The 20 Best Lebanese Restaurants in California

Wally's Cafe (Rocklin) serves hearty Lebanese and Mediterranean dishes in a casual, family-style setting. Guests highlight flavorful plates such as pomegranate chicken and chicken shawarma, along with generous portions. Complimentary lentil soup and baklava add a welcoming touch, and attentive, personable service contributes to the restaurant’s loyal following.

Arabian Nights offers authentic Lebanese and Arabic-Yemeni cuisine in a spacious, understated dining room with an open kitchen. Guests appreciate the traditional, clean flavors in simple, non-greasy dishes, from lentil soup and hummus to fresh fish. A separate balcony-style area welcomes shisha smokers, and the restaurant maintains a traditional atmosphere without alcohol.

Carousel Restaurant Glendale offers Middle Eastern and Armenian cuisine with a wide selection of grilled meats, classic appetizers, and desserts. Diners highlight flavorful kebabs, falafel, and savory pastries that appeal to both those familiar with the cuisine and newcomers. Multiple seating areas, from sidewalk tables to a covered patio and white-tablecloth dining room, create a lively yet polished setting supported by attentive service.

Carousel Restaurant Hollywood offers generous family-style Middle Eastern and Armenian cuisine, with an array of salads, soups, and grilled meats praised for their rich flavor. The lively dining room often features belly dancing and traditional regional music and dance, creating a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. Attentive, professional service and a welcoming setting make it a popular choice for groups and celebrations.

AMMATOLI serves Eastern Mediterranean cuisine with flavorful mezza, grilled specialties, and fresh salads. Guests highlight dishes such as creamy baba ganoush, warm house bread, gyros, and date cookies. The restaurant offers a casual downtown setting with full table service, a thoughtful selection of wines and beers, and attentive, accommodating staff.

Wally's Cafe in Emeryville is a modest counter-service spot offering flavorful Middle Eastern classics prepared in an open kitchen. Guests highlight the fresh falafel, shawarma, tabbouleh, and salads, along with notably tender dolmas. Complimentary lentil soup and a slice of baklava create a welcoming, generous dining experience in a simple, unpretentious setting.

Mezza Thyme offers Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish, softly lit space with cozy booths and an intimate upstairs and downstairs layout. Guests highlight fresh, flavorful small plates such as falafel and halloumi, along with cocktails mixed with herbs, fruit, and quality spirits. A notable selection of whiskey and tequila and attentive service contribute to an inviting dining and drinks experience.

Dish n Dash serves flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as shawarma, lamb plates, and hearty salads with classic sides like hummus and falafel. Guests order at the counter, where service is quick and efficient. A spacious dining room, open patio, and screens for watching sports create a lively, informal setting complemented by freshly made juices and a selection of beers.

Pita Pockets serves Middle Eastern and Mediterranean favorites in a simple, casual setting. Diners highlight flavorful chicken shawarma, soft laffa and pita breads, and fresh sides like hummus, rice, and salad. Portions are generous, and the welcoming staff contributes to an easygoing, comfortable experience.

Zaytoon offers upscale Mediterranean cuisine served entirely on atmospheric patios lit with fairy lights and centered around fire-pit tables. Diners highlight well-prepared classics such as kababs, falafel, and halloumi, along with balanced cocktails. Attentive service and a lively outdoor setting create an engaging dining experience in any season, though cooler weather may call for extra layers.

Les Amis Restaurant & Lounge serves Mediterranean-style dishes with generous portions, including grilled meats, salads, and a popular shared meze platter. The roomy dining area, lounge, and bar create a comfortable setting for both small parties and larger groups. Attentive staff accommodate guest preferences, contributing to an easygoing, sociable dining experience.

Skaf's Lebanese Cuisine is a family-run spot known for its straightforward, authentic Lebanese cooking. Guests highlight grilled kebab combinations, crisp cabbage salad, hummus, and other classic mezze. The atmosphere is simple and informal, with attentive staff who create a welcoming, familiar feel for returning diners.

Kabob House offers Middle Eastern favorites in a clean, quiet setting that feels family run. Grilled meats such as chicken shawarma, kafta, lamb, and beef kabobs are prepared to order and noted for their flavor and tenderness. Plates are rounded out with hummus, salad, aromatic rice, and pita bread, with desserts available to finish the meal.

Cafe Du Liban offers traditional Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine, from kebabs, gyros, and fresh salads to house-made hummus and warm bread. Seafood dishes, including grilled fish and shrimp, are prepared with care and bold flavors. Guests note the memorable baklava and other pastries, as well as attentive, personal service in a comfortable, family-run setting.

Shish Grill serves Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and clean, authentic flavors. Diners highlight dishes such as chicken shawarma, lamb shank with rice, and satisfying vegetarian options, all in generous portions. The setting is simple and unpretentious, complemented by efficient, courteous service. Takeout is also a popular choice here.

Fairouz Cafe & Gallery is a family-run Mediterranean spot in San Diego that combines an art gallery setting with home-style cooking. Fresh, house-made dishes include classics like hummus, tabbouleh, eggplant specialties, grilled meats, and baklava, with plenty of options for both vegetarians and meat eaters. Guests describe the atmosphere as inviting, with attentive hosts who treat diners like welcomed guests.