Seemor
Portland › Portland › Kabob
KabobB+Worth Trying
1864 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214
· Lebanese restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (503 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Warm, family-run Lebanese spot with standout falafel, lamb, and generous vegan options; occasional service lapses and buffet inconsistency, but overall a strong value on Hawthorne.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Kabob delivers solid neighborhood dining through excellent food quality—particularly standout falafel, lamb, and baklava—paired with warm, personalized service and a beautiful, inviting space. However, inconsistent execution with occasional undercooked items and service delays during peak times prevents the higher grade. The restaurant excels at what it does—comforting Lebanese classics for groups and families—but lacks the reliability and distinction needed to compete with the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Step into Kabob and you get a hit of toasted spice, warm greetings, and a room that feels cozy and beautiful. Diners talk about crisp falafel, plush hummus, and lamb that lands tender, with service that often feels personally hosted. One guest summed it up: "We left full and smiling, like we had been at a friend’s table." The space is clean, inviting, and warmly welcoming. The cooking leans classic Lebanese with Egyptian comfort touches like Kusharia and Mojadarra, more elevated traditional than flashy. Portions are generous, herbs are fresh, and desserts—especially the baklava—get raves. It suits people who value comforting flavors over culinary theatrics, though a small minority reported off-days with undercooked falafel or buffet hiccups. For families, this menu is very workable: kids can go for chicken kabob with rice, hummus with pita, fried cauliflower, or Greek salad. There is no explicit kids menu, but many items are simple and shareable. Vegan and gluten-free choices are abundant, so mixed-diet groups can dine together without stress.
At a Glance
- Standout falafel, lamb kabob, hummus, and baklava
- Strong vegan and gluten-free coverage across the menu
- Service can lag during buffet or opening times
- Buffet availability and content vary; confirm before visiting
- Great for large groups with owner-curated feasts
What Sets It Apart
- extensive_vegan_menu
- family_style_group_feasts
- house_made_beverages
- owner_led_hospitality
What People Love
- Warm, hands-on hosting that feels personal
- Big portions and fair prices for quality
- Fresh herbs and from-scratch preparations
- Crisp-sweet baklava that finishes the meal right
- Room that is spotless and cozy
Points of Concern
- Buffet service and selection vary by day; some felt it was limited or unavailable
- A few reports of undercooked falafel or dry kabob indicate occasional inconsistency
- Opening-time delays and reservation-day closures reported on isolated occasions
- Pricing is moderate-to-premium for the area; confirm any service charge on buffet bills
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-46 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Hot Mazza with a lamb kabob for balance
- Vegan diners: Mojadarra plus Fried Cauliflower hits hearty and crisp notes
- Sweet finish: Baklava alongside Egyptian Soda for a fragrant combo
Perfect For
- Casual date night with shareable mezze
- Family dinners with mixed dietary needs
- Group celebrations where hosting matters
- Solo comfort-food lunch on Hawthorne
Location Insights
Area: Eclectic, artsy corridor with indie shops and cafes; attracts locals, families, and casual date nights.
Safety: Generally safe, lively foot traffic; standard urban awareness at night.
Nearby: SE Hawthorne retail stretch near vintage stores, bars, and theaters; strong evening and weekend activity.
BuckmanBuckman is a lively neighborhood with a strong community feel, featuring a variety of independent restaurants, cafes, and bars. The dining scene is diverse, with many establishments offering international cuisines and a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. The area attracts a mix of creative types and food enthusiasts.
Hawthorne DistrictThe Hawthorne District is a well-known micro-neighborhood famous for its bohemian vibe, vintage shops, and an array of eclectic eateries and bars. It is a hotspot for casual dining and socializing, often bustling with a youthful and alternative crowd.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday14:00–21:00
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday12:00–21:00
Friday12:00–21:00
Saturday12:00–21:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →