The food is wonderful here. I've been here a few times and have not been disappointed. The hummus is terrific, so creamy and delicious. I had the spicy chicken which was great, not really too spicy just flavorful. Staff is knowledgable. My only gripe is the atmosphere is ugly. I really wish they would update with nicer tables and chairs and some kind of decor or candles on the tables something! read more

Great takeout food! We enjoyed the lebaneh, pistachio baklava, and various chopped salads. Everything was fresh and delicious!

Love this place, food is great, ambiance has been improved, and of wait BYOB, thank you yes! Get the chicken platter with the cabbage side.

Met friends here for dinner my first experience eating Mediterranean food. It was awesome! The Hummus was amazing! The waitress was very helpful explaining the menu.. Can't wait to go back! The beet salad was delicious and the Pita bread was also very good! read more

I work in Media and needed to grab lunch before I started my night shift. Having lived and (frequently) dined in Philly at some of the best restaurants around, I can say that Desert Rose rivals them. A ton of great dishes, and a lot of food I've never heard of before. My meal came with so much food that it kept me full for the rest of the night, and it was cheap! Best of all, the owner/chef came out to talk to with us at our table to make sure our food was perfect! I will definitely be going back, and I recommend it to anyone who likes Mediterranean food. read more

Couple of points to ignore about this place and I promise you, this will be the most amazing food your ever had. 1) don't except perfect ambience 2) no alcohol but it's BYOB 3) not proper sitting The staff is amazing and such a positive people. They will guide you through the menu and perfectly understand what you need. We ordered red falafel sandwich and my husband ordered platter with hummus and falafel. Both the plates had enough quantity and the quality of food is amazing. We have been to Zahav and I can promise you that food is equally comparable on terms of quality to this place. Give it a chance and I promise you won't be disappointed. We also ordered Turkish coffee and baklavah at end. We almost paid 28 dollars for two people. They also accept cards. Staff is lovely please treat them with respect. Authentic Mediterranean menu not the American version. read more

Went there for Dining under the stars in Media. Staff was very friendly, LOVED BETH!. Food was excellent The filet mignon was mouth watering, hummus was delicious! Def worth going back! read more

Based just on the food I would give Desert Rose a 5, however service can be a little short of desirable. The falafel is always delicious.

outstanding. First visit. Everything was delicious great ingredients, beautifully cooked Lebanese lamb especially good. Nice space, lovely service. Been to many Middle East restaurants. One of the best. read more

It really doesn't get better than this. Desert Rose has fantastic middle eastern food. Their spicy shawarma is spot on. I highly suggest taking a friend to this quaint cafe! read more

Unfortunately our experience here has gone downhill since they opened several years ago. The food is consistently good (not extraordinary) but the dining experience leaves much to be desired. To be clear, the wait staff has always been lovely - the issues lie mainly with the owner's apparent lack of concern for patron comfort. The old cafeteria tables are much too small for the silly oversized decorative plates used for serving. It is impossible for a table of 4 to sit comfortably with entrees, water, wine and even a small basket of pita on the table. We always have to put our water carafe and wine bottle on the floor to make it work. If there are leftovers you'd like to take home, expect to pack it yourself and good luck trying to maneuver that at the overcrowded table. In addition, despite years at this location, there is still no grasp on temperature control. The A/C is basically non existent and not all of the ceiling fans work. All the patrons seemed to be sweating - everyone at our table was extremely uncomfortable. I can't imagine how unbearable it would be as a kitchen worker or server. The evening we were there only one server was working and the owner stood staring without lifting a finger to help - it's very disconcerting and leads to a tense atmosphere. It's completely understandable when a new place opens to have growing pains and issues, but this is now an established business that enjoys a steady following and has recently raised prices that were already on the high side. This has never been a pretty place - but aesthetics can be forgiven if there's a happy, and congenial atmosphere with good food. It's time to give something back and make a real investment in patron and staff comfort to improve everyone's experience. read more

