I gotta say, this humble looking spot in the middle of Old Town Pasadena is a revelation. This is the best shawerma I've ever had, and I've eaten at a lot of similar places. The OG location is in Hollywood, but thankfully for us Eastsiders the proprietors have generously decided to open up shop here in the Rose City. Haven't been to the original location, but a friend who has said it's the same quality. The spot is right off Fair Oaks a couple shops down from The Cheesecake Factory. It's a little small inside, with a few booths. Very casual and a bit nondescript. The menu is super simple: you can order either the chicken wrap or the lamb-beef wrap, with or without fries. That's pretty much it. Came with a buddy on a 108-degree weather day, but fortunately they have working HVAC inside so it turned out just fine. - Lamb-Beef Wrap - 9/10: Off the top, they don't use pita bread to wrap all this goodness. It's a flour tortilla that's less dense and is crisped up. That's a simple game changer to be honest. You get more of the meat than the bread. And I gotta say, each bite was super flavorful and juicy. Nothing was dry at all, which at some spots can be the case. Amazing! - Chicken Wrap - 8.5/10: Almost as good, but that could just be a personal preference of mine when it comes to shawerma. Still, very good. - Fries - 6/10: Fries fell short unfortunately as these are your super generic, store-bought ones. But I'll give them a pass as you're not here for the fries. No fountain drinks either, everything is bottle or can, but you can overlook that as well. Price point was very reasonable, too! That and the quality of food for me makes this The Best shawerma spot in L.A., no diggity doubt. read more

Sincerely Syria - Fries with beef-lamb wrap - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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They had many options that looked delicious. I tried the beef wrap and the entire thing dripped everywhere and the meat was very very chewy which was literally mini workout for your jaw. Also the flavor of the beef wrap was ehhhh. The service was great. The place was also nice and comfortable place for a little study time. read more

Very authentic. The restaurant itself is small and has a good amount of people stopping in and eating in but not packed. I got the chicken shawarma 12" plate and it was very good. Definitely enough to split with someone. The wrap itself was the right texture and the chicken was very good and nicely seasoned and delicious with the garlic sauce and pickles. I was hoping for a larger menu but it's a great place to stop for shawarma. Very casual place and maybe better for takeout if it's just me going. read more

Sincerely Syria - 12" Chicken Plate - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

This place is absolute HEAVEN. I usually never leave reviews but oh my god, I can't get enough of this place!!! The beef/lamb is the PERFECT flavor, not too gamey but super savory and creamy and delicious. I don't usually eat lamb but it's not gamey at all. Chicken is phenomenal as well. I've taken several friends back here to eat and they also couldn't get enough. The owner is so kind and always hooks it up with extra sauce and pickles. 10/10!!! BEST SHAWARMAS EVERRRR read more

Delicious !! The plate is a huge portion. Texture of the wrap was amazing. Fries could've been crispier but well seasoned read more

Sincerely Syria - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

A no-frills spot with only two entree items: beef or chicken wraps. The beef wrap was simple, but good. It came hot and crispy. While the beef wasn't the most flavorful I've had in a wrap, it was moist and went well with the generous amount of tahini sauce included. The price is on the higher side, but service was quick and delivered exactly what I was looking for. There are several booths available to seat yourself. The door was left open, so it was still pretty warm inside in the summer. Since it's in Old Town Pasadena, parking is available on the street or in nearby structures. read more

. I am Lebanese so I am picky with my shawarma but came here as a recommendation from a Syrian friend. The place is kind of discreet with a banner for a sign but it's spacious on the inside and they have lots of seating room relative to their location. Park across the street at the parking garage and walk to it. This shawarma is out of the world delicious! You will eat and continue to eat even when you're full because it is addicting. The way they make the shawarma and cut the sandwiches makes it even more fun and easy for dipping in the garlic sauce. The service was nice, it was only one guy working there but he was keeping up. We came back multiple times after our initial visit. My recommendation is coming early before they run out of meat. If you haven't tried this place and you appreciate delicious food, you need to come here ASAP! read more

Amazing food, great taste and authentic favor. The best shawarmas. I highly recommend the mix shawarmas (chicken, beef and lamb). The service was great, the staff was friendly. read more

Sincerely Syria - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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If this place had a menu, maybe you would be able to communicate with the person taking the order, and then they would not look at you like you're an alien. The whole atmosphere could use updating, I understand the "whole in the wall, charm" but it smells old. read more

Get a wrap and a coke.. chicken or beef ... can't go wrong ... and don't forget some fries!

