Falafel Arax

Middle Eastern restaurant · East Hollywood

Falafel Arax

Middle Eastern restaurant · East Hollywood

3

5101 Santa Monica Blvd #2, Los Angeles, CA 90029

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Falafel Arax by Infatuation - Reviews
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Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
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Falafel Arax by null
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Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
Falafel Arax by null
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Highlights

Crispy falafel, flavorful shawarma, and tender lamb tongue sandwiches  

Featured in The Infatuation
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5101 Santa Monica Blvd #2, Los Angeles, CA 90029 Get directions

falafelaraxgo.site
@falafelarax

$10–20 · Menu

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5101 Santa Monica Blvd #2, Los Angeles, CA 90029 Get directions

+1 323 663 9687
falafelaraxgo.site
@falafelarax

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 7, 2025

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@infatuation

The 14 Best Armenian Restaurants In Los Angeles

"Open since 1980, Falafel Arax is another East Hollywood institution and home to some of our favorite falafel in the neighborhood. Seriously, we have an in-house company rule that if we’re ever within a half-mile radius of this tiny strip mall spot, a drop-in is mandatory. As the name suggests, the falafel is the star, but their shawarma is almost just as good. Luckily, you can just order the combo plate and get both at the same time. " - brant cox, sylvio martins

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/the-best-armenian-restaurants-in-los-angeles
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@infatuation

The Best Falafel In LA

"This East Hollywood restaurant has become a bit of an institution over its four decades in business, bringing people from all over town to fight over a parking spot in the strip mall it calls home. The menu remains pretty straightforward, ideal for a quick lunchtime stopover, and consists of a few protein options like kebab, shawarma, and tender lamb tongue served on either a plate, pita, or fluffy sandwich roll. But the place is called Falafel Arax for a reason, and its Lebanese-style fritters are the definition of satisfyingly crunchy. The falafel is made from a smooth chickpea puree that is deceivingly simple but is actually very well-seasoned with its garlic and cumin really shining through. Take things up a notch by drowning these golden-brown bites in the shop’s delicious garlic sauce that’s tangy and potentially pungent enough to keep a date six feet away from you post-falafel - or at least if you lay it on like we do." - sylvio martins

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/best-falafel-los-angeles
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@infatuation

Falafel Arax - Review - East Hollywood - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"Open since 1980, Falafel Arax is another East Hollywood institution and home to some of our favorite falafel in the neighborhood. Seriously, we have an in-house company rule that if we’re ever within a half-mile radius of this tiny strip mall spot, a drop-in is mandatory. As the name suggests, the falafel is the star, but their shawarma is almost just as good. Luckily, you can just order the combo plate and get both at the same time. Food Rundown Falafel Plate There are some things we like about this plate, and then there are other parts that are kind of forgettable. The falafel has a light and creamy mix with hints of garlic and cumin, and comes with pickled turnips and yellow peppers. But the lettuce side salad with its dousing of creamy tahini dressing might end up sitting in our fridge indefinitely. Shawarma French Roll This pressed sandwich is tangy, saucy, and full of tender beef shawarma. The bread is crispy on the outside but still chewy and tightly holds together big chunks of beef, tomato, and onions. The only other ingredient here is their garlicky tahini sauce that instantly makes everything a million times better. Lamb Tongue Sandwich Stewed chunks of lamb tongue get some needed acidity from sliced tomato in the shop’s chewy bread rolls. The tongue is extremely tender and absorbs whatever you throw on top of it, so we strongly recommend plenty of tahini." - Team Infatuation

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/reviews/falafel-arax
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WHo THe

Google
Simple family style service. Just passing through town. The meal was fresh and delicious! Get the grape leaves! The vegetarian options Great The hummus was the best I’ve had in a long time as well as the falafel was very crispy and good. I will be back thank you.

