Shawarma King & More — Restaurant in Prunedale

Tucked away like a well-kept secret just off Highway 1, Shawarma King is the kind of hole-in-the-wall spot that reminds you why small, family-run places often serve the best food you’ll ever eat. It might not have marble countertops or a view of the bay like some of the “bougie” restaurants in Monterey — but what it does have is heart, flavor, and quality that blows the competition out of the water.

Let’s start with the food — because that’s where Shawarma King absolutely rules. The shawarma is perfectly seasoned and slow-roasted to juicy, tender perfection. Whether you go for the chicken, beef, or lamb, every bite is flavorful and deeply satisfying. The portions are generous, the wraps are loaded, and the plates come out hot, fresh, and made with care. And don’t even get me started on their garlic sauce — it’s addictive. Creamy, garlicky, and the perfect complement to everything on the menu.

Their falafel is light and crisp without being oily, the hummus is creamy and rich, and the pickled veggies add just the right zing to balance everything out. Each plate is a flavor bomb — balanced, bold, and comforting.

The best part? You’re getting top-tier quality at a fraction of the price you’d pay anywhere in downtown Monterey. While other places charge you extra for the setting or the name, Shawarma King delivers where it counts: flavor, quality, and value. You walk away with a full stomach and money still in your wallet — and that’s rare these days.

Service here feels like you’re walking into a friend’s kitchen. The team is warm, welcoming, and genuinely grateful for your business. Even when it’s busy, they make time for real conversations, recommend their favorites if you’re undecided, and treat you like family. It’s not just a meal — it’s an experience rooted in tradition and hospitality.

The vibe? Humble, homey, and real. No flash, no frills — just incredible food, kind people, and that cozy feeling you only get from places that put their soul into what they do. It’s the kind of spot where locals go when they want something real. And once you find it, you keep coming back. Again and again.

Bottom line: If you’re driving down Highway 1 and craving something authentic, flavorful, and made with love, skip the tourist traps and overpriced eateries — head to Shawarma King. It’s a humble little place with a big heart, and it serves up some of the best Mediterranean food on the Central Coast.

Long live the King. 👑 (And thank you for proving that greatness doesn’t need fancy plating — just passion, flavor, and real...

If you find yourself in Castroville, there's a hidden gem tucked away inside a gas station that you absolutely must visit: Shawarma King! This family-owned business is an absolute delight, and the food they serve is simply amazing.

First things first, let's talk about the flavors. Shawarma King knows how to pack a punch with their dishes. Every bite bursts with an explosion of authentic Middle Eastern flavors that will transport your taste buds to a whole new level of culinary bliss. The spices are perfectly balanced, and the quality of ingredients shines through in every dish.

One of the highlights at Shawarma King is their shawarma. The juicy, succulent meat is perfectly seasoned and roasted to perfection. Whether you opt for the tender chicken or savory beef,, you won't be disappointed. I love the chicken shawarma plate. The meat is thinly sliced and piled high onto a bed of delicious rice, served with warm pita bread, along with fresh vegetables, hummus, and a variety of mouthwatering sauces that complement the flavors beautifully. The staff is also friendly, attentive, and passionate about their food, making sure you have a memorable dining experience.

As for the location being inside a gas station, don't let that deter you. In fact, it adds to the charm and uniqueness of the place. It's like discovering a hidden treasure within an unexpected setting.

In conclusion, Shawarma King in Castroville is an absolute culinary delight. The food tastes amazing, and the passion and care put into each dish are evident with every bite. Whether you're a fan of shawarma, falafel, or other Middle Eastern delicacies, this family-owned business will leave you craving for more. So, if you're in the area, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to Shawarma King. Your taste buds...

I happened to order 2 plates of lamb and beef which included some lettuce with tomatoes a small amount of hummus rice and a skimpy portion of meat. I also ordered a side of fries. The customer service was very friendly and there was no issue with that. However the food was not good and definitely not worth the price I paid. I paid $45.99 not including the tip that I left in the small tip box. When I arrived home and saw the meals and I was definitely disappointed with the meagre portions of food that was given. The meat was extremely spicy it was fire hot and very difficult to eat. My Mother didn’t like the food at all because it was so spicy. What makes me angry is that I specifically mentioned that the food cannot be spicy. I was ignored and they went ahead and made the food spicy like Hell hot. Well I definitely won’t be returning here again because it’s not worth the price. Also exiting from this business was a bit difficult because of the extreme amount of traffic. Overall I am just not impressed and would not recommend...