San Diego's Best Falafel [Updated 2024]

Living here my whole life, I've had the opportunity to try falafels from various spots around town. And let me tell you, San Diego does not disappoint when it comes to this Middle Eastern delight.

With a total of 13 falafel joints under my belt, I can confidently say that I have the inside scoop on where to find the best falafel in the city. So if you're craving these perfectly seasoned chickpea patties wrapped in fluffy pita bread or tucked into a crunchy falafel bowl, follow me as we embark on a flavorful adventure through San Diego's falafel scene.

Falafel California

Highlights
Best Mediterranean food in San Diego
Exceptional food and service
Fresh and delicious falafel California
Generous portions of food
High-quality ingredients

Let me start by saying that this place truly lives up to its name. The falafel at Falafel California is like a golden nugget of deliciousness, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It's definitely the best Mediterranean food in San Diego.

From the moment I entered, I was greeted with warm smiles and impeccable service. The staff was knowledgeable about their menu and made excellent recommendations. Their attention to detail was impressive, ensuring that every aspect of my dining experience was perfect.

But let's talk about the star of the show - the falafel itself. The falafel California is a masterpiece. Made with fresh ingredients and a secret blend of spices, these little patties are bursting with flavor. Each bite takes you on a journey through the vibrant streets of Lebanon, as if you're strolling through a bustling market.

The portions here are generous, so come hungry! You won't be disappointed with the amount of food they serve. And despite being full, I couldn't resist ordering some extra falafels to take home because they were just too good to pass up.

If you appreciate high-quality ingredients and crave authentic Mediterranean cuisine, then Falafel California is your go-to spot in San Diego. Trust me, once you try their falafels, you'll be hooked. So go ahead and indulge yourself in this little taste of paradise; your taste buds will thank you later!

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Doner Mediterranean Grill

Highlights
Massive gyro wrap
Fantastic tabouli
Bottled beer options
Fresh Greek salad
Crisp and fresh veggies

Walking into Doner Mediterranean Grill, I was immediately struck by the tantalizing aroma of spices and sizzling meat. The place had a bustling atmosphere, with customers eagerly waiting for their orders. I decided to dive into their falafel offerings, hoping to discover a hidden gem for my article on the best falafel in San Diego.

I ordered the massive gyro wrap, brimming with crispy falafel balls and stuffed with fantastic tabouli. As I took my first bite, I was greeted by an explosion of flavors. The falafels were perfectly cooked - crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Each bite was a delightful blend of herbs and spices, leaving me wanting more.

What impressed me even more was their attention to detail in their sides. The fresh Greek salad accompanying my wrap was a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the falafel. The veggies were crisp and vibrant, adding a delightful crunch to every mouthful.

To top it all off, Doner Mediterranean Grill had an array of bottled beer options available. This unexpected touch elevated my dining experience, allowing me to enjoy my scrumptious meal with a cold beverage of my choice.

Overall, Doner Mediterranean Grill is a must-visit for any falafel enthusiast in San Diego. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and creating flavorful combinations sets them apart from the competition. So if you're craving some top-notch falafels accompanied by great sides and even a bottle of beer, make your way down to Doner Mediterranean Grill—your taste buds will thank you!

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The Kebab Shop

Highlights
Super clean
Fresh and flavorful
Professional and friendly service
Authentic Middle Eastern taste
Plenty of vegetarian options

As soon as I walked into The Kebab Shop, I was impressed by how super clean and inviting the place looked. The vibrant colors and Middle Eastern decorations immediately transported me to a different world.

Now, let's talk falafels. Oh boy, were they a delight! The falafels at The Kebab Shop were not only fresh and flavorful, but also had the perfect texture - crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Each bite was a burst of authentic Middle Eastern taste that made my taste buds dance with joy.

But it wasn't just the falafels that won me over. The professional and friendly service provided by the staff added an extra touch of warmth to my experience. They were knowledgeable about their menu, willing to make suggestions, and even went out of their way to accommodate my vegetarian preferences.

Speaking of vegetarian options, The Kebab Shop had plenty to choose from! Whether you're a dedicated herbivore or just looking for a meat-free alternative, this place has got you covered. Their vegetarian-friendly menu is extensive and guarantees that no one will leave hungry.

In conclusion, if you're in search of the best falafel in San Diego, look no further than The Kebab Shop. With its super clean atmosphere, fresh and flavorful falafels, professional and friendly service, authentic Middle Eastern taste, and abundance of vegetarian options, this place truly deserves its spot among San Diego's top falafel joints.