Purchased falafle sandwiches and they were seemingly overpriced; however they were packed and left me feeling pleasantly full. They rated very high vs. other similar dishes at other spots I have tried. read more

What a great little stop in Media. I am very particular on my hummas and they nailed it. Our server was great and explained all the dishes out to us along with recommendations. Overall we had a great experience and we will definitely be back. read more

One of my favorite dinner spots in Media. Food is fresh and authentic. Staff are always so wonderful and kind. There is usually a wait since it's so small, but it's byob, so that helps make the wait worth it! I have even done takeout from time to time, which is great and fast! Chicken schwarma and hummus are excellent! Grape leaves are decent. I'd pass on desserts here. read more

Wonderful restaurant, good value and great food. I have been going since they opened a few years ago. It never disappoints, read more

Great experience. Clean, energetic atmosphere... As far as the food, they have unbelievable Hummus. Best I've had. I'd recommend eating here over and over again! read more

If the world were to end tomorrow (and it looks like it may), you need to be able to say that at least you had the chicken shawarma at Desert Rose. read more

I read reviews substantially more than I write them. Desert Rose you are five stars. The most common complaint I read is ambience, quite frankly I would be happy at your restaurant in a cellar sitting on a floor. The owner, I believe his name is Eric and his staff have an incredibly friendly demeanor it is always a pleasure going in. I have only been able to do take out 3 times so far due to having a crazy mom/work schedule. Everytime has been amazing and I feel that I am giving my family a very fresh healthy meal on the go. Before the end of February my husband and I will be sneaking out for a sit down. Everything that is good about food you my friends, have nailed it :) By my standards we are now in a relationship!! We can not wait to see you soon! Thank you for amazing food!! read more

Four of us went to the Desert Rose for the first time last evening. Our first impression was how friendly everyone was and how homey the place felt. We were in a mood to try new dishes and our server helped us understand our choices. The orzo and Israeli couscous salads were delicious. Next time my husband and I would share one. But then he got to bring some home for lunch next day. Our entrees were outstanding. And the desserts were out of this world. We highly recommend the Desert Rose and plan to go back again soon. Jason, the owner, showed a genuine interest in our dining experience. He has a varied background which he uses to make his restaurant a favorite for those who go there. read more

I have fallen in love with the shawarma there. I go weekly for lunch and have gone a few times for dinner. Staff is very friendly and the service is usually quick. My one take away was I wish they would stay open later at night so I could take my wife there more often for dinner. Not going to knock off stars for that, but if anyone is reading please consider staying open until 9pm and I will provide more patronage! Love the food! read more

My parents & I stopped in here the evening before I was going on a long drive so I really just wanted something quick & filling before an early bedtime. I should've checked the reviews first! The food was perfectly fine, but from the time we walked in the door it took us nearly TWO HOURS to be served. The owner or chef--the older man who was cooking,who we could see clearly from our seat--seemed to keep reassuring the rest of the staff that something would hurry up but he was the ONLY person cooking, clearly not enough staff for a restaurant with 10-ish tables. i would've given this place one star but the waitress did seem to be genuinely apologetic and even sent us home with a sample of the spices used on the hummus since my dad said he liked it. We would've appreciated being told as we sat down that the kitchen was really backed up and it would be a while. I hope this place figures out their service because i would really like to try it again, but last time i went home feeling cranky and tired--not exactly how i like to feel on a nice night out read more

The food was tasty. It really was. But we waited almost an hour for dinner. We sat right in front of the chef. He never noticed that everyone else got their meals and we had nothing. After 45 minutes our waitress told us that two tables ended up on one check and got deleted, or something. We said oh, so our order was lost? And she said no. Just the two tables on one check, blah blah. Ok. Fine. But it still took another 15 minutes to get our food. Our water qas gone, we had to ask for more. Once the food came she never checked back with us until we were done. Never an apology. No offer of anything to make up for it. It was frankly a bizarre meal. I liked the food but not enough to return. read more

