Al Layali Restaurant and Café

Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles on N La Cienega Blvd, Al Layali Restaurant and Café offers an authentic Mediterranean dining experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets and warm kitchens of Egypt and the broader Middle East. Specializing in rich Egyptian and Mediterranean flavors, this halal restaurant and café is a beloved gem for both locals and visitors craving genuine, homemade dishes crafted with care and tradition.

The cuisine here is a vibrant celebration of bold spices, fresh ingredients, and time-honored recipes. Signature dishes like the velvety hummus, succulent chicken shawarma marinated and broiled to perfection, and the uniquely satisfying falafel plate each deliver layers of flavor and texture that awaken the senses. For meat lovers, the beef kabob and beef araies — savory and tender — make for hearty, fulfilling meals, while the beloved kushari offers a comforting blend of rice, lentils, and pasta with a zesty tomato sauce that is as rare and delicious to find in the U.S. as it is a nostalgic staple for those who know it well.

Dining at Al Layali is not just about food; it’s a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a close-knit family’s living room. Plush pillows and cozy seating create an intimate ambiance perfect for relaxed conversations or contemplative moments savoring each bite. The owners, especially Uncle Nabil, welcome guests with heartfelt hospitality that shines through every interaction, adding a deeply personal touch to your visit. This genuine warmth perfectly complements the restaurant’s welcome to both newcomers and long-time fans of Middle Eastern cuisine.

The menu also spoils you with delightful variety. Indulge in rich appetizers like the Vegetarian Combo featuring hummus, grape leaves, tabbouleh, falafel, and baba ghanouj, or create your own appetizer trio to explore a range of flavors. Sandwich lovers will appreciate generously filled options like the beef shawarma or the char-broiled chicken kabob served with fragrant rice and fresh salad — all thoughtfully priced around $13 for a satisfying meal. And no visit would be complete without sampling a sweet finish — the kinafeh, baklava, or the creatively named Lame Excuse for Kunafa offer exquisite, syrup-soaked textures and delicate sweetness that linger memorably on the palate.

Many patrons celebrate not just the food, but the exceptional hospitality and genuine kindness exuded by the owners and staff. As one delighted customer, Nefertara Ozella, put it, “The food is homemade to order with love... I haven’t had food like this since I was in Egypt.” Another regular, Vanessa Davenport, praised the “large portions” and the seamless experience from phone call to departure, underlining Al Layali’s commitment to quality service and authenticity.

If you’re seeking a rare taste of true Egyptian and Mediterranean cuisine in a welcoming, cozy setting, with the added bonus of hookah offerings and reliable meal delivery, Al Layali Restaurant and Café is a destination that promises both comfort and culinary adventure. Whether you’re craving the comforting depth of kushari or the smoky char of charbroiled kabobs, this spot delivers with heart, soul, and authenticity, making every bite a memorable journey.

Al Layali Restaurant and Café
980 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069
Phone: +1 310-360-0400