Falafel vs Shawarma: What’s the Difference?
Walk into Mr. Shawarma & Grill and you’ll see both on the menu — but shawarma and falafel aren’t just two versions of the same thing. They’re made differently, taste different, and suit different diets. Here’s what actually sets them apart.
Shawarma: Marinated, Roasted, Halal-Certified
Shawarma starts with halal meat marinated in a blend of spices, then stacked and slow-roasted on a vertical spit. As it cooks, the outside gets shaved off in thin, crisp layers — that’s the shawarma you get in your wrap or plate. It’s rich, savory, and the reason most people walk through our doors in the first place.
Falafel: Fresh, Plant-Based, Made Daily
Falafel is a completely different process. We soak chickpeas overnight, grind them fresh with herbs and spices, and hand-form them into patties that go straight into the fryer to order. No canned mix, no pre-made frozen patties — just fresh chickpeas turned into a crisp, golden falafel the same day it’s served.
Which One Should You Order?
- Want something hearty and meat-based? Go shawarma.
- Vegetarian, vegan, or just want to switch it up? Falafel is a full, satisfying option — not an afterthought on the menu.
- Feeding a group with different diets? Order both. Everyone eats well.
Halal and Fresh, Every Day
Both shawarma and falafel are prepared in the same halal-certified kitchen, made fresh daily. Whether you’re local to Elmira or making the drive from Kitchener or Waterloo, you’re getting food made the same day you eat it — not reheated, not sitting under a heat lamp.
Planning an event or office lunch with mixed dietary needs? Our catering menu includes both, so nobody’s stuck with a side salad.
