Marrakesh

Great place to get a clean and healthy meal. Super friendly…read morestaff. Great menu with a wide selection of options.

Well, I'm finally writing a review after several visits over the last couple years. Not sure why I…read morehaven't until now. Somewhat unassuming restaurant at a strip mall in Swansboro. As soon as you walk in you can see the kitchen and prep counter with the menu right above it. Order at the counter and pick up at the other end when your pager goes off. We kept it simple and ordered the lamb gyro, seasoned fries, drink, and hummus appetizer. We just had waters, but they offer wine, beer, sodas, bottled water, and some other drinks. Fairly simple, but good size menu with plenty of options. There are plenty of seating options with tables, booths, and outdoor tables as well. While we were waiting and eating there were several to go orders. Steady flow of customers in and out. They also have a great music selection! After a short wait our delicious gyros arrived. The presentation was nothing flashy, but good. The fires were seasoned just right for me, but a little too salty for the wife. The gyros were as expected, delicious and a good size for us. The hummus plate was actually larger than expected, but a nice surprise. There was enough naan for sure. I did not take any pics this time. Overall experience was excellent honestly. We'll definitely eat here again. I recommend giving Olea Mediterranean Kitchen a try.

Soup Combo!

Chicken Tawook with cucumber salad!

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Cauliflower

The Hummus Republic

4.5(53 reviews)

1.8 mi

Locally owned & operated

Gluten-free friendly

Finally ate here today. As I entered there was only a couple other patrons. No waiting! The…read moregentleman behind the counter walked me through the process and explained everything to me. You can choose a bowl, a wrap, or a pita. They do offer sandwiches and other items as well. I decided on a bowl. I chose yellow rice instead of quinoa. I was able to have a few small samples to help make a decision. I also had lamb, chicken, garbanzo beans, spinach, three different hummus (feta, traditional, roasted eggplant), lettuce, tomato, feta, cucumbers, naan, and tzatziki over the top. I also decided to have a lemonade. They have several different lemonades to choose from and it's bottomless if you're dining in. I added so many items to the bowl the price was fairly high, but worth it. There's plenty of seating inside and it's a nice dining room. Very simple, but comfortable. I sat and enjoyed my bowl with pomegranate lemonade. Everything was delicious. I'm happy that I finally tried The Hummus Republic. I will definitely eat here again. Recommend giving it a try.

I considered ordering online but dropped by in person only to find a single kiosk for ordering with…read morethe same options and without some of the special deals advertised on the website, so there really isn't any reason not to order online. I got a pretty full bowl. I noted that the kale they had out had a number of dubious leaves in it, but the person picked around them to get me some nice green kale (if I were them I'd just dump the wilted ones). Vegetarian options were ample at all levels of the ordering process and indeed the only non-vegan component i ended up with was some feta. It was a salty and tasty bowl; oddly the salad greens were the only thing I got less of than expected. I also said what the heck and got what they call a signature tahini shake, which was absurdly filling to the point that I pretty much skipped a meal. Okay if that's what you want. Overall, not perfect but a quality place with options for most diets.

Our delicious Pita with chicken shawarma and all the toppings

Our delicious wheat wrap with spinach, couscous, and vegan beef

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Our delicious bowl

Peno Mediterranean Grill

4.2(160 reviews)

1.9 mi

Peno was absolutely delicious! Everything tasted flavorful and made with great attention to detail…read more The portions were generous! You can really taste the quality in the ingredients. The service was also friendly and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. Definitely a great spot if you're craving Mediterranean food. I'll definitely be coming back!

Peno Med. Grill was recommended by our friends who live in Jacksonville, and our party of four…read morestopped in to grab a quick dinner (or supper). The menu offers plenty: bowls, sandwiches, wraps, salads, platters, and sides. Coke products are also available. My wife and I ordered the Classic Gyro Bowl and the Greek Gyro Bowl. Both bowls contained plenty of the grilled, crunchy cubes of the Lamb/Beef gyro. Although mine was the "Greek" bowl, very little of the veggies were included, and the tzatziki was missing while the feta was plentiful. Flavor-wise, it tasted good, but it was short on the ingredients. The interior is dingy and our table was sticky despite the wipe down, so I'd recommend getting your food "to go". The service was a solid 4.0, but the other elements drag down my overall scoring.

