Ammar H.
Google
Ali Baba in Rome is one of those places you remember long after the trip is over, especially if you are craving a proper shawerma at any hour of the day or night. Being open 24 hours already puts it in a special category, and it shows in the steady flow of locals and visitors who clearly know exactly where to go when hunger hits late.
What really sets this place apart is the way they let you build your shawerma exactly the way you want it. You choose every ingredient yourself, watching it come together fresh right in front of you. I usually keep it traditional. For chicken, I go with toom, that rich garlic sauce, pickles, and if possible just a light hint of french fries inside. For meat, the classic combination is hard to beat: tahini sauce, parsley, onions, and pickled turnips that add the perfect balance of sharpness and texture.
The shawerma itself is satisfying and comforting. The meat is juicy, the bread is warm, and everything feels freshly prepared. Flavor wise, it leans slightly on the mild side and could use deeper spices to truly elevate it, but it still delivers a very enjoyable and authentic bite.
Where Ali Baba truly shines is the experience and the people. The staff are welcoming, patient, and genuinely kind, even in the late hours. There is a level of hospitality that makes you feel at home rather than rushed. Between the 24 hour availability, the freedom to customize your order, and the warmth of the team, this place earns its reputation. It may not be the most aggressively spiced shawerma you will ever have, but the overall experience makes it absolutely worth coming back to while in Rome.