Amazing food! Very good customer service - the owner was so kind and friendly to everyone. Highly recommend this family owned restaurant. Got the mixed plate - chicken and beef. read more

Shish Taouk is a small, family run Lebanese shawarma spot that is a pure labor of love. Bilal is an excellent guy and the service was outstanding. The beef and lamb combo was generous, flavorful and fresh. All of the vegetables were crisp and the pita bread tasted homemade. I told him it was my first time and he treated me incredibly well. I sampled some of the grilled veggies and a divine falafel. Definitely going to be my go to for a nice and quick work lunch. read more

See all

My partner and I tried Shish Taouk a couple months ago. I've thought long about posting a review or not, as our experience was so out of the ordinary that I doubt it will be replicated for most, but I think it needs to be done. When we arrived, we were the only people in the shop. The owner was extremely friendly and started a long and fun conversation about pro football ("soccer") and his sons' team and their games. He gave us a couple of small sample plates while we waited for our ordered food, and told us to grab fountain drinks too at no charge. Our ordered food then arrived, and as we ate he switched the conversation to the lack of sports and business opportunities during the Covid pandemic and how he proudly didn't get vaccinated. I had been prioritized for a vaccination due to my profession and gotten it, and as soon as I mentioned that (in conversation, not confrontationally cos it was so long ago anyway and the subject doesn't need to be divisive) his mood and attitude to my partner and I soured. The conversation abruptly and awkwardly ceased, and we felt very unwelcome. Sure enough, when I went to pay the bill we were charged for the supposedly-free fountain drinks, and I didn't feel I could risk furthering ill-feeling towards us by disputing it. We left, regretting our choice of dinner. The food itself was at least good (albeit not outstanding compared to other local Mediterranean options) hence the star rating I've still given, but with the extra fountain drink cost that we wouldn't otherwise have incurred it turned into an expensive meal. In addition, and needless to say, the negative interaction left a very sour taste. I can't see myself going back. TL:dr; Go for the food, or get delivery, but beware that offers of 'free' items may not remain so. read more

Funny enough I came here to leave a review only to see I had left one over 7 years ago! Still my #1 favorite restaurant in MV. I love the beef and lamb shawarma, my wife likes the chicken shawarma. Chef Bilal is the best!!! The restaurant is always clean and has some nice patio seating. Bring an appetite, the portions are filling and you won't be able to stop yourself. read more

See all

Amazing food and Customer Service! Portions sizes sure to make you full! Definitely go try it!

Ok...so I have to tell you right away that I don't get the hype at all. I came here after a medical appointment shortly after 11am right when they opened. I had been eyeballing this place for a long time and was excited to finally have the chance to go. What I ordered; 1) Mixed shawarma plate #3 - 2/5. Served with chicken and beef, came with rice, salad and a pita bread. I was hoping for the meat getting shaved off the vertical spit, but he grabbed meat out of the covered trays. I didn't think anything of it and thought he may have just shaved some off to fill the bin before I got there. The two types of meat were very dry. Very. Dry. It was a bit upsetting biting into the meat. 2) I didn't really order this one. I don't know how to say this other than, it was mentioned and made to sound almost like it was being gifted as a welcome sampler until I got charged for it. I didn't know what to think. I was honestly a bit dumbfounded. I was already running late to go back to work, so I just paid and left. The veggie welcome platter - 2/5. I chose cauliflower, roasted zucchini, roasted eggplant, a tomato something that I don't remember the name of and baba ghanoush. The tomato one was interesting, I sort of liked it but wasn't absolutely positive. My taste buds were a bit confused on that one. Service was fine. I met the owner. He was super nice, very friendly and talkative. It was a great conversation. Maybe too good because as I mentioned above, he sold me a welcome veggie platter that sounded like a gift. I was weirded out afterwards and felt like I just left a car dealership. Yes, I could've asked how much that was, but when it sounds like he's just gifting it to you, you just happily say thank you. Right? Anyway, would I go back? I don't think so. It seems I had the same complaints about the really dry meat as others did, but I do wish them well. read more