EJ Davis

Google
Best in town. My absolute favorite place to go after work and always makes my heart happy and puts me in a good mood. Food is absolutely delicious and the atmosphere is great, service is great. Modestly sized with 5 or so booths in a small strip mall that can sometimes be challenging to park in. There normally manages to be a spot when I need it though. Plenty of street parking all around so no biggie if no spots. Grilled chicken kebab wrap is so good. I always add in hummus and rice in mine. They are so accommodating and always make it just how I like.

Giovanni Zaarour

Google
Best Lebanese falafel in LA. They have the same flavor as the famous falafel Arax in Beirut. They also have delicious sandwiches and shawarma

Lori Yaralian

Google
A Hollywood staple. Falafel Arax serves up way more than falafel alone. They have both chicken and beef shawarma on a rotating spit. Personally, I opt for the beef shawarma on a pressed French roll. Everything is homemade, made in-house. The dining room doesn't have much space to sit, three booths which can each accommodate four guests. The parking is a little sketchy, but they do have a parking attendant on busy days. The neighborhood may appear unsafe, but I haven't had an issue leaving my car here while grabbing my lunch.

Ximena Montilla Arreaza

Google
Review for Falafel Arax Falafel Arax is a wonderful spot for anyone craving authentic shawarma. This small, family-owned Armenian restaurant has flavors that took me on a nostalgic journey back to my hometown, Caracas, where I used to enjoy Armenian and Lebanese food with dear friends from those cultures. The seasoning of the chicken shawarma and kebab was incredible, truly reminiscent of the authentic taste I remember. The service was excellent—friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience even better. If you’re really craving shawarma, I recommend ordering one and a half or even two because you’ll definitely want more!

Rodrigo “funning”

Google
I got the “Kebab Combo” with no rice, just salad. The meats were cooked perfectly and all were well seasoned. The hummus was a great addition to the whole meal and it was probably my favorite part. The customer service is great and with a smile. Not too much seating inside and parking can be hard to get. I’d definitely come back again.

St Francis

Google
While shopping in the area I stopped in to Falafel Artax for a quick bite. The restaurant is clean; Serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine. I simply had a Falafel and enjoyed it.😋 Friendly, and honest management. I will definitely be back to explore the menu further.

Kevin Lemus

Google
Had the Arax combo for 25 bucks which I feel pretty pricey for the amount of food you get. The gyro was pretty bland and idk what the white sauce that they use, might be tazieki sauce which I thought was pretty good but they used way too much. Falafel was my favorite part nice crunchy and very flavourful. Was kinda disappointed about the pita bread, it was very stiff to bite on. May come back to try other items.
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Megan L.

Yelp
Brought my friends here to try and it was one of my friend's first time to try Shawourma and she was not disappointed. The three of us enjoyed our meal. The meat was tender and not chewy, yet kinda crispy for a slight charred sides that complimented well. Each order was very fulfilling, one can get out two meals from one plate. I had the French roll, it was a good different experience eating the meat, onions, tomatoes with a French roll than a pita bread. The falafel balls were a big bite sized crispy on the outside but not dry on the inside that paired well with taziki sauce. The only thing I didn't like was that the bread was a bit too charred for my liking, next time I'll ask for lightly toasted. Also, parking can be kinda tricky but there is a small parking lot available. We will be back and bring our friends. Thank you Tony for your kindness and great food!
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Paul ..

Yelp
Awesome food. Clean place and very friendly and welcoming owner. Food is very juicy and tasty at a reasonably inexpensive price. A must try!!!!
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Iris J.

Yelp
The food here is soooooo good! Don't let the horrible right parking discourage you from eating here. The lot is small, but spaces do open up. The interior of the restaurant is small, but their food more than makes up for their lack of space. The service was friendly enough and the food was ready quickly. We almost left because of the parking, but are so glad we didn't. The food was delicious and the falafels are made fresh to order. Everything was perfect and we will definitely be back soon!
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Brittany M.

Yelp
So bomb! A friend brought over some falafel and hummus as an appetizer and it was delicious! Crispy toasty falafies, and the hummus was really tasty too. Will def return!
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Alex J.

