Seemor
Razan's Kitchen traditional and classic shawarma.A-Worth Trying
2119 Kittredge St, Berkeley, CA 94704
· Gluten-free restaurant, Halal restaurant, Mediterranean restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (304 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Fresh, generously portioned Middle Eastern wraps and plates with standout falafel and warm, owner-led hospitality; expect some wait due to made-to-order prep and very limited seating.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Razan's Kitchen delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality—fresh, vibrant falafel and flavorful shawarma prepared to order—paired with warm, attentive service that creates genuine hospitality. Reliable execution and generous portions at fair prices make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though tight seating and modest ambiance prevent the higher distinction needed for grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from campus, this counter-service spot feels warm and welcoming with an open kitchen and staff who treat you like a regular. One diner put it simply: "The falafel tasted fresh and vibrant, like it was just picked and fried." Seating is tight, with a cozy upstairs nook, so many opt to grab and go. The cooking leans classic and ingredient-driven—green, herb-packed falafel, juicy chicken shawarma, and a comforting split pea soup. Expect straightforward seasoning that lets the produce and spices shine rather than culinary theatrics. Generous portions and reasonable prices make it ideal for a hearty, casual meal. For families, it is quite kid-friendly. Reviews mention a chicken quesadilla hit with a toddler, and simpler wraps can be customized. There is no noted kids menu, but familiar flavors and big portions travel well; just plan for limited seating at peak times.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally fresh, made-to-order falafel with crisp-tender texture
- Big portions and fair prices for downtown Berkeley
- Warm, owner-led hospitality and helpful recommendations
- Very limited seating; many choose takeout
- Orders can take time due to fresh prep
What Sets It Apart
- made_to_order_falafel
- owner_led_warmth
- generous_portions
What People Love
- Green, herb-packed falafel
- Daily-made hummus with rich flavor
- Comforting split pea soup
- Feeling welcomed by the owner
Points of Concern
- Limited seating; upstairs nook helps but space is tight
- Made-to-order pace means waits at peak hours
- A few older complaints about cleanliness and closures appear isolated
- Occasional messiness in wraps; consider dine-in plate for less leakage
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-$35 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a wrap with split pea soup for a balanced meal
- Vegetarians: Egyptian or Jordanian wrap; add hummus plate to share
- Vegan-friendly builds available; ask staff to customize
Perfect For
- Quick lunch near campus
- Casual weeknight takeout
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals
- Hearty wraps after a day on Shattuck
Location Insights
Area: Lively college-town core near UC Berkeley with student-heavy foot traffic and casual eateries.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; typical urban issues but active street life and lighting.
Nearby: Steps from Shattuck Ave and Sproul Plaza; near campus, bookstores, cafes, and transit.
North BerkeleyNorth Berkeley offers a diverse dining scene with casual eateries, ethnic restaurants, and artisanal cafes reflecting the area's multicultural population. The atmosphere is friendly and community-oriented, with a mix of affordable and mid-range dining options popular among students and locals alike.
Gourmet GhettoKnown for its concentration of high-quality, innovative restaurants and specialty food shops, the Gourmet Ghetto is a culinary hotspot within North Berkeley that attracts diners looking for unique and authentic food experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–20:00
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday11:00–20:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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