9 Best Shawarma Spots in Kuala Lumpur

The capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city home to people of different origins, and so is its food.

There is one favourite of the gourmets, shawarma the Middle Eastern cuisine that has become a real discovery for the locals and tourists.

If you are hankering for the old-world slow-cooked meats or experimenting with the new-age versions of this hearty fare, KL has you covered.

It is with this guide for 2025 that we present to you the 9 prime places to get shawarma in Kuala Lumpur.

For more travelling destinations information in Malaysia, you can read: Top 9 Otherworldly Stargazing Sites in Malaysia

Why Shawarma is loved in Kuala Lumpur?

Shawarma has become an iconic staple of food in Kuala Lumpur due to the way it has been prepared and served with juicy spiced meats, crisp veggies, and tasty sauces, either wrapped in pita or served on platters.

The main advantage is its infinite edibility, good as a snack, as a meal, or even as supper.

Shawarma has been incorporated into KL’s food palate and while there are many Middle Eastern shawarma outlets, it also has its uniquely modified local versions that have become a favourite for all sorts of people.

9 Best Shawarma Spots in Kuala Lumpur

The top 9 best shawarma places in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia are listed below:

1. Al-Amar Express

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Established in one of the most vibrant parts of Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang, Al-Amar Express has been providing customers with a true taste of Lebanon in the city.

Shawarma is one of the best things you could taste: the soft homemade pita bread with juicy marinated chicken or beef. Their best product, however, is their garlic sauce which is thick and creamy and blends so well with the smoky taste of the meat.

Thanks to its location, the restaurant will be perfect for people who are walking around the city, enjoying its nightlife, or shopping in the Bukit Bintang area.

The relaxed friendly environment makes it unique for either a fast bite or a company of friends for a little more elaborate dinner.

2. Shawarma King

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Located in the colourful area of Ampang, Shawarma King does justice to its name by offering large portions of shawarma that burst with flavour.

One of their signature dish is the beef shawarma platter which consists of strips of beef marinated with a mix of Middle Eastern spices, grilled then served with garlic vinegar and pocket bread.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is quite informal and simple, which appeals to those who want to have shawarma with large servings and reasonable prices. It operates late into the night and is therefore ideal for those who have late-night hunger.

People of this region vouch for its homogeneity therefore recommending it for anyone who wants a genuine and tasty shawarma.

3. Tarbush

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To get the best of shawarma, try Tarbush in KLCC, which in my opinion is as good as it gets in terms of luxury but still very Arabic.

This is a classy restaurant with a Middle Eastern theme in their dishes; however, their lamb shawarma platter should not be missed. The lamb is cooked slowly to enhance the tenderness of the meat, it is then served with hummus, pickles, and warm bread.

I would recommend the restaurant for a more refined dining experience due to the dimmed lighting and the excellent service.

The quality of Tarbush’s ingredients and recipes are of the highest quality, which is why it is a favourite for shawarma lovers.

4. Sahara Tent

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Located in a less busy area of Jalan Ampang, Sahara Tent is a great place for those who want to have a more private experience while enjoying mouth-watering Middle Eastern cuisine.

Being a warmly lit and comfortable restaurant, guests can try an amazing mixed shawarma plate with chicken and beef, served with fresh tabbouleh salad.

Every time one takes a bite of the shawarma one gets to see the right amount of spices, the tenderness of the meat, and the great addition of the garlic sauce and pickles.

Sahara Tent is a great place to grab a shawarma whether you’re alone or with a company, and the tent’s atmosphere can make it perfectly enjoyable.

5. Hadramawt Restaurant

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Hadramawt restaurant is situated in the shadow of Pavilion KL and introduces Yemeni-style shawarma to the city’s palate.

Their chicken shawarma is another dish that they prepare by marinating chicken with special spices used in Yemen and then adding a spicy sauce to give it some extra taste.

The meat itself is tender, rich in taste, and combined with the oils of the freshly baked bread and the luxurious dips.

The restaurant has rather a large territory and the staff is always friendly which is good for families and people who like to go to large companies.

For anyone interested in not only the traditional shawarma taste but also a unique one, Hadramawt is a place to be.

6. Halab KL

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A true treasure from Syria in Bukit Bintang, Halab KL is well-known for the dense, smoky shawarma which one will not forget about.

One of the things that people love to order from them is the shawarma combo platter which they are served with beef and chicken shawarma respectively since they are marinated in a mixture of Syrian spices before they are grilled to juicy.

The platter is served with side dishes such as fresh salad, creamy garlic sauce, and warm pita, making it a complete meal.

The interiors of Halab KL are contemporary and the restaurant environment is casual which makes it an ideal choice for a quick bite or even a celebration, it has a local and tourist patronage.

7. Damascus BBQ

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For street-style shawarma with an unforgettable punch of flavour, Damascus BBQ in Jalan Bukit Bintang is the place to be.

Their shawarma rolls are generously stuffed with perfectly seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of creamy garlic or spicy chilli sauce.

Grilled to perfection, the shawarma achieves a smoky, slightly crispy exterior while remaining tender inside.

The vibrant, bustling street food vibe adds to the charm, making it a go-to destination for late-night snacks or quick meals.

Regulars rave about the bold seasoning and consistent quality, cementing Damascus BBQ as a top choice for shawarma aficionados.

8. Pita & Olives

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Combining Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, Pita & Olives in Bangsar offers shawarma that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Their shawarma bowl, a health-conscious twist on the classic wrap, features tender grilled meat served over a bed of fresh greens, vegetables, and a drizzle of garlic sauce.

The dish is light yet flavourful, appealing to diners seeking nutritious and satisfying meals.

The restaurant’s modern decor and welcoming vibe make it a favourite among health enthusiasts and foodies alike.

For those craving something fresh and innovative, Pita & Olives delivers a unique shawarma experience.

9. Uncle Don’s Shawarma

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A budget-friendly gem in Cheras, Uncle Don’s Shawarma is a beloved spot for flavourful, no-frills shawarma.

Their classic chicken shawarma wrap is a standout, featuring juicy, marinated meat wrapped in soft bread with a generous dollop of garlic sauce and fresh veggies.

The friendly staff and quick service make it a popular choice for busy diners and students on a budget.

Despite its simplicity, Uncle Don’s delivers big on flavour, proving that great shawarma doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Conclusion

Shawarma in Kuala Lumpur is not only a meal, it is a social activity, and it is the spirit of the city on a plate.

From elegant restaurants to street food stalls, you will find shawarma of your preference, whether it’s the type of restaurant, the price range, or the type of food.

Go to one of these top 9 and see for yourself why shawarma is still making the rounds in KL. Don’t see your favourite place on the list? Please share them in the comments section below, we’d love to know your suggestions!