Falafel's Drive In

Middle Eastern restaurant · Burbank

Falafel's Drive In

Middle Eastern restaurant · Burbank

5

2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128

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Highlights

San Jose’s beloved Falafel's Drive-In serves crispy, herb-spiced falafel and hearty burgers in a casual spot with a covered patio and iconic murals.  

Featured in The Infatuation
Featured in Eater

2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128 Get directions

falafelsdrivein.store
@falafeldrive

$10–20 · Menu

Information

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2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128 Get directions

+1 408 294 7886
falafelsdrivein.store
@falafeldrive

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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@infatuation

The Best Restaurants In San Jose

"For more than 50 years, Falafel’s Drive-In has been a San Jose landmark. And while it’s neither a drive-in nor owned by someone named Falafel, the mid-century fast-food joint is a local institution for a reason: falafel that’s crispy on the outside, marbled with herbs and spices on the inside, and topped with a delicious homemade hot sauce. Better still, it all comes in a pita sandwich the size of your face for just $7. Grab a spot at a picnic table outside, and don’t skip the fresh banana shake." - shoshi parks

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-jose/guides/best-restaurants-san-jose-california
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@eater

17 Rev-Worthy Drive-Ins and Drive-Thrus in Northern California

"Anton and Zahie Nijmeh first opened in 1966, starting with burgers, then slowly switching to falafel, gently telling customers over and over, “try it, you’ll like it.” Fifty years later, it’s a falafel institution. And yes, it was featured on an episode of Guy Fieri’s show. (You knew Guy was going to pop up in here somewhere.)" - Becky Duffett

https://sf.eater.com/maps/drive-thrus-drive-ins-northern-california
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@eater

25 Essential South Bay Area Restaurants

"Family-owned Falafel’s Drive-In has been cooking its staple dishes for nearly six decades. The menu offers casual favorites like hamburgers, salads, and pitas, but the restaurant’s forte is the falafels, which are based on a recipe that’s been passed down through generations. Visitors most frequently order “The Special,” which consists of a pita pocket stuffed with falafel balls, an array of vegetables, and homemade sauces. Many customers also gravitate toward the banana shake, which serves as a refreshing complement." - Octavio Pena, Cathy Park

https://sf.eater.com/maps/best-san-jose-south-bay-area-restaurants
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@eater

The Best Takeout in SF - Eater SF

"The Nijmeh family first opened it in 1966, starting with classic burgers and dogs, but gently switching to falafel over the years, and the menu still includes both. I got a large falafel pita sandwich, and walked it over to the lightly hot-sauced picnic tables, next to a mural that included falafel fan Guy Fieri." - Eater Staff

https://sf.eater.com/2021/1/8/22220745/best-takeout-san-francisco-2021
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@tripledfan
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives - California
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Carl O'Neil

Google
Second time here. I don't want to overstate it but this place is amazing! It's "just" falafel but it's this incredible soul food or home cooking goodness that's hard to explain but you will understand when you taste it. The workers are so nice and friendly. PS banana milkshake! 🙌🏼🙏🏻🔥 PPS, my pictures don't do it justice. Just imagine a freshness flavor bomb! 💥😋

John Vega

Google
Let me tell you about a Silicon Valley gem that's been serving up happiness since 1965 - Falafel's Drive In, a San Jose institution founded by Anton and Zahie Nijmeh in 1966 and co owned by the incredible Jack Nijma (pictured) and his siblings. This isn't just another restaurant; it's a place where memories are made and friendships are formed over some of the most mouthwatering Middle Eastern cuisine you'll ever taste. I first discovered this culinary treasure back in '91 during my days at Lam Research, and I've been hooked ever since. There's something magical about watching first-timers take their first bite - that moment when their eyes light up and they realize they've just found their new favorite spot. What makes Falafel's Drive In special isn't just their incredibly crispy falafel or their perfectly seasoned hummus (though trust me, they're worth the trip alone). It's the warm welcome you get from the staff, the familiar faces of regulars who've been coming here for decades, and that wonderful old-school drive-in atmosphere that takes you back to a simpler time. If you're looking for authentic flavors, generous portions, and service that makes you feel like family, swing by Falafel's Drive In. After all, there's a reason this place has been a local favorite for 6 decades - some things just get better with time.

