Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Kara Bala BBQ

    4.9 (51 reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)
    Updated a few days ago

    Order Kara Bala BBQ Takeout or Delivery

    Kara Bala BBQ Photos

    KARA BALA BBQ ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Outdoor seating
    Dogs allowed

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Kara Bala BBQ

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Gary I.

    Kara Bala BBQ is a stand in the parkway facing Foothill Boulevard in front of what used to be Image Auto where Hamlet & his father fixed my cars. I went at 5:30pm on a Thursday when there was no wait.  A pleasant bearded man with limited English comprehension but more than enough to take an order told me 10 minutes when I ordered the lamb. He threaded pieces of lamb brined in what looks like salt & red paprika powder on to a metal skewer.  Then put the lamb meat over smoldering mesquite charcoal which infused a very delicate smokiness. Meat is moist with a good meaty chaw. Lamb was mild & didn't have gaminess.  Biggest Lavash flatbread that was leathery, extremely thin, airy yet had strong enough tensile strength to hold the inside food without breaking open.  He placed the lamb, chopped cilantro, thin sliced onions, squirt of possibly herbed aïoli. Then he rolled the Lavash like a Sushi roll.  Portion is rather large and would make for a more than decent meal. There is a slight pleasant burn from chiles that slowly sneaks up on you. Includes a drink. I chose Classic Coke in a 7oz can.  Definitely a 4 star street food experience which may hark back to Yerevan. Open from 5pm-2am. It would make for a great late night snack.

    Maggie L.

    Food 10/10 Service 10/10 Ambiance 10/10 I would gatekeep this place if I could. Absolutely fantastic every single time. Once you get your kebab it may look like there's not much food, but I get pretty full just 3/4 of the way! I've tried the Lula Beef, Beef, Pork and Lamb. They are all delicious. If you like lamb, get the lamb. My most recent order was a little chewy, but still tasted delicious. The lula was so juicy, i cried from how unbelievable it is, and the vegetables are so evenly spread out. It takes about 10 minutes for them to get 2 kebabs out, and I say it tastes better with a side of coca cola! MUST come!!

    Kara Bala Street Kebab Menu ! This place is amazing !
    Nick D.

    We were in the mood for some late night munchies after a long days work. Fast food is it something we are into at all. Our favorite Street Taco spot by Harbor Freight and Pet Smart next to the Foothill Foodmart was not there that day. We drove down Foothill Blvd and saw Kara Bala BBQ. Essentially Street Shish Kabob. There was a large group of people on the side of the road eating sandwiches. We thought well it's packed, let's give it a shot. We were Blown Away at how good this Armenian khorovats spot was. Ruben & Co Grilled the BBQ while we waited. Once the meat was cooked he confirmed the Shish Kabob rarity. I had mine medium well, my wife asked for well done. He rolled out 2 fresh pieces of Lavash Bread and added greens and some jalapeños with some really taste sauces. He wrapped the sandwich up which came with a choice of soda. We had them in the car and they were super taste! I've hit this place up 3 times in the last 2 weeks. I also tried the Luleh Kabob which was excellent. There menu is pretty simple, all wraps Chicken Kabob Beef Kabob Lamb Kabob Pork Kabob (Shoulder Cut) Luleh Kabob Topped with your choice of Veggies. FRESH FRESH FRESH

    Luleh Kebab

    The Food here is so Darn good! Had a late night craving for kebab and glad I came across Kara Bala! I ordered the Luleh and my wife ordered the Pork. The meats are Juicy and tender very well seasoned and you get a lot for what you pay for when it comes to kebab sold on the street. The setup is pretty cool for a small little setup these guys are hustling and busting out order after order. Their counter top where they prep their food is clean and Lit very well making it very enjoyable. Customer service is great too! Definitely will be back to try the rest. I'd suggest calling in your order. Tip***They accept cash and Zelle only.

    Chae L.

    We're back again! Trying the meat beef today. All the meats are grilled over charcoal, adding that smokey flavor. Smells good, tastes better

    the menu for the restaurant

    See all

    Photo of N H.
    0
    7
    9

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    25 days ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 2
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    They have very good food not so many kinds, but it's nice one and I did the DoorDash. They came so fast.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Maggie L.
    110
    81
    184

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 3
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Nick D.
    53
    232
    331

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Vick K.
    15
    59
    16

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of W W.
    0
    4
    0

    1 year ago

    Fantastic! What a revelation! We stumbled on this gem, absolutely wonderful food. We will be back!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bill F.
    163
    46
    9

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tony B.
    81
    24
    5

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chae L.
    1
    22
    23

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Melissa M.
    37
    106
    68

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of A G.
    0
    28
    4

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andrew S.
    15
    116
    40

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Anne C.
    309
    43
    14

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    This is one of the best kabob sandwiches I've ever had the pleasure of consuming. A perfect 10. Go here immediately.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ron P.
    0
    31
    24

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Faraaz K.
    467
    11
    0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Amazing! The best kebab wrap i have ever eaten. I can't wait to go back. Friendly guy aswell. I'm craving more right now. Simply the best !

