Falafel Café Returns to Uptown, Serving Authentic Lebanese Eats in University Circle

Falafel Café reopens in Uptown, bringing back its iconic Lebanese flavors and a revamped vibe to University Circle.

If you've been craving real-deal Lebanese food in Cleveland, circle up at University Circle—Falafel Café has officially reopened at Uptown, and it’s ditching the generic for authentic. Under new leadership with deep roots, the legendary family spot is back, and the word is: it’s all about the falafel.

A Family Legacy, Refreshed

After nearly three decades and countless pita sandwiches, Falafel Café has handed the reins from Mae Elassal to her son, Sirjoon Elassal. He grew up in the business before scoring a master's in organizational psychology—so he knows how to keep both hummus and hospitality on point. With mom now sporting the title "Historian of Falafel" (maybe the job I want when I retire), you can taste the tradition in every order.

What's on the Menu: Pure Lebanese Classics

Out with the cheesesteaks and flirtation with American drive-thru fare—Sirjoon has trimmed the fat and restored the heart. The focus now? Straight-up Lebanese essentials, like:

Falafel: crispy, fluffy, herby perfection.
Spinach pies: hand-shaped and baked, not your corner store pastry.
Tabbouleh & fattoush: fresh, bright, classic salads.
Homemade hummus & baba ghanoush: creamy, craveable dips.

There's also a revamped Middle Eastern grocery section, so you can grab imported goods to go with your lunch.

The Space Gets a Makeover

If you remember the old joint, prepare for a glow-up. The dining room has been redesigned with modern, simple touches that bring some visual zip while staying warm and unfussy. Community tables encourage strangers to become falafel friends, and the revamped retail shelf gives Uptown a little more international flavor.

Why This Reopening Matters

University Circle is hungry for independent spots that don’t feel like they got shipped here in a box. Falafel Café stands tall as a love letter to family business, and an essential anchor for Cleveland’s diverse food scene. Beyond feeding students and museum-goers, it’s a bridge to traditions that go much deeper than your average lunch run.

How to Visit (and What to Know)

Location: 11454 Uptown Ave, Cleveland
Phone: 216-381-1591
Hours: Call or check soon as the renovated site updates, but expect lunch and early dinner times.
Parking: Accessible street and garage options nearby for stress-free takeout or sit-down.

While their website is catching up with the IRL changes, walk-ins are the real move right now. Grab a bite, stock up on snacks, and maybe get inspired to finally try making your own baba ghanoush.

The Bottom Line

Falafel Café’s revival is everything Cleveland food lovers want: flavor, heart, and neighborhood roots. Skip the imposters—this is the Lebanese soul food University Circle deserves. See you at the counter.