If you’ve lived in Glendale for more than a minute, you know the "Zankou vs. The World" debate is basically a local sport. But honestly, if you're looking for the soul of Zahle in a strip mall, you're probably heading to Skaf's Lebanese Cuisine Glendale.
It isn't flashy. There are no neon signs trying to sell you a "lifestyle." It’s a corner spot on Chevy Chase Drive that feels like you’ve accidentally walked into someone’s dining room, and that is precisely why it has survived since 2007 in a city that eats Mediterranean food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The Story Behind the Skaf Family
The Skaf story didn't start in Glendale. It actually kicked off back in 1999 in North Hollywood. The family, originally from Zahle, Lebanon—a city famous for its poets and its food—wanted to bring a very specific type of home-style cooking to Los Angeles.
They succeeded.
By the time they opened the Glendale location at 367 N Chevy Chase Dr, they already had a cult following. Recently, they even expanded further with a new spot called "Skaf’s Lebanese Eatery" over on East Colorado Street, which is a bit more of a modern, "to-go" vibe compared to the sit-down nostalgia of the Chevy Chase location. It’s a family-run operation through and through. You’ll often see the owners themselves floating between tables, checking if the hummus is creamy enough or if the pita is warm.
What to Actually Order (and What to Skip)
Everyone talks about the hummus. It’s a cliché at this point. But the hummus at Skaf's is different. It’s silkier than what you’ll find at most spots, likely because they don’t skimp on the tahini or the quality of the chickpeas.
If it’s your first time, basically ignore the impulse to just grab a wrap and go. You want the plates.
The Heavy Hitters
- Kibbeh Nayeh: This is the real test. It’s Lebanese-style beef tartare mixed with cracked wheat and spices. Not every place serves it because it has to be incredibly fresh. Skaf’s does it right.
- The Combo Grill: If you’re indecisive, this is your move. You get three skewers—chicken (Shish Tawook), beef (Shish Kebab), and ground beef (Kafta). The Shish Tawook is the standout; it’s marinated in a way that makes the chicken actually juicy, which is a rare feat for breast meat.
- Fattoush Salad: It’s bright, heavy on the sumac, and actually has enough pita chips to satisfy a human being.
The "Sleeper" Hits
Most people overlook the Cabbage Salad. Don't be that person. It’s garlicky, acidic, and acts as the perfect palate cleanser between bites of heavy meat. Also, the Spicy Potatoes (Batata Harra) are dangerously addictive. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and tossed with cilantro and enough garlic to keep vampires away for a month.
The Two Glendales: Chevy Chase vs. Colorado St
There’s some confusion lately because there are now two Skaf-branded spots in Glendale.
The original Skaf's Lebanese Cuisine on Chevy Chase is the traditional, sit-down experience. It’s where you go when you want to take your time.
The newer Skaf’s Lebanese Eatery at 1147 E Colorado St is the "2025/2026 update." It opened fairly recently and targets the lunch crowd. The menu is similar, but the atmosphere is built for speed. If you’re looking for a date spot, stick to Chevy Chase. If you’re on a 30-minute lunch break, Colorado is your best bet.
Why People Keep Coming Back
Is it pricey? Sorta. Compared to a fast-food falafel joint, you’re going to pay a bit more. A Combo Grill will run you north of $30 these days. But the portion sizes are massive. Most people leave with a box that weighs three pounds.
There’s also the "Home Effect." In a world where every restaurant is starting to look like a Pinterest board—white marble, Edison bulbs, soul-crushing minimalism—Skaf’s feels real. It’s a bit cramped. The parking lot in the back is tiny (good luck if you have an SUV). But the food tastes like it was made by someone who actually cares if you enjoy it.
Plan Your Visit
If you're planning to head over, keep a few things in mind. They are generally closed on Sundays and Mondays, which has broken many hearts over the years.
Location 1: 367 N Chevy Chase Dr, Glendale, CA 91206
Location 2 (Takeout focus): 1147 E Colorado St, Glendale, CA 91205
Check the hours before you go, as they occasionally take mid-afternoon breaks between lunch and dinner service.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the day: Ensure it’s Tuesday through Saturday.
- Pick your vibe: Choose the Chevy Chase location for a full meal or Colorado St for a quick wrap.
- Order the Garlic Sauce: Seriously, just buy an extra side of it. You’ll want it for the leftovers.
- Look for the Ashta: If they have the Lebanese Ashta dessert available, don't think—just buy it. It’s a sweetened cream dish that is the perfect end to a garlic-heavy meal.