4. Restaurants

Nabeel’s Cafe & Market

1706 Oxmoor Rd, Birmingham, AL, 35209
  • (205) 879-9292
  • Store is closed

Nabeel’s Cafe & Market Menu

  • Appetizers
  • Homemade Soup
  • Salads
  • Salads - Add Ons
  • Sandwiches

Healthy Meal suggestions for Nabeel’s Cafe & Market

  • Appetizers
  • Homemade Soup
  • Salads
  • Salads - Add Ons
  • Sandwiches

  • Erika S.

    Not sure why there are so many bad reviews about Nabeel's. I have been a few times over the last couple years and it always very good. I tend to stick with the Greek Cheese Steak Sandwich. Which is pretty much a cheese steak with sauteed red onions, bell peppers and topped with feta cheese. It comes with a side of tzatziki and deep fried pita chips(best ever). Total bill with mint tea came to $11.00 I did noticed a Gyro plate that another table ordered that did not look to appetizing.

    (4)

  • William S.

    I don't have much good to say about Nabeels. It's near my house but I think this will be the last time I go there. The decor and ambiance both leave a lot to be desired. Have you ever seen that show where Gordon Ramsey helps struggling restaurants out? This really reminds me of one of those places. It's dirty, old and uninviting. The food isn't good either. Last night, the gyro meat was so old and dry that I could barely chew it. The waiter actually seemed embarrassed to give it to me although he did and didnt seem to care when it was obviously a problem. Lots of other places within a couple miles of here. I'd avoid this one.

    (1)

  • jimi b.

    Visited twice. Nice environment if you get a booth in the room with the fireplace on a chilly night. Not the most modern, more mom and pop, so I can understand some of the other reviews. Food. Visited twice. Lackluster. Gyro plate. Decent, but the meat wasn't *too* fresh. It was acceptable but definitely not as fresh as some gyro only joint where that's all they serve. My assumption is that they don't serve it often so they don't necessarily have the freshest meat for lack of turn over in product. Feta Burger. Lame! The greek fries came half uncooked, half moderately cooked. It'd be alright if it was one or the other but biting into a fry, having it lukewarm and cooked and then getting another bite where it's cold and uncooked... is pretty confusing. The burger was lukewarm as if it had been sitting under a weak heat lamp, with that weird translucent look to the melted cheese. I sent it back to get it nuked, and it came back slightly warmer, but they forgot to give me back my taziki sauce and pink whatever sauce. I didn't ask for my taziki back cause it's like... screw it. I have snacks at home. Unfortunately the experience is probably a deal killer for a return visit. The attached market/store however is interesting. I'd like to go back for some groceries. Try it... maybe you'll order something that will come out fresh. Who knows.

    (2)

  • Lillie P.

    I may be a bit spoiled because I have eaten real Greek food, but the quality of the food was just not worth the price we paid. The bill for 3 adults with wine and one appetizer was $150. No joke. We didn't ask the price of the specials and I guess we should have! (One was Filet Mignon and the other was baked salmon). Never would have expected either of those to be more than $30/plate for an average neighborhood eatery! The owner came over to the table to chat and we had a complimentary tiramisu that was tasty but average...that did not make up for the hefty bill and not-so-amazing food. Too bad because I would have like to have a good Greek place to eat!

    (2)

  • Jim M.

    I've been going to Nabeel's for over 30 years now. I think I have had most everything on the menu. I have never been disapointed. Their Moussaka is clearly my favorite and since I am not living in Birmingham at this point it is now hard for me to get there often enough to order anything else. Going to Nabeel's is like coming home after a long trip. It's comforting, classic, timeless and everything a neighborhood cafe and market should be.

    (4)

  • Rebekah D.

    I've lived in Birmingham almost 2 years, and can't believe I haven't eaten Nabeel's sooner! My meal, the friendly service, and the homey atmosphere were excellent. I split the Feta Theologos (baked feta) with a friend as an app, but could have eaten the whole thing myself! Baked cheese, EVO, and spices - superb. For my main course, I had the chicken & veggie skewers. The skewers were cooked just right, however the side of potatoes was a bit undercooked. The housemade tiramisu for dessert was delicious, and well balanced. The atmosphere is also homey, and the staff is welcoming and friendly. Overall, a great experience, and I'll be back.

    (4)

  • Joe G.

