Ottawa Foodies

I realized today that the Carling location is likely so popular because the cashier is drop dead gorgeous and she has a pleasant manner. And to their credit, the guys dishing out food are affable too.

Such are the non-foodie factors that can spell success or disaster for a food vendor! ;-)

I love the food at this restaurant!!! It is, by far, the best shawarma place in the city. We frequently get take-out from the one on Carling ave. The portions are huge and the freshness and quality of the food is amazing! The decor leaves a bit to be desired (but hey that is why they have take out!) The price matches the portion size. I absolutely recommend this place to everyone!!!!

I have just come home from my second visit to Shawarma Palace on Rideau street and I actually fear that my neighbours might smell my garlic breath through the wall (ha).

There are three shawarma places near where I live and this one is the furthest distance - but the food is beyond worth the walk.

I had chicken shawwarma sandwhich while bf had the beef sandwhich and we shared their garlic potatoes. Their service is a little bit hectic because they are so busy. In fact, the place is hopping every time I walk by there. However, the shawarma is fresh with great toppings and AMAZING garlic sauce.

Next time, I think I will have to go for their falafel because they looked amazing but I could not betray my stomach and order anything but chicken shawarma.

For two shawarma sandwhiches, two mango juices and garlic potatoes the grand total was $18.50. Somewhat pricey by shawarma standards but the quality justifies the price! Yum!

The Shawarma Platter from the Carling location was not that great. In fact, I can't understand why they're so busy all the time when Mr Pie and BBQ is just up the street. The beef had a lot of fat and gristle and the chicken was dry. The rice and potatoes were good. The pink pickled turnip sticks tasted more like cucumber pickles and lacked the crunch I like so much. One big plus: they offered two pitas without me having to ask. Most places seem to give you one, which just isn't enough with a huge platter. The food prep guy told me there'd be a surcharge to get half beef and half chicken, but the cashier charged me the regular price.

The hummus here is particularly top notch! Creamy and rich, with a perfect balance of lemon and garlic. I had an order for a light supper before a movie. They offer you 1 or 2 pitas with it -- 2 is barely enough even if you scoop big. I can't imagine someone eating all that hummus with only one pita. You'd need a spoon!