Yelp
Absolutely solid falafel wraps. Great service, we ordered an extra wrap to take home and they were kind enough to make it as we were finishing so it was as fresh as possible. Crispy falafel, soft pita, fresh veggies, plenty of tahin, can't go wrong!
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Alec A.

Yelp
4.3/5.0 The whole parking lot smelled amazing, not sure what proportion of that can't from this place. The food was fresh, and the staff was friendly. I'd come back. Taste: I got the chicken kebab wrap. I kinda wished there was some creamy sauce, yogurt, or something rich (or maybe sweet) to add to the wrap. It was good but not outstanding. It was made very fresh, and it was simple. Experience: I was the only one in the place that wasn't staff. They were super friendly and welcoming, and I liked the double mirrors and the red. Made me feel like I was in an infinity room. Mood Before/After: felt pretty good before and after Fullness: medium full. I could've ordered more. The value to price was pretty good. What else did I eat/do today affecting my experience: I was just coming from my girlfriend's place on the way to make some art, so I was in a good creative mood.
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Alaa E.

Yelp
Freshly made homestyle sandwiches that will make you reminisce of times with Family. Amazing portions/ fast service at this cozy cafe; must try! I walked in, the mama, dad, & son welcomed me & catered every order. Both sandwiches are amazing. Cheers!
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Dominique H.

Yelp
I really enjoyed this small shop. Very good vibes. The service was fast . We sat down and ate . I smelled fresh and clean in the inside . I had the falafel wrap, the flavors was good. I'll be back for the grape leaves and doner.
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Tracey G.

Yelp
Ordered falafel plate. Didn't come with rice or hummus and it was $14...not worth the money in my opinion.
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Harry O.

Yelp
This is the only place in LA to go to for a great shawourma sandwich or wrap. I've tried other places, where the meat is either too dry, too fatty, or not seasoned enough, but I've never had a bad experience with Falafel Arax. Their Falafel wrap is also excellent. Writing this review made me hungry, so guess I'll be having a beef shawourma wrap for dinner tonight!
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Kevin B.

Yelp
We went for the Arax combo plate the last time we were here, and it was delicious. Plenty of menu options at a big place here. Nice people working here, and good food. Nice portion sizes, and a huge bang for your buck here.

Jimmy P.

Yelp
Best food in Hollywood. Been eating here since I was a kid and now as an adult bringing my kids to eat and they love it. This establishment is family and they make the best food in town. Don't waste your time finding another place. Once you eat here and try their food you will keep coming back.

Mark A.

Yelp
I got two items: a falafel wrap and a chicken kabob wrap to go. It was $24 and change. The falafel was pretty good. I would get it again. The chicken kabob wrap was dry. I would lot get it again. The portions are on the smaller side IMO. There are 4 or 5 small tables inside. Service was good and my food was freshly made. Parking might be tough as it's in a small strip mall on the corner that does have parking. Probably won't be back
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Harry Z.

Yelp
The guy behind the counter handing money then making your sandwich. This place has always been overpriced and stingy.
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Peter W.

Yelp
I finally made it here. I actually tried to come one time previously and they weren't open but I made it here and got the beef shawarma on baguette and it was terrific. This is an excellent place for a quick bite to eat if you're on the run. Friendly people, convenient location, quick service and excellent parking. I wish they had french fries. I feel like french fries would be a great add to the menu but I get it. I like how they keep it simple and keep it quality at the same time. I'd recommend coming here. I plan to come here again.
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Simon B.

Yelp
Great food, big portions. Reasonably nice staff. Not a ton of dining space, but a great place for takeout
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Dave M.

Yelp
First time trying this place out. Loved the Shawarma (this was my favorite). We also tried the Falafel wrap (very good) and the Lule Kebob (very good). Would come back again.
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Art M.

Yelp
Our family is pushing almost 30 years, getting the shawarma meals from Arax. The place is small storefront, so we always plan on. take out, but if you're lucky and there empty seats, enjoy the meal right away. Aside from the falafels, my favorite is the shawarma sandwich with the french roll, pressed like a panini!