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Falafel Heights

Highlights
Best hummus
Homemade falafel
Friendly owner
Convenient location
Delicious wrap

From the moment I stepped into Falafel Heights, I knew I was in for a treat. The friendly owner greeted me with a warm smile and made me feel right at home. And let me tell you, the falafels here are not your average chickpea balls – they're homemade masterpieces.

But before diving into the main event, let's talk about the hummus. Oh my goodness, this hummus is on another level! Creamy, smooth, and bursting with flavor, it's like a party in your mouth. It pairs perfectly with their warm pita bread.

Now onto the star of the show – the falafel. These little green patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, just as they should be. The combination of herbs and spices used in their recipe creates a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

What sets Falafel Heights apart from other falafel joints is their attention to detail and commitment to quality. Everything is made fresh daily using only the finest ingredients. You can truly taste the love and passion that goes into each bite.

Located in a convenient spot downtown, Falafel Heights is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go. Their delicious wrap filled with falafels, fresh veggies, and tangy tahini sauce is a satisfying meal that won't disappoint.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic falafel experience in San Diego, look no further than Falafel Heights. With their top-notch hummus, homemade falafels, friendly owner, and convenient location; they have everything you need to satisfy your falafel cravings. Trust me when I say this place will leave you saying "Fal-a-mazing!"

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Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food

Highlights
Epic food
Generous owners
Delicious and authentic dishes
Friendly staff
Warm and inviting atmosphere

Let me start by saying, wowza! Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food is a true gem when it comes to falafels in San Diego. From the moment I stepped through the door, I knew I was in for an epic food adventure.

The owners of Tahini are nothing short of generous. They greeted me with open arms and treated me like family. It's refreshing to see such passion and dedication from the people behind the counter.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – their falafels. These little balls of delight are pure perfection. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, each bite is a burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East. The ingredients used are of top-notch quality, resulting in truly delicious and authentic dishes.

But it's not just about the food at Tahini; it's also about the experience. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home. The warm and inviting atmosphere adds an extra touch that sets this place apart from others.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a falafel experience that goes above and beyond, look no further than Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food. Their epic food, generous owners, delicious and authentic dishes, friendly staff, and warm atmosphere combine to create a falafel haven that will leave you craving more. So why wait? Grab your friends or fly solo and head over to Tahini – your taste buds will thank you!

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Alforon Mediterranean / Lebanese Cuisine

Highlights
Transported to Levant
Melt-in-your-mouth okra
Variety of delicious dishes
Friendly owners and staff
Cool atmosphere

Prepare to be transported to the Levant as you step into Alforon Mediterranean / Lebanese Cuisine. This hidden gem is a falafel lover's paradise, and it certainly deserves a spot on the list of the best falafel in San Diego.

The moment I bit into their falafel, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The crispy exterior gave way to a fluffy and flavorful interior that practically melted in my mouth. It was like savoring a cloud of pure deliciousness. Magnifique!

But Alforon isn't just about the falafel; their menu boasts a variety of other delectable dishes that will leave your taste buds begging for more. From their melt-in-your-mouth okra to their tantalizing kebabs, every bite was a journey through Middle Eastern flavors.

What sets Alforon apart from the rest is not only the outstanding quality of their food but also the warm and friendly atmosphere created by the owners and staff. They are always ready with a smile and eager to guide you through their menu, ensuring you have an unforgettable dining experience.

And speaking of atmosphere, stepping into Alforon feels like entering a cool oasis in the midst of San Diego. The decor exudes an authentic charm that transports you straight to Lebanon.

If you're looking for an extraordinary falafel experience, look no further than Alforon Mediterranean / Lebanese Cuisine. Trust me, once you've tried their heavenly falafels and sampled their array of mouthwatering dishes, there's no turning back.

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Meze Greek Fusion

Highlights
Delicious food
Excellent service
Quick food delivery
Amazing appetizer plate
Phenomenal combo souvlaki

Walking into Meze Greek Fusion, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of freshly cooked falafel wafted through the air, enticing my taste buds from the get-go. As a self-proclaimed falafel connoisseur, I had high expectations, and boy did Meze Greek Fusion deliver!

The delicious food exceeded all my expectations. Each bite of their falafel was packed with flavor and perfectly crispy on the outside, while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. It was like a party in my mouth with every bite! And let me tell you, this wasn't your average falafel; it was a culinary masterpiece.

