Discovering Mediterranean Secrets at Shawarmaniac
First of all — do you know the difference between Shawarma and Gyro?
Shawarma originates from the Middle East (mainly Turkey, Lebanon, Syria), and is a beloved street food in the Arab world. Gyro, on the other hand, comes from Greece and is the Greek version of a meat wrap.
At Shawarmaniac Mediterranean Grill in Kirkland, you’ll even find a big poster on the wall explaining why Shawarma is fresher and better than Gyro — according to them, at least 😉
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1️⃣ Rice / Fries / Salad Plate
The Chicken Rice Plate I mentioned in my previous post is a great all-in-one combo: rice, grilled chicken, veggies, and soup — hearty and satisfying.
2️⃣ Rice / Fries / Salad Bowl
If you prefer something simpler, the Rice Bowl is also a solid option. Whether you choose chicken or beef/lamb, pairing it with rice, salad, or fries gives you a taste of Mediterranean goodness in every bite.
3️⃣ Pita Wrap
The wrap is heated up first, then filled with salad, meat, and topped with house-made sauce. After that, it’s pressed flat on the grill — warm, crispy, and oh-so-photo-worthy.
4️⃣ Catering
If you happen to stop by during a catering order, you might witness the giant trays of grilled chicken skewers or Kafta beef patties being made — it’s quite a show!
5️⃣ Sides
Golden fries, crispy on the outside, are topped with garlic sauce and a tangy sprinkle of Middle Eastern spices. Addictively delicious.
Also: Falafel — the famous deep-fried chickpea (or fava bean) balls — a must-try vegetarian snack from the Middle East!
6️⃣ Dips
✨ Hummus — smooth, rich, and creamy, it’s the soul of the Mediterranean plate. Perfect as a dip or spread on pita bread.
✨ Baba Ghanouj — a smoky roasted eggplant dip mixed with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Soft, creamy, and just slightly smoky.
7️⃣ Appetizers
✨ Dolmas — little rice rolls wrapped in grape leaves. They look like mini tamales, but taste tangy, herby, and slightly salty. Some say they’re even better cold!
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Not every dish may suit your taste, but that’s the fun of exploring new cuisines. You’ll always find something unexpected to love! 🌍💛 Find out something to explore? Check out GourmetCarte App - an app just for food lovers.
#littlethings #lemon8challenge #kirkland #seattlefood #seattlefoodie
The Mediterranean cuisine is a treasure trove of delicious dishes and flavors, each with its own unique background. Shawarma, pronounced as 'sha-war-ma,' is renowned for its marinated meats, stacked and slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie until juicy and tender. It often comes with a variety of sides, such as rice, fresh salads, and flavorful dips like hummus and baba ghanouj. Gyro, on the other hand, hails from Greece and features meat typically cooked on a vertical spit but served differently, often in a warm pita with tzatziki sauce, onions, and tomatoes. At Shawarmaniac, guests can enjoy an invitation to explore these culinary wonders. Their menu showcases not only traditional shawarma but also an array of authentic Mediterranean specialties like falafel, kafta beef patties, and dolmas. The Chicken Rice Plate is particularly appealing and aptly reflects the heart of Mediterranean dining - a blend of protein, carbs, and fresh vegetables. Additionally, those looking for a unique experience can consider their catering options, which are ideal for gatherings or special events, showcasing the lively preparation of giant trays of grilled delights. Whether you’re a shawarma fan or a gyro enthusiast, Shawarmaniac offers something to excite everyone's palate, making it a must-visit spot in Kirkland for food lovers.
