BEST OF OTTAWA 2021: Shawarma

After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!

Shawarma Palace (multiple locations)

Shawarma Palace that has been serving up Lebanese comfort food for over a decade. They’re especially known for their generous portions and awesome garlic sauce. They have multiple locations throughout the city but, if you want a late night eat, the Downtown Rideau location is open past midnight everyday for takeout and delivery!
Photo Credit: Shawarma Palace

Shawarma King (395 Bank St.)

Head to Shawarma King on Bank at Waverley for their delicious chicken or beef shawarma sandwiches that are available in small, large or extra large. For something different, try their chicken salad. It’s so good!
Photo Credit: Shawarma King  Abhinav Sukumar via google maps

Lebanese Palace (919 Industrial Ave.)

Any doubt that shawarma is on the menu is dispelled by the giant-size word plastered on the side of the Lebanese Palace. Well known for their sit-down restaurant and Middle Eastern entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights, they also have a fast-food side to the business. Pop in for a shawarma any day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Photo Credit: Jason A.H. Mroz

Mr. Shawarma (multiple locations)

Mr. Shawarma has three locations across the city and with their snappy service and great quality, one of their wraps or platters makes for a great meal on the go. If you’re not a meat-eater, they have lots of salad options and delicious falafel.
Photo Credit: Jennifer P. via Yelp

Yalla Yalla Bakery & Lebanese Foods (2010 Trim Rd.)

Next time you’re in the east end, drop by Yalla Yalla for some quality shawarma! The spot also offers endless options of Lebanese salads, pickles and other sides that are the perfect accompaniment to your wrap.
Photo Credit: Yalla Yalla Bakery & Lebanese Foods

Classic Shawarma (1110 Carp Rd. #145)

Classic Shawarma is well known for its friendly service and mouth-watering shawarma along with other classic Middle Eastern fare. Make sure to get a side of their delicious roasted potatoes. Did you know that they also cater and offer delivery?
Photo Credit: John M. via TripAdvisor

Shawarma Station (2446 Bank St.)

If you are in the Bank and Hunt club area, stop by Shawarma Station in the Towngate Plaza. The self described no-frill eatery is a great spot for a sandwich or a filling platter with all the classic fixings.
Photo Credit: Shawarma Station

Shawarma Express (119 Slater St.)

With beef marinated in thyme, white pepper, sesame paste and pomegranate molasses, Shawarma Express’ platters are absolutely bursting with flavour. Besides their succulent meat options, they also offer a unique, and delicious, garlic potato wrap that serves as a filling, yet light, vegetarian option.
Photo Credit: Shawarma Express

Alissar Lebanese Cuisine (1765 St. Laurent Blvd.)

The shawarma is great, but what we especially love about Alissar are all their amazing salads and sides. From their mango salad to their beet and apple salad, all of these fresh flavours are the perfect accompaniment to your shawarma sandwich.
Photo Credit: Alissar Lebanese Cuisine

3 Brothers Shawarma (multiple locations)

With three downtown locations, 3 Brothers Shawarma is popular with the university crowd. Whether you are looking for a late-night shawarma, their famous poutine, or one of their pies, the shawarma-fusion menu is sure to satisfy.
Photo Credit: 3 Brothers Shawarma