Al Rafidain

3.9 (74 reviews)

InexpensiveMiddle Eastern, Arabic, Grocery

Open • 7:00 am - 10:00 pm

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Al Rafidain - $30 tray with 4 different types of Rice, Chicken Kabob, Beef Kabob, and Lamb great taste . - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

Al Rafidain - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

Al Rafidain - Gyro meat plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

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AL RAFIDAIN ATMOSPHERE

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Moderate noise

Good for kids

Outdoor seating

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Joseph B.

Forgot to bring lunch to work today and was hungry af and wanted to try something new/different. Looked up kabobs and this place popped up. Checked out the menu online and called in a order of 2 beef kabobs w/rice and an Iraqi bread. There was a language barrier but we got it done-teamwork. Guy told me 15 mins, and I arrived on filipino/mexican time in about 25 mins. Cool market type vibe, left is restaurant and right is groceries etc. They had to make my order unfortunately but only waited about 10 mins. $10.61 was the total, damn cheap if you ask me BUT they forgot the rice. Now food time DAMN this was DELICOUS talking about 10 out of 10. The size of that Iraqi bread is literally 2'x2'!! No need for rice at this point lol. Came with 2 juicy beef kabobs with some bread tucked under to catch all the juices (I tasted of hint of lamb in the meat which was ), onions, grilled tomatoes, regular chopped tomatoes, and some yellow peppers. All this mixed with their garlic and spicy green sauce was flavor in every bite and made me respect their culture even more. Definitely would go again and try the rest of the menu. Big for me.

Suat A.

I've been eating here for many years. The reason why I change my way to come here is the authentic cooking and the smell when you check in, just like home. They cook fresh for you using daily meats. Best of all they serve the kebabs with freshly baked large pita breads. While they're cooking your order you can finish your grocery shopping. They have some space to eat inside and outside if you cannot wait until going home. This time I ordered ground beef kebab and beef stew kebab, came with free sides of pickles. Totally delicious.

$30 tray with 4 different types of Rice, Chicken Kabob, Beef Kabob, and Lamb great taste .

Angelina T.

My family and I were hungry and saw this market that also offers food, we asked for the Menu and a nice gentleman asked us if we wanted to get a tray that would have more food for a cheaper price rather than buying 3 combo plates. So glad we went with the tray it was delicious and lots of food. Also the bread they gave us was delicious and lady was making it fresh . Highly recommended this place to eat we will definitely be ordering from them in the future.

Mary K.

I'm middle eastern and I know my kabob very well! There is kabob on every street being sold all over El Cajon... but I gotta say, this is in my top 5 of best kabob I've ever had. A lot of my family members told me I had to give this place a try, so I did. Walking in, I was a little taken back. It's definitely a hole in the wall. They have a kitchen on the left side of the place and a small amount of produce being sold on the right side. I walked up to the kitchen, waited there for 15 minutes before someone acknowledged me. Right off the bat, there was definitely an attitude problem. The first thing said to me was "yes?" I'm here to order some food sugar plum!! Why else would I be waiting??? Anyways, I placed my order and walked around the place to see if they had any spices I liked. They had a small selection of produce including, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, jalapeños and bell peppers. They weren't the best looking so I stayed away from them. I didn't find any spices I liked, but I did see one of my moms favorite sodas she loved back in Iraq called Vimto. My food was handed to me in a very thin aluminum tray, piping hot! The cook had oven mits on, but I did not! I kindly asked him to please place the tray in a bag and he did. I payed for my stuff and I was on my way out. I definitely wasn't a fan of the service, but I will admit they are serving some of the most delicious kabob ever! Seasoned perfectly, cooked to perfection and some really good quality meat. They kept the meat juicy and flavorful, a lot of places lack this. My theory is that they're using some kind of lamb fat in their mix to keep the kabobs from drying out. Kabob usually has a decent amount of sumac on it, something they didn't do here, regardless, it was very yummy. The shawarma was also tasty. Not overly salty and again, not dried out. I'm a fan of the food! Prices are a little higher than the competitors, but the food is well worth your money. Hole in the walls are where the good stuff is at. Service needs some work, but the food does not! Give this place a try.

The food was so good, and the people were amazing .. it was our first time visiting San Diego and everyone loved it

Came here for lunch two days in a row, love the food here. Might take a while for them to make it but it tastes really fresh and flavorful

Rasha B.