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eli B.
    1
    17
    0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    The fastest and best 15$ you can spend on food these days. So fresh, so tasty. Quick and easy and delicious.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joe S.
    1
    27
    2

    2 years ago

    Delicious sandwiches and always efficient. Would def recommend for anyone looking for a fast bite to eat.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Give 5 star review for a delicious kabob and khorovats. Thank you guys !!! You can also call them and skip the line.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Steven T.
    1
    128
    54

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Kara Bala BBQ Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Kara Bala BBQ

    You might also consider

    Jawny’s

    Jawny’s

    4.2
    (373 reviews)
    10.6 mi
    $$
    Locally owned & operated
    Family-owned & operated

    It was pretty bomb I was planning to take it to go but I…read morehad to eat it there because I like eating when it's fresh I can't wait to come back a couple more times to see which cheese is best for me I tried it with provolone cheese I understand why it's one big ol samich I wanted to eat the second half but I was sharing it with my mom The wings are fire Again def coming back to try other flavors other than hot honey Food is excellent!

    I have been hearing about Jawny's for a while and finally got the chance to try it since they…read moreopened their first brick and mortar right next to my barbershop. We ordered the LA Spicy Philly and it did not disappoint. Genuinely one of the best Philly cheesesteaks I've had, the flavor was phenomenal from start to finish. And the best part? I personally confirmed with the owners over the phone that their cheesesteak is halal, which means the whole family can enjoy it together. That's huge. If you're in Sherman Oaks or anywhere nearby, you need to try this place. Food: 5/5 Location: 5/5 Atmosphere: 4/5 (only because they're super busy right now, which honestly is a good sign!) If this review helped, a thumbs up means a lot

    Photos
    Jawny's Chicken Philly: Chicken, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, cheese and our house sauce.
    Jawny's Chicken Philly: Chicken, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, cheese and our house sauce.
    Jawny's LA Philly: Seatk, Mayo, steak, mushrooms, onion, bell pepper and cheese.
    Jawny's LA Philly: Seatk, Mayo, steak, mushrooms, onion, bell pepper and cheese.
    Jawny's Chicken Philly: Chicken, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, cheese and our house sauce.

    See all

    Jawny's Chicken Philly: Chicken, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, cheese and our house sauce.
    Spud Guys

    Spud Guys

    4.5
    (24 reviews)
    9.1 mi
    $$

    The first time I've seen jacket potatoes sold in LA. The food is pretty good and comes at a…read morereasonable price (which is always a plus in this economy). There are few places where you can get a stacked, hearty meal for just $12. The guys here are nice and they work hard to keep the line moving the best that they can. However the line can get long. The chipotle chicken is great. I wish they'd expand the options, but I understand that it would increase the pick up times and the lines would get a little longer.

    I came here for a late night snack (9-10pm) but was sadly disappointed with my experience. There…read morewas only one person working and he was nice. But I had several issues with my experience. - His work station was disorganized, so he took quite a while to complete the orders especially when there's a line of people. It took almost 30 minutes just to get to my order. - Unsanitary conditions; He was touching everything including money then touched the spuds without switching gloves! - I came here 2-3 hours into their service and he ran out of multiple ingredients and condiments. - Another issue I saw was that the employee had half a potato from the guys before me and instead of covering it and keeping it hot, he left it open for however long. My girlfriend not knowing, said her food overall tasted tough instead of soft and ultimately got a stomachache as well. Overall, it wasn't worth the hype.

    Photos
    Prepping area
    Prepping area
    Potato with garlic butter, cheese, beans, chili and sour cream
    Potato with garlic butter, cheese, beans, chili and sour cream
    Spud Guys

    See all

    Miya Miya

    Miya Miya

    3.8
    (113 reviews)
    17.9 mi
    $$

    5 stars for the food. 2.5 stars for the experience because of the long wait and how slowly the line…read moremoves. 5 stars for the personalities and bumpin', upbeat energy from the guys working. It's basically a party at the stand. That all averages out to 4 stars for me. We got there at 4:30 p.m. on a Friday and didn't take our first bite until around 6:40 p.m. There are very few meals worth waiting more than two hours for. While Miya Miya serves what's probably the best chicken shawarma wrap I've ever had, I don't think it's worth a 2+ hour wait. That said, if you take away the wait, these are absolutely five-star flavors. The incredible crunch of the wrap, paired with the pomegranate and garlic sauces, makes every bite crisp, rich, and ridiculously satisfying. And don't sleep on the fries. They're some of the best I've had and are absolutely worth ordering alongside the shawarma. I'll be back once these guys open their brick and mortar spot. Take away the insane wait times, and I'd make Miya Miya a regular spot on my rotation.

    Came here after seeing all the social media hype. I've seen them at Smorgasburg before and I regret…read morenot getting it when it was closer to me. Anyway, they open at 1pm on Saturdays and my friend and I lined up at 1230pm. We did not place our order until 130pm and got our food at around 145pm. The shawarma was great and the fries were amazing. What I disliked was the workers. Yes, they are playing music and having a good time but they are literally dapping every damn customer and socializing and wasting time. Yo... this ain't a social event. Anyway, thats my rant.

    Photos
    Miya Miya
    Miya Miya
    Miya Miya

    See all

    Kara Bala BBQ - bbq - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...