Good Eats In Anaheim’s Little Arabia

The official Anaheim flag flies at Anaheim City Hall in Anaheim, Calif., on Aug. 9, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

After being recognized by the Anaheim City Council late last year, “Little Arabia”—a stretch of Brookhurst Street from Broadway to Ball Road—continues to boast some of the best-known Mediterranean cuisine and social hubs in Orange County.

Home to thousands of Arab immigrants who, according to multiple media outlets, predominate from Palestine, Egypt, and Lebanon, the area offers a wide array of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine from which to choose.

As such, locals and The Epoch Times’ subscribers submitted their favorite spots in the area for when a craving strikes.

Cairo Cafe and Restaurant in Anaheim. (Courtesy of Cairo Cafe and Restaurant)

Cairo Restaurant and Cafe

Known for its authentic Egyptian fare, this spot is ideal for those looking for a larger meal.

Among their specialties is the “Hawawshi,” in which a freshly baked pita loaf is stuffed with marinated ground beef and toasted to perfection with a side of garlic or sesame “tahini” sauce, in addition to chickpea dip.

Other fan favorites include grilled lamb chops in an aromatic marinade, and “chicken shawarma” seasoned and piled high on a spike before being fire-roasted and shaved off into thin, delectable bites.

10832 Katella Ave., Anaheim

Beef Shawerma Plate at Cairo Cafe. (Courtesy of Bishoy Gad)

Nubia Cafe

This traditional Egyptian-style Hookah bar and restaurant offers aromatic hookah in colorful, hand-blown water pipes in addition to vibrant drinks and fare.

“[Nubia Cafe] transports you back to Egypt whenever you’re here. The vibe is so authentic,” Nader Ashgar, a frequent customer, told The Epoch Times.

The North African hub offers traditional main dishes including assorted grilled kabobs such as marinated chicken, ground beef, and lamb, served with steaming hot basmati rice, salad, and hummus drizzled with olive oil.

Those looking for a hot drink can choose from piping “sahlab,” a rose-flavored milk-based drink with ribbons of Nutella, chai tea, cinnamon milk, and more.

1785 W Lincoln Ave., Anaheim

Nubia Cafe. (Courtesy of Nubia Cafe)

Zait and Zaatar

This casual Lebanese-style eatery offers delectable main dishes including a crispy falafel plate of fried chickpeas flavored in a signature spice blend atop crisp salad with hummus on the side, all drizzled with olive oil.

The spot is also known for its grilled pita wraps—ground or thinly spiced beef, chicken, or shrimp— spiced to perfection.

Those wanting a smaller bite can opt for one of the cafe’s numerous appetizers including spiced potatoes, freshly baked bread, seasoned hummus, roasted eggplant dip with garlic and spices, and much more.

“I haven’t tried anything here that I didn’t love,” customer Naima Rezkalla told The Epoch Times. “It’s a must-try.”

510 N Brookhurst St., Unit 106, Anaheim

Al-Tannour Restaurant

In addition to a traditional array of cooked meats and entrees, this Iraqi eatery is known for its “Masgouf,” pompano fish fileted and seasoned before being seared over a flaming hot grill, then topped with onions and spices.

Another crowd favorite is the “Musakhan,” an aromatic roasted chicken served over tannour bread.

The restaurant also hosts a buffet during Ramadan, this year starting March 22 through late April, where guests can break their fast over a large spread of authentic middle eastern appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

2947 W Ball Rd., Anaheim

Little Arabia, Lebanese Bakery and Cuisine

Those in the mood for unique baked dishes with an Arab twist can order the pizza-inspired bakery pies topped with ground beef “kafta” and cheese, spice beef, and lamb sausage known as “Soujuk,” along with olives, peppers, and more. Each pie is baked to order.

The Lebanese eatery also offers plenty of dessert options including its specialty “Warbat.” Similar to baklava, this sweet Mediterranean pastry consists of layers of thin layers of phyllo dough filled with custard, various nuts, or sweet cheese.

“I discovered this spot from the smell wafting outside,” Linda Krouch told The Epoch Times. “It smelled so good, my nose dragged me in. I’ve been coming back ever since.”

638 S Brookhurst St., Anaheim

Grilled kabob platter at Little Arabia Lebanese Cafe. (Courtesy of Little Arabia)

Knafeh Cafe

For those with a sweet tooth, Knafeh Cafe hits the spot. “Knafe”—a middle eastern pastry stuffed with sweet cheese, clotted cream, or pistachios then soaked in aromatic rose water-infused syrup—is one of the shop’s most popular dishes, per their name.

Other sweet treats include baklava or “Hareeseh with Nuts,” a honey-drenched, moist semolina cake covered with pistachios. Pair with the shop’s signature Turkish coffee for another warm dash of flavor.

866 S Brookhurst St., Anaheim