Sushi P.

Yelp
They are so sweet. Best Falafel wrap I've had in a long time!! He had my wrap ready in less than two minutes. I loved the culture in here; they all had the biggest smiles, and it actually made my day. It was a great price for Los Angeles and a vegan meal. Their sauce is so good!
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Kevin A.

Yelp
It's been a while since I stopped through one of Hollywood and LA's very best Middle Eastern restaurants, Falafal Arax, and I was long overdue for my fix. Hungover from a few too many cocktails the night before and needing something hearty and tasty before the film I was off to see, I order the $20 Kabob Combo plate and decide to eat half and take half of it to go for dinner. Ha! As if! It was so good I devoured it all there on site, like a giddy child in his booth, chomping away and making different little bites to amuse myself (see photos). Hard working Tony and sister Natalie inherited the small but clean and airy restaurant from their folks and, as I understand it, the tradition of serving exemplary and savory middle eastern sandwiches and platters has been going strong for 41 years! That is some achievement in this day and age, especially when you drive by restaurant after restaurant that have closed up within a year of having just opened! More importantly, sitting here and regaling in their terrific food, I get WHY... Arax meats are well done, flavorful, the quality consistent and the folks serving it all up? Couldn't be more amiable and nice. I literally have no advice or criticism here except I wish Tony and Natalie would scale out and open up more restaurants! Here's to the next 40 years guys!! Next time you are hankering for superlative middle eastern food and falafels, head to Falafal Arax in the tiny mini mall on Santa Monica Boulevard and Normandie Ave. You will thank me.
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Kiran S.

Yelp
My Armenian colleague introduced me to this spot when we were doing rotations out In Hollywood. Apparently this place has been open since the 80's and I can now see why. Hands down BEST falafel I have had in LA. I have been to some places have falafels that are hard/dry. The falafel here is soft on the inside crunchy on the outside & full of flavor. I either get the falafels on their own or the falafel sandwich. The owners and staff are super friendly & personable. The area is clean, small space but quick turnover. Stop here for an authentic & quality experience. Food 5/5 Service 5/5 Ambiance 5/5
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Jeaz J.

Yelp
Order your deliciously sandwich or plate. Very simple place like 3 tables but just right if you want to sit , eat and run. Prices are on the high end but once you have a taste of their chicken sandwich with lots of garlicit's worth the money.
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Mireya B.

Yelp
Falafel Sandwich Beef Shawourma Pita Sandwich a hole in the wall, but definitely a great place to come to if you are feeling mediterranean food! would definitely worth coming, can't believe they've been open for over 40 years!!!
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Julie J.

Yelp
What a great restaurant. First time ever in LA and in Little Armenia, and this restaurant has been a staple in Little Armenia. My boyfriend and I always say we'll take out but the last two times we've been there, we've always sat down and ate and admired the homey atmosphere. The owners are so sweet, and just resonate with the people and community. We order the Falafel Wrap Sandwich. It is often served with little banana peppers and pickled turnips. The wrap doesn't feel overwhelming and it is fulfilling and satisfying. I truly appreciate this place and feel at ease.
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Jonathan G.

Yelp
The food is great. I've mostly gotten the platters, but people love the sandwiches, too. Falafel especially delicious. Think about ordering an extra piece or two. Staff is very friendly. Love this place!
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Arman K.

Yelp
Best falafel in the city. Highly recommended. Try the falafel wrap! Amazing quality food and service!
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Musa I.

Yelp
Excellent place for falafel and kebab and luli , gret service and good customer service, cashier very friendly
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Stacee S.

Yelp
The food was actually pretty good I got the falafel plate I like trying falafel from different restaurants just to see how it is and theirs was pretty decent. The service was good also didn't have to wait to long for the food to be ready. It was a nice little restaurant just enough for a couple people to be seated. Food would be better to go.
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JoAnne B.

Yelp
I am so glad I found this place. The bread is light and fragrant. I've tried all the meats and was not disappointed.
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Toni C.

