Shami Cafe Portland Menu at 5513 SE 72nd Ave, Portland, OR 97206, is a delightful Syrian restaurant that invites you to explore the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine! Known for its authentic Syrian dishes and fresh ingredients, Shami Cafe stands out as one of the best Syrian restaurants in Portland with its signature offerings like the Crunch Sandwich (falafel, hummus, pickles, mint), traditional Fateh, and a variety of Mediterranean specialties. Whether you’re craving hearty meat dishes or prefer vegetarian options, there’s something delicious for every palate.
Shami Cafe Menu With Prices (Updated)
Shami Cafe is renowned for its traditional Syrian dishes, prepared with authentic recipes and the finest Middle Eastern ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive look at their menu:
Signature Sandwiches & Wraps
Experience the authentic taste of Syrian street food with Shami Cafe’s signature sandwiches and wraps, crafted with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
| Sandwich/Wrap | Description | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crunch Sandwich | Falafel, hummus, pickles, mint | $12.95 | 420-480 |
| Shawarma Wrap | Chicken or lamb, garlic sauce, vegetables | 14 | 520-580 |
| Kafta Sandwich | Grilled meat patties, tahini, tomatoes | 15 | 540-600 |
| Vegetarian Wrap | Hummus, tabbouleh, pickled turnips | 12 | 380-440 |
| Chicken Shawarma Sandwich | Marinated chicken, garlic spread | 14 | 500-560 |
Traditional Syrian Entrees
Indulge in the heart of Syrian cuisine with Shami Cafe’s traditional entrees that showcase centuries-old recipes and authentic cooking techniques.
| Entree | Description | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fateh | Crispy bread, chickpeas, yogurt, pine nuts | $15.95 | 580-640 |
| Mixed Grill | Lamb, chicken, kafta with rice | 23 | 780-850 |
| Chicken Mansaf | Traditional chicken with yogurt sauce | 19 | 650-720 |
| Lamb Ouzi | Spiced lamb with fragrant rice | 25 | 820-900 |
| Vegetarian Mujaddara | Lentils, rice, caramelized onions | 15 | 480-540 |
| Kibbeh Platter | Fried bulgur shells with meat filling | $16.95 | 620-680 |
Appetizers & Mezze
Begin your Syrian culinary journey with Shami Cafe’s authentic mezze selection, featuring traditional appetizers that showcase the best of Middle Eastern cuisine.
| Appetizer | Description | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hummus Plate | Classic chickpea dip with pita bread | $8.95 | 280-320 |
| Baba Ganoush | Roasted eggplant dip with tahini | 10 | 260-300 |
| Falafel (6 pieces) | Crispy chickpea fritters with tahini | 11 | 480-540 |
| Stuffed Grape Leaves | Rice and herb filling in grape leaves | 10 | 320-380 |
| Labneh Plate | Strained yogurt with olive oil, herbs | 9 | 220-260 |
| Mixed Pickles | Assorted pickled vegetables | $6.95 | 80-120 |
| Kibbeh (3 pieces) | Fried bulgur shells with meat | $11.95 | 420-480 |
Salads & Fresh Dishes
Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with Shami Cafe’s selection of traditional Syrian salads and fresh dishes.
| Salad | Description | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tabbouleh | Parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, lemon dressing | $9.95 | 180-220 |
| Fattoush | Mixed greens with crispy pita chips | 11 | 220-280 |
| Syrian House Salad | Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta | 9 | 160-200 |
| Spinach Salad | Fresh spinach, onions, sumac dressing | 10 | 140-180 |
| Yogurt Cucumber | Refreshing yogurt with diced cucumbers | 8 | 120-160 |
Beverages & Coffee
Complete your Syrian dining experience with Shami Cafe’s selection of traditional Middle Eastern beverages and modern coffee offerings.
| Beverage | Description | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turkish Coffee | Strong, traditional coffee | $4.95 | 10-15 |
| Mint Tea | Fresh mint tea blend | 4 | 5-10 |
| Arabic Coffee | Cardamom-spiced coffee | 5 | 10-15 |
| Fresh Orange Juice | Squeezed daily | 5 | 110-130 |
| Tamarind Drink | Traditional sweet-tart beverage | 5 | 120-140 |
| Lemonade | Fresh squeezed with mint | $3.95 | 80-100 |
| Regular Coffee | House blend coffee | $2.95 | 5-10 |
| Soft Drinks | Coke, Sprite, etc. | $2.95 | 140-150 |
What Makes Shami Cafe a Favorite in SE Portland?
