Minneapolis is home to a diverse food scene, with flavors and cuisines from all around the world. One of the most popular and beloved dishes in the city is shawarma.
This Middle Eastern delicacy has taken the Minneapolis food scene by storm, and it's not hard to see why.
Shawarma is a savory dish made of marinated meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef) that's slow-roasted on a spit and then sliced into thin, juicy pieces.
The meat is then wrapped in a warm pita bread and topped with fresh vegetables, sauces, and spices, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
But with so many options to choose from in Minneapolis, it can be hard to know where to go for the best shawarma. That's why we've put together this guide to help you find the top spots for this mouth-watering dish.
Whether you're a longtime fan of shawarma or a newcomer looking to try it for the first time, we've got you covered.
From hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale restaurants, we've scoured the city to find the best places for shawarma. We've tasted the meat, sampled the sauces, and scrutinized the seasoning to bring you an honest and comprehensive review of each location.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the world of shawarma in Minneapolis.
1. Spitz
Spitz is a trendy spot for Turkish street food in an upbeat setting. The menu is full of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including wraps, salads, and bowls.
The beef and lamb doner is a standout item, packed with flavor and juicy meat.
Vegetarians will appreciate the falafel wrap, which is equally tasty. The fries are a must-try, especially the street cart version with beef and lamb.
The atmosphere is vibrant and the service is friendly. Spitz is a great option for quick and delicious shawarma in a fun environment.
2. Dervish Mazza
Dervish Mazza is a Mediterranean restaurant that serves incredible shawarma. The warm atmosphere and attentive host make for a lovely experience. The mazza platter with pita is a standout dish.
The restaurant also offers a unique tapenade with olive, caper, lavender, and orange. The lamb with wild cherries is a must-try and is life-changingly great.
The restaurant offers patio dinners in warmer months, which are perfect for groups or first dates. In colder months, guests can gather around the fireplace or dine family-style.
Note that dinners are by appointment only on set days via the website. Dervish Mazza is a charming and intimate spot that won't disappoint.
3. Football Pizza
Football Pizza is a great spot for halal food that serves delicious shawarma. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of pizzas, including the meat lovers pizza that is exceptionally seasoned.
The staff is friendly and hospitable, making the dining experience a pleasant one.
The restaurant is known for its Afghan comfort food and the football-shaped pizzas.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. Football Pizza is a must-visit for those looking for a tasty shawarma or pizza.
4. Holy Land
Holy Land is a Middle Eastern restaurant and grocery store that offers authentic and fresh Mediterranean food. The shawarma, available in chicken, lamb, and beef, is juicy and flavorful.
They also have a Chef Choice platter that comes with a variety of kebabs, gyro, salad, hummus, honey cake, and mint tea that can feed 2-3 people. Vegetarian options are also available.
The grocery store attached to the restaurant offers a wide variety of ethnic specialties, including baked goods like baklava and konafeh.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the portions are generous. Parking is available in the back. Holy Land is a great option for those looking for delicious and authentic Middle Eastern food.
5. Mediterranean Deli
Looking for a place that serves delicious shawarma in a Mediterranean atmosphere, look no further than Mediterranean Deli.
This restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including shawarma, gyro, and falafel.
The food is scrumptious and filling. The employees are friendly and provide great customer service.
The tea is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. If you're craving Mediterranean cuisine, Mediterranean Deli is the place to be!
6. Naf Naf Grill
Naf Naf Grill is a modern Middle Eastern counter-serve eatery that offers delicious shawarma and falafel dishes.
Customers can choose their style, meat, grain, and toppings to create their own personalized meal. The staff is friendly and accommodating, providing excellent customer service.
The food is fresh and flavorful, with gluten-free and vegan options available for those with dietary restrictions.
The lentil soup and chicken shawarma-hummus bowl are highly recommended. Naf Naf Grill is a great place to grab a quick and satisfying meal.
7. Golden Fingers
If you're looking for a delicious shawarma, look no further than Golden Fingers.
Their chicken shawarma is bursting with flavor and the meat is well seasoned.
The restaurant is clean and tidy, and you can watch as they prepare your food.
The customer service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable. Don't miss out on this gem for your next shawarma craving.
8. Wally's Falafel and Hummus
Wally's Falafel and Hummus is a must-visit Mediterranean restaurant for shawarma lovers.
This Dinkytown staple offers a wide selection of fresh and homemade food at great prices. The chicken shawarma sandwich is legendary, and ordering it spicy adds an extra kick.
Vegetarians will also find many tasty options. The restaurant has plenty of seating and a friendly staff ready to help with food inquiries.
Don't miss out on their feast meals, which are a unique and supremely tasty experience.
9. Marhaba Grill
Marhaba Grill offers delicious Mediterranean food, including shawarma, kebabs, and gyros.
They have a lunch and dinner buffet, as well as a la carte options. The food is cooked to perfection and the staff is friendly.
The atmosphere is simple but comfortable. The prices are reasonable and the value for money is excellent.
Marhaba Grill is a great place to go for a tasty and satisfying meal.