Salad was delicious- greek salad

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Bateeni Mediterranean Grill

4.1(152 reviews)

57.0 mi

Dropped into Bateeni's for lunch. So glad we did. The Med salad was delicious. The chicken…read moregyro had a very generous amount chicken. Perfect flavors. The baba ghanoush was the best I've had. If you don't go for the food, go for the Mint Lemonade. Delicious and perfect for a hot summer day.

We just ordered takeout and when we ate our food, the Jerusalem salad was so old that it had…read morestarted the fermentation process and burned my throat as it went down. My husband's hummus was so bland that he tried to add some flavor with fresh lemon juice and salt. The only saving grace was the falafel. But to keep from getting sick, we had to throw out the rest of the food. I will write an update if this meal does make us ill. In the meantime, Bateeni needs to go through the kitchen frig and pantry to make sure they are not offering bad food.

Outside

Beef Shawarma Plate

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Bateeni

4.5(53 reviews)

52.1 mi

The food was amazing. Service was quick and courteous. Portion size is huge!…read more We ordered the chicken shawarma plate and it was enough to fill us both up! We will be adding this to our rotation of date night locations.

We just ate here for the first time. The food was excellent; the gyro was exactly like I remember…read morewhen I was in Greece. The service was great- we will definitely eat here again!

Dining room and service area

Beef shawarma with Mediterranean salad.

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Right beside Barnes Jeweler

Peño Mediterranean Grill

4.4(242 reviews)

46.5 mi

This was my first time here and it was fantastic! I got the Chicken Plate that came with tzatziki,…read morehummus, a fresh Greek salad, a huge plate of chicken, and a side of pita. It was an incredible deal for $15.99! There was so much food I have leftovers. Everything was fresh and tender. The seasoning was on point and I loved the hummus and tzatziki. So much flavor. The only thing that made this place better was the fantastic customer service. I was instantly greeted when I walked in and I had friendly service at the counter. My food arrived quickly and was beautifully assembled. When I'm back in town I will absolutely come back to this location.

I don't even know how this is considered "healthy" food... because it tastes WAY too good ‍…read more We just ate at Peño Mediterranean Grill and I'm still thinking about that chicken. Perfectly cooked. Juicy. Seasoned just right--like whatever they put on it, they better NEVER change it. I swear I wish I had the recipe... because this right here?? This is the kind of food that has you planning your next trip before you even leave the parking lot. Fresh. Flavor-packed. Doesn't feel heavy. Just GOOD. Best healthy food I've had in North Carolina--no question.

Interior

Chicken Kabob Platter

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Black Sea Grill

4.4(258 reviews)

49.1 mi

Service was great !! Food was delicious would highly recommend going there . We had the hummus…read moreappetizer then The salon with rice

Fourteen of us had dinner recently before going to the theater. We had 5pm reservations…read more My husband and I ordered one of the appetizer specials, deep fried beef rolls (Börek). They were excellent! I had the shrimp and beef kebabs that came with white rice and a house salad (sort of like a slaw). I ordered the beef medium-rare, but should have ordered rare. The meat was still pretty tender. I liked the salad. My husband ordered the vegetable delight, which was an eggplant dish served with pita bread. Everything was very good and we had great service.

Vegetarian Combo

Deep fried beef rolls (Börek)

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Branzini filet and grilled veggies

Meraki Kafe

5.0(5 reviews)

35.7 mi

Always amazing Greek food when Meraki visits Brewery 99 in New Bern!…read more This food truck accepts credit cards, prepares made-to-order food fast and never disappoints! Their Greek fries, gyros, spanakopita and baklava are pure deliciousness!

We had a wonderful meal and an even better experience with Peter and his crew while visiting Surf…read moreCity. We showed up with 17 hungry family reunioners at about ten till 8. Everyone was at the Salty Turtle, ordering beer and drooling over the menu from afar as Peter went to close up the truck. I walked over and chatted with Peter; he could not have been more kind to us. He opened the window back up and took 17 orders. They cooked us some fantastic food, and then Peter came over as we were eating to make sure we were all enjoying it. Thank you, Peter! Food-wise, the favorites from our group were the gyro which was just perfect; the chicken souvlaki and the spanakopita were all amazing. And the baklava - remember the baklava!

Chicken satay

Gyro & Greek fries = delicious

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Family friendly menu

Habibi Mediterranean Grill

4.7(76 reviews)

56.1 mi

Food was great. Very good selection and fresh. It was first time eating Mediterranean food but it…read moredefinitely will not be my last. The Loaded Shawarma Fries are great. Lamb was tender and the beef was very good.

