Nestled in the heart of Santa Clara, Shawarmaji has quickly become a beloved culinary destination for those seeking authentic Middle Eastern flavors with a Californian twist. The restaurant’s enticing aroma greets you well before you step through its doors, promising a vibrant feast for both your senses and your appetite.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of shawarma or a newcomer to its savory delights, Shawarmaji’s menu offers a journey through time-honored recipes and contemporary innovations alike. The passion of the team is palpable, reflected in the care with which each item is prepared and served.
Santa Clara’s diverse community craves variety, and Shawarmaji delivers with a menu that balances tradition and creativity. From the sizzle of marinated meats on the spit to the freshness of hand-chopped salads, each dish tells a story of heritage and hospitality.
Local office workers, families, and students alike flock to this spot for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, drawn by the promise of generous portions and unforgettable flavors.
What truly sets Shawarmaji apart is its commitment to quality. Every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced, every recipe thoughtfully crafted, and every customer warmly welcomed.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or a vegetarian delight, exploring the Santa Clara menu is like embarking on a culinary adventure—one that invites you to savor, explore, and return again and again.
Signature Shawarma Options
Shawarmaji’s menu shines brightest with its selection of signature shawarma wraps and plates. These dishes showcase the restaurant’s commitment to authentic preparation and bold flavor profiles.
Each shawarma is expertly crafted, making use of hand-marinated meats, slow-roasted on a vertical spit for maximum juiciness and taste.
The heart of the menu revolves around two key proteins: Chicken Shawarma and Beef Shawarma. Both are marinated overnight in a blend of Middle Eastern spices, then roasted to aromatic perfection.
For many regulars, the first bite is a revelation—tender, flavorful, and perfectly balanced between spice and savor.
Beyond the traditional wraps, Shawarmaji offers generous plates that include all the fixings: fluffy rice, crisp salad, and a choice of sauces. This approach allows diners to customize their experience, whether they’re in the mood for a quick handheld meal or a leisurely sit-down feast.
- Chicken Shawarma Wrap: Sliced chicken, pickles, tomatoes, tahini, and garlic sauce, all rolled in warm pita.
- Beef Shawarma Wrap: Marinated beef, onions, parsley, sumac, and creamy tahini.
- Mixed Shawarma Plate: A generous portion of both chicken and beef shawarma served with rice, salad, and your choice of sauce.
“The chicken shawarma at Shawarmaji is the best I’ve tasted outside Amman. Perfectly marinated and so juicy!” — Local Customer Review
Shawarmaji also offers vegetarian shawarma options, ensuring everyone can indulge in the signature experience. Marinated and grilled vegetables are paired with the same attention to flavor and texture as their meat counterparts, wrapped or plated for your enjoyment.
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Recognizing the diverse tastes of Santa Clara’s community, Shawarmaji has curated a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These creations reflect the vibrant traditions of the Levant while embracing California’s love for plant-based cuisine.
Diners seeking meatless options will find no compromise in flavor or satisfaction here.
The Falafel Wrap is a perennial favorite, featuring golden, crispy chickpea patties tucked into a soft pita with crisp vegetables and creamy tahini. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures and a medley of fresh, herbal flavors.
For those who prefer a plate, the Falafel Plate comes with rice, salad, and an extra helping of house-made hummus.
- Falafel Wrap: Crispy falafel balls, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, lettuce, and tahini sauce.
- Vegetarian Plate: Falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and pita bread.
- Sabich Wrap: Fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg (optional), Israeli salad, amba sauce, and pickled turnips.
Shawarmaji’s commitment to plant-based diners extends beyond falafel. The Baba Ghanoush and Tabbouleh Salad are both favorites, offering smoky, tangy, and refreshing flavors.
The menu clearly marks vegan-friendly items, allowing guests to order confidently and with peace of mind.
“I love that I can bring my vegan friends here and know they’ll leave satisfied. Shawarmaji’s falafel is out of this world!” — Yelp Reviewer
For a more substantial meal, diners often combine a vegetarian wrap with a side of hummus or tabbouleh. The variety ensures that every visit can bring a new, exciting discovery for plant-based eaters.
Appetizers and Sides
Every memorable meal at Shawarmaji begins with a selection of appetizers and sides. These dishes are designed to be shared, sparking conversation and anticipation for the main course.
Each appetizer draws from Middle Eastern culinary traditions, balancing freshness, flavor, and visual appeal.
A standout is the Hummus, made fresh daily with creamy chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and a hint of garlic. It’s served with warm pita and a drizzle of olive oil, perfect for dipping or spreading.