See all

I'm updating my review from a few years ago because this place still deserves the praise. I'm picky about Lebanese food, and this is one of the few spots that actually feels like someone's mom is in the kitchen. It doesn't taste commercial or pumped out in bulk. It tastes real. The owner is warm and genuinely hospitable, and his wife prepares the food fresh. They use quality olive oil and key ingredients sourced from Lebanon, which makes a difference. The fattoush salad is excellent. The falafel is flavorful. I've also had the lentil salad and the tabbouleh, and both were fantastic. If you're anywhere near the area, go! Places like this are hard to find now, and that kind of quality and authenticity is rare. I will always be a reoccurring customer. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

came here on a rec from a friend and it was the best decision ever. Bilal at the counter is the nicest human ever, and his and his wife's food are AMAZINGGGG !!! tried the chicken and beef shwarma + beef kabob and they were all delicious. it's so hard to find thin crispy pita anywhere and it was the perrrrfect vehicle for all the sauces, meets, and veggies. GET THE EGGPLANT GOOD GOD, the char on all the veggies honestly are fucking amazing. the falafel too holy crap. most places i go they either make it too crispy and then its dry, or too moist and then it's got no crust, but THIS falafel was perfect. they make their own hot sauce from scratch and it goes sooo perfectly with the falafel and the potatoes they add (which are also amazingly spiced). plsplspls do yourself a favor and come here you will not regret it. i will definitely be back !!! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

Shish taouk is a classic Lebanese spot with great food and great vibes, the falafel is amazing and don't forget desert !

One of my go-to spots! I come here often and usually get the falafel or one of the pita wraps. They have so many good vegetarian options and everything always tastes fresh. The owner is genuinely so nice and always makes you feel welcome. Great food, lots of options, and such a friendly local spot! read more

See all

Delicious vegetarian options, lots to chose from. Very clean, healthy and they make everything from scratch. The owner was very friendly and passionate about his food. The vegetarian welcome plate is a great option if you want to try a little bit of everything read more

Absolute phenomenal service and food. The staff were really warm and welcome! I particularly enjoyed their big portions and the place felt pretty cozy with a fairly pleasant outdoor seating area. Would highly recommend anyone looking for Lebanese food on the go to come and try this place out! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

Always the best food!! Their service is fast and love the TVs to watch soccer and other sports! The atmosphere is clean and family friendly!! read more

I normally don't write reviews, but I had to after visiting this restaurant for the first time. There were so many plate options to choose from, but I went with a vegetarian plate since I'm plant-based. If you're vegetarian/vegan, you'll definitely have plenty of options to choose from, so don't worry! The inside of the restaurant is clean, the atmosphere is relaxed and casual, and the artwork throughout the restaurant was also really nice to look at. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and comfortable. The food itself was absolutely incredible - home-cooked, fresh, flavorful, authentic, healthy, high-quality, and clearly made with love. Everything was amazing: the falafel, pita bread, hummus, baba ghanoush, Lebanese moussaka (eggplant), stuffed grape leaves, roasted potatoes, Fattoush salad, lentil salad, tabbouleh...everything was so good! The owner is incredibly warm, friendly, and welcoming, and it was a pleasure chatting with him. He's a real one! I honestly would not let some of the negative reviews deter you from giving this place a try. Everyone has a different experience, so I'd recommend coming in and finding out for yourself. I've had authentic Lebanese cuisine before, and I can confidently say that Shish Taouk might be one of the best Lebanese restaurants in Orange County! I'll definitely be coming back soon for another vegetarian plate :) read more

This is one of our favorite authentic Lebanese restaurants that one can find here in Orange County. Shish Taouk has delicious Shawarma, and perhaps the best Kebab, and most popular falafel in town. Additionally, their food is authentic, made from scratch, And has the right ingredients. The owner reminded us that they don't use any preservative in the food recipes and it's 100% natural too! I love anything delicious that involves extra virgin olive oil. :) We always get a combination plate, my personal favorite is homemade vegetarian dolma. The owner consistently provides a welcoming, loving, multicultural atmosphere. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Shish Taouk & Beef Kabob! - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Hands down one of the best shawarma sandwiches I've had in California. I'm pretty picky when it comes to shawarma since I've had some incredible ones outside the U.S. so I was a bit skeptical, especially about the beef, because it can easily be dry. But I gave it a chance, and I'm so glad I did. It was absolutely delicious, and I'll probably be going back twice a week! The owner is fantastic, so welcoming and a truly great host. You can tell he's mastered exactly what goes into making the perfect shawarma. I highly recommend this place to everyone! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