Not only was the food top-notch, but the service at Meze Greek Fusion was also excellent. The staff members were friendly and attentive, always ready to answer any questions or make recommendations. They truly made me feel like a VIP falafel enthusiast.

To top it off, the quick food delivery ensured that my hunger was satisfied promptly. No waiting around for ages; they understood that when it comes to falafels, time is of the essence.

If you're looking for an appetizer to start your meal off right, I highly recommend trying their amazing appetizer plate. It's a medley of flavors that will leave you wanting more. And if you're feeling particularly adventurous, go for their phenomenal combo souvlaki, which combines juicy meat with their exceptional falafels.

In conclusion, Meze Greek Fusion has truly earned its place in the competition for San Diego's best falafel spot. With its delicious food, excellent service, quick food delivery, enticing appetizer plate, and mouthwatering combo souvlaki, this place is a must-visit for any falafel lover in search of perfection!

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Shawarma Guys

Highlights
Amazing Mediterranean Food
Great and Presentable Food
Generous Portions
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Excellent Service

First of all, let me just say that the Mediterranean food at Shawarma Guys is nothing short of amazing. From the moment I stepped into their cozy restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat.

The falafel itself was a work of art. The presentation was so impeccable that I almost didn't want to take a bite. But boy, am I glad I did! The flavors exploded in my mouth, with each bite offering a perfect balance of herbs and spices. It was clear that their falafels were made with love and attention to detail.

One thing that really impressed me about Shawarma Guys was their generous portions. They didn't skimp on anything! Each plate came piled high with falafels and an abundance of fresh ingredients. It's safe to say that you won't leave this place hungry.

As a bonus, Shawarma Guys also caters to vegans and vegetarians. Their menu offers a variety of options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning plant-based palates.

But it's not just the food that makes this place special—it's the service too. The staff at Shawarma Guys went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of excellent. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about what they do.

So if you're looking for the best falafel in San Diego, look no further than Shawarma Guys. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

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Micho'z Fresh Lebanese Grill

Highlights
Amazing authentic Lebanese food
Super delicious with a great staff
High quality food
Very friendly server
Nice atmosphere

Let me start by saying that this place is an absolute gem for falafel lovers. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with the enticing aroma of freshly cooked falafels. The atmosphere at Micho'z Fresh Lebanese Grill is simply delightful, with vibrant colors and comfortable seating that transport you straight to Lebanon.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness! The falafels here are nothing short of amazing. They are crispy on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside, bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Each bite is like a symphony of Middle Eastern spices coming together to create a harmonious explosion in your mouth.

But it's not just the falafels that impressed me; everything else on their menu is equally delicious. From their creamy hummus to their fluffy pita bread, every dish is made with high quality ingredients that elevate the dining experience to a whole new level.

The staff at Micho'z Fresh Lebanese Grill deserve a special mention as well. Not only are they incredibly friendly and attentive, but they also go above and beyond to ensure that you have a memorable dining experience. Kudos to them!

In conclusion, if you're in San Diego and craving some authentic Lebanese cuisine, look no further than Micho'z Fresh Lebanese Grill. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. So go ahead and indulge yourself in some falafel perfection at this hidden gem!

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Mama's Bakery & Deli

Highlights
Authentic experience
Wonderful food
Nice ambiance
Astounding value

Let me start by saying that Mama's Bakery & Deli is the epitome of an authentic falafel experience. From the moment I walked in, I was transported to the bustling streets of the Middle East. The aroma of freshly baked bread and flavorful spices filled the air, instantly making my taste buds tingle with anticipation.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the falafels themselves. Oh boy, were they wonderful. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with a harmonious blend of herbs and seasonings. Each bite was like a flavor explosion in my mouth, leaving me feeling utterly satisfied. In fact, these falafels were so good that they could make even a carnivorous dinosaur consider going vegetarian!

Aside from the amazing food, Mama's Bakery & Deli also boasts a nice ambiance. The cozy seating area adorned with colorful tapestries and vibrant artwork added to the overall charm of this hidden gem. It's like stepping into your cool aunt's living room – warm and welcoming.

Now let's talk about something that will blow your mind – the value. Mama's Bakery & Deli offers astounding portion sizes at incredibly affordable prices. You can feast like royalty without breaking the bank! Who said eating out had to be expensive?

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic falafel experience in San Diego, look no further than Mama's Bakery & Deli. With its wonderful food, nice ambiance, and astounding value, it truly deserves a spot on any list of San Diego’s best falafel joints. So go ahead and treat yourself to some falafel goodness – your taste buds will thank you!

