Not your typical Kabob house! Service was wonderful, romantic setting, beautifully decorated and the elevated family seating area just makes you want to return with a big group of family and friends. Food was delicious. The baklava was a bit flat, wet, and didn't really taste all that great for me. Soup was good though.
Overview
Sansom Kabob House on 1300 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States, is one of those hidden gems that instantly makes you feel at home the moment you step through the door. From my first visit, I was struck by the warm, welcoming vibe of the place. The interior manages to be cozy without feeling cramped, and the aroma of grilled meats and spices fills the air in a way thatβs both comforting and mouthwatering.
Walking in, you notice the open kitchen where chefs skillfully skewer, grill, and rotate meats over open flames. Watching this process made me appreciate the craft behind each dish. The attention to detail is obvious-each kabob is marinated for hours, ensuring the flavors penetrate deep into the meat. On my first visit, I opted for a mixed grill platter, which came with juicy chicken, tender beef, and perfectly seasoned lamb. Each bite was bursting with flavor, showcasing the expertise of the kitchen staff and their deep understanding of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking traditions.
The menu at this location is extensive without being overwhelming. Besides the signature kabobs, there are fresh salads, creamy hummus, and warm pita bread thatβs baked daily. On another visit, I tried their falafel wrap, and it was crisp on the outside but soft and flavorful inside-a true testament to the quality of their ingredients and cooking methods. Reviews from locals consistently praise the consistency of flavors and portion sizes, and itβs easy to see why repeat customers are common.
What sets this restaurant apart is the combination of quality and approachability. Unlike some high-end Mediterranean spots, Sansom Kabob House keeps prices fair while maintaining top-notch quality. In fact, research into dining trends in Philadelphia shows that diners increasingly value authentic flavors paired with casual, inviting atmospheres. This location captures that balance perfectly, offering a comfortable space for friends, families, and solo diners alike.
Iβve also noticed that the staff are genuinely friendly and knowledgeable, guiding you through the menu with recommendations based on your preferences. One server suggested pairing the chicken kabob with their signature rice pilaf, and it turned out to be an excellent combination-the saffron-infused rice complemented the smoky, grilled flavor of the chicken beautifully. This kind of expertise reflects the restaurantβs commitment to creating a memorable dining experience rather than just serving food.
For anyone interested in exploring more than just the food, the location itself adds to the charm. South Street is a vibrant area with a mix of shops, art galleries, and historic spots, making Sansom Kabob House a perfect stop during a day of exploration. Itβs also easily accessible via public transportation, which adds convenience for visitors coming from different parts of Philadelphia.
In terms of trustworthiness and consistency, this diner has earned a solid reputation. Most online reviews emphasize that each visit delivers the same high standard of taste and service, which isnβt always easy to find in busy city neighborhoods. While I personally enjoy the grilled lamb, Iβve also seen first-time diners delight in vegetarian options, proving the menu caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. The kitchen applies time-tested methods for grilling and seasoning, ensuring that whether itβs beef, chicken, lamb, or vegetables, every plate meets a high standard of flavor and freshness.
Overall, dining at Sansom Kabob House feels like being welcomed into a space where food is crafted with passion, knowledge, and care. The combination of freshly prepared dishes, attentive staff, and a lively neighborhood location makes it a must-visit spot for anyone in Philadelphia looking for authentic kabobs and Mediterranean cuisine.
Good to know
Service options
β No-contact delivery β Delivery β Takeaway β Dine-inPopular for
β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Comfort food β Halal food β Healthy options β Small plates β Vegetarian optionsDining options
β Lunch β Dinner β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β TrendyCrowd
β Family friendly β Groups β TouristsPlanning
β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parking β Paid street parkingPets
β Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
Food was amazing. We had the pumpkin with rice, split peas soup and the eggplant. All very savory and delicious. Service was a little slow at first especially given the fact that it was slow. But the waiter were nice. This is a true gem for philly and I hope they stick around for a long time.
First time having Afghani food and it did not disappoint! Had samosas, salad, traditional bread with sauce, and chicken kebabs. Highly suggest.
The food was great, staff were very friendly and even gave us a free appetizer. Vegan-friendly. Expect entrees to be $20-30 on average.
The waitress was really welcoming and nice. All the food was great! I felt that I ate healthy with a good variety between meat, bread, rice, and dairy based selections.
I grew up near an Afghani restaurant and ate there regularly. Sansom lived up to my memories of that place. The ashak/aushak was particularly delicious.