S D

Google
I've been coming here for over 20 years and hands down the best falafel restaurant in the bay area. I cannot even find a similar place up in the Sacramento area. I usually spend $30-50 each visit. My recent visit they must've had a new guy making falafels because my small was considerably smaller than usual with part of the bread missing. Other than that. They're great and the family is very welcoming. William retired but he was my goto and high energy.

M Ne

Google
I really don't know what all the hoopla is all about at falafels drive in in San Jose, California. Yes it was covered by Guy Fieri on Diners drive-ins and dives, but personally I've had better Gyros. I'll review those at a later date. To me the meat in my falafel was just not seasoned well. It was moist, the fillings, I think they used yogurt was bland and do not lend to the pita bread. The fries were crispy and good tasting. It was ok, but i would not go out of the way to come here. I remember when it was a snow white hamburger drive in.

Andy Bungert

Google
OMG, This place was the bomb! Got the falafel and Banana shake best value combo (with hot sauce!) and it did not disappoint! It work a couple minutes where I wish I had more hot sauce but I put the hummus from the hummus and pita that we got on it and it was delicious as well!

Andretta Randall

Google
Falafel was AMAZING!! Sorry that the pictures don't show how good it tastes, lol! I'm glad I found this place after watching a tiktok review. However, I'm sad to be just learning about it after being in the Bay area for a year and a half. I will be back!!

Vishruth Rao

Google
The best in the country!!! 🔥🔥🔥 You will never get this type of falafel anywhere in this country. Their sauce is lit 🔥🔥🔥 Onion rings, shakes and gyro are solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ It’s not just food. Its an experience

Mark Kelley

Google
Fire! 🔥 The falafel sandwich is amazing. That red sauce! You could put that on a flip flop and it would taste good. Pay for a couple of extras because you’ll want more and more. The onion rings are really good too.
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Anwesha M.

Yelp
you have to get the falafel sandwich!! the falafels were amazing and the people working here are just amazing. very reasonably priced and they always load up my pitas with falafels! I'd say get the large, its a great portion we also got the chicken gyro but out of the 2, the falafel sandwich is a clear winner!! they also gave us a few extra falafels because they knew we'd want some more!
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Pauline N.

Yelp
Okay, at first I wasn't a big fan of this place because of how messy the sandwiches were and the way the gyro was cut.. but after trying the falafel sandwich, THIS PLACE HITS! And the banana shake?? Delicious. I always get the combo and it's worth. Falafel Drive In is a popular yet affordable Mediterranean option. It is fast casual, but feels healthier because of the fresh veggies. They use store bought pita sandwiches, but this I don't mind. You need to get their spicy sauce too! It may not be "authentic" but it's mixed with some ketchup, so there's elements of sweet and spicy. It tastes great in the falafel sandwich or dipping onion rings. The hummus and tabbouleh salad is also good! I just don't like the fries or gyro here, its so so. The gyro is cubed and biting into the sandwich... you get mostly veggies and the gyro fall out. Falafel sandwich is much easier and tastier to eat. I used to not like this place because of my gyro experience, but now I really like Falafel Drive In!
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Sebastian B.

Yelp
California has so many of these drive up food stand establishments in many cases they are a slam dunk. Falafel's was exceptional and far exceeded my expectations. This was another Diners Drive Inns and Dives find for me. I always go where Guy goes. The building is as old can be and the seating area is fun but low school. Be prepared to battle some pigeons while eating. The staff are efficient and since it's a walk up window you don't get much personal interaction. The guy who helped me was nice, helpful, and happy, that's a plus. My falafel was remarkable!!! Did I say remarkable? I certainly did!!! Dude! It was over stuffed with crispy green fluff. So tasty I wish I could eat this all the time. Probably the best I've ever had. And it was stuffed and topped with great toppings and the hot sauce was killer. There's a learning curve to getting it right. Hero it wrapped to eat it so it doesn't fall apart or get a fork before you sit down and don't forget extra napkins. YUM!!! I only had an appetite for one item but there's many choices so get to this five and dig in!!!
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Girlie G.