Alongside hummus, the Baba Ghanoush offers a smoky, velvety alternative, while the Labneh provides a tangy, cooling counterpoint.
- Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip with olive oil and paprika.
- Baba Ghanoush: Roasted eggplant dip with tahini and lemon.
- Labneh: Strained yogurt cheese topped with za’atar and olive oil.
- French Fries: Perfectly crispy, seasoned and served hot.
For those who appreciate a crunchy, savory snack, the Sambousek—fried pastries filled with spiced meat or cheese—are irresistible. The Pickled Vegetables and fresh Tabbouleh salad also provide a refreshing complement to the richer appetizers.
Appetizer portions are generous, making them ideal for sharing among friends or family. Many regulars order an assortment to sample the full range of flavors before diving into their main course.
| Appetizer | Main Ingredient | Vegan |
| Hummus | Chickpeas | Yes |
| Baba Ghanoush | Eggplant | Yes |
| Labneh | Yogurt | No |
| Sambousek (Cheese) | Cheese | No |
| Sambousek (Meat) | Beef/Lamb | No |
Hearty Plates and Combos
For those with a heartier appetite, Shawarmaji’s plates and combo meals deliver a satisfying, well-balanced feast. These offerings pair generous portions of protein with flavorful sides, ensuring a complete meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Plates are popular for both dine-in and takeout, offering a restaurant-quality experience wherever you enjoy them.
Each plate begins with your choice of protein—chicken, beef, or vegetarian—served atop a bed of fragrant rice. Accompanying the main are crisp, refreshing salads and a selection of house-made sauces.
The result is a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
The Mixed Grill Plate is a standout, featuring both chicken and beef shawarma alongside a skewer of grilled vegetables. For a classic experience, the Chicken Shawarma Plate is a perennial favorite, while the Falafel Plate remains the go-to for vegetarians.
- Chicken Shawarma Plate: Chicken, rice, salad, pickles, and garlic sauce.
- Beef Shawarma Plate: Beef, rice, salad, pickles, and tahini sauce.
- Mixed Grill Plate: Chicken, beef, grilled veggies, rice, and salad.
- Falafel Plate: Falafel, rice, salad, hummus, and pickles.
“The combination plates are perfect for sharing or for a filling solo meal. The variety lets you taste a bit of everything!” — Frequent Diner
Combos can be further customized with additional sides or extra sauces, catering to individual tastes. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy afternoon or enjoying a leisurely dinner, these plates guarantee satisfaction.
Fresh Salads and Bowls
Salads and bowls at Shawarmaji are more than just side dishes—they are a celebration of freshness and flavor. Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions, each salad is built with crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and bold dressings.
For a lighter, nutrient-rich meal, these options are both satisfying and wholesome.
The Tabbouleh Salad is a classic: a vibrant mix of parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, mint, and lemon. It’s light, tangy, and refreshing, making it an ideal complement to richer menu items.
The Fattoush Salad offers another twist, featuring toasted pita chips for a satisfying crunch.
- Tabbouleh Salad: Parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, mint, and lemon dressing.
- Fattoush Salad: Mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, radishes, toasted pita, and sumac vinaigrette.
- Shawarma Bowl: Choice of protein, rice, salad, pickles, and sauce all in one bowl.
The Shawarma Bowl allows diners to enjoy all their favorites in a single, convenient format. Choose chicken, beef, or falafel, then pile on rice, salad, and pickles.
The bowl is drizzled with your choice of sauce, making for a balanced and portable meal.
Bowls and salads are popular with those seeking gluten-free or lighter fare. The clear labeling on the menu helps guests with dietary preferences or restrictions make informed choices.
| Salad/Bowl | Gluten-Free | Vegan |
| Tabbouleh Salad | No (contains bulgur) | Yes |
| Fattoush Salad | No (contains pita chips) | Yes |
| Shawarma Bowl (Chicken/Beef) | Yes (no pita) | No |
| Shawarma Bowl (Falafel) | Yes (no pita) | Yes |
Sauces and Condiments
No meal at Shawarmaji is complete without a selection of their signature sauces and condiments. These flavorful accompaniments are crafted in-house, elevating each dish and allowing guests to customize their meal to their exact liking.
The sauces range from creamy and mild to bold and spicy, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
The Garlic Sauce is perhaps the most iconic—smooth, tangy, and intensely garlicky, it’s the perfect pairing for chicken shawarma. Tahini Sauce brings a nutty richness that complements both meat and vegetarian dishes, while the Amba Sauce adds a tangy, pickled mango kick.
- Garlic Sauce: Creamy, pungent, and slightly tangy.