Shami Cafe is a must-visit restaurant in SE Portland for several compelling reasons. The authentic Syrian flavors, combined with friendly and helpful service, create a unique dining experience. Guests consistently praise the fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods, making it a favorite spot for those seeking genuine Middle Eastern cuisine.
Located right across from Mt Scott Park/Community Center, Shami Cafe has quickly become a beloved neighborhood gathering place, offering much more than just a meal. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Authentic Syrian Family Recipes
- Fresh Daily-Prepared Ingredients
- Generous Portions & Fair Pricing
- Welcoming Community Atmosphere
Whether you’re trying Syrian cuisine for the first time or seeking authentic flavors from home, Shami Cafe provides a comfortable space to enjoy traditional dishes, with a warm atmosphere that enhances the cultural dining experience.
Updated Hours for Shami Cafe
| Day | Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Shami Cafe Features and Contact Details
For those planning to visit or inquire about Shami Cafe, here are the key features and contact information:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 5513 SE 72nd Ave, Portland, OR 97206 |
| Cuisine | Syrian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean |
| Specialties | Falafel, Fateh, Shawarma, Traditional Syrian Dishes |
| Dietary Options | Vegetarian-Friendly, Halal Options |
| Seating | Dine-in Available |
| Services | Takeout, Dine-in |
| Parking | Street Parking Available |
| Payment | Cash, Credit Cards Accepted |
| Atmosphere | Casual, Family-Friendly |
What Makes Shami Cafe Stand Out in Portland?
Shami Cafe stands out in Portland for its genuine commitment to authentic Syrian cuisine and community connection. The restaurant brings traditional Middle Eastern flavors to SE Portland, with experienced chefs who understand the nuances of Syrian cooking and the importance of using quality ingredients.
What truly sets Shami Cafe apart is their focus on dishes like the Crunch Sandwich and Fateh, showcasing both popular street food and traditional comfort dishes. Whether you’re exploring Syrian cuisine for the first time or seeking familiar flavors from the Middle East, each dish is prepared with care to deliver an authentic cultural experience that honors Syrian culinary traditions.
Customer Reviews For Shami Cafe in Portland, OR
“I stopped in for a Crunch Sandwich (falafel, hummus, pickles, mint) and it was delicious! The menu offers a lot more than sandwiches so I’m looking forward to bringing a friend and trying a few things, especially the Fateh.” – Recent Yelp Reviewer
“Location is great, right across from Mt Scott Park/Community Center. Service was friendly and helpful. I look forward to many more visits!” – Local Customer
“Finally, authentic Syrian food in Portland! The flavors remind me of home and the portions are very generous.” – Sarah M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Shami Cafe offer vegetarian and vegan options?
Yes! Shami Cafe provides numerous vegetarian options including falafel, hummus, vegetarian wraps, and traditional dishes like Mujaddara. Many dishes can be prepared vegan upon request.
Q: Is the food at Shami Cafe halal?
Shami Cafe follows traditional Syrian preparation methods and offers halal-friendly options. It’s recommended to ask staff about specific dietary requirements when ordering.
Q: Do you take reservations or accept walk-ins?
Shami Cafe operates primarily on a walk-in basis, making it perfect for spontaneous dining. During busy periods, there may be a short wait for seating.
Q: Is parking available near the restaurant?
Yes, street parking is available along SE 72nd Ave and surrounding streets. The location across from Mt Scott Park also provides convenient access.
Key Takeaways
Shami Cafe is an excellent destination for those seeking authentic Syrian cuisine in Portland. Whether you’re interested in traditional dishes like Fateh, fresh sandwiches like the popular Crunch Sandwich, or exploring Middle Eastern mezze, you’ll find expertly prepared options that honor Syrian culinary traditions. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere and commitment to authentic flavors make it ideal for both casual meals and cultural dining experiences.
Pro Tip: For first-time visitors, try the Crunch Sandwich to experience Shami Cafe’s signature flavors, then explore traditional dishes like Fateh for a complete Syrian dining experience. Don’t forget to pair your meal with traditional mint tea or Turkish coffee!
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