Overview

Sams Falafel & Shawarma, nestled at 215 Highland Ave in Somerville, MA, offers a vibrant taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with a menu that showcases a rich variety of authentic dishes. The restaurant’s specialty lies in its falafel plates, lamb and beef shawarma, and a selection of traditional sides like okra and manakish, which reflects a deep commitment to regional flavors.

One of the standout dishes is the lamb & beef shawarma plate, known for its generous portions and well-seasoned meats. This dish perfectly balances tenderness with robust spices, making it a fulfilling main course. The falafel plate and the Shalafel sandwich are also popular choices, famous for their fresh, crisp texture and aromatic blend of herbs. Accompanying these are classic sides such as French fries and a flavorful chicken combo plate, which add variety to the meal experience.

Customers appreciate the freshness and care put into each item. For instance, Jessica T recalls the memorable flavor and hearty portions of the meat plates, while Sally Diana praises the falafel’s authentic taste that evokes memories of Dubai. However, as noted by Chaitanya Sharma, the shawarma here diverges somewhat from traditional Lebanese style, incorporating ingredients like tzatziki, which adds a distinct twist that might not align with every palate.

The atmosphere inside Sams is clean and modern, providing a comfortable space for diners. Staff are consistently described as friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience. H. Flores-Hebert highlights the restaurant’s efficient service and well-prepared hot sandwiches, suggesting a balanced environment for both quick meals and more leisurely visits.

Since its recent change in ownership, Sams Falafel & Shawarma has maintained its reputation for quality Arabic cuisine while subtly refreshing its offerings. This spot appeals to those looking for genuine Middle Eastern flavors in a casual, inviting setting—whether it’s a quick takeout stop or a sit-down meal with friends.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Comfort food
Halal food
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

Jessica T
Dec 11,2025
5/5
So far, I have only ordered takeout from this place twice. The first time, it was so good that I forgot to take pics. The second time, I forgot to take pic of the falafel sandwich again but did for the lamb and beef shawarma plate. You can see that they do fill up the meat plate too.
Chaitanya Sharma
Dec 11,2025
4/5
Although the chicken shawarma and falafel wraps were fresh and flavorful, they are not at my likes since they vary widely from the Lebanese kind in flavor as well as the ingredients. They have something like the tzatziki in them that overpowers the overall taste.
Sally Diana
Dec 11,2025
5/5
If I could give them 10 stars I would. The food was delicious and totally amazing. The falafels took me down memory road to Dubai. The staff was friendly and just awesome souls ... Thank you for the wonderful Arabic food. In addition to the food I took home some authentic Arabic sweets...
H. Flores-Hebert
Dec 11,2025
5/5
I ordered a chicken shawarma sandwich and soda to eat-in, and it was delicious! The sandwich was hot, chicken tender and well seasoned, fresh toppings and sauce. Large portions too! The staff was friendly, and ordereas cooked fast. The restaurant is clean and modern, but could use some music and a bit more heat in the table seating area. Very good food, definitely try it. Rating: Solid A. Note: The restaurant has been open 8 years but recently changed to new owners.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 11:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Wednesday 11:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Thursday 11:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Friday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
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