Calgary boasts an abundance of local eateries in and around the city with an assortment of shawarma options.
This Middle Eastern classic features tender, seasoned chicken, beef or lamb slow roasted on a spit, sliced and served in a variety of ways. It can be enjoyed in a fresh pita bread wrap with vegetables, hummus and a variety of sauces, or on a place with roasted potatoes, salads, fries, rice, condiments and sauces.
Photo Credit (Hero): Beirut Street Food
Photo Credit (Left): Basha Bites
Whether wrapped in soft pita bread or served on a platter alongside vibrant sides, this beloved dish is a go-to comfort food. Here are some top picks in the city where you can savour shawarma done exceptionally well.
This family-run restaurant was a long-time fixture in Forest Lawn. The original store is now closed, but their loyal following gladly makes the drive to their new location in Legacy for their shawarmas. Chicken and beef options are served with fresh ingredients and condiments like their house-made garlic sauce. Have yours with an order of Tzatziki Zaatar fries.
Beirut Street Food provides authentic Lebanese food with a twist. Their beef and chicken are cooked on spits over burning charcoal, giving the shawarma its distinctive smoky flavour. The meat can be enjoyed in a pita, on a platter, or even as a poutine. While you’re there, you’ll definitely want to pick up some of their pita chips and labneh.
Jimmy’s has been a popular place to grab a shawarma for years. They have a loyal following; it’s not unusual to see a line out the door. They’re known for generous portions, whether as a wrap or platter; there’s even a shawarma salad. Round out your order with a side of their garlic fries.
Located in the grocery store Basha Foods International, Basha Bites is new to the restaurant scene and quickly gaining recognition. Their shawarma platters are filled to the brim with not just shawarma meat, but with salad, rice, garlic potatoes, hummus and garlic sauce. If you prefer your meat in a wrap, you can choose from a variety of add-ins including pickles, onions, tomatoes, and pickled turnips.
Shawarma Palace is a family-owned restaurant that has been around since 2009. They currently have five locations, covering every quadrant of the city, serving generous portions made with fresh ingredients. Pair your shawarma with one of their many sides – whether you choose tabouli, garlic potatoes or rice, this is a meal that’ll leave any belly happy.
Shawarma Passion was established during covid and has been around since 2020. Their sister store, Shawarma Palace, is in Saddleridge. Platters include chicken, beef or lamb – or all three, if you prefer – served with rice, garlic potatoes, salad and pita bread.
Uncle Moe’s has been around since 1983 and has two locations in the city – one off 52nd in the NE and one on Edmonton Trail. Their long success is a testament to the delicious food they serve. The meat is prepared in store with their special blend of spices. Whether you are ordering a wrap or a bowl, you can choose from 3 sauces – garlic, sweet and tahini. Baclava finishes the meal perfectly.
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