Shawarma Empire Photos
Shawarma Empire
If you’re on the hunt for authentic, no-fuss Middle Eastern flavors in Toronto, Shawarma Empire should be on your radar. Tucked at 1823 Lawrence Ave E, Shawarma Empire serves up the kind of shawarma that keeps locals coming back, whether you’re craving a quick bite after work or a comforting dine-in meal with friends.
The restaurant vibe is casual, friendly, and exactly what you need when you’re in the mood for something filling yet affordable. They’re known for quick service, and yes, you can grab your shawarma to go or get it delivered if you’d rather stay in. If you’re around the neighborhood, their dine-in option is available, letting you watch fresh halal meats being carved and wrapped in warm pita, topped with crunchy pickles and creamy garlic sauce.
One thing people love about Shawarma Empire is the consistency in quality. The chicken is tender, the beef is well-seasoned, and every bite comes with that smoky edge you expect from proper shawarma. The small plates and healthy options make it easy to try different flavors without feeling heavy, perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner when you’re craving Middle Eastern spices.
Another plus? The prices are fair, so you can grab a generous shawarma plate with fresh veggies and hummus without worrying about your wallet. It’s also great to know that Shawarma Empire offers halal food, making it a welcoming spot for those looking for authentic halal eats in Toronto.
If you’re in the area and want something fresh, hearty, and fast, Shawarma Empire delivers exactly that. It's the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem, yet it's well-loved by many who know the power of a good, no-nonsense shawarma.
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Shawarma Empire Reviews
Saw Shawarma Empire listed as one of the top shawarma spots in the GTA, so my friend and I decided to check it out. First time trying the pita pocket style shawarma. I got the beef shawarma, while my friend went for the chicken, and both were pretty solid. The portions were great for the price, and you definitely get your money's worth. That said, I found the beef a little dry, especially compared to the juicy, flavorful chicken, which was hands down the better pick. If I go back, I'll be grabbing the chicken for sure! Overall, it's a solid spot, good value, and worth trying if you're in the area.
Shawarma empire is that girl !!!! Prefer over ghadir I believe the bread is freshly made taste like it anyway. Quick fast and delicious
I don’t know why I haven’t written a review for this restaurant. I’ve been here hundreds of times over a decade and not only is it hands down still the best shawarma and falafel, but don’t sleep on the lentil soup! Liquid gold I tell you. I’ve probably tried every lentil soup in the city at this point in my life and nothing - NOTHING compares. I come here regularly after work and pick up 6 soups to bring home and freeze. They’re gone that week. You just can’t beat it. Do yourself a favour and run - don’t walk! Treat yourself to a mixed plate with beef and chicken and a lentil soup today. Don’t forget the Vimto!
I got a mixed shawarma sandwich and my sister got the mixed plate. This was the best dinner!! The salad is super fresh, rice was so flavourful, and the protein portions are generous. I also really liked their hot sauce. Highly recommend!!!
Portion size is very good! For one shawarma sandwich is a good price and it’s a BIG size too! Flavor is great and Service is fast. Will definitely come back
Visited recently as one of the highly rated shawarma spots in the Lawrence West/Scarborough area. Shawarma Empire is one of the many Middle Eastern spots along Lawrence, and best known for their shawarma wraps and shawarma plates. Their shawarma plates come fully packed in a takeout box, fully filled to the top with rice (or fries), salad, hummus, garlic sauce and choice of meat along with a pita on the side. What was great was the rice, which was a marinated rice dish that paired very well with the meat chosen as part of the shawarma plate. The value alone for this is well worth it given the quantity provided in a single takeout box. If you are looking to try their shawarma plates, getting the Mix Sharwarma is a good way to try both of their meat offerings at the same time. Highly recommended just for the portion size and value alone. Note that they mainly take cash or debit, and seating is limited inside their restaurant so expect to take any orders to-go.
Neighborhood has a lot of shawarma options making my lunch decision very hard. I ended up choosing Shawarma Empire, and I have no regrets. The pita bread is soft, and their approach is unique. You can get one wrap for 8 or two for 15—one is definitely enough to fill you up. They really pack in the protein (see my second picture). I’ll definitely be back!
If you’re craving authentic shawarma, this place is a must-visit! The food is consistently amazing — perfectly spiced shawarma, fresh, pillowy bread, and some of the best falafel I’ve ever had. But what really sets this place apart is the people. The staff is genuinely warm, welcoming, and incredibly attentive. It’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back, not just for the food but also for the experience. Highly recommend and big than you to people working here