The best market ever and yummy food the kabobs is amazing and the sammin is so good god blessed you

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Ali Z.

9 years ago

Best Iraqi beef shawarma in the Nation. I know because I tried to find Iraqi shawarma in at least 10 states.. this one is the ONE. Great food read more

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Shad M.

7 years ago

Called this place to make an order 1 hour before getting there. And when I got there food still wasn't ready they just start cooking it right when I got there. Didn't even end up taking the food because they were making me wait for a long time. I don't suggest this place at all. read more

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A B.

109

10 years ago

1. The hot food lady was rude (it didn't effect the food). 2. The hot food people ignored non Middle Easterners and pretended they couldn't speak English. 3. The butcher is a very sweet man and loves to tell you about his dogs . 4. Middle Eastern customers (men and women) always intervene on my behalf ("Hey! This lady was first!" then turning to ask me what I wanted so they could demand it in Arabic). Come on guys! You make wonderful food. Take some pride in your work! read more

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Ahmed K.

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12 years ago

Authentic and traditional Iraqi food, specifically from Mosul. Delicious entries and very good customer service. It is a grocery store and a restaurant, and it gets crowded during food rush hour. The kebab they made deserve 5-stars. They also provide Iraqi-style fish. Overall, I really enjoyed their food. The only con is that it is a little bit far from San Diago. read more

Al Rafidain - Storefront - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

Al Rafidain - Kababs, salad and dolma - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

Al Rafidain - Rice with potato, eggplants, bell pepper and chicken - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Esra S.

11 years ago

We have come to this place all the way from Newport Beach. They have really tasty kebabs and amazing fresh bread. You should definitely try. They are setting a table outside in the shade and bringing the kebab and veggies in trays. Feels like all you can eat. read more

Al Rafidain - The tastiest and best priced kebab ever! - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Kim H.

8 years ago

I love shopping in small markets. But will never go back in this filthy clutters store. The clerk was more interested in talking with someone than cashing me out. The fruit was wilted and dry. You could not even go between the aisles. the workers were dressed in dirty clothes and smelled bad. read more

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Nawar A.

8 years ago

Best beef kabab you can taste in San Diego, I would recommend it for take away since it's a grocery store. The grocery prices are not competitive with others in the area and definitely need to work on the air conditioning system. read more

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Ghaith A.

12 years ago

AlRAFIDAIN is my favorite restaurant in the UNITED STATE IN AMERICA everything over there fantastic, delicious and IRAQI food 100%. read more

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DE D.

8 years ago

There are many fine Middle Eastern grilles, thankfully, in metropolitan San Diego County. Especially now in the El Cajon Valley. My Middle Eastern friend introduced me to Al Rafadain. I think the beef and chicken kabobs grilled here have something special, and uniquely wonderful flavors. The breads are also well crafted, too. The sandwiches looked very large, too. I will definitely return again read more

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Aguta A.

8 years ago

The food is amazing! Beef kebab?! Wow the best kebab I've had! I love it, the costumer service was excelente and the price shocking cheap! Thank you for great experience will be back soon! read more

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Jim N.

8 years ago

Dirty place , awful customer service. Waited for 20 min and hadn't been served. Better go somewhere else .

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Maryam S.

8 years ago

My next door introduced my family to this amazing gem and let me tell you it's AMAZING! Being Iranian and growing up eating kabobs is nothing like this place! There service, employees and food is out of this world. You walk in place your order and they make it fresh right in front of you. Words can't describe the taste of there food... a must try! You will not be disappointed! read more

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Sammer O.

8 years ago

I always order food from this place when I'm in the area. I get kobobs which are so tasty, maskuf fish are amazing and reasonably priced. Shawarma is also really good. Its always busy so call before u go, at least 45 minuets ahead. read more

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C K.

203

109

9 years ago

People were friendly and food so very fresh! Fresh breads, great kebob, tekka, and shoarma. Its a bit pricey, but was glad to pay. It was si goooood read more

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Soban C.

8 years ago

Fresh and the Yummiest beef kabob in the world! The Only beans I look forward to eat. Very friendly folks, they gave us specia sweet bread fresh from oven. I always get Fresh bread with beef kofta kabob, beef kabob, beans and rice. read more

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Marah H.

