Mr.shawarma — Restaurant in Nicholasville

Where to start with this one? Oh boy. In summary, my experience was rather chaotic, but it was opening day, so keep that in mind.

The first thing I noticed was that the words on their sign need to be bigger. It is not legible for someone just driving by. Second is that there needs to be a sign pointing to the rear parking because at peak meal times, the front lot will fill up quickly.

So let's get to the dining experience since that is what you are actually reading my review to find out. The food itself is really good! (what I got to try) I was there at 2 on opening day (only 3 hours after they opened), and they had already run out of everything beef. I was rather disappointed, to say the least. So I ordered the falafel wrap, Baba ghanoush as an appetizer, and the Baklava for dessert. Both the falafel wrap and the Baba ghanoush were delicious! I was not actually given the Baklava, so I can't speak to how good it is. It looked good from what I saw of it walking in. (I'll get to that in a bit)

So that is what they did well. Let's get to what didn't go so well. When I walked in, there were a few tables with patrons at it, but it was mostly empty. It took a few moments for the servers and staff to even notice someone had walked in because they were all gathered around the end of the counter talking. To my left, as I walked in, there was a folding table with what looked like open trays of various desserts and then a glass door refrigerator cabinet. Was that part of the grand opening, or will that be where it always is? Time will tell, I guess. When they finally noticed me, I was asked if I would be dining in or take out. I said dining in. So they asked me to pick a table (which I thought a little strange but sure whatever, ok) so I picked one in the corner by the window. She led me to the table and then as I was about to sit down, declared she hadn't cleaned this table and I needed to pick another. So I did.

Let me pause here and say the art on the wall and the music are both lovely! They have large windows looking out, so the space feels very open and wel lit.

So I sat down at this new table and was handed a menu, but before I could even open it to look at it, she asked me what I wanted. I asked her for some time to look. When I had made my selection and flagged her down, she then proceeded to inform me that they were out of what I picked, the beef shawarma, but she would go ask just to make sure. She disappeared then came back and said they were indeed out. so I picked the kebab wrap instead. I was then told they were out of that as well. But she had to check again. Same thing. She came back and I settled on the falafel wrap. I placed my order, and she walked away. About 5 min later a different girl said the order didn't go through and asked me for it again, so I told her what I wanted and also asked for a water. She asked if I would be paying cash or card and I said card and she rang it up on the tablet she carried and charged it. (This struck me as odd because I am used to paying for the meal afterward for dine in, but I just went with it.)

I should point out here that drinks are cans of soda or bottle water. Just a heads up.

They have this tablet system but it didn't seem to be working well because another 5 min later and the 2nd girl came back and said the system blanked out my order and she needed to put it in again. Another 5 minutes later another girl brings the appetizer, but no silverware or napkins or my drink. And I'm not really sure what to do with it since I wasn't given bread or anything either. It took me a few moments til I realized there was a little basket of pita triangles in plastic bags sitting on the far other end of the table. I just assumed that was for this, and I opened one of the plastic bags and started scooping it that way. I would have liked a napkin, but it was so good that I just ate with my hands. When my wrap was brought to me (after it had been taken to 2 different wrong tables first), then I asked if I could have silverware or a napkin or something....

Hidden Gem in Kentucky: Mr. Shawarma Restaurant Review | Nicholasville's Best Mediterranean Food

A 5-Star Mediterranean Experience in Small-Town Kentucky

When you think of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, small-town Kentucky might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, Mr. Shawarma in Nicholasville is changing that perception one delicious plate at a time. This hidden culinary gem offers some of the most authentic and flavorful Mediterranean dishes you'll find anywhere in Central Kentucky.

The Food: Fresh, Authentic, and Perfectly Prepared

The lamb kabob plate is nothing short of exceptional. Tender, perfectly seasoned chunks of lamb are grilled to perfection and served alongside fluffy, aromatic rice that serves as the ideal complement. The portion size is generous, ensuring you get excellent value for your money while satisfying even the heartiest appetite.

For dessert, the baklava is a must-try experience. Watching the staff pull fresh baklava straight from the oven is a treat in itself. The pastry offers that perfect balance of crispy phyllo dough, honey sweetness, and nutty richness that defines exceptional baklava. The fact that it's served fresh and warm elevates this classic dessert to another level entirely.

Atmosphere and Service

Mr. Shawarma offers a welcoming environment where the aromas of authentic Mediterranean spices fill the air. The staff takes pride in their culinary creations, evident in their attention to detail and willingness to serve dishes at their peak freshness.

Final Verdict: A Surprising Culinary Destination

Finding such high-quality Mediterranean food in Nicholasville is a delightful surprise. Mr. Shawarma defies expectations by delivering an authentic dining experience that would impress even in cities known for their diverse culinary scenes.

Whether you're a local resident or passing through Jessamine County, this restaurant deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Their commitment to authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and careful preparation earns them a well-deserved 5-star rating.

Restaurant Information: Name: Mr. Shawarma Location: Nicholasville, Kentucky Cuisine: Mediterranean Recommended Dishes: Lamb Kabob Plate, Fresh Baklava Rating:...

I asked my date to take me to Mr. Shawarma for lunch on Sunday at 12:00. My daughter and grandbaby joined us. As we entered, I didn't see the buffet they have been advertising. So I asked. I was told by a young kid they were no longer doing the buffet. After 2 weeks they stopped because no one was coming in and it was a waste of food, is what he said. This is the only reason we came today. As I've been here before and we drive 40 minutes. So we took a seat and they offered us menus. While waiting for my daughter. We planned our order. When she arrived, like myself, was disappointed there was no buffet. We decided to stay and ordered. My daughter ordered and asked for one of the small meat Pies on the menu. The girl taking our order said they didn't have any of the 7 pies listed on the menu. She said, you have to order them a day in advance. So...she ordered a grilled chicken shawarma platter along with a salad, I ordered what I thought was the beef shawarma platter. After a lengthy discussion with the young girl taking our order. (Who was extremely rood) she asked if I wanted fries or rice. I asked for rice and also ordered a salad and humus. Our order was $60. That included 2 waters and a soda. They have no fountain drinks. It's all from a can or bottled water. So we returned to our seats. Our French fries and humus came out first. My grandbaby would not eat the fries. They had some type of seasoning on them. The humus was good and well presented. My plate had a steak shawarma on it and that's it. So I asked the young girl and she proceeds to tell me what I ordered. I said yes, and a side of rice. She repeats herself and is so very rood. I just didn't say anything. She stood there for a minute, then asked if I wanted a platter. I told her I was fine. As she walks back behind the counter, she starts speaking Arabic. I don't know what she was saying, but everyone behind the counter was staring at me and talking.(NICE CUSTOMER SERVICE..NOT) Any way, we finished our meal. No one came back to our table at any time we were there. We left and will not be back and I DO NOT RECOMMEND MR. SHAWARMA. SO VERY DISAPPOINTED ON SO...