Shish

"Shish has been a Grand Avenue mainstay since 2006, offering a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Palestinian owner Leo Judeh, a former Olympic boxer, brings an equal passion to his cooking, delivering bold flavors that pack a punch. Standout breakfast items include the falafel benedict with sauteed sumac onions and a tahini drizzle, or the Shish breakfast, made with gyro or chicken shawarma, cucumber sauce, and two braised eggs atop toasted pita. Don’t miss the Turkish coffee — an intense, aromatic brew that’s a must-try for any coffee enthusiast." - Matthew Awad, Stacy Brooks

"Find filling vegetarian fare at Shish, Grand Avenue’s Mediterranean kitchen. It’s hard to beat the falafel here — though the roasted veggie bowl is a close second, heaped with zucchini, squash, cauliflower, and red peppers on a fragrant bed of saffron rice." - Justine Jones, Eater Staff

"This Mediterranean cafe near Macalester College’s campus is a casual, accommodating spot — swap out the usual kids meal of chicken tenders for chicken shawarma. Shish also serves generous platters of gyros, chicken curry, and falafel, which are great deals for families. Round out the meal with baklava and carrot cake." - Alex Lodner, Eater Staff

"Shish is known for fabulous gyros, giant salads and scratch made desserts. The lovely breakfast offerings, including a spicy shakshuka, are worth rolling out of bed for." - Eater Staff

"Since opening in 2007, Shish has boasted real-deal heirloom dishes made just the way Judah’s mom did back in the Jerusalem. Located on vibrant Grand Avenue, Shish attracts the Macalester student population as well as the faculty, parents, friends, neighbors and anyone who wants a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine. Open everyday from 7am-11pm, Shish is alive with activity; stop in for some strong Turkish coffee, delicious chaksuka or a piece of baklava." - MOD