6 years ago

Amazing food! So authentic makes you feel like you're back home! Reasonable prices and the staff is welcoming. Made me feel nostalgic all their food is amazing and fresh! They are very efficient and have an amazing work ethic and are so accommodating! read more

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Gino C.

110

9 years ago

I've been to a lot of middle eastern restaurant and this by far the best. I will drive all the way from La Jolla to go here when I'm craving some kebab. The staff is really friendly and the portions are solid. I am definitely becoming a regular here. I recommend the yellow rice with beef or chicken kabobs. The dolma and red rice are also amazing. read more

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Robert A.

190

11 years ago

Rude , horrible customer service! My perception of this place is that you have to be Arabic to be serviced!

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Selim A.

12 years ago

This place is one of the best kept secrets in San Diego. Their kebab is delicious and since it is grilled on a charcoal, the taste is amazing. They also have bakery items and the Tandoori bread they are making is fresh from the oven. Delicious.... read more

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Al A.

11 years ago

Don't be fooled by the exterior. This is hidden eatery inside a middle eastern market. Go for the most popular ground meat kebab and grab piping hot pida bread from the bakery right next to it and you've got a great meal for a incredible low price. I think one shish is $1.50. Deal of a deal. read more

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Hector R.

239

11 years ago

The Kabab was amazing! Had to stop in while walking by because the smell coming from the food cooking was incredible. Definitely worth a try. read more

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Joe T.

11 years ago

Good cheap food. What wouldn't you like about it? I recommend the beef kabob!

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Baha N.

141

10 years ago

Nice products. Store is not clean. Taste of the foods are delicious. Prices are cheap read more

Al Rafidain - Cheapest market in this area. Halal market - Middle Eastern Near Me - El Cajon, California

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Ashleigh S.

9 years ago

Always drive by and smell the food so we stopped in and got some kebab... delicious as all can be, so filling and not expensive at all. A lot of other reviews say that they are rude but I'm a very white woman and my handsome is white and the gentlemen helping us was very nice and helpful since we have never been there before. Bread is super fresh and food was cooked to order. Definitely will be going back and again, the pastries look amazing as well read more

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Mitzy U.

9 years ago

First time i went there and bought food. It was soooo good. It worth the drive from Chula Vista to this place. Definitely one of my options to buy dinner. read more

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Loena Loeloeh L.

288

221

10 years ago

Less expensive produces but some of them are not fresh. Fresh from the brick oven hot mediteranian foods. This is located behind cvs pharmacy on 2nd street. read more

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Debra J.

8 years ago

this place is the best,, i love all the food, spices are second to none. i never like that fish, but here with the smiles herbs that fish that chicken everything the lady places her hands on is delish. i travel to get to this place and it is worth it. read more

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Sohel B.

7 years ago

Not clean at all, I recommend everyone to avoid it. Just look outside near the backyard and the entrance and you will believe me.

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Jo A.

10 years ago

If you like kebab you most visit them "yummy" :) Tasty kebab and fresh bread. I recommend it read more

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Sahar A.

10 years ago

This is the worst resturaunt in el cajon. I got food poisining and had to go to the hospital because of them.

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Hussein A.

9 years ago

The Kabab is okay, but the women who sales there, just make you feel like giving food for free... I don't know about the quality of the meat they are using, only complain about that lady the fat one read more

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G S.

11 years ago

This is the best beef kebab that you can eat in San Diego. It is not a restaurant but great place to order for parties and big group dinner. You can order in advance and go pick it up. They don't deliver. Also they always have fresh bread. read more

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Khwaja S.

10 years ago

Big 0 star.Rude. i purchased a belt it was damaged and 2 days latter i returned for exchange. the young Arabic lady (cashier) asked me when i bought it , i sad, 2 days ago. . then she said manger is not her may be hour latter. i start shopping at the chick out cashier asked me for the receipt i give it to her.. she asked me to show the belt if it is not used . while it was not then she said it is not our and may your kids did some thing wrong .it was like mice eaten. i said, kids are not mouse . she said i remember i check when you bought, it was good . i said don't lie pleas. you have another one the same. she said i am sorry i could not exchange . i trow it to her and i said OK this is yours i don't want exchange and you can sell it again and again,you will make more money, good business . she disrespectfully told me she do not want to sell any things to me.. i said i appreciated i went to the grocery store at main street Valley Food market and i saved more the $8 from the same item the i wanted to buy them . more ever i fiend a Mediterranean restaurant Lake Lindo Grill at lake side which has the best food and kebab. so i will not go back to Al Rafidain marked not for grocery nor for food. read more

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Aymen D.

