What started as a single food truck in a Crown Point gas station parking lot in December 2018 has turned Mr. Shawarma Pacific Beach into one of the highest-rated restaurants in the neighborhood, holding a 4.7-star average across more than 1,700 Google reviews at 1050 Garnet Ave, Suite B, 92109. Founder Mohammed Mahdawi, a chemical engineer by training, built the concept around 100-percent Halal spit-roasted beef and chicken shawarma, hand-formed falafel, and what loyal customers call the “devious” house garlic sauce. Late-night crowds spilling out of nearby spots like Tavern at the Beach have made this one of Pacific Beach’s go-to stops after last call, with doors open until 2 AM Sunday through Thursday and 3 AM on Friday and Saturday. The brick-and-mortar menu expands on the original truck offerings with kumpir—a Turkish-style loaded baked potato with a wide range of toppings and condiments. Customers choose from four bread options: original saj bread, pita, French roll, or Iraqi samoon. A second food truck, brick-and-mortar locations in El Cajon and San Marcos, and a planned Houston expansion reflect steady growth since that first parking-lot debut. SanDiegoVille covered the Pacific Beach restaurant opening when it took over the former Sinbad’s Cafe & Hookah Bar space on central Garnet Ave. Mediterranean food fans in PB can also explore Cafe Athena on Emerald Street for Greek-leaning plates and a quieter sit-down dinner.