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable...we tried the Orzo salad based on some other reviews and it was delicious. The homemade was a real treat! read more

This restaurant has really delicious food! Everything is freshly prepared. My favorite items are the Moroccan tomato soup and the Desert Rose chicken shwarma sandwich, both of which are spicy (but not too), with wonderful flavors. My husband loves the falafel sandwich. The salads are very fresh and tasty. Even though the decor and lighting are luncheonette-like, I am giving it five stars based on the quality and consistency of food. It is a really good value and a nice change from the usual fare. read more

Went with a party of 6 on a Wednesday night for Dining Under the Stars. Weather was not great, so it was relatively slow for Media. They do not take reservations. We arrived at 7PM, only to be told by the hostess that 'they could not seat us - they had a table but no chairs.' Come back the next night, or come earlier next time. She was incredibly rude. SO we did not even get a chance to try the food. And I doubt if I will be back. What's so hard about taking reservations?? read more

My favorite healthy spot to eat in Media PA. I looooove this place. We always have a good experience here. Husband and I just went last week for lunch and I ordered the hummus which is creamy dreamy goodness with pita (not that store bought stale stuff), and grilled eggplant. Husband had the falafel and it was also amazing. The restaurant is run by a husband/wife team and they have always been very pleasant. I hope they someday expand - this is a gem of a restaurant. If you like Mediterranean food and want a healthy delicious meal, give this place a try. read more

Went on a Saturday around 7 and were told it was a 30 min wait. We gave a phone number and they said they would call when the table was ready. We decided to walk around State St as we waited but less than 5 minutes later we were called - table was ready! We brought our own wine which was promptly corked by a server who also brought wine glasses, cups, and a water jug. We quickly orders - chicken schwarma sandwich and braised brisket sandwich. The pitas were stuffed to the max when they arrived! I tasted both dishes and loved each of them. The brisket was tender and the BBQ sauce was flavorful without being overwhelming. The chicken was phenomal - well seasoned and perfectly cooked without being dry. Also enjoyed the slaw and cucumber tomato salad that the chicken was accompanied with. Unfortunately we were both too full for dessert because everything on the menu sounded great! The servers were all very friendly and attentive. They checked on us frequently to make sure everything was ok and that we didn't need anything. read more

Omg! I can not say enough about this place. The food is awesome. Fresh and delicious! But even better is Jason one of the owners. I had a catering order for 20 people and then I lost my power in the recent storm and had to cancel my party at the last minute. He was a pro about it. Thank you! read more

Haven't been disappointed by a dish here yet. The food is always outstanding. The portobello sandwich is my absolute favorite. The slaw they put on it is incredible! They even have a little station with various sauces to put on your food but I never mess with them. The couple that run this place are always so pleasant and friendly. They make you feel like a regular there, even if it's your first time visiting. read more

We are never disappointed at Desert Rose. We have young children, so take-out is our style and we love Desert Rose. The platters, sandwiches, salads, and desserts are all delicious. We have not found anything we don't like so far. We hosted a party and the catering was perfect. An extra bonus is that the owners and staff add a little pizzazz to the take-out experience. read more

These people are not nice! I was recently at one of the local outdoor art shows and joined some friends at the tables out in front of Desert Rose. My friends had already ordered food and when it arrived it looked delicious, the mint tea, especially. They told me it took FOREVER to get their food, but my friend went in to get me a tea, which they were out of at 2 pm.! Being hungry I went to the restaurant next door, got takeout food and rejoined my friends. But they finished eating and had to leave, so I sat there eating my salad. After about 5 min. a waitress came out and offered a menu. I explained the situation and she replied that the tables were for their diners only. I looked around, saw no other diners at their tables on a beautiful afternoon. She again asked me to leave, even though I told her I had been there with my friends and that there appeared to be no other outside diners occupying chairs for their restaurant. In fact, passers-by seemed to be attracted by my eating at the outside tables, and took note of the restaurant, which is small and not very well-known. The waitress could have said many things, such as, "You are welcome to finish your salad, but then you'll need to vacate the table." But she did not, had no flexibility and obviously did not care about the affect on their business or the "good business" of having a diner occupy one of their chairs among all the empty ones. So I would not recommend this restaurant, and would never eat there. read more