    After seeing lines at the restaurant many times we decided to try lunch. No crowds on a Saturday. We tried two of the Italian entrees, Eggplant Parmesan and Spaghetti and Meatballs. Both were very bland and pretty much tasteless. Greek food may be good but if you go I would avoid the Italian. Service was good.

    (2)

  • Justin W.

    I have a long positive relationship with Nabeel's. I think maybe only one time out of 5-10 have a had any sort of mishap with them. I love their quality Mediterranean food and market. They got lots of tasty dishes and desserts. All of the dining areas are interesting, including outside. Definitely give this place a shot for a mid-level dining experience when you're in the area. And the market is fun to explore while you wait for your table to open up.

    (4)

  • Will B.

    Nabeel's is a very unique market and restaurant. I have not really shopped at the market. But I have been to the restaurant numerous times. I have always had a great experience. To start out with, I ALWAYS get the taramasalata dip. The description of it might not sound that good (it is fish eggs). But I promise you that the flavor is incredible. If I wrote a book of things to try in Birmingham, this would get a chapter to itself. As for the entrees, we have gotten some things that are incredible. And some things that were just ok. I can honestly say, I have never gotten the bifteki and regretted that decision. It is my standard go-to if I know I want a great meal. And the Greek fries... oh my the Greek fries. If you have never had this full meal I just described. It better be in your plans for the next couple of days. I have also had the Camel Rider. It is their "famous" sandwich you have to try. And it is really good too. If you are in the mood for a pita sandwich. They are just cold cuts. But they are primo meats in cheeses. And as mentioned in previous posts, the pita chips are some of the best I've eaten. One time we branched out and tried the Spanakopita. Honestly it was not that good. Maybe we hit on an off night. But we would be hard pressed to sub our go-to's to try it a second time. All in all, the atmosphere and food make Nabeel's a great place to come on a weeknight, date night, or bring guests from out of town.

    (4)

  • Justin S.

    The lasagne here is simply the best I can remember eating in my life! Huge portion for one and a great consistency! The moussaka was also splendid as always!

    (5)

  • Ashley M.

    Came here for lunch with 2 coworkers. I ordered the Grilled Tilapia sandwich which was on the "Lent" menu so I'm not sure how often they have it. The tilapia was atop focaccia bread with lettuce and onion and a mustard based sauce. Overall the sandwich was good but could've used something to give it a little more zip. Fish was good and flaky. Focaccia was a little too crumbly for this type of sandwich since the fish was also flaky. Pita chips were DELICIOUS! You can buy a bag of these in the market. I was tempted to buy a bag but we were in a hurry. I would definitely go back if it wasn't during lunch rush. Parking was almost nonexistent.

    (3)

  • Arka C.

    Ordered take-out at Nabeel's as I was in the vicinity and really hungry - a chicken souvlaki wrap and a chicken feta wrap - pretty standard fare for a Greek place, hard to go wrong you would think. By far this was the worst meal I have had in Birmingham; the wraps were cold, chicken was rock hard and flavorless, almost inedible. The souvlaki wrap was thrown away in entirety after one bite. The feta wrap was slathered in mayo and mustard - so much for Greek flavor!! I have no clue how this place has 3 and a half stars - will never set foot in this place and stick to tazikis and makarios for Mediterranean fare - this is an abomination of a restaurant - I wish I was dining in so I could show the food to the manager.

    (1)

  • Catherine V.

    We come here often and it is our go-to place. Lots to choose from that can please any dietary needs. The grilled tilapia on focaccia, is fabulous. The lemon gelato is a must! -Delicious!! Nabeel's is a laid back and causal, family owned restaurant. Do not expect fast food and do not come if you're in a rush. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

    (4)

  • Buck B.

    I cannot believe the experience I had there today! We'd arrived right when Nabeel's opened at 11am. We were the first one's to be seated and the first order to go into the kitchen; each in our party of three had the Moussaka, as on the menu it was listed as one of the 100 culinary choices to try in Birmingham. It took a full 50 minutes for our entrees to reach our table, and each of our entrees were STONE COLD! We informed the waiter about it and he took two of our plates (the third person was so hungry he didn't really care...but for $11.95 per entree I was expecting more, in quality as well as size, which was the size of a large brownie!) and he returned ten minutes later...not five minutes but a full ten minutes...both plates were warm after being nuked in a microwave. Not what I was expecting as he should have returned to the table with fresh, well heated entrees; I know, I'm a chef with much restaurant cooking and management experience. Bread was supposed to also come with our meals but the waiter said that was the two narrow slices of pita bread that came with each of our salads. As a side we'd also ordered the Greek Fried Potatoes. As a chef who loves preparing a variety of ethnic foods, including my own Moussaka as well as Greek Fried Potatoes, what came to our table was a plate of french fries smothered in oregano and spices! Nabeel's, I have no words to describe just how wrong that was! Finally, being somewhat disappointed and peeved, I'd reached out to the manager and she was kind enough to take the price of the Moussaka off each of our tickets and apologized very deeply, saying they were having trouble in the kitchen. No kidding! We won't be going back.