Great service and good food. Super affordable. I had the chicken shawarma platter on rice with…read moretabouleh and hummus as my sides and it came with warmed pita. The tabouleh was so fresh tasting - probably my favorite. Will definitely be back! Mostly a takeout style place but they do have plenty of seating. And a parking lot!

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Seating area

Lamb kabob combo complete with hummus and fresh hot fries

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Hours 11-9 Monday-Saturday

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57 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Michael F.

3 years ago

A true Turkish Delight! If there's a place that consistently ticks all the boxes for an outstanding dining experience, it's Marrakesh. This local treasure has never failed to impress us with its delectable Turkish cuisine, each visit leaving our taste buds in sheer delight. From savory kebabs to the rich, aromatic baklava, every dish is a masterpiece. But what truly sets Marrakesh apart is its exceptional service. Imagine feeling like royalty without the need for a crown--this is how the staff at Marrakesh makes us feel every single time. The attentiveness, warmth, and genuine care we receive are simply "over the moon." The restaurant's ambiance further enhances the dining experience. Its decor is thoughtfully curated, reflecting the rich culture and vibrancy of Turkey, making each visit not just a meal but a journey. The cleanliness and attention to detail in every nook and corner speak volumes of their commitment to providing a top-notch dining environment. A highlight of our experiences at Marrakesh was when the owner personally visited our table to ensure our satisfaction. This personal touch added a layer of warmth to our already pleasant experience, making us feel valued and appreciated. In a nutshell, Marrakesh isn't just a restaurant; it's a haven for those seeking to indulge in authentic Turkish cuisine, served with unparalleled hospitality in a setting that's both inviting and immaculate. We've yet to encounter anything less than excellence here and eagerly anticipate our next visit. For anyone looking to explore the flavors of Turkey, Marrakesh stands out as a must-visit destination. read more

basingwea e.

15 years ago

i just wanna compliment the awsome chef!!!!! the food was outta this world!!! i have read a few reviews all great ones except one!! i decided to go and try it. wooooooowwwwwww!! wonderfull. joey d. what are you talking about? the prices are reasonable the service is wonderful, the manager cames out and checked on all the tables. when i was there he stayed at my table for almost 30 min. just talking and explaining and getting me and my wife familiar with culture and the food. to me it sounds like you need to stay eating at BK or Mcdonalds.... sorry about this guy marrakesh, me and my wife and many people more are glad you brought culture to jacksonville!!! great job will see you guys again!!!! read more

Hope M.

312

6 years ago

Delicious and really great Mediterranean food for a good price. This restaurant is way too cool for Jacksonville. Customer service is amazing, and atmosphere is relaxed. I went there alone once and really enjoyed my stay here and I decided to came here often with my friends it will be very amazing spending time with those you love to and in such a place like it really worth it. I wish i could rate this place a +5 stars which it really worth it any way I really recommend this place for you it does't matter if you hangout there in night or day you are always welcomed there. read more

Matthew S.

106

10 years ago

Adam and his sons treat me like an honored guest in their home. I order dinner entrees and dessert for 4 about once a month so It's not as though I am a high volume client. My favorite is the chicken Kalaya (sautéed with peppers, onions, garlic, tomato, spices) but a close second is the lamb chops. My wife enjoys the stuffed grape leaves and baklava most. Kids like chicken sheesh kabob and lamb, and all if us like their always fresh tabouli salad. read more

Adaezia C.

5 years ago

Doesn't matter what culture or cuisine you come from... this place tastes like HOME! I went the first time yesterday & dined inside & today i'm back for takeout! The food is absolutely delicious & so filling. Prices are so nice as well. We got the batata hara, slamon & kafta kabob meals & paired it with the fatoush salad. I eat dairy free & didn't have to substitute anything. Will absolutely return again! read more

Falestean N.

15 years ago

I have been to Marrakesh many many times, and I eat there all the times . The reason why I go there is because the food is so delicious, the music is awesome and the service is terrific . Can't wait to see the belly dancer performing there again . Every time I go to Marrakesh restaurant I have a blast and have the best food in Jville. read more

Amanda M.

