ShaQ, Santa Clara

The history of Shawarma ShaQ can be traced all the way to 1962, when restaurant founder S. Hira Singh Mann dreamed of introducing Americans to the tastes of Middle Eastern cuisine. Now, the ShaQ in San Jose serves traditional shawarma wraps, dinner platters, and Mediterranean salads to newcomers and ShaQ regulars alike.

• Shawarma Wrap: Juicy, freshly sliced shawarma stuffed inside warm pita alongside pickles, hummus, and red cabbage—among other veggies
• SHAQ Fries: A plate of hot french fried potatoes doused in housemade SHAQ sauce and shredded chicken shawarma
• Mango Shake: A slushy, sweet and tart treat that's churned and chilled fresh and served in a tall glass