Is This the Cheapest and Best Shawarma Pita in Israel?
A budget-friendly 25-shekel shawarma pita at Shawarma BaKikar in Haifa proves that delicious, high-quality turkey thigh shawarma is still possible amid soaring prices across Israel.
The debate over shawarma prices in Israel is heating up. On one end, spots like Grizzly in Eilat price a veal shawarma pita at no less than 66 shekels, while others settle for a fair 30 shekels, a price we thought was the absolute floor. This week, however, we discovered it is entirely possible to make a living selling a shawarma pita for just 25 shekels, as demonstrated by Shawarma BaKikar in Haifa (located near Gan HaZikaron, on Solel Boneh Square).
When prices vary so drastically, the immediate question is about the quality of the meat. The first instinct when seeing such a low price is to suspect a catch. But no, nobody is cutting corners at this modest spot. It is turkey thigh (pargiyot) shawarma, and of an exceptionally fine grade. We have tasted subpar pargiyot shawarma at much higher prices, but this is a different story.
The Secret Behind the 25-Shekel Pita
Shawarma BaKikar is a no-frills joint featuring a single rotating spit with remarkably juicy meat. Atop the skewer sit a few choice lumps of fat, which melt during roasting, infusing the meat below with rich flavor and keeping it thoroughly moist. The rendered fat drips down onto the rotating circular tray beneath the spit, adding a wonderful aroma, yet the shaved meat that goes into the pita remains lean and free of heavy fat chunks.
Once carved, the meat is tossed with a house-blend seasoning, given a quick toss with tongs, and stuffed straight into the pita. The classic accompaniment bar includes fresh sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, white cabbage, red cabbage, pickles, sauerkraut, chopped parsley, hot peppers, tahini, hummus, and a spicy lemon sauce. Everything is strictly by the book.
A Worthwhile Stop in Haifa
What can I say? It is not the most grandiose or exotic shawarma I have ever eaten, but it is a solid, juicy, and delicious meal seasoned just right. It comes wrapped in a thin, flexible pita served with warm and courteous service. The venue itself is begging for a major renovation, but who cares as long as you can grab a satisfying bite for 25 shekels?
HaNevi'im St 2, Haifa. Not kosher.
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