Yelp
Food is always great! Shakes are delicious. Great customer service. Clean. SJ CLASSIC.
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Elvis N.

Yelp
Hmm, this place is significantly better than I remember it to be 10 years ago when I was in high school. I came by last week 30 minutes before closing for a gyro with some friends and again today in the afternoon for some snacks. I was pleasantly surprised both times by the tasty food and speedy service. Now, the longevity makes sense. The gyro meat was diced into large cubes--not knocking it, but it was different from the slices I'm used to. It was served cold, but again, it was close to closing time. The lettuce was soaked in a creamy sauce, the pita was soft, and the accompanying tahini and spicy sauce were excellent. 3.5/5. It was not as good as Achilles, but it was a substantial step above Nick the Greek. I would not mind getting it again. Pita chips do not come with hummus, but the hummus plate does come with two pieces of pita bread -- read that again a few times. It threw me off a little bit, but it is what it is. The pita chips are lightly fried pieces of fresh pita so it's not quite a "chip" per se, moreover oily pieces of bread with various textures, tossed in seasoning. Way better than I'm making it sound. Think of In-N-Out fries. They exist in that kind of universe. I can see it being an acquired taste for some, but I enjoyed them. Went well with the hummus plate. Last but not least, the falafels are $0.50 per piece if you go a la carte. They are tasty little bite-sized balls. I recommend about five per person. Not the best I've had, but again pretty damn good with some hummus and pita. Note: Pita bread is the Original Pita White Bread from Jerusalem Bakery in Sacramento, CA. For those who log their food, like me, the macros listed on the package are: 1 Pita (80g) has 130 calories, 1.5 g of total fat, 21 g of carbs (1g of fiber), and 1 g of protein. Note 2: Card minimum is $10.00; otherwise Cash Only. Will be back soon to try the famous banana shake & falafel sandwich combo.
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Priya S.

Yelp
A BAY AREA CLASSIC YOU DON'T WANNA MISS OUT ON!!! If you're ever in the area in San Jose and looking for a nice bite to eat, go to falafel's drive-in. No frills. Just good quality, falafel balls with fresh lettuce, cucumber, and tomato, along with their spicy red sauce and creamy tahini sauce. If you really want a good drink with it, you can get a banana milkshake as well with the combos. Some may say that the pita bread is too thin however I say the pita bread is perfect. If you have any questions, call my office. Regards.
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Lloyd C.

Yelp
My wife and I used to come to Falafel's Drive-In a lot. She enjoyed the falafel sandwich, the freshness of the ingredients, etc. It is good to see that they enclosed their seating area because it was horrible during the Fall/Winter months when that cold wind would swirl around and send a chill down your spine. At least, now you have some protection, but you have to fight the pigeons that are in there! Sigh. The service was nice and friendly. I just beat the crowd so my order came up quickly. The Banana Shake used to be creamy and you could taste the fresh banana. Definitely 5/5 stars. Today's was sorta icy and tasted like frozen bananas were used and it wasn't as creamy as I remembered. I'll give today's a 3.5/5 stars.
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Justine K.

Yelp
A super casual joint with very friendly staff! They had a very large menu to choose from but we went with the special - a large falafel with a banana shake. Both were SO good and delicious. The food was fresh and came out fast despite the growing line of customers. I wanted a second falafel but I couldn't eat another bite since I was so full. I also liked that they gave extra sauce for you to use! There are so many tables and you basically seat yourself. I love the artwork on the walls - it just adds to the overall experience. We will be back for sure.
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Anusha S.

