Al Salaam Deli — Restaurant in Savannah

I must apologize because I am a little biased when it comes to this one, as Al Salaam Deli (ASD) is probably my absolute favorite place to go eat and be. I live 62 miles from ASD, but whenever I was off, or, now that I am retired, I at a minimum of once every two weeks try and eat there. They keep the same hours, they haven't changed in the 14 years I've been going there.

The environment is small, tight, and close; it forces you to make eye contact with others, speak to them, and interact. There are four small round tables with bench seats along two of the walls and chairs along the aisle. The walls are covered in old Nat Geo magazines that offer a great way to begin conversations with others. I try to go after 2:00 pm so I can engage in conversation with the owner, his family, and friends. I it a great melting pot of people and culture. Local government professionals on their lunch break, Students from SCAD, tourist from across the globe, and the locals. I have never had a bad conversation while there.

Now, to the best part: The Food! I am lucky that I live where I do, because if I didn't, man, I know where I would be eating every day lunch and dinner. For me, I get a "Spicy Lamb Gyro, with Fries and a side of Dawali (Stuffed Grape Leaves)." The Gyro and Fries comes with a can drink, usually some kind of soda or water. The Dawali is a side all its own. There are many more Middle Eastern dishes; Baba Ganoush, Chicken Gyros, Hummus Plate, Falafel, Salad, Curry, Wraps, Baklava and more. I really, at this point, don't even order anymore; I greet the owners, and before I can order, they have already said it and instructed me to go sit down. The smell from the meat cooking, having been heavily rubbed with spices, toasted, and grilled, fills the air as you wait, mouth watering for this greatness; it is a true test of will. The moment arrives, and the short wait is rewarded with an absolutely perfect mix of flavors.

A thing or two to remember. The eatery is relatively small, so keep that in mind. Though I have only seen it a few times myself, sometimes there is standing room only as orders come in and people exit. They can be quite busy, especially around the lunch rush and dinner rush. If you can avoid these times, I suggest it. Not for anything other than the ability to have a conversation while you enjoy your meal.

I hope that while you're in Savannah, you are willing to take a little time to get to this unassuming little eatery. I promise you will not be...

Again .. Amazing food! *Best Gyro in Savannah!! The place may be small. But the food is mind blowing!! A lovely place indeed. Offers call-in orders, as well as the 10-15 spots inside to sit down for a bite.. comfortable seats.. air conditioning keeps the dine-in area wonderful, for the Savannah heat.. its beside a laundromat..so if you needed to wash a load or 2 of clothes. Its perfect to sit and enjoy a classic homemade baklava & coffee..while waiting. The owner is always working somewhere behind the counter.. usually it's cooking! Other times hes running everything else a family biz for sure. Great atmosphere with family.. brothers or father& sons.. maybe uncle ,brother ,nephew.. not sure but doesn't really matter. Except for the fact this local "family" run place is a hidden gem because its not been exposed. It has its cult like college student& imedite neighborhood (who have stumbled in due to coming to do laundry next door. Or simply had walked by & smelled there way in one day.. other then those customers. Not many have found this i dony think. So IF YOUR AROUND & OR ever find yourself hungry for the #1 gyro in all of Savannah. ...

Yes, 5 stars! Why? Wonderful mix of light expense + great taste! We walked in and ordered with little wait, the place is very small, not much space for sit down eating nor does it look like it's intended. Nice selection of interesting foodstuffs to look at, however, and unique decor. I got the Chicken Gyro Wrap and my Dad got the Spicy Curry Chicken Wrap + fries, we also got an order of Baba Ganoush on the side with the side salad + pita! I will have to say the side salad is a bit too plain for me, but I still enjoyed it with the creamy dressing. The wrap though - dang! Heavy proportions, beautifully cooked chicken and wonderful flavor! The tzaziki sauce was great - I'm a little picky with tzaziki - and the Baba Ganoush has some serious flavor! I kind of thought it was going to be warmed up with the pita, both were served cold but it doesn't detract from flavor.

Dad quite enjoyed his Curry Wrap and fries, too! Though he failed to order spicy enough flavor (they did ask), he said it was still fantastic and we're both still stuffed.

All in all I'm certainly coming back! Nice people working there, good + pretty quick service, and...