- Tahini Sauce: Sesame paste-based, nutty and smooth.
- Amba Sauce: Pickled mango, spicy and citrusy.
- Hot Sauce: House-made chili blend for those who like it spicy.
Guests are encouraged to mix and match sauces, experimenting to find their perfect flavor combination. Whether you’re dipping fries or drizzling over a shawarma plate, the right sauce can transform a good meal into a great one.
“Don’t skip the garlic sauce—it’s life-changing! I always ask for extra with my wrap.” — Social Media Comment
The attention to detail in crafting these condiments reflects Shawarmaji’s dedication to providing an authentic, memorable dining experience. A meal here is as much about personal expression as it is about tradition.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
After a meal filled with bold spices and savory flavors, Shawarmaji invites guests to indulge their sweet tooth with a selection of traditional desserts. These treats offer a delightful conclusion to any meal, drawing on the rich confectionery heritage of the Middle East.
The Baklava is an undisputed favorite—layers of crisp phyllo dough, finely chopped nuts, and a sweet honey syrup. Each bite is flaky and fragrant, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and texture.
The Rice Pudding offers a creamy, comforting alternative, delicately flavored with rosewater and pistachios.
- Baklava: Phyllo pastry, nuts, honey syrup.
- Rice Pudding: Creamy rice, milk, rosewater, pistachios.
- Knafeh: Shredded phyllo, sweet cheese, orange blossom syrup.
Desserts at Shawarmaji are made in-house or sourced from local bakeries specializing in authentic Middle Eastern sweets. Portion sizes are ideal for sharing, making them a popular choice for groups or families celebrating a special occasion.
For those seeking a lighter finish, the dessert menu often features seasonal fruit or a refreshing mint tea. These options cleanse the palate and provide a gentle close to the meal.
| Dessert | Main Ingredient | Vegetarian |
| Baklava | Phyllo, nuts, honey | Yes |
| Rice Pudding | Rice, milk, rosewater | Yes |
| Knafeh | Phyllo, cheese, syrup | Yes |
“Their baklava reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen—sweet, delicate, and utterly delicious.” — Longtime Patron
Beverages and Pairings
To complement its flavorful dishes, Shawarmaji offers a thoughtful selection of beverages. The drink menu draws inspiration from both local tastes and Middle Eastern traditions, ensuring a suitable pairing for every meal.
Whether you’re craving something refreshing, bold, or soothing, there’s an option to enhance your dining experience.
Traditional choices include Mint Lemonade—a tart, cooling drink that balances the spices of shawarma and grilled meats. Hot Mint Tea is served in a glass, fragrant and comforting, ideal for sipping alongside dessert or during a leisurely meal.
- Mint Lemonade: Fresh lemon juice, muddled mint, touch of sugar.
- Hot Mint Tea: Black tea, fresh mint leaves, served hot.
- Soft Drinks: A variety of sodas and sparkling waters.
- Imported Soft Drinks: Unique Middle Eastern sodas and juices.
For those seeking something familiar, a variety of soft drinks and sparkling waters are available. The menu also includes imported beverages—such as Tamr Hindi (tamarind juice) and Jallab (date and grape drink)—which add a unique, regional flair to your meal.
Thoughtful beverage pairings can elevate your meal, highlighting the spices and textures of each dish. The staff is happy to recommend matches based on your order, ensuring every bite and sip is harmonious.
“The mint lemonade is the perfect palate cleanser. I order it every time!” — Google Review
Conclusion: The Shawarmaji Santa Clara Experience
Dining at Shawarmaji in Santa Clara is more than just enjoying a delicious meal—it’s an immersion into the warmth, generosity, and culinary richness of Middle Eastern hospitality. Every aspect of the menu, from the slow-roasted shawarma to the house-made sauces and freshly prepared salads, reflects a dedication to quality and authenticity.
Each dish is a testament to the skill and passion of the team, inviting guests to experience flavors that are both time-honored and refreshingly new.
For newcomers, the variety of options ensures there’s something to suit every palate and dietary preference. Regulars appreciate the consistency and creativity, knowing that each visit offers the opportunity to try something new or revisit a beloved favorite.
The inviting atmosphere, attentive service, and focus on fresh ingredients make Shawarmaji a standout in Santa Clara’s vibrant food scene.
Whether you’re gathering with friends, sharing a family meal, or enjoying a solo lunch, Shawarmaji promises an experience that goes beyond the plate. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, where every guest is welcomed like family, and where the simple act of sharing food becomes a memorable celebration.
As you explore the Shawarmaji Santa Clara menu, you’ll discover not only delicious fare—but a community built around a love for genuine, soulful cooking.