Yelp
Went to Falafel's Drive-In on a Friday evening and there were not many people (probably because of the rain). There is parking available in the back. Limited seating under the roof. Ordered for 3 people to go - 2 large falafel sandwiches with banana shake, one small falafel sandwich, pita chips, baba ganoush, and baklava. I also requested for extra sauce. Employees were friendly. The falafel sandwich was decent and I liked the falafel, but I thought there was too much falafel and not enough of the vegetables/sauce. The bottom and top of the pita was all vegetable and then the middle was all falafel - it didn't feel balanced and was more on the dry side. The extra sauce (white one and red one) definitely helped. 3.5/5 The pita chips were a little disappointing. I thought they would be crispy like chips but they were actually rather chewy. 2.5/5 Baba ghanoush was good but not sure if I would pay $8 for it. I rather get a sandwich for that amount. They give pita bread with it though. 3.5/5 Banana shakes were solid. There was just enough sweetness to satisfy my sweet tooth. 4.5/5 Baklava was good but again not sure if I would spend $2+ on it as it is small. 4/5 Overall the food was very filling. The large falafel sandwich with banana shake for $14 is a great deal. Would potentially come back if I am in the area
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Pranati M.

Yelp
Love the typical drive through type setting. A couple of benches for eating. Quick service, seems like these guys have been for a long time Got the falafel sandwich + banana milkshake combo. Falafel was so so good and fresh. Loved the additional spicy sauce as well. Banana milkshake reminded me of In n out milkshake and I enjoyed it. Also got baklava which was also pretty good. I'd definitely go again, pretty affordable for the quality
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Sophia W.

Yelp
Mainly outdoor seating, business is steady, pretty quick service though! Go to the window and order first, get a seat and wait for the feast! We always get 2 small falafel sandwiches, large french fries with extra sauces and hot sauce and a banana or strawberry milkshake. They also have a special large falafel sandwich and a banana milkshake. Their onion ring was OK, we prefer the fries with the sauces.
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Lisa Y.

Yelp
My favorite falafel spot! Falafel's Drive-In is a popular spot for locals and was made even more popular after being featured on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." The parking lot only has a few spots, but you can also find street parking. Pretty simple system: walk up to the window when you're ready to order, and pick up your food at the next window over when they call you! Grab a table on their covered patio, but beware of the hungry pigeons sometimes lurking around. Definitely the best falafels I've had! My go to is their Falafel Salad! A good portion of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and lots of falafels with a tasty dressing. I also enjoy their falafel or gyro pita sandwiches. But whatever you do, make sure you get some of their spicy red sauce! It's the best! Not too spicy and has some sweetness too!
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Neha N.

Yelp
Honestly some of the best falafel I've ever had. Everything tasted fresh including the veggies. Didn't even get soggy despite ordering delivery via doordash. $13 for a hearty sandwich and banana shake is pretty unbeatable! I will definitely need to try this place again, I want to try the gyro next.
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Vi T.

Yelp
FIRE. FIRE. FIRE!!! Send the yummmmm-bulance! (In reference to the falafel, ofc). No, I didn't order the banana shake. I don't like blended bananas. PS - *cheeeeeap* good eats. San Jose classic.
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Hao T.

Yelp
What can I say? This place has been a staple in San Jose. I've been eating at this place since 2000. This was my go to spot during lunch when I was working at Valley Fair at AT&T. I was their rep for the cell phone needs! Anyhow, their food has always been up to par and nothing has changed. Same great food, same great fast service! I always do their daily special! Falafel sandwich and the banana shake! Make sure you ask for additional red and white sauce. I always order an extra dozen of falafel balls on the side. Come prepared to get down in the sandwich. It can get messy from the start!
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Steve W.

Yelp
We walked to this long standing, family owned restaurant to try their falafel pita sandwich and famous banana milkshake. We also tried the gyro and chicken pita. Their namesake falafel pita (4/5) was the highlight, as well as their banana milkshake (4/5). The falafel's stayed crispy even with veggies and sauce piled on top. I would have given the falafel a (5/5), but the pita bread broke apart, even as I unwrapped the sandwich. The pitas were either not fresh or weren't adequately steamed or warmed to prevent breaking apart. Neither the gyro nor the chicken pita were close to being as good as the falafel sandwich. Both the gyro meat and chicken were just not seasoned enough. They also are missing the char flavor that you get from an authentic vertical rotating shawarma grill. I would recommend not ordering either of these. I also want to mention that all 3 pita sandwiches were stuffed with meat. They do not skimp on the falafel or meats. Also a noteworthy surprise was their hot chili sauce. It was sweet, like they mixed ketchup with the typical chili sauce. This was different, but not in a good way. This classic old school falafel 'drive in' was just okay, in my opinion. I prefer stronger classic flavors so I probably won't come back unless I'm craving a falafel and a banana shake...then you can't go wrong.
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Megan Z.

