Our Story

At Yalla! Shawarma, we proudly blend modern flavors with traditional Mediterranean cuisine, creating a one-of-a-kind culinary experience centered around our signature Shawarma. What began as a food truck in Santa Fe, New Mexico, quickly became a community favorite thanks to our dedication to fresh, bold Mediterranean flavors that capture the vibrant spirit of the Southwest.

We are committed to inclusivity, offering both vegan-friendly and halal options, so everyone can enjoy our delicious and nutritious dishes. Serving the Santa Fe community has been an incredible journey, and our passion for food and hospitality continues to grow with every plate we serve.

In 2025, Yalla! Shawarma expanded from Santa Fe to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Jersey City, New Jersey. This move represents a full-circle moment for our three partners, who earned most of their experience in the fast-paced New York City restaurant scene. By bringing Yalla! Shawarma to Jersey City, we’re reconnecting with our roots and sharing our bold Mediterranean cuisine with a community we’ve long called home.

Today, Yalla! Shawarma proudly has two homes:

  • Our original food truck in Santa Fe, NM

  • Our new Jersey City, NJ restaurant

Whether you’re grabbing a shawarma wrap in Santa Fe or enjoying a fresh Mediterranean bowl in Jersey City, our mission remains the same: to deliver modern Mediterranean cuisine that is fresh, flavorful, and nutritious, made with love and care for the communities we serve.