Great service and really kind owners/wonderful food. Easy parking and causal spot where you can grab and go or stay awhile. Would come again! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Combo plate #3 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

The owner is friendly and kind man. The food is great I got the Shwarma plate! He piled the plate!! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - The food is good! - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Tasty food prepared and served by friendly appreciative owner. Best low-key patio in the area for lunch. Do yourself a favor and eat here. Healthy options for both veg and meat eaters. read more

I love this place, I come here after I go to archery and it has become a tradition. The food is so delicious and fresh! I have a sensitive stomach and never have problems eating the food here. I also love the owner Bilal, he is so friendly and accommodating. If you love Lebanese food as much as I do, this is the place for you! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Chicken Shawarma Plate- # 1 & Mix Shawarma Plate- # 3 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

First time ordering and I'm already planning my next visit. I'm Romanian and grew up on homemade meals with similar flavors, and this place truly impressed. I ordered takeout with the idea of eating family-style, and everything we tried tasted fresh and flavorful. Even my kids loved it. They were literally fighting over the last falafel, and the chicken kabob was perfectly juicy and seasoned just right. The food might be the closest thing to homemade without making it yourself. When I went to pick up the order, Bilal made the experience even better. He was incredibly welcoming, chatted with my son and made him laugh, and even offered us samples so we could try more of the menu. He even included a few extra samples for my husband since I mentioned he gets home late and ends up eating leftovers. That kind of thoughtfulness is rare. Highly recommend for both the food and the genuinely warm service. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Sampling apps: Fattoush, Tabouleh, Pickled Veggies, Falafel. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

I've been here a few times now hoping the food would get better, but I must say the meat is dry and has no flavor!! Rice is the same, just flavorless and mushy. My husband had the falafel and it was also dry and no flavor! Needless to say, we ended up throwing our meal away, which was pretty expensive for the tasteless food we received. I think it's over priced and this was the third strike; I will never come here again. Very disappointing because it's so close. Also, the owner likes to talk you into trying a sample but then charges you! Kinda shady if you ask me. read more

Another highly satisfying lunch at Shish Taouk today. We can never have enough of this place. The food is always amazing and we Love Bilal, the owner. A Visit there is always a memorable experience. Although everything is delicious. I recommend my personal favorite, the beef and lamb shawarma wrap. It comes with garlic, tomatoes, onions, pickles, Parsley and tahini sauce. A true Lebanese Shawarma. The meat is tender and juicy. I like the Pita bread well toasted. It is crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is to die for. Thank you Bilal for the Quality food, the excellent service and the laughs. Good vibes :) read more

See all

This place is awesome! The food is simply delish!! Nice cozy atmosphere with a wide selection of favorites. Recommend getting the no. 3 mixed plate. Can't go wrong! Also the side are fabulous! Grape leaves, tabouli, babaganoush (sorry for any mispelling!) read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - No.3 mixed with sides. - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Delicious food and I got to watch some of the soccer game playing on the tvs in Arabic. Owner is super nice and the place is clean and delicious. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Delicious chicken shawerma - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

See all

This is one of my favorite restaurants in all of OC. I've been coming for some time now and it's amazing each time I go. I started picking up from here while I did DoorDash. Once I decided to get lunch one day I was hooked. The food is absolutely amazing. It's fresh and authentic. Never a bad meal. One of the only restaurants that I go back to time and time again. Chef Bilal is a big reason why I go back. He's one of the kindest and most generous people I've met. I will continue to come here for many more years. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Number #9 plate - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Awesome service and great food! 10 stars. Delicious vegetarian options. Will be back for sure. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Veggie platter - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Where do I start ??!! The food is fresh and wreath quality. I can't pick what is more delicious here from the chicken and or beef lamb shawarma or the kabobs ! They also make their own sweets here. The owner loves what he makes and takes good care of his customers . Wish we had more locations of this place. read more