Yelp
Superb falafel!! Warm and soft pita. Fresh tabbouleh. Quick service. Would recommend this place for a meal where you wanna sit outside, eat quality food and catch up with a friend.
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Jennifer P.

Yelp
First time here, I went with coworkers and the place was quite loud from other customers chit chatting, but the workers here were accommodating to our orders. We did do a bulk order, and had some items mixed up but they were able to fix it. I am surprised this is the first time i'm trying this place out. I been missing out!! I am definitely going to be coming back here again. I really enjoyed it. Oh and there is a lot of sitting space! I was told the banana shake is something worth trying. Definitely will be giving that a try next time I come here again.
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Sam K.

Yelp
Parking was someone limited but we found a spot on the street, waited in line and sat in the outdoor seating provided. The indoor dining area appears to not currently be open. They call numbers over a loud speaker and the rush that I perceived was quite off putting. The woman announcing literally begged "#23 please!!!" To pick up their food within 1 minute of the number being called. We thought it was funny but also unnecessary. Nonetheless, our food was delisciois, the falafel is really well seasoned and veggies are fresh. Fries And onion rings were equally tasty and crunchy. I wanted ketchup and a fork but all dining ware is kept inside the window (guarded by the pleading announcer) so I backed out of my mission and my boyfriend later retrieved the items since he's more brave. The banana shake was delicious! Very pleased with the food, service was 2-3
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Shivangi K.

Yelp
An iconic South Bay staple. It's perfect for a quick, easy, and causal bite. I always order the falafel pita and it's stayed consistent every time I visit. It's filled with fresh falafels, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and delicious sauces. I like my food spicy so I always ask for extra hot sauce on the side. Service is quick, you order at the window and they call out your number when it's ready :) There is only outdoor seating -- bench style. The artwork is beautiful and covers so much of Santa Clara / SJ history. It's a great place to enjoy a meal outside. Parking is a bit limited in the back, but street parking/people coming in&out makes it pretty easy to find a spot.
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Prath C.

Yelp
We came here on a Saturday afternoon for lunch. There was little wait and our food came out quickly, but one thing to note is that the place fills up quickly and available seating filled quickly as well. The ambiance was very lively. This a place with a lot of history, having opened in 1960s, and it shows - there is a beautiful mural and newspaper clippings displayed inthe store. It was even featured on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives." We ordered: - Falafel Sandwich - It was delicious and the spicy sauce was amazing and spicy! Usually I find the falafel too dry but this was delicious and very flavorful. The pita bread was also delicious and flavorful. - Banana Shake - Not too sweet, creamy and the banana flavor was prominent and delicious! Overall, I definitely recommend this place and will be back in the future to try other items on the menu.
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Hailley O.

Yelp
We heard that this place is a must when in SJ. I never really had a falafel before so this was my first time trying it and it was delicious! I got a small falafel sandwich, pita chips and a baklava. The falafel was well seasoned and had a good texture. I think it's the sauce that goes with it that really makes it! There were two sauces, one was creamy and the other was spicy. Both complimented the falafel well. It was a bit messy to eat because the falafel and toppings were falling out a lot. The pita chips were literally fried pita bread I think because it was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I liked it! The baklava was good too. Overall, I really enjoyed this place especially with trying falafel for the first time! It's a simple casual place and the food came out quick. Prices were not bad too because my order was less than $15!
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Alyssa M.

Yelp
We stopped here on our way to SJ airport and was pleasantly surprised by the fast service and great food! I forgot to take pictures because we ate it so fast we tried the falafel sandwich, fries, banana shake and everything was 10/10! The price was great too for the amount of food we got. Definitely recommend if you are in the area and it has Guy Fieri's stamp of approval!
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Andrew D.

