The best shawarmas in Montreal
Discover Montreal’s Best Shawarmas!
Born in the Levant, shawarma originates from an ancestral technique: stacking layers of marinated meat (chicken, beef, lamb) on a large vertical spit, slowly roasting until the aromas of spices, lemon and garlic blend into an irresistible perfume. As the meat crisps and caramelizes, thin slices are shaved off while still hot, then wrapped in a soft flatbread or served generously on a plate.
Shawarma has taken root in our city because there are countless ways to prepare it. Some swear by yogurt- and lemon-marinated chicken, others champion long-spiced lamb. The toppings themselves tell a story: crunchy pickles, tangy marinated cabbage, juicy tomatoes, creamy garlic sauce or silky tahini. From one counter to another, from one family to the next, recipes evolve, adapt and are passed down—yet always preserve the essence of shawarma: a perfect balance of freshness, spice and generosity.
Over time, shawarma has been modernized, reinterpreted and reinvented. Some enjoy it rolled in pita, others prefer it on a mixed platter with fries, aromatic rice, or even elevated by chefs in more sophisticated versions playing with textures and marinades. More recently, crispy shawarma has gone viral online—and we’re just as obsessed!
In this list, we highlight the shawarmas that impressed us most—whether for their authenticity, respect for tradition or creative vision. And if this ranking has whet your appetite, make sure to check out our lists of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in town and the best Lebanese restaurants.
Lulu Épicerie
A cozy deli-counter in Little Burgundy showcasing homemade Lebanese street food with a modern twist. Warm service, authentic flavours. The beef shawarma is the star—juicy, aromatic, served with onions, parsley, turnips, pomegranate molasses, tarator and the famous markouk bread, a thin flatbread.
Montréal
folfol
The fun, casual and more affordable sister of Damas, celebrating fresh and colourful Syrian cuisine. A second location recently opened on Chabanel. On the menu: classic chicken shawarma wrap and lamb shawarma (wrap or plate) with grilled tomato salsa, saffron basmati rice, shishito pepper, raisins, pickles, cabbage salad and tahini sauce.
Montréal
Sumac
Serving affordable Mediterranean cuisine since 2014. A modest setting with flavours inspired by Lebanon, Egypt and Syria. Everything is made fresh to order with high-quality ingredients. Their chicken shawarma plate is excellent—as is the pita!
Montréal
TESFA
Middle Eastern cooking with a touch of Eritrea, reflecting the owners Tesfu and Efrem. The falafels are outstanding, and the shawarma just as impressive. Available in a pita or on a plate, though we have a soft spot for the generously stuffed chicken shawarma pita.
Montréal
Mezzmiz
Located on Crescent Street, Mezzmiz serves authentic Lebanese bowls, mezze, sandwich-style dishes and solid ready-to-eat options. Perfect if you’re craving a hearty shawarma bowl.
Montréal
Falafel St. Jacques
A lively vegetarian Middle Eastern counter beloved by locals. Everything is homemade and it shows. The shawarma is reinvented with shiitake mushrooms—surprising and seriously delicious. Wrapped in pita with caramelized onions, cabbage, hummus and tahini.
Montréal
Original Shawarma
A humble and always-busy Syrian counter, known for its authentic and delicious fare. The mixed shawarma plate and saj mix are favourites. Special mention to their mandi!
Montréal
Dunya
A must for Lebanese cuisine lovers, run by a passionate young team. The great value only adds to its appeal. Their falafels are renowned—but their beef and chicken shawarmas are worth the trip too.
Montréal
Shawarma Moods Cote-des-neiges
Famous for its viral crispy shawarma—a pita loaded with shawarma and ultra-crunchy garlic sauce. The mixed shawarma plate is also a hit. With two locations in Laval and one in Côte-des-Neiges, the team brings fresh energy to the local Middle Eastern scene.
Montréal
Shawarmania Cuisine Mediterraneenne
A fusion take on Mediterranean cuisine on Sherbrooke West. Shawarma takes many forms here: poutine, burger, sushi… but of course, bowls and wraps remain unbeatable classics.
Montréal
