Best Quick Bites Champions Mediterranean Restaurants in Santa Monica
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Pita House
Halal meats with build-your-own bowl concept and 3000+ delivery reviews
Notable Picks
#1
Pita House
8.4
Family-run Mediterranean spot opened in 2016 serving generous portions of kabobs, shawarma, and handmade baklava with consistently fresh ingredients. Known for juicy meats marinated in-house and creamy hummus varieties that draw regulars from across the Westside.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Kabob, Chicken Shawarma, Mixed Kabab Plate
What Makes it Special: Halal meats with build-your-own bowl concept and 3000+ delivery reviews
#2
Crimson
8
Health-focused Mediterranean cookhouse established in 2013 using hormone-free meats and organic produce when possible. The open-flame grilling method and 40-year family recipes create flavorful dishes with authentic Middle Eastern spices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Kebab, Filet Mignon Kebab, Chicken Shawarma
What Makes it Special: Hormone-free meats grilled over open flame with health-conscious preparation
Worthy Picks
#3
Crimson
7.9
This halal-certified Mediterranean cookhouse fires hormone-free meats over open flames, serving generous portions of kabobs and falafel since 2013. The counter-service spot balances healthy eating with bold flavors, drawing families and health-conscious diners to its casual patio.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Kabob Plate, Falafel Trio, Mediterranean Bowl
What Makes it Special: Halal-certified grilled meats with organic ingredients
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Serving fresh Mediterranean staples since 1958 from a bright yellow cottage across from Santa Monica College. The tiny counter-service spot maintains original recipes with generous portions and some of LA's crispiest falafel at budget-friendly prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Sandwich, Gyro Plate, Shish Kabob
What Makes it Special: Over 60 years serving Santa Monica with unchanged recipes and $8 falafel sandwiches
#5
Z Garden
7.8
Counter-service Mediterranean that delivers sit-down-sized plates—lamb shank, grilled salmon, shawarma—at fast-casual prices, making it a reliable weeknight solve on Pico. The covered patio and strip-mall lot keep the overhead low and the turnover quick, which is the point: real entrees without the restaurant markup. Best suited for locals who want a full plate and an easy park, not a lingering dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma, Grilled Salmon, Lemon Chicken
What Makes it Special: Counter-service Mediterranean with full-plate entrees, a leafy covered patio, and portions sized like sit-down dining at fast-casual prices.