Yelp
Great place to stop by. Taste: 5/5. Beef Gyro was packed with flavor. Falafel was also surprisingly very flavorful. Portions: Not bad, I would rate 4/5. Lots of beef, lots of falafel Location and parking: 5/5 Easily lots of parking and a very nice atmosphere for some quick lunch. Service: Quick and fast. I got my gyro in 3 minutes after ordering.
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Pia V.

Yelp
Visited again recently and definitely still a solid spot. The falafels were cooked perfectly. Crunchy on the outside and juicy in the middle. Packed with so much flavor. Parking can be difficult, so it's best to go when they open or a weekday. The service is pretty quick, but again, as it gets busy the wait times go up. The seating area is just like any other outdoor seating area, with great murals. Just how I remembered it the first time coming here. A solid spot for sure.
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Samantha G.

Yelp
I went here for the first time after hearing about it from Honeysuckle's YouTube video. I work nearby, I'm surprised I never tried it! I came by one Saturday afternoon and it was PACKED. Their parking lot is very small. There's a big lot across the street but I run that's for the auto shop and Korean restaurant (I parked there really quick, shhhh) got my food pretty fast though! Their banana shake is really good. I would keep coming just for the shake! The first thing I ever tried is the falafel wrap. This is my first time eating a falafel, and I don't eat a lot of fiber on the regular. Sorry to say, and TMI, but you'll be farting all day if you're like me and you got some sort of IBS. I didn't even realize there was no meat in my wrap, it was that good. Ask for extra sides if the tahini sauce and the red pepper harissa sauce, because they only add sauce and toppings on top and the rest of the wrap is just falafel, it can get pretty dry. I got a gyro wrap the next time and made sure I had enough sauce. However I thought the meat was a bit too salty.
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Jason H.

Yelp
The OG. Nuff said. A Falafel Sandwich with the Banana Shake is the staple for me. If I came here more often, I may peek at the rest of the menu. The Falafel Salad costs more for some reason, too. (Can't eat the aluminum bowl...) Parking lot and street parking are totally dependent on the day of the week and time of day. Both indoor and outdoor seating available. No nonsense ordering, please. Staff and guests really want you to know what you want BEFORE you step up to the window.
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Nathaniel D.

Yelp
Amazing falafel and mediterranean food place! It was super busy when I stopped by on a Sunday afternoon. Food is very reasonably priced and portion was fairly large. I got the large falafel and banana shake combo for $13. Price includes tax. The banana shake tasted like a melted banana laffy taffy, which was delicious. The falafel was warm and absolutely delicious! It came with a white and red sauce and both were absolutely delicious. There's a tiny kick of spice so if you're sensitive to that be cautious. Nonetheless I absolutely recommend this place and am definitely planning to return!
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Jackie N.

Yelp
Simple, tasty, and affordable! I never thought I liked falafel until I tried the falafel sandwich here. The sandwich was packed with soft flavorful falafel, lettuce, tomato, and sauces. The gyro sandwich was equally as tasty and not dry at all. The sandwiches just have 2 sauces, a red and white one, which we also asked for extra on the side. The red sauce tastes more like a sweet chili sauce and really elevates the sandwich. The pita chips were very flavorful and not too salty. They were the perfect in between of crisp and soft. My least favorite item was the banana shake. I like that it's not too sweet but it tasted a little too artificial to me. Seating is only covered outdoor seating. Bathroom doors are a bit narrow.
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Don L.

Yelp
Falafel's Drive In is a San Jose institution that's been open since 1966. I've personally been coming to eat here since my days at SJSU around 2012 and they're still just as good in 2024. Their $13 large falafel and banana shake special is to die for. So filling, but so light. The slightly spicy red sauce mixed with the hearty helping of falafel (fried chickpea balls) in a bread-based wrap is always delicious. Their banana shakes use specially sourced bananas, according to a feature story on SJ Spotlight, and you can taste it when you take a sip. The banana taste is so strong and tastes better than any banana shake I've ever tasted. If you're from out of town or a Bay Area local, I highly suggest you try Falafel's Drive In. You won't be disappointed.
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Cheryl C.

