ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Green Street Café
8.1
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Business Lunch Power Players
Hidden Gems Heaven
This women-owned Mediterranean restaurant in Playhouse Village specializes in authentic Lebanese kebabs and mezze with a focus on sustainability. Fresh ingredients and careful spicing distinguish the lula kebab and charcoal-grilled meats, while generous portions and friendly service create a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lula Kebab Plate, Chicken Kabob, Beet Salad
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Women-owned with commitment to compostable containers and plant-based options
Who should go: Health-conscious diners, families, neighborhood regulars
When to visit: Lunch for outdoor seating, closed Sundays
What to order: Lula kebab is the standout, pair with house-made hummus
Insider tip: Free city parking garage immediately next door
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free city parking garage directly next door - easiest parking in Pasadena dining
Dress code: Casual comfortable - athleisure to business casual all fit the neighborhood vibe
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation indoors, peaceful on the patio
Weekend wait: 15-20 min typical - smaller space fills up but turnover is steady
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait - prime business lunch spot with efficient service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - extensive mezze selection, falafel, vegetable kebabs, and stuffed grape leaves
Vegan options: Very good - most mezze are naturally vegan, plant-based protein options available, staff knowledgeable
Gluten-free options: Good options - grilled meats and salads work, can substitute lettuce wraps for pita
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially lunch or early dinner on the patio. Relaxed atmosphere takes pressure off, shareable mezze encourages interaction, and moderate noise level allows real conversation. Not overly romantic but genuinely comfortable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 6pm) usually fine for walk-ins. Friday/Saturday dinner reserve ahead - it's a neighborhood favorite with limited seating. Patio fills first in nice weather.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - casual atmosphere, generous portions to share, familiar items like kebabs and rice appeal to most kids. Outdoor seating gives families breathing room. Popular with Playhouse Village parents for exactly these reasons.
How does it compare to other Pasadena Mediterranean spots? More authentic Lebanese focus than broader Mediterranean menus elsewhere. Less trendy than Old Town options but better quality-to-price ratio. The lula kebab rivals spots charging $10-15 more per entree.
What's the best way to experience it if I'm new? Get the lula kebab (their signature), add 2-3 mezze to share (hummus essential), and sit outside if weather permits. Lunch gives you the full neighborhood experience without evening crowds.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Lebanese execution over fusion variety, sustainable practices and compostable containers, free convenient parking, consistent neighborhood quality without Old Town tourist pricing, health-conscious options that don't sacrifice flavor
Skip if: You want upscale date-night ambiance or craft cocktails, need full bar service, prefer modern Mediterranean fusion over traditional Lebanese, want late-night dining (closed Sundays, limited evening hours), looking for Instagram-trendy atmosphere over substance
Hours
Monday11am - 7pm
Tuesday11am - 7pm
Wednesday11am - 7pm
Thursday11am - 7pm
Friday11am - 7pm
Saturday11:30am - 7pm
SundayClosed