Good food and wonderful staff. I do think the gyro was gamey and quite oily. Like to the point it was not as appetizing. Pickles, fries, sauces were great. Maybe try the chicken read more

Came here to eat with my wife and kids i drove about 30 mins just for this place took a while for someone to come to the front when we did get there attention they yelled at us from the kitchen also seemed like they didn't care too much especially the chef. The restaurant was empty probably due to their poor attitude. My kids ( little girls ) needed to use a restroom. I wanted to order food but since my little girls were denied a restroom I won't be coming back , especially since last time I was here they did let us use it. read more

Had both chicken and beef shawarmas and they about both spot on. One of the better shawarmas I have had in a while and it is halal.

The menu is limited but that makes it easy to be consistent; and they're very consistent. This spot is consistently great! The chicken wrap is one of my favorites. The chicken is juicy, meaty, and well seasoned. The garlic sauce is so creamy you'd swear it had dairy in it, but it doesn't. What I especially like about the wrap is that they toast it sealed shut. This makes it crunchy and crispy on the outside and soft and meat on the inside. They also have excellent crinkle cut fries. The pieces are great considering the location. The ambiance is no frills, but the food more than makes up for it. The guy that typically works there is nice and easy to deal with. The parking is not easy but not impossible. I highly recommend trying that chicken wrap. read more

I really like sincerely Syria. We usually order the chicken wrap plate and it's enough to share. It's always tasty.

Sincerely Syria? More like sincerely slept on. Walked in with a buddy during dinner rush, the place was totally empty. Not a good sign... or so we thought. Ended up a sleeper hit. One man running the show, serious scowl, zero small talk. I trusted him instantly. Wrap was long, thin, and toasted to perfection. Will absolutely be back! read more

Customer service really stupid and unresponsive. Food horrible. 0 level restaurant . Horrible

This place has potential, but I can see why they might have a bad rap. I got the lamb shawarma and fries. I did enjoy my wrap, I'd prefer it not cut or served under the fries. I am not a huge fan of crinkle fries as it reminds me of elementary school cafeteria food. The wrap is a little crisped up which gives it a unique texture. I also like that they are not super expensive. The owner or fellow behind the counter is not built for customer service. While I was eating another customer came in and left the door propped wide open. The owner went to close it and never said anything to the customer. Finding no one at the counter the customer turned around and walked out before the person could get back to take an order. It was a little funny to watch. I cannot say I felt particularly welcomed either. Just go when you don't need to see a smile. To the restaurant: Change your fries PLEASE!!! read more

Sincerely Syria - Counter - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Great service, I never write reviews and just walked out the shop but I'm so surprised and happy with the service that I need to tell you guys about this. I walked in an hour before closing, it's my first time inside. I wanted to order for pick up but all the apps weren't showing the lamb/beef wrap so I decided to go in store. Once I'm there it's one guy working and running the whole show, I can see from a distance that he has a lot of orders so he was pretty busy. When he had a chance to take my order he lets me know that they only have chicken. I'm bummed out but still get my chicken wrap because it's still great food, little did I know he went into the back and cooked me up some lamb/beef meant for tomorrow's service. I was shocked but so happy and grateful for the surprise. I was pretty sad when I walked in so the compassion and dedication the guy showed me in a moment when I clearly wasn't doing well meant a lot. He even hooked me up with the side sauces. Definitely coming back and supporting this small neighborhood business!! read more

If you're just walking by, it's easy to miss but that's exactly what I had been doing until a friend asked, "Have you tried Sincerely Syria? Their shawarmas are the best." I pride myself on knowing all the small, locally owned spots, so how did this one slip past me? Naturally, I had to try it and wow, it did not disappoint. The shawarma is absolutely delicious. I went with the mix platter, which comes with fries, and every bite was amazing. The filling is superb, and honestly, it's the best shawarma I've had in a long time. This place has officially made it into our weekly rotation. We usually grab it to go, but there's plenty of seating inside if you want to dine in. If you're ever in Old Pasadena, definitely stop by! read more

Very catchy name with a straightforward menu of wraps and fries! The restaurant opened fairly recently and it is tough to be a quick service restaurant near Old Pasadena area, but it seems like there are always people in here. read more

Not clean place For sure I will not go there again They are put oil on the chicken to keep it fresh read more

This place is so good I hardly ever review a place but had to review this incredible restaurant. The flavors are insane. I don't think any other place in Los Angeles. Taste quite like this place. It's very unique but full of delicious Middle Eastern flavors. They actually blew my mind with the pomegranate and spicy sauce. The bread is buttery and melts in your mouth and a perfect compliment to their delicious chicken. read more

The beef Shawerma wraps are to die for! They are my go to for a quick door dash lunch!

Stomach ache. No option to get sauce on side. So much oil. Meat is not of good quality.

Incredible food. Very very nice staff and great experience overall. I will be coming back asap.

Very welcoming and the food was amazing. Truly a great place to eat and the service was amazing. Highly recommend!

Fell in love with this place shawarma! Beef is best one and highly recommended to anyone trying it out first time!

