Metro Detroit’s Shawarma Guide

May 12, 2025
platter from Anita's Kitchen featuring shawarma

Photo courtesy of Anita's Kitchen

Metro Detroit’s food scene is renowned for its rich variety, especially its exceptional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern offerings, featuring beloved dishes such as shawarma. From mouthwatering street food to refined Mediterranean dining, each spot delivers distinctive experiences that cater to all tastes…

Anita’s Kitchen

Multiple locations in Metro Detroit

Anita’s Kitchen combines traditional Mediterranean dishes with modern flair, earning accolades for both creativity and dietary inclusivity. Jared Groth, Director of Operations, proudly shares, “Anita’s Kitchen brings a New World approach to Old World family traditions by serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a fast, fresh, healthy way.” Patrons can appreciate the extensive gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and soy-free choices, making it an ideal dining destination for groups with varied dietary preferences. As for shawarma, there are marinated chicken and beef options, served with rice pilaf, hummus, tabbouleh, sauce, and more. The Mixed Mezza platter is a great choice to share, with chicken shawarma, kabobs, grape leaves, and much more. Anita’s Kitchen completes each meal with irresistible house-made desserts, enhancing its reputation as a beloved Metro Detroit favorite.

shawarma wrap from Anita's Kitchen
Photo courtesy of Anita’s Kitchen

Al Ameer Restaurant

Silverado by lighthouse

Discover new horizons with the confidence of the Chevy Silverado, from busy streets to scenic views.

6505 North Canton Center Road, Canton

27346 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights

12710 West Warren Avenue, Dearborn

Al Ameer Restaurant stands out as an icon of authentic Lebanese cuisine. Recognized for expertly seasoned grilled meats, delicious hummus, and impeccable shawarma, Al Ameer delivers traditional flavors consistently. Shawarma is available in beef and chicken varieties, served as a sandwich, salad, or tray to share, loaded with fries, rice, salad, kabobs, and falafel. Their commitment to authentic recipes and quality ingredients has earned a devoted following, solidifying Al Ameer as a premier destination for genuine Lebanese dining.

Hamido Restaurant

13251 West Warren Avenue, Dearborn

25412 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights

Hamido Restaurant offers diners authentic tastes through its expertly crafted shawarma wraps and crispy falafel. With fast service in a casual, inviting environment, Hamido is a local favorite for quick yet satisfying meals. Shawarma can be found atop a salad, mixed in a wrap, or as a plate with your choice of hummus, baba ghanouj, rice, or fries. For those looking to share, Hamido’s Special Plates are a highlight, featuring mixed shawarma, shish kabob, shish tawook (chicken), shish kafta (beef), hummus, rice, and salad. Hamido remains a beloved spot for both locals and visitors craving authentic Middle Eastern flavors.

Detroit 75 Kitchen

4800 West Fort Street, Detroit

32275 Stephenson Highway, Madison Heights

Initially serving hearty sandwiches at a truck stop, Detroit 75 Kitchen has evolved into a culinary landmark celebrated for its imaginative takes on classic comfort foods. The Detroit 75 Kitchen team shares, “When Mike and Ahmad Nassar established a kitchen at their family’s truck stop, they never envisioned becoming one of the Top 100 Restaurants in the U.S.” Known especially for unique sandwiches and flavorful street-style dishes, this establishment draws crowds from near and far. The shawarma here is excellent, with two options: I-75 and M-85 Spicy. Both feature slow-roasted chicken, house-pickled vegetables, homemade dill pickles, triple-fried fries, and garlic sauce. Its lively atmosphere and award-winning cuisine make Detroit 75 Kitchen a must-visit culinary hotspot.

Bucharest Grill

Multiple locations in Metro Detroit

Known for its delicious and generously portioned shawarmas, Bucharest Grill is a true Metro Detroit favorite. Its vibrant menu offers a fusion of Middle Eastern flavors and American comfort food, drawing crowds day and night. Shawarmas range from your go-to chicken or beef to vegetarian, lamb, and falafel options. Some are loaded with fries and veggies, while others have pickles, garlic spread, and more. The shawarma sticks are also an excellent choice, wrapped in a tortilla with tomato, while the chicken shawarma salads are a standout. 

Alie’s Lebanese Grill

33355 Van Dyke Avenue, Sterling Heights

At Alie’s Lebanese Grill, diners enjoy meticulously crafted Lebanese dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere. This spot offers a self-serve shawarma tableside service. Known particularly for their kebabs, fresh salads, and smooth hummus, Alie’s Lebanese Grill ensures consistent, authentic flavors. Their dedication to quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques has built a loyal customer base. Alie’s Lebanese Grill remains a reliable choice for anyone seeking an authentic Lebanese dining experience.

Boostan Café

3470 Holbrook Avenue, Hamtramck 

5101 East McNichols Road, Detroit

Boostan Café is celebrated for its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes served in a relaxed, friendly setting. Beyond the specializations in smoothies, freshly squeezed juices, and flavorful wraps, Boostan Restaurants has great shawarma options. Get the combo with chicken and lamb choices, paired with your choice of hummus, rice pilaf, or fries, with soup or a salad, a wrap like the Boostan version with shredded cheese and banana peppers, or a plate loaded with sides. Boostan Café continues to be a preferred spot for those looking for tasty Mediterranean cuisine.

Whether you’re craving classic shawarma, vibrant Mediterranean dishes, or innovative comfort food, Metro Detroit promises to satisfy every palate.

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on April 24, 2019, and was authored by Karen Dybis.

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