanding. The meat was seasoned to perfection and was very tender. I've had plenty of shawarma in the past growing up in OC and exploring little Arabia in Anaheim. This place stacks up to the best in that area. I highly recommend ordering any of the meat dishes. Whether you're familiar with Lebanese cuisine or trying it for the first time, this restaurant is a must-visit. Exceptional food and wonderful hospitality. I will definitely be returning. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Beef & Lamb Shawarma Plate- # 2 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Amazing food. Great service. Can always enjoy good delicious fresh meal. Always a good vibe amazing customer service as always

Shout out Bilal for the best hospitality ever. First time here and he gave an amazing run through of everything. Very fast, very fresh! Go for the food, stay for the people (and the food lol!). Time to go into a food coma ... read more

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

Tiny portions and wilted sides. I am shocked by the high ratings - there are so many better grills nearby. Can't believe what these people put on a plate. read more

Do you feel AWFUL? Try some Falafel at Shish Taouk in Mission Viejo. It's a fun little restaurant that's serving up..well falafel for one, but also shawarma and kebabs! Look how cute it is! It's got some seating and counter space inside, but we opted to go outside and sit on their patio! It was a nice and sunny day to be eatin' some mediterranean food! Check this out! First off, we ordered some falafel to start, which was awesome. It was...meaty without meat! Chickpeas are an amazing superfood for sure. Texturally and tastewise, these are impressive! Onto our mains, we ordered a mixed shawarma plate, and a mixed kebab plate! They both rock! The shawarma is like a spitroasted shaved meat that is extremely flavorful. Due to the way it's cooked and cut, every single piece is caramelized! MMMMMMMM-mmmmmm! You know we love that maillard reaction! The kebabs are great too! They're cooked on the grill, and you get a wonderful char with every bite! It's not all about the meat though! The additional fixin's are so necessary. We're talking rice pilaf, pita bread, a salad, some pickles, and of course some nice sauces and dips. Go wrap a morsel of meat up in your ideal combination and dip it up. Slap that shawarma in your mouth and chew away. I don't need to mince my words guys. What a fantastic flavorful fun way to fill your food hole full of fresh fare to feast on. Say that 10 times fast, eh? Get your fill of the Mediterranean over here at Shish Taouk. It's easy, accessible, and you're gonna be impressable! read more

I loooove this place! Yummy food, cleaaaanest restaurant I've ever seen and the best customer service!

Amazing home style cooking. Top Notch service and we will be returning. Bilal is great owner and cook!

I thought the food was just ok. I had heard great things, but overall it was a bit bland. Service was great though and they had the food ready quickly. read more

You get tons of food for the price. Very authentic, and lots of flavor and variety. I usually get the beef and lamb shawarma plate and it comes with salad, rice, and potatoes, various sauces. Recommend. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Beef & Lamb Shawarma plate. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

From the moment you walk into this restaurant, you're wrapped in a feeling that's hard to put into words--something like stepping into a place built on love, passion, and true Lebanese hospitality. The aroma alone makes you feel like you've been transported into someone's home kitchen, where every dish is made with intention. The owner embodies everything that makes this spot special. He's kind, hardworking, and genuinely welcoming. If you have a question about the menu, he'll happily walk you through each dish, not in a rushed or scripted way, but with the pride of someone who truly believes in the food he serves. I visited with my fiancé, and we ordered the chicken shawarma wrap and the mixed plate (chicken and beef/lamb). I honestly can't say enough about how incredible everything was. The meat is unbelievably tender--melting in your mouth with every bite--and the spices are perfectly balanced. The veggies are fresh, the flavors are bright, and the pita bread is made fresh, warm, and soft. You can taste the love and care in every single component. There are TVs if you want to catch a game, but the atmosphere is so inviting that you might forget you're even in a restaurant. The space is spotless, organized, and beautifully decorated in a way that makes you feel like you're being welcomed into someone's home rather than a business. Come here ready to experience food made with heart, passion, and pride. It's the kind of restaurant you'll want to return to again and again. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Mixed plate (chicken and beef (beef/lamb) - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

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Great fresh food made in house. And the owner is very nice. Falafel's are not dry like other places tend to be. Love the flavor in the salads as well. read more

I definitely recommend this place owner is a great guy with fantastic customer service and amazing food Lets support our mom and poo businesses during this hard times when they go out if their way to give us amazing food read more

The best shawarma you can find in California! The owner was so nice and the food was amazing! We loved the beef and Chicken shawerma! The bread was so soft and fresh. So tasty and fresh! We are definitely coming back! Thank you read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Chicken Shawarma Pita Wrap Beef & Lamb Shawarma- Trio Welcome plate - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

I have been coming here for several years, and since the beginning they have treated me with an exceptional level of service and delicious food. I cannot recommend highly enough for others. read more

AMAZING food every single time! I come here at least 3 days a week and I never get tired of it. As a Lebanese person, I can honestly say this is some of the most authentic and delicious Lebanese food you'll find. Everything is full of flavor, fresh, and perfectly made. On top of that, the owner is super friendly and welcoming, which makes the whole experience even better. Highly, highly recommend! read more

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

We felt very welcomed during our first visit at Shish Taouk. We pass by Shish Taouk each time we donate clothes to Goodwill and have been meaning to stop by. The service was warm and inviting. The owner was very informative about the menu. We ordered the chicken shawarma and beef/lamb shawarma pita wrap combos and the variety plate. The pita wraps were fresh and had good flavor and texture. The falafel was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. So good. We will be back to try other offerings on the menu. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Chicken shawarma and Beef/lamb shawarma pita wrap combos. Variety plate with hummus, baba ghosts sh, stuffed grape leaves, and falafel. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

The beef and lamb shawarma is the best--perfectly seasoned, tender, and incredibly flavorful. You can really taste the quality in every bite. BillAl, the owner, is an amazing host--warm, welcoming, and genuinely cares about his guests. He makes you feel like family the moment you walk in. Great food, great service, and a great atmosphere. Highly recommend--this place is a must-visit! read more

Found this special place. The people here are wonderful and so is the food!! Thank you for your help!!

I do not understand the high ratings here. Maybe Mission Viejo-ans have a low bar or no point of reference for quality Lebanese food. The staff (probably owner) is very nice and kind. That goes a long way. But the food just ain't it. None of the meat was fresh tasting; all were dry. Chicken was without flavor and especially dry. The garlic sauce, after being called "the best in town," was basically mayo with a little garlic. Very disappointing. Potato's were mediocre. Needed sauce to be enjoyable. Falafel was not very flavorful and a bit airy/too fluffy. 3 meals. 2 small desserts. Falafel. $110 (including the 3% credit card fee they charge YOU at checkout). Very overpriced. Very underwhelming. I would not recommend. What is my point of reference for quality Lebanese? Open Sesame. Sunnin. read more

This was so delicious! We went during lunch for the first time and the guy was so nice. Very casual affordable spot to eat. Definitely will come back and try their desserts. Their hummus and pita bread was good too and salad was so healthy you feel good eating the food. The meal portions are big that it feeds for two. But we got the two grape leaves which were really good and he threw in a salad which was nice. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Grape leaves with salad - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

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