Welcome to Lawrence, Arab friends! If you’re here for all the soccer action and to celebrate the Algerian Men’s National Team while they set up shop in Lawrence, we’re here to help.
Normally, yours truly likes to assemble a guide of Hometown Happenings every month. But if you’re feeling a little nostalgic and homesick, we’re here to help guide you along in this very Arab-friendly community. As Lawrence’s most prominent Arab media personality (and likely the only Arab media personality in town), I’d like to give you the rundown on the Arab’s guide to Lawrence.
Note to every business in Lawrence. Crank up the Cheb Khaled on your stereos to score some extra brownie points with our visitors.
Where to eat
Well, it’s no surprise that we’re tackling food first. That’s the most important part of our culture, after all. Here are some Arab-run establishments when you need a taste of home. Please note that this list only features Arab-owned establishments serving Arab food.
Aladdin Cafe
Location: 1021 Massachusetts St.
Description: This is one of those unmistakable Lawrence restaurants that you can’t miss. This Palestinian-owned establishment features an array of favorites, ranging from kebabs to hummus. Come for the food, stay a while for the decor and nonstop stream of Arabic music videos on the TV.
Fally’s hot tip: Get the rosewater lemonade!
Lebanese Flower
Location: 716.5 Massachusetts St.
Description: This is a (you guessed it) Lebanese family-owned restaurant long-loved in Lawrence. Rather than facing the main street, the establishment is tucked into an alley with an inviting indoor and outdoor atmosphere. Patrons love the mezze platter and their array of hookah flavors.
The most notable detail about Lebanese Flower is that they will be offering specifically Algerian specials during the summer, such as Tajine Zitoune (a savory stew made with chicken and olives), couscous (steamed with a red sauce or as masfouf, dry with raisins/dates).
Fally’s hot tip: You can find Lebanese Flower with a special stall at Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on New Hampshire Street between 8th and 9th streets.
Mediterranean Market
Location: 3300 Bob Billings Pkwy (Ste B5)
Description: Mediterranean Market is a Lawrence institution at this point. The decades-long Palestinian-owned establishment is both a restaurant and a grocery store. So if you’re staying in a short-term rental and wanting to do some cooking at home, this is the place to go to pick up all your Arab ingredients.
Fally’s hot tip: They sell baklava here!
The Fresh Mediterranean Co
Location: 1000 W 23rd St.
Description: This is one of Lawrence’s best-kept secrets. The Palestinian-owned restaurant sits at a gas station rest stop and the FOOD IS FIRE. This is where you can get hummus, fries, falafel, and gyros in a hurry.
Shawarma Press
Location: 947 New Hampshire, Ste. #120
Description: Shawarma Press is Lawrence’s newest Arab restaurant. The Palestinian-owned chain originated in Texas and has since become a favorite for the younger crowd in Lawrence due to its modern décor and take on shawarma bowls.
Where to worship
We’re in the Midwest, so there are churches galore. But if you need to sneak in a Maghrib or Jummah prayer here and there, we do have one mosque in town.
Islamic Center of Lawrence
Location: 1917 Naismith Dr.
Description: This Islamic Center of Lawrence is centered in the exact center of town adjacent to the University of Kansas. A blend of locals and students frequent here for their prayers. During the Summer, it’s common to find summer camps and activities for the children. For current activities, skip the website and head to their Facebook page instead.
