Seemor
Cedars of LebanonBWorth Trying
1319 NE 43rd St, Seattle, WA 98105
· Lebanese restaurant, Falafel restaurant, Gyro restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (549 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A beloved U-District stalwart serving warmly seasoned Lebanese staples with spirited owner hospitality and student-friendly prices, though cleanliness and occasional slowdowns can detract.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Cedars of Lebanon earns its grade through well-seasoned shawarma and falafel paired with genuine owner warmth and personal hospitality that transforms casual dining into a welcoming experience. Quality variability in meat texture and portions alongside occasional hygiene complaints prevent higher standing, though decades of loyal patronage and convenient U District location establish it as a respected local staple rather than a regional destination.
Restaurant Summary
Right by the light rail, this long-running spot feels like a warm, hole-in-the-wall where the owner jokes with you at the window and remembers regulars by face. Diners describe plates piled with shawarma or kebab, soft pita, and bright fattoush, with the kind of old-school hospitality that nudges first-timers into regulars. One guest summed it up: "They made me feel like family and the food tasted like it too." The vibe is casual and a bit timeworn, more charm than polish, and the outdoor picnic tables make for excellent people watching. The cooking is classic Lebanese and Middle Eastern comfort—shawarma, falafel, kebabs, hummus—with a few diner crossovers like burgers. The culinary approach leans traditional and crowd-pleasing: straightforward plates, spice-forward without being fussy, and everything built to order. Most praise the seasoning and value, though a handful find the gyro meat just average or light on meat in wrap form; ask for the green hot sauce to brighten things up. For families, it is a relaxed and kid-friendly option. The menu includes simple picks like hamburgers, fries, rice and bread, mild chicken, and falafel that many kids will eat. Portions are shareable, and you can keep sauces on the side. There is no formal kids menu, but the price point and counter setup work well for parents who need quick, unfussy food without a scene.
At a Glance
- Welcoming owner presence and genuine hospitality
- Well-seasoned shawarma and falafel with student-friendly pricing
- Convenient to U District Station with outdoor seating
- Occasional cleanliness and oil-smell complaints
- Waits can be longer during rush; line moves slowly at times
What Sets It Apart
- owner_storytelling_hospitality
- walk_up_takeout_window
- decades_long_local_institution
What People Love
- Owner warmth and jokes at the window
- Beef shawarma with standout seasoning
- Crispy, well-spiced falafel
- Good value for hearty plates
- House green hot sauce that lifts everything
Points of Concern
- Cleanliness complaints surface occasionally (oil smell, cobwebs, one restroom pest mention) though most reviews do not report issues
- Line and prep can be slow during busy times; some guests report 25-35 minute waits
- Gyro quality perceptions vary; some find pressed strips average and wraps light on meat
- One report of an unexpected second card charge; monitor receipts
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$22-$30 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a $6-$8 side (Fattoush or Tabouli) with a $13.95-$14.95 plate for a filling full meal
- Vegetarian diners: combine Falafel Plate with Baba Ghanooj or Hummus for variety
- Budget bite: Falafel or Hummus sandwich ($6.95-$7.95) plus Lentil Soup ($5.95)
Perfect For
- Casual lunch before or after UW events
- Quick solo meal near the light rail
- Affordable, filling dinner with classic Lebanese flavors
- Takeout to enjoy at nearby picnic tables
Location Insights
Area: Bustling student corridor anchored by University of Washington; casual, budget-conscious, diverse eateries with heavy foot traffic.
Safety: Generally busy and safe due to constant student presence; typical urban grit with mixed upkeep.
Nearby: Near U District Station light rail, the Ave shops, cafes, and student housing; strong takeout demand.
University DistrictThe University District offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, international cuisine, and trendy cafes catering primarily to students and young adults. The atmosphere is lively and informal, with many affordable options and a strong emphasis on multicultural food experiences.
The AveKnown locally as 'The Ave', this stretch along University Way NE is the commercial heart of the University District, featuring a dense concentration of restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a hub for socializing and dining, characterized by a youthful, energetic vibe and a wide variety of affordable and eclectic food choices.
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
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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