Yelp
My husband & I decided to make the 2 hour trip yesterday since we were totoally craving Falafels & Hummus. I got a large Falafel sandwich $9.50ea, Pita Chips $5.50, large Hummus w/Pita bread $9.75, and my husband got the large Falafel sandwich & Banana Shake combo for $14. We also got an extra order of Pita Chips, Hummus & 20 extra Falafel Balls .50ea TOGO. The prices only went up .50 for most items in the past year, so it's still a great deal these days. It's hard to believe this place has been in business since 1966. There are other similar restaurants scattered throughout the bay area, but nothing compares.
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Ariana J.

Yelp
Visited this quick eatery couple of times in the past and today as well. Had the falafel sandwich the OG dish on the menu. ($7 for small) Super quick, fresh, crispy falafels placed in between soft pita bread topped with lettuce onion tomato tahini and spicy sauce. Enjoyed my snack after a long shopping at the valley fair mall nearby. We also got the tabbouleh salad which was ($8.5). Super quick. Decently clean. Try their falafels for sure if you visit. Their salads are great too.

Jennifer G.

Yelp
Older guy at the cashier was totally distracted when I was ordering food. He also admitted that he was not paying attention to me and got my order wrong. Did not even make up for it and blamed me for his mistake. That's not cool. I have been a regular customer for 25 years. I really miss the other old guy at the cashier. This one is very mean and very rude!

Hannah W.

Yelp
Best falafels of my life. Service is fast and vibe is good. A San Jose gem and worth a visit
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Krystal G.

Yelp
This is a spot we love coming back to when we visit San Jose. Never fails! We go for the lunch special falafel with a banana shake. Daughter went for the burger and fries! I heard they will be closing. Not sure if the rumor is true... but I hope somehow it stays open. The service is quick and and the location is outdoors. Parking is few but you can park in the back of the building or on the side of the streets. Super chill place to eat at. Would definitely recommend and come back every time we are near.
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Andrew M.

Yelp
I love having conversations about San Jose staples and I always bring up falafel drive in. As popular as it is it's very slept on. Food is good and inexpensive. All the workers are so nice and no matter how busy it is you'll never feel rushed. It's the perfect place to go have a date or grab a quick bite to eat. The seating is all outdoors and there's plenty of parking. If you're debating about going just go and soak in some of the history of San Jose while you're there. Also they're on diners drive ins and dives so look them up if you really want a preview
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Kay G.

Yelp
This is one of our favorite places to go for lunch and sometimes dinner -- we love their gyros and Falafel wraps. They also serve really good hummus with veggies and Pita bread, and their banana shakes (made from real bananas) are amazing. Our usual order is one small gyro and the falafel special which includes small falafel wrap and a banana shake. A really good deal. Sometimes we eat there and enjoy the colorful mural painted with SJ area scenes, but can also just pickup to go. Note they do close early on Sundays, I think at 6pm. A San Jose institution!
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Chas S.

Yelp
Overrated? I'm not sure but they are super efficient, genuinely friendly, and the falafels are served hot and fresh. Cool to see this spot holding on in a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood.
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Megan A.

Yelp
Definitely not worth the hype in my opinion! We came on a Thursday night and first off, parking was an absolute nightmare. They advertise saying that there's parking in the front and back but it's maybe about 5-8 spots in total and street parking was full. Service was also rude and dismissive. We only ordered 1 falafel and they gave us 2. When I said we only ordered 1, they were very rude about not being clear with the order and lectured us??? They also gave the refund in cash when I paid with card. In terms of the food, it was pretty mid. The fries weren't crispy and the gyro was cold. My friend got their falafel and she said it was ok and not the best.
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Jo W.

Yelp
A gem of a spot for Middle Eastern food! There's even a "Did You Know?" sign that reads: "Falafel Drive-In was featured on this show with Guy Fieri." If Guy Fieri endorses this place, then it's gotta be good! We parked behind the establishment in the parking lot, and the even though there was a line, it went pretty quickly. I got a chicken sandwich in a pita bread, with pita chips and baba ganoush on the side. It was all really good! The patio is in the shade, and there was plenty of seating on a Saturday afternoon for lunch. Pigeons were also everywhere scavenging for food, so something to be aware of if you're one of those people who hate pigeons. Definitely stop by for some good Middle Eastern food that's easy to take to-go or just to enjoy here at their patio.
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Richard E.

