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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
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
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
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.
Who should go: Health-conscious locals wanting a real meal without cooking
When to visit: Weekday lunch to beat the Santa Monica College rush
What to order: Start with the Trio Dip to share, then split a shawarma entree and the grilled salmon — plates come with rice, hummus, and salad so you won't need sides.
Insider tip: The shawarma comes as both a plated entree and a pita wrap — the wrap is a solid $6 cheaper if you're grabbing lunch on the go.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot parking on-site in a small strip mall plus street parking—easy on weeknights, can fill up during peak dinner hours. Rite Aid lot across the street as overflow.
Dress code: Casual—it's counter-service, so shorts and sandals are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate overall, though background Middle Eastern music can be noticeable—fine for casual conversation but not whisper-quiet.
Weekend wait: Plan for 35+ minutes for food during busy dinner periods—small family kitchen juggles dine-in, takeout, and delivery simultaneously. Ordering online ahead recommended.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—dedicated vegetarian section on the menu including falafel, hummus, babaghannouj, cauliflower fritters, grape leaves, veggie kebab, and a vegetarian combo platter.
Vegan options: Multiple naturally vegan options including hummus, babaghannouj, falafel, and cauliflower fritters. Described as having an extensive vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Several cold appetizers marked gluten-free on the menu: zaatar, hummus, garlic sauce, and babaghannouj. Limited to appetizers/dips—no GF markings found on entrees.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date — this is a counter-service spot where you order at the register, not a candlelit sit-down. That said, the patio is pleasant with greenery and wrought-iron furnishings, and the vibe is relaxed enough for a casual, low-pressure meet-up. If you're going for easy conversation over shawarma rather than a formal dinner, it works. Best for a daytime or early-evening date on the patio.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-in, counter-service restaurant. No reservations needed or offered for regular dining. You order at the counter and grab a table. Even during peak hours, the combination of indoor seating (around 40 seats) and patio seating (around 20) means you'll likely find a spot. For private events or large groups, call ahead at (310) 392-2900.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual counter-service format takes all the pressure off dining with kids. No waiter to rush you, no formal atmosphere to worry about. The menu has naturally kid-friendly options like pita, hummus, chicken kebabs, and falafel. No dedicated kids menu has been confirmed — call ahead to ask about high chairs if needed. The patio is dog-friendly too, which suggests a relaxed family atmosphere.
Is it good for groups? Yes — surprisingly well-suited for groups. The indoor area seats up to 40 and the patio fits about 20 seated. They actively host private events including birthday parties and corporate gatherings, with catering packages around $30-$35 per person. They have a flatscreen TV, PA system, and speakers available for events. No enclosed private room, but you can book either the indoor space or patio. For groups over 6, call ahead to arrange seating.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a landscaped patio with wrought-iron furnishings surrounded by greenery and a wooden lattice fence. Seats about 20 with room for 30 standing. The space is open-air with partial lattice covering (not a solid roof). Dog-friendly. Patio heaters not confirmed — call ahead in cooler months. Free parking lot on-site makes it easy to access.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Mediterranean lunch with the family—counter-service keeps it fast and casual. The upgraded patio with greenery seats up to 20 and is the move for outdoor dining.
Skip if: You want full table service or are in a rush at dinner—the tiny kitchen gets backed up and this is order-at-the-counter, not a sit-down experience.
Hours
Monday10am - 10pm
Tuesday10am - 10pm
Wednesday10am - 10pm
Thursday10am - 10pm
Friday10am - 10pm
Saturday10am - 10pm
Sunday10am - 10pm