2 years ago

I agree with Daniel M. Bee L has been hired by Big Shawarma to leave a negative review. Her comment is therefore invalid and should be stricken from the record. Do not read her comment when deciding if you want to eat here. Instead bless you tastebuds with the holiness that is their 3 meat combo and baklava. Best foods. read more

Maleka M.

7 years ago

We've been a huge fan of Marrakesh for years. The authenticity and flavor of the food is always amazing. My best friend and I dined in last night for a little girls dinner. The atmosphere was great and our food was delicious. Thank you to Nas and Courtney for the excellent service! read more

Jonathan B.

3 years ago

Marrakesh is hands down the best restaurant in Jacksonville! The food is delicious, reasonably priced, and the service is always great. I love the chicken kabob, rice, and Greek salad - don't forget to ask for the tzatziki sauce. Highly recommended! read more

Nore C.

354

6 years ago

Marrakesh is the best kept secret of Jacksonville, NC. The food is amazing and fresh. The owners are awesome and so are all the employees! If you are looking for authentic Mediterranean cuisine please don't hesitate to come here read more

Art V.

4 years ago

Amazing stuff. Decor, environment, people, food. Prices are quite high but I mean I'd rather pay a little more than have crappy food/service or a dirty restaurant I guess. Still, price is the only thing making this not a 5 star. read more

Brandi S.

11 years ago

Everything my husband and I ordered was AMAZING! The waitresses were very pleasant and the restaurant was nice and clean. I HIGHLY recommend this restaurant if you want to try something different. read more

Adrian I.

6 years ago

Amazing food!! Excellent service! Went in and ordered and was handed back the most amazing food and a good amazing for less! Honestly if you haven't stopped here I suggest you do so now! read more

jessica c.

15 years ago

whooo hooo lamb sish kebab woow what a platter its huge and delisiouc hmmm i cant believe theese guys make sthew sish kebab better than evrybody in ny or long island read more

Isabel P.

7 years ago

I LOVE this place!! I literally eat there at least once a month, but I try to once a week. There's been weeks I've gone three times or even twice in one day . Delicious! read more

Jennifer B.

8 years ago

Food is amazing and incredibly reasonable as far as cost and portions. Staff is nice and great about explaining what some of the foods are and making recommendations. read more

Kenzie D.

9 years ago

Best service I've ever had at a restaurant, staff is so nice and even when only two people are serving the service is fast. Amazing place amazing food read more

Anne Marie C.

7 years ago

Delicious, authentic, fabulous food with welcoming, friendly attentive staff and owners. I will definitely be back on my next visit to Jacksonville. read more

diana n.

5 years ago

Such amazing food! Staff is great, so nice, and helpful. I love coming here to eat! And the food is great for the price as well!

Leigh Alexandra S.

8 years ago

Awesome food, exceptional service from Michelle and outstanding experience overall!! Highly recommend this restaurant to all!!!

Marrakesh - turkish - Updated September 2026

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This is our first time back at the Kettle since returning to OC last September and it is just as I…read moreremember: tasty, down home cooking and friendly folks. I asked our very helpful and sweet server Jersey if she had only 2 choices with one being chicken fried chicken or the daily special Taco Salad, which would she go with and she said the taco salad. So, that's what I ordered. It was very tasty, loaded with 2 types of cheese a side of Jalapeño (which I gave to hubby) alot of fresh tomatoes and lettuce, a side of salsa and sour cream served in a somewhat crispy tortilla shell. And the shell is the only reason for a 4 star vs 5, the shell wasn't as light and crispy as I like it. It tasted as if they fried it several hours ago and honestly, I get why they did it that way as it saves time but the shell just left me disappointed. Hubby ordered a patty melt with fries. We came into town to scope out the Jacksonville Landing for future bass fishing mornings and when I told him we were stopping in here for lunch he already knew he was having the melt. I mean, he thought about it for 90 minutes lol. I've had their melts before and it is yummy. I think though the fries were the star on his plate. They were crispy on the outside and pillowy on the inside and topped with something akin to Old Bay Seasoning. And they were HOT! Y'all, i mean, they're only fries but rhey were PERFECT! I am seriously alreasy looking forward to our 1st fishing adventure just so we can have lunch at the Kettle once we've caught all the bass. Jersey was quite attentive, but not hovering and warm friendly like only you'll find in the south. Oh, bestie told me to get the chocolate torte because she said, literally, "it's life altering." However, I forgot to so, just another thing for me to enjoy after our initial fishing trip. In some ways, you can go home again.

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