Absolutely delicious. The Syrian bread is the star of the show - we got chicken wraps and wow wow they were 10/10. Super tender and flavorful chicken right off the spit with creamy garlic sauce in a flame toasted wrap. Highly recommend. read more

Great little shawarma spot, lovely people and amazing, sweet food. Fantastic location and close proximity to Pasadena's Central Park, which makes for a great place to eat. I will be back! read more

Yes yes yes! I was super excited to hear Sincerely Syria would be opening in Pasadena. I first tried this place in Sherman Oaks. It has no frills or thrills. It's just a simple shawarma place. The only side that was offered was french fries. I normally order ahead of time so I can drive by and pick it up. I always do the chicken and the beef shawarma. Each is assembled with lots of pickles and the chicken shawarma with a garlic sauce and the beef shawarma comes with a Tahini sauce.They are both delicious and unique in their own way. This is the best tasting shawarma place in LA. read more

Pass by here all the time and didn't really know what they served until I saw an Instagram reel from OldPasadena. After seeing the shawarma plate with fries in the video I knew I had to give it a try. We had the chicken shawarma plate and it was so good that we walked back to the car with a huge smile on our face and already planning our next visit! read more

Stopped here on whim, my stop was just outside the restaurant and one of the employees flipped the closed sign to open so I looked up and saw the sign. I was not familiar with this place but wanted to try it since while I've had plenty of Middle Eastern food, I've not been to one that specialized in Syrian food. The staff was very friendly and helpful and asked me how I wanted my food and what I wanted alongside it such as a hot sauce. The hot sauce is house made and I believe it is known as shatta. The shatta was served atop toum, a garlic sauce. The fries themselves are coated in seasoning and served crisp and hot. I also got a chicken shawarma wrap, which was also excellent. I believe they use saj instead of pita or lavash. The wrap was toasted which gave it an excellent texture and the heat of the wrap matched the contents, which were very flavorful and included the meat as well as slivers of peppers. I found the meal very satisfying and the environment a comfy spot to grab an early lunch. There are framed photos from Syria. Some ancient ruins from civilizations that once called it home as well as modern scenes of life. From the kitchen, you can hear Arabic language music playing. My musicological and linguistic knowledge are not extensive to know if they were specifically Syrian or what, but it's nice to hear and adds to overall ambiance. It's no frills but comfortable and welcoming. There was a small Christmas tree on display that added a warm holiday glow to things. The restaurant has the type of interior that tells you the food is going to be incredible and the first bite backs that up. The menu is pretty small, but that means they can really focus on putting out the best possible product and they do! read more

Food is delicious and I always like coming here. Great service. I know if I come here I will not go home hungry.

Customer service was very terrible The food was very cold and had pieces of uncooked chicken in the wrap had a bad experience at this location the Sherman oaks location is top tier they make it best wasted money here. read more

My coworker and I came in here and we were both pretty disappointed. First, the person taking our order was on a phone call the whole time and he didn't seem neither friendly nor appreciative of our patronage. Not very inspiring customer service. Also not a very good first impression for a new customer. For the food, I got the beef wrap and he got the chicken wrap. I've had quite a number of wraps / gyros from California to Greece. For my beef wrap, the onions overpowered the taste of the meat which was very soft but it did have a gamey aftertaste -- perhaps from the lamb fat that they use apparently. I question the quality of the cuts of meat for the beef wrap. The tortilla was interesting. I am used to either pita or lavash. It threw me off and also had an overly oily taste and feel from toasting both sides. The accompanying sauce had a definite tahini flavor with a sharp bite of lemon. It was pretty good. For $16 for a beef wrap, I was expecting a lot more. I believe this will be a one and done for me. read more

This a very casual hole-in-wall restaurant. He only has chicken or beef/lamb shawarma. I got beef/lamb wrap , it was simple and delicious. Definitely try his home made hot sauce. read more

Sincerely Syria - Beef/lamb Shawarma - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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We ordered the beef shawarma, unfortunately I am not a big fan of lamb but my dad LOVED IT. It was freshly made. The service was very friendly and the guy that helped us was nice. The inside was clean but the decor can be touched up a bit. They have just opened and I will definitely try them again for chicken. Also I LOVED the fact that they used a very thin lavash bread compared to pita. read more

Sincerely Syria - 12" Beef Wrap - Middle Eastern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Sincerely the best! The best Shwarma with the best breads and Tammam is such a sweet and wonderful man. Our favorite spot in the area!

Absolutely dumped by Sincerely Syria! I ordered the party platter a day ahead and confirmed at 1:00 today. The delivery was for 4;30-I had guests arriving at 5 o'clock. I received an email with no further explanation at 4:10 that my order was canceled. There was no follow up. There was no apology. I had to scramble and I did find another restaurant that could take care of me in time. I will never recommend Sincerely Syria. read more