I just had the most amazing chicken shawarma wrap I've ever had! The owner was so helpful and gave wonderful suggestions on what I should include in my wrap. I'll be visiting this place very frequently (I already know this)! A great local spot for flavor and REAL/clean food options read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - I wasnt planning on taking a photo, but halfway through, I decided I had to document - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

The food was really good and fresh. The owner was very friendly and informative and the service was friendly. The patio was nice and clean. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Mix Shawarma Plate- # 3 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

First time trying Lebanese food! Service was excellent and food was great! I got the mixed shawarma plate read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Mixed shawarma plate - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

Absolutely recommend! Extremely friendly owner, and absolutely delicious food! The staff goes out of their way to make sure you have a great meal! read more

Yesterday was our first visit to this place me and my wife ordered mix shawarma and checkin shawarma plate the food was delicious but the better than food was Nancy and Selena services and great welcoming if I go back to any place again these kind of hospitality definitely dragging me back thanks for wonderful hospitality:) read more

Amazingly friendly service, delicious food. Great family-owned business to support. Chicken shawarma was wonderful!

I was recently in Mission Viejo to buy a car. We stopped by Shish Taouk for a quick bite to eat to kill some time. What struck me the most was the friendliness of the staff and the overall hospitality of the owner. It was our first time here and even though we live over 100 miles away , the kindness and hospitality felt made me feel like we were respected regulars. My favorite thing we got was the beet salad that was made for us . Tender juicy beets with tomato and lettuce and parsley. Excellent flavors that really hit the spot. If we are ever back in mission viejo this would be my first stop. read more

Some of the friendliest and best service I've ever experienced. I was ready to return before I had even finished placing my order. We got baba ganoush as an appetizer and it was smoky and delicious. I would highly recommend it. We got a chicken shawarma wrap, a beef&lamb shawarma wrap, and a mix shawarma plate. The hot sauce on the wraps wasn't overly spicy and would recommend getting it. The meat on the plate was on the dryer side and didn't have much flavor on it's own, but when combined with the garlic sauce was tasty. Happy to support a small local business. Patio is dog friendly. read more

Outstanding customer service, excellent quality food, delicious, this place absolutely deserves your business. Owner gave me a free falafel sample, and even threw some seasoned garlic potatoes in my bag for free all while making me laugh. Places like this are a dying breed, STOP DEBATING AND GO HERE NOW! God bless small businesses like this. Backbone of America. Will be coming back expeditiously! Treated me like family. read more

Great Lebanese Mediterrinean here. My girl and her friends and I had dinner here last night celebrating one of their graduations. I wanted the Chicken Falafal plate with rice and all. I had not been here in a long time, and it was fun coming here. Food is delicious, and flavorful. Hummus is real good as well. Nice staff ,and wonderful atmosphere. We had fun last night. read more

Owner was awesome and helpful with ordering! Food was amazing with generous portions! Definitely will be back! read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - aryas Kafta Arayes Plate- # 10 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

My visit earlier today was truly impressive. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt inviting. The employee, who I assume was the owner, greeted me with a large smile and asked me if it was my first time eating there. When I said yes, he walked me through the whole menu and gave me a complimentary falafel. It felt like he was genuinely proud of the food he was serving. And it showed! The highlight of my experience was the food. The menu is very simple: shawarma, falafel, and kebabs. I ordered the beef and lamb shawarma. Ample portions of meat were accompanied by creamy hummus, soft rice, and fresh veggies. Everything served was outstanding. The meat was seasoned to perfection and was very tender. I've had plenty of shawarma in the past growing up in OC and exploring little Arabia in Anaheim. This place stacks up to the best in that area. I highly recommend ordering any of the meat dishes. Whether you're familiar with Lebanese cuisine or trying it for the first time, this restaurant is a must-visit. Exceptional food and wonderful hospitality. I will definitely be returning. read more

Shish Taouk Restaurant - Beef & Lamb Shawarma Plate- # 2 - Lebanese Near Me - Mission Viejo, California