Yelp
Best falafel ever. The rice is also very good and reminds me of how middle eastern places back in Detroit made rice complete with vermicelli.
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Koko S.

Yelp
I been going there for over 20years the food and the service are excellent last week for first time I tried French roll bread tostada with shawarma the best I ever had thx Anto

Jordan D.

Yelp
Solid falafel bowl, crispy on the outside light and fluffy on the inside just like how it's supposed to be this hole in the wall is a secret gem that has been a part of Los Angeles for over 40 years they're consistency is definitely why they are still around
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Hannah E.

Yelp
If you're going to travel here for something, travel here for the lamb tongue. The falafel may be the crowd pleaser and the marquee draw, and it's quite good in its own right, I have my favorites that edge this place out. The lamb tongue, however... There's something about that particularly grainy yet smooth tonguey texture that always makes me feel weird because I feel like I might be accidentally chewing on my own tongue, but here they sandwich it between two perfectly crispy bread slices and an unobtrusive sauce, which turns the whole textural experience into something else entirely, something almost pate-like. And the flavor is killer, much gamier than beef tongue.

Ali D.

Yelp
I got the chicken kabob plate and my wife got the sandwhich. Excellent tasting food, very clean interior and friendly staff. The olive oil on my hummus plate tasted very solid. The dude is dapping every one up as they walk in, clearly a local institution.
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Jay L.

Yelp
one of the best in LA. family business- great people, stellar food and always an enjoyable experience. five stars and five falafel to go!
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Aunny G.

Yelp
Better than Zikou chicken - their shawarma will make your day. Best beef in east Hollywood
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Diänä Tän L.

Yelp
I miss Mid Eastern dish so I tried here since this is only few walks away from our apartment. The servings are ok and I can share it with my husband. Definitely I am happy with this meal. I will try their sandwiches next time!

Sara C.

Yelp
Some of the best falafel I've ever had. Was freshly cooked to order. Pita and humus was also delicious! Adding it to my list of go-to places.

Artur K.

Yelp
Food aways good, good energy and all the history I just like this place just because they are still standing in Hollywood!!!!
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Hovik M.

Yelp
An icon of Hollywood I absolutely love this place I love chatting with the owner has been an amazing personality I've been dining at this restaurant since I was a kid they have the best shawarma!
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Gevork A.

Yelp
Best Turnips and Tahini sauce. Zankou needs to take notes. This place is just pure bliss
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Arianne F.

Yelp
I got the lamb shawarma plate and I'm sorry but it wasn't good at all. I was extremely disappointed. Perhaps not the best thing I could've ordered but yeah no it was gross and made me feel nauseated afterward. I ended up throwing most of it away.
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Santorio S.

Yelp
Best falafel anywhere. Don't waste your time with the rest go get the best. I've tried many many different places but Arac always come out numero uno . Run don't walk to get some amazing food for a great price! Oh sooo good!!!

Tony Z.

Yelp
This place needs no words. It's a legend. Excellent food made fresh to order. No pre-heated lamps used. Have to wait a bit while they prepare your fresh order. Spot on food.

Emin A.

Yelp
The food was amazing and the customer service was beyond fantastic every thing is good priced and the taste is amazing I would 100000 percent recommend this if you guys are ever in the neighbor hood

John P.

Yelp
One of Jonathon Gold's favorite places right next to a different one from an entirely different spectrum, don't know what more you want. And give them a nice tip!

Michael N.

Yelp
The best chicken sandwich in the world it's worth driving from Laguna Niguel to Hollywood to eat that sandwich owner running business that means you getting the best off everything
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Mark M.

Yelp
One of the best falafel wraps in Los Angeles. Come into this unassuming corner store located in Hollywood for delicious, crispy, fresh, falafel. The falafel wrap is a bargain at $7. I have not tried other items, but I can def recommend the falafel.
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Aran S.

Yelp
Delicious delicious delicious. The chicken, falafel, hummos, everything I've tried is authentic and flavorful. Clearly a family run establishment full of passion for the food. Highly recommend!