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Kabob House

Highlights
Huge portions
Friendly staff
Excellent cuisine
Great customer service
Plenty of parking

Walking into Kabob House, I was immediately struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The friendly staff greeted me with a smile and made me feel right at home. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the huge portions that were being served to other patrons. It was clear that this place didn't skimp on quantity.

When my falafel plate arrived, I was blown away by the presentation. The falafels themselves were beautifully golden brown and perfectly crispy on the outside, while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. Each bite was a delightful explosion of Middle Eastern spices that danced on my taste buds.

But it wasn't just the falafels that impressed me; everything about Kabob House's cuisine was excellent. From their tender and juicy kabobs to their fluffy pita bread, every component of the meal was executed to perfection.

The customer service at Kabob House deserves special mention as well. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that I had a memorable dining experience. They were knowledgeable about their menu, offered helpful suggestions, and even took extra care to accommodate my dietary preferences.

And let's not forget about parking! In San Diego, finding parking can be quite the challenge. However, Kabob House had plenty of parking available, making it convenient for diners like myself.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an outstanding falafel experience in San Diego, look no further than Kabob House. With their huge portions, friendly staff, excellent cuisine, great customer service, and plenty of parking options, they truly stand out as one of the best falafel joints in town.

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Fairouz Cafe & Gallery

Highlights
Best Middle Eastern food
Soft and flavorful falafel
Welcoming and funny owner
Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
Variety of food options

Fairouz Cafe & Gallery is a hidden gem in the bustling streets of San Diego. I must say, they serve some of the best Middle Eastern food in town, and their falafel is no exception.

The moment I took my first bite into their falafel, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures. The falafel itself was soft and bursting with flavor. Each bite was like a mini explosion in my mouth, leaving me craving for more. It was as if the falafels were whispering "eat me" with every bite.

What sets Fairouz apart from other falafel joints is the welcoming and funny owner. He made sure to greet each customer with a smile and crack jokes along the way. His infectious laughter filled the air, creating an atmosphere that was both lively and enjoyable.

The cafe itself exudes a quiet and peaceful ambiance, making it the perfect spot to savor your falafel masterpiece. Whether you choose to dine inside or enjoy your meal on their cozy outdoor patio, you'll be surrounded by beautiful artwork that adds to the overall charm of this place.

One thing that impressed me about Fairouz Cafe & Gallery is their commitment to offering a variety of food options. From traditional hummus and pita bread to mouthwatering shawarma wraps, there's something for everyone's taste buds. They truly understand that diversity is key when it comes to satisfying hungry customers.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best falafel in San Diego, look no further than Fairouz Cafe & Gallery. With their soft and flavorful falafels, welcoming owner, peaceful atmosphere, and diverse menu options, this place will surely leave you saying "Fal-awesom!"

Temporarily Closed - Garlic and Tahini Egyptian Kitchen - Delivery & Carry Out Only

Highlights
Industrial kitchen location
Simple menu - shawarma in pita or bowls
Tasty and fresh homemade feel
Friendly service, resolves issues
Delicious eggplant and falafel wrap

First of all, let me address the unique aspect of this place - their industrial kitchen location. Don't be fooled by its unconventional setting; it adds a certain charm and character to the dining experience.

Now, onto the menu. At Garlic and Tahini, they keep things simple, offering only two main options: shawarma served in pita or bowls. Sometimes simplicity is key, and in this case, it works wonders. Each dish has an unmistakable homemade feel, as if it were prepared with love and care in someone's kitchen.

The service at Garlic and Tahini deserves a special mention. The staff is incredibly friendly and always ready to assist you. They even go above and beyond to resolve any issues that may arise during your visit. It's refreshing to encounter such dedicated individuals who take pride in their work.

Now let's get down to the star of the show - their falafel. Oh boy, was it delightful! The falafel had a perfect balance of crunch on the outside and softness on the inside. The flavors were well-developed and complemented by a touch of freshness from the accompanying vegetables.

But wait, there's more! Their eggplant wrap deserves honorable mention too. The combination of smoky eggplant with creamy tahini sauce wrapped snugly in fluffy bread is simply divine.

In conclusion, Temporarily Closed - Garlic and Tahini Egyptian Kitchen - Delivery & Carry Out Only is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best falafel in San Diego. Its unbeatable combination of delicious flavors, friendly service, and that extra touch of homemade goodness make it a must-visit for all falafel enthusiasts out there.