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Dimond Hala Burgers and Shwarma
Authentic Yemeni and Middle Eastern flavors served with warmth and skill in Oakland.
4.8(5 reviews)
restaurant
$$
Authentic Yemeni and Middle Eastern flavors served with warmth and skill in Oakland.
Dimond Hala Burgers and Shwarma is a cherished restaurant in Oakland, CA, offering expertly prepared Yemeni and Middle Eastern cuisine. Known for its skillfully balanced seasonings, spices, and sauces, the menu features dishes like chicken Mandi, lamb shank, shawarma, falafel wraps, and vegan bamia. The cozy atmosphere is enhanced by Arabic-themed wall art, creating a welcoming vibe. With friendly service, generous portions, and authentic flavors, it's a go-to spot for delicious, comforting meals that delight both newcomers and regulars.
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Authentic dishes like chicken Mandi and lamb shank, featuring flavorful rice and tender meats with traditional spices.
Freshly made shawarma wraps and juicy burgers, combining Middle Eastern flavors with classic American favorites.
Delightful choices such as vegan bamia and falafel wraps, crafted with care for plant-based diets.
A cozy, art-filled atmosphere with Arabic-themed decor, perfect for enjoying meals in a welcoming setting.
Quick, friendly service for takeout orders, ideal for grabbing a flavorful meal on the go or for casual gatherings.
The food is very well prepared, with skilfully balanced seasonings, spices, and sauces. It does take a little while after ordering before the food arrives, as other reviewers indicated. Nice attention to detail in preparation: for instance, even the "white rice" served with entrees isn't just plain rice, but delicately seasoned with cloves and possibly something like nutmeg (?), giving it a nice and fairly "unique" (vs. other cuisine styles) taste and flavor. The complementary "hot black tea" isn't just plain tea, but also flavored with spices - and served in beautiful little tea glasses toward the end of the meal, almost like a digestif. Every dish we tried, tasted great and left at least an impression of some kind of authenticity; so for our party who weren't familiar with Yemeni-style quisine going in, this was also a nice (and enjoyable) learning experience. Food presentation generally isn't particularly fancy, but above-average I'd say. Atmosphere-wise, the place has artful Arabic-themed (but fictional), expansive landscape painting "decals" spanning the full width of the walls, and floor-to-ceiling. This gives the room an interesting vibe, and almost makes it feel larger on the inside than it really is (it also makes staring at the walls quite a bit more enjoyable than usual... 😅). Tables and chairs and floor/ceiling are fairly basic, as are the menu format and eating utensils. Ambient sound is unobtrusive and not unwelcome. Service is friendly and welcoming, though again as other reviewers had mentioned, the person taking orders isn't always at the counter (keeping busy in the kitchen, presumably) - and in that case needs to either be actively called on or waited for, and food orders must be made at the counter as well - as there is no dedicated person to go around taking orders at the tables, or regularly checking up on how the patrons are doing or if they'd like to order anything else (such as dessert...)
"I recently tried the chicken Mandi at this Iraqi restaurant, and it was excellent. The rice was flavorful and perfectly cooked, the chicken was tender and juicy, and the spices were balanced just right. The portion size was generous, and the dish tasted authentic and fresh. I highly recommend this place if you’re looking for delicious Middle Eastern food.”
What a beautiful hole in the wall. The authentic flavors were comforting to the soul. Simple yet refined to the palate of the “other”. Welcoming to everyone that enters the space. Thank you.
I intend to be forthright with you regarding this restaurant. It is a pleasant place, with excellent prices, respectful staff, and a distinct taste. I do not mean my own personal taste, but rather the approach of the chief. , They are indeed simple people, and I would not hesitate to return if I have the opportunity. However, if I return to that area, I would definitely consider this restaurant. Note: if I didnt see the lamb shank on the menu I would have never ended up trying the place :)
Wow!! Incredibly tasty food!! As a group we shared the vegan bamia, falafel wrap, chicken shish taouk, and beef shish kebab. Every plate was delicious!!! We live in the neighborhood and will definitely be back very soon
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