Wonderful fresh and tasty food! Everything is fresh and served with a smile. Constant flow of loyal patrons which speaks for itself. Also i love BYOBs! My favorite! read more

Not one thing from this place I haven't enjoyed!!! Greek salad, chicken shawarma, lamb platter, braised rib---all so so good!!! Whether it is takeout or dining with a group of people, this place never disappoints. BYOB is a nice plus! read more

Absolutely delicious! We ordered lamb, Greek salad, kebab, warm hummus with eggplant...all taste fresh and delicious! BYOB is a plus!

Love,love,love this place!!! The quality of the food is fantastic and the flavors and layering excellent. Short of going into Philadelphia to Zahav, they can't be beat. My favorite is the shortrib sandwich and orzo salad but there isn't anything on the menu that I wouldn't eat. I live in the city with access to fabulous restaurants but find myself eating here at least once a week before heading back to Fishtown. That should say it all. read more

Pump the breaks folks. This place is ok, but not much beyond. Having lived in the DC area for a few years, I came to love a place called Lebanese Taverna; which is also Mediterranean / Lebanese style food and is outstanding comparitively. So with hopes high, I wandered in and order my staple... the chicken shawarma. Pales in comparision. The chicken was dry, the flavor was just off, no bowl full of hot pitas to enjoy.... So, while this is decent for Media, it is sub par overall. read more

Took my friend to lunch here on a recommendation. Small causal setting very welcoming workers. Chef is available and friendly. I had the pear salad with feta,the spinach puffed pastry with condiments and a zucchini soup to die for!! All of this was delicious. My friend had the chicken shawarma which she really enjoyed. For desert we gave the baklava a try along with the date pastry very good. I will be returning. If I could change one thing it would be exchange plastic wear for real dishes & utensils. All in all the food is worth putting up with it,you could always bring your own silver ware :) read more

This is EXACTLY the kind of restaurant that Media (where there are already more restaurants per capita this side of the Susquehanna) needed. There was a big gap in the "Israeli street food" segment of the market that Desert Rose is filling to perfection. To say that I love Desert Rose is an understatement! Last week alone my family ate there three nights out of the week. Yes, we are obsessed. First off, the staff is probably the friendliest around. That's saying a lot in an already super friendly town! The food is amazing! The shwarma is very flavorful, the spices are just right! The hummus is perfect and the falafel is probably the best I've ever tasted. All of the ingredients are very fresh. The side salad made of tomatoes and cucumbers is so simple, yet so fresh and delicious. The short rib sandwich, though technically not Israeli, is absolutely amazing! The pitas are delicious! And if you are a coffee lover, finish off your meal with a delicious Turkish coffee. Oh geez, I'm getting hungry just thinking about it! Go. Run. You will not be disappointed! read more

My husband and I decided to give this place a try. I don't understand the people giving it 4 or 5 stars. Perhaps they haven't experienced real middle eastern food. The food was on the bland side, I got the chicken shawarma platter, the chicken was dumped on bland tahini, with about 3 tablespoons of flavorless cucumber tomato salad and 1 small round pita. I thought it was really expensive for what you got. My husband got an equally unappealing dish. We left extremely disappointed. read more

Awesome place! Very fresh, will accommodate any dietary needs if at all possible. Excellent delicious, flavorful in a homey atmosphere. Hardest part is deciding what to order! Schwarma? Kebab? Grape leaves? Ahhh! One of everything please! Been here before, will be back for sure! read more