Yelp
Good. Just go. Solid institution. Been there for many years. Solid food. Nothing fancy, just what you would expect.
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Heidi F.

Yelp
This place is not only a San Jose food legend, it is delcious and perfection. I love the falafal salad with extra red sauce. The lines are sometimes long at lunch time and there isn't much outdoor seating, making it a great to-go place.
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Wayne S.

Yelp
This has to be without a doubt the best Falafel place in the South Bay. The food is amazing, the people are super funny and friendly. One of the best things is you eat outside in the California sun or shade. There is always a friendly atmosphere and parking is usually easy. It's my favorite place for Falafels and should be yours as well.
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Melba M.

Yelp
We go here often for a quick, no fuss meal and to also connect to local San Jose culture before seemingly everything got bougie. Service has consistently been friendly and fast. The outdoor seating could use some improvement especially the back side which feels dingy /cold, but I wouldn't trade anything for it. Maybe Guy Fieri could invest :)
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Nin J.

Yelp
Still 5 Stars. It taste fresh, its fillings, its somewhat healthy hehe, it's just plain good. Large falafel with banana shake is the special every day all day. The only thing that has changed about it throughout the years has been the price but it is well worth the $13.
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Linda D.

Yelp
This place has been around for so long, before Valley Fair became West Field Shopping Center,I used to come here and ordered the falafels to go. I always like their falafel style the best compared to other establishments. I was told the this is the Lebanese falafel style. Will need to find other Lebanese falafel to compare, but for now, I like this place the best. I had their gyros too and they are also good. The service is matter of fact but friendly. Parking is a bit hard, seatings are all outdoor, bus your own table, but I find the tables are usually pretty clean. There are birds that come over hoping to eat your left over but they are not the aggressive kind of birds, so they don't bother me. If you come here during summer/winter, seating outdoor is a bit tough, either your are too hot or too cold. Take out is the best for me. I will keep coming back to this place. Check out the murals too if you dining in, it depicts the Silicon Valley scene, pretty neat!
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Janan D.

Yelp
I gotta say. This place. Pretty darn good. Food size, pretty darn big. Price point, pretty darn affordable. I think it's like $11 for that large gyro sandwich and like another $9 for that hummus plate. Their menu prices are set so there's no like added tax on top of it. Check out the pictures. It's legitimately chunks and chunks ... and chunks of meat. It is unbelievably full of meat. Ordered a large hummus and it came with 2 large pita breads! I was SO STUFFED from my gyro sandwich I could only have a couple bites of that hummus but also, just a nice gritty texture for a nice bite with the sandwich. Came on a Sunday at 1:30pm and there was a line. They were SO BUSY with phone orders and in person orders. Definitely had to wait a little bit for my order and they seemed very stressed. However the customers provided some comedic relief while my brave friends helped me out with my order, which made my experience end up much better than it started. Next time I go , I wanna try that root beer freeeze yummmmm
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Abhilasha S.

Yelp
Absolutely love! I'm never disappointed. The falafel sandwich is exceptional--crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. The fava bean dip was a delightful surprise, rich and creamy, and came with two warm pita breads, perfect for dipping. The friendly service always makes me feel welcome. You can enjoy indoor seating or outdoor. The clean restroom is a nice touch, inspite of the heavy foot traffic. A handy tip for future visitors: don't forget to ask for sauces at the pickup window to enhance your meal. There's a cream based sauce and a spicy tomato sauce. Both are great. Highly recommend this spot!
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Steven R.

Yelp
Perfect for what it is. Good food Good food stand atmosphere 2.1k reviews 4+* - solid all around. Falafel balls made fresh - people loving the onion rings & fries. Good family place- kids got burgers and corn dogs - rents got gyro & falafel. Been doing it right for almost 60 years