Shawarma Palace

Did You Know?

• The flagship Rideau Street location operates until 2 a.m. on weekends, within walking distance of the ByWard Market's nightlife.
• In February 2024, Shawarma Palace filed a trademark infringement lawsuit at the Federal Court of Canada against Gatineau-based Le Palais du Shawarma.
• As of March 2025, Shawarma Palace has 9 locations in Ottawa and its suburbs, up from 3 in 2017.
• Shawarma Palace placed first in a blind taste test at Ottawa's first annual Shawarma Festival in 2025.

History

Shawarma Palace first opened its doors in 1996, quickly earning a reputation as a standout in Ottawa’s surprisingly crowded shawarma scene. The city boasts one of North America’s highest densities of shawarma shops, a trend that began in the 1980s when Lebanese immigrants introduced the dish to late-night bar crowds. The original Rideau Street location stays open until 2 a.m. on weekends, just steps from the lively ByWard Market. From three locations in 2017, the chain has grown to nine across Ottawa and its suburbs by March 2025. It also serves as a sponsor and concession partner for the Ottawa RedBlacks and Ottawa Senators. In February 2024, Shawarma Palace sued Gatineau-based Le Palais du Shawarma in Federal Court, claiming trademark infringement over the similar name. As of March 2025, Shawarma Palace has no outlets in Gatineau; Le Palais du Shawarma has said it will change its name.

Recognition

The Ottawa Citizen noted that Shawarma Palace is consistently ranked among Ottawa’s favourites, with critic Peter Hum praising the shawarma platter for its quantity and quality, describing portions weighing up to two-and-a-half pounds. The Boston Globe’s Fluto Shinzawa called it “the definition of one-meal dining,” highlighting generous portions and exceptional value. Eater listed Shawarma Palace among its “24 Best Restaurants in Ottawa,” recommending the shawarma plate from the Rideau location. In 2025, the chain placed first in a blind taste test at Ottawa’s first annual Shawarma Festival.