11 years ago

Dont order any food from them there food old and nasty. I ordered yesterday a chicken but it was just cold and old.

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More info about Al Rafidain

1221 Broadway
El Cajon, CA 92021
Bostonia
Directions
(619) 401-7711
Call Now

Full menu

Hours

What time does Al Rafidain open?

Al Rafidain opens at 8:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.Al Rafidain opens at 7:00 AM on Thursday and Saturday.

What time does Al Rafidain close?

Al Rafidain closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday, Thursday and Saturday.

Mon-Wed, Fri, Sun 8:00 AM - 10:00 PMThu, Sat 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Al Rafidain take credit cards?

Yes, Al Rafidain takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Al Rafidain have catering options?

No, Al Rafidain does not have catering options.

Does Al Rafidain serve alcohol?

No, Al Rafidain does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Al Rafidain have TVs?

No, Al Rafidain does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Al Rafidain have bike parking?

No, Al Rafidain does not have bike parking.

Does Al Rafidain have outdoor seating?

Yes, Al Rafidain has outdoor seating options.

Does Al Rafidain have parking?

Yes, Al Rafidain has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Does Al Rafidain have free WiFi?

No, Al Rafidain does not have free WiFi.

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Tea coffee Karak tea and Dubai Chocolate Crepe

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Pistachio latte

Turkish coffee and chai

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The food was ok, the location is very nice, the service was very slow on Sunday at 1pm. The…read moresandwiches were ok. But 20 minutes to get the pastries to the table. We had to go get them ourselves. The reasoning was they were warming them Up. Hmm they tasted stale. But what bothered me the most is that they wipe down the tables with lemon pledge. There was dried food stuck on our table from previous customers they sprayed lemon pledge on it 3 times to get the sticky dried gunk off. Meanwhile they were smearing it across the table. Definitely not cleaning the table for us. A little more customer care and a real cleaning process would go a long ways to getting 5 stars from me.

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To go order

Pesto Chicken Pasta - very good

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Calamari - very good

Funky Fries and Burgers

5 stars! Funky's is a little gem in El Cajon that I'm so glad I found…read more Stopped by for lunch and walked away impressed -- the staff was super friendly and welcoming from the moment I walked in, and despite the spot being busy, service was quick and efficient. Plenty of parking available too, which made the whole visit easy. I went with the double patty smash burger topped with aioli, and it did not disappoint -- juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right. You could tell the beef was good quality and the smash technique gave it that perfect crispy edge. The vibe inside is laid-back with sports playing on the TVs, which made for a nice casual lunch spot. Will definitely be coming back to try more off the menu!"

With money being tight for everyone I try to frequent mom and pop places more often than the…read morechains. This place is a joke. Why have a "loyalty program" when they add points then reverse it later that same day. I went today and ordered my usual 2 burgers, fries and drinks. I gave my phone number for the Points. I then asked Vieann H (who identified herself as the manager) when I showed her my receipt from last time I visited and questioned why they reversed the previous points and why I got none from this receipt I produced. She tried to act like it was my fault I received no points and couldn't tell me why the points were reversed from the previous visit (even after she went back in the office to do the research. She told me when came back from the office, she could see all my order history but she couldn't give me back any points from my 2 previous visits. I told her this will be the last time I come and she is losing a customer over 29 points. SHE COULD CARE LESS. Her response to this was "I went in the back to do research". Beware! They don't even deserve the 1 Star I had to give them.

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The shake was served exactly how advertised and pictures. You will not be disappointed

Lots of beer on tap

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Beers on tap

la michoacana elite

I enjoyed a nice creamy coconut ice cream from this Mexican themed ice cream shop. It was very…read moregood, but a little sweeter than I would have liked for a coconut ice cream. It was still very tasty though. It cost $4.99 for a small cup. In addition to the variety of Mexican inspired ice cream flavors, they offer agua frescas, churros, paletas, snacks, and raspados or chaved nice. The hospitality was very friendly and helpful. There is plenty of parking and a modest amount of inside seating. Good ice cream.

It's always so hard to pick one thing when everything is new and foreign. We opted for mangonada…read moreand strawberry agua Fresca with strawberry and cream ice cream. It was 10/10. Service was very patient considering it took time for us decide. This is our newest fav fruteria. No lines, lots of options and tasty treats.

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Coconut Ice Cream

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Crepes

The Habibi Sweets

Family-owned & operated

Free WiFi

..no comment,everything is sweet! excellent service,…read morehighly recommend it............!

Second time I come here to get a cake and it was a mess. I only came back because it's my moms bday…read moreand she likes the pastry from there. The cake was not ready once again when I arrived and had to wait for them to finish it. I don't mind spending $120 on a 10 inch cake but not for what I reviewed. I only took it because unfortunately i had to have my sister wait for the cake. The cake was not decorated by a professional at all. What a disappointment. I would save you time trying to order a custom cake from here. Oh! And I only came back because the gentleman was very nice last year with that cake nightmare

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12 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Vedil S.

6 months ago

From the first bite, it's clear this food is made with pride, tradition, and real attention to flavor. Everything tastes fresh, well-seasoned, and cooked with care, the kind of food that doesn't try to overcomplicate things because it doesn't need to. The kabobs are a standout: juicy, tender, and perfectly charred with that smoky grill flavor you want, not dry or overcooked. The chicken is especially flavorful, and the beef has a deep, savory taste that shows it's been properly marinated. The shawarma is rich and satisfying, sliced thin and packed with spice without being overpowering. The sides elevate the whole experience. The rice is fluffy and aromatic, the bread is warm and soft, and the sauces bring everything together. The garlic sauce is smooth and bold, the tahini is balanced, and the spicy cilantro sauce adds just the right kick. Even the salads and pickled vegetables feel fresh and purposeful, not like afterthoughts. Portion sizes are generous, especially on the platters, making them perfect for sharing or taking home leftovers. You can tell this is comfort food rooted in tradition, the kind that keeps people coming back because it consistently delivers. Overall, this is honest, flavorful Mediterranean food done right. No shortcuts, no gimmicks, just well-made dishes that taste as good as they look. read more

Bristal F.

3 days ago

I absolutely loved this place! It is a wonderful mom-and-pop shop with a great atmosphere. The workers and cooks were incredibly nice and welcoming. The food took about 20 minutes to come out, but the portions were huge, high-quality, and very reasonably priced @ $45.00 I also really enjoyed their drinks!A quick tip for first-timers: you pay after you finish eating, and make sure to ask for a receipt. I got two pieces of their big bread for $5 total ($2.50 each), which was an amazing deal. I will definitely be back here with more of my family! read more

Frans A.

1 year ago

I had a very disappointing experience at Al Rafidain. The customer service was extremely poor--staff were rude and not helpful at all. The place didn't feel clean or organized, and the quality of the food/products did not match the price. I expected much better, especially based on some of the good reviews I had seen. Definitely not coming back, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for good service or a professional atmosphere. read more

Dr ED M.

1657

452

822

3 years ago

Everything about this restaurant was great. The place was clean and smelled good. The staff and greeter was very nice. Our waiter was awesome, the staff also worked as a team in bringing and cleaning up our food. The food was fresh and awesome. Then we also had dessert and that was really good as well. Great atmosphere with really nice people. read more

RavenWolfofCelticBlood Y.

8 years ago

The food and people are truly kind and take good care of what you want ,,,Ive been coming here for years when Im in California with family and they treat you like family,,Don't take my word go see yourself and tell them Jason from Maine told me to come and see for myself... read more

HvacZoneHomesteadingFarms S.

6 years ago

When I'm in the San diego Area I always visit one of my favorite places due to the quality food at excellent prices, Al Rafidain has kept its quality for years and the people are very nice. Stay well see you again soon.. read more

M S.

12 years ago

People always give good comments about their Kabab!! BUT they use a really bad and old vegetable!! It's all yellow!!!also, the bread under the Kabab is not iraqi bread!! It's old lebanese bread! read more

Vedil S.

9 years ago

It doesn't get much better than this place, definitely a hole in the wall type that has some of the best kabobs I have tasted. I recommend you go and give this place a try! read more