    (1)

  • Darcey V.

    This place is fantastic! The food is the best italian/greek I've had in my life. Nothing else even compares. All of my foodie frienda would also agree. I'm a fan of the eggplant parmigian, taramousalata, and the feta appetizer. All are must haves. Everything I've ever eaten from here has been absolutely exquisite. Also they have a market inside where you can buy high quality olives, feta, and many of the menu items like chicken salad, tabouli, and pimento peppers. Delicious.

    (5)

  • Tom A.

    I love independent restaurants. This is neighborhood treat not far off of I-65 for people blazing north or south through Birmingham. I was there on Good Friday and enjoyed a special Lenten salmon. I learned from cafe owner John Krontiras that another salmon preparation is offered on other Fridays and Saturdays. Our waitress was a treat and was quick to help with a couple of special requests.

    (4)

  • Michael N.

    It there was something between "Meh, I've Experienced Better" or "A-OK" then Nabeel's would fall into that area. My wife and I went on a Friday night and got there early enough where seating was not an issue. Their service was adequate but not great in the sense I was never quite sure who our server was. I was recommended the special which that night was Salmon with Roasted Veggies. I found the Salmon to be a bit overcooked but still fine. My wife got Stifado (essentially a Greek Beef Stew) which she remembered being quite better in previous trips. The desserts were very good as always. We both split a Baklava and a Galaktoboureko (essentially a custard pie) Overall I am sad to say I will not be going back anytime soon however it will not be the end of my relationship with Nabeel's. I am a scorned lover right now but will not give up.

    (3)

  • Cristina A.

    Love Love this restaurant! It is a great place for lunch and dinner. Sometimes serving time may be a little slow but always worth it, so make sure you have time and you are not in a rush. Highly recommend the Nabeels Greek Salad with Chicken and Baked Kibbeh as lunch choices.

    (5)

  • JC B.

    Nabeel's is my favorite neighborhood restaurant. The feta is always incredibly fresh and the dolmathes are wonderful. For dessert, make sure to try the tiramisu or the Greek yogurt with honey. So delicious.

    (5)

  • L T.

    I wasn't sure what to expect from a restaurant attached to a grocery... but we really adored this place! It's just charming beyond words. One of my favorite things was tucking up into a booth and seeing little gold plaques for the names of all their regular customers, and then looking up to see two old gentlemen who clearly come here all the time because the waitress knew their order down cold. It's a sweet place, in a sweet neighborhood. We shared tzatziki sauce and pita dippers as an appetizers, mint tea, a gyro, a falafelburger, and a Greek coffee. There were a coupe things that could have been a little better - fries were perfectly seasoned, but kinda floppy and not crisp; the pita dippers would have been perfection if served warm - but overall it was a fantastic meal. A perfect place for a date night if you are judicious about your raw onion consumption. :) BTW, it's worth stopping by the market on your way out - there's lots of intriguing goodies to take home. We're out-of-towners, but we couldn't resist picking up Russian chocolates and tea to bring home.

    (4)

  • Michael P.

    Great place to dine and bring guests and folks from out of town. Parking isn't the best, but the food is good. They are also open on Monday, which is a plus as most decent local restaurants are closed. Decent wine and beer list too. I have never had a bad a meal here, and it is worth the drive.

    (4)

  • David M.

    Two of my friends and I went for lunch. We got tabouli, muffaletta sandwich, and a chicken wrap with fries. The french fries were underdone, the chicken was dry, and the tabouli was flavorless. When my muffaletta came out, I thought "Where's the rest of it?". It was tiny, but that turned out to be a blessing since it was probably the worst I've ever had. The bread was spongy and dry, and there was very little meat on the sandwich. I had to discard one side of the bread to get an appropriate meat to bread ratio. I had to drink water with every bite because the bread was so dry I couldn't swallow it. The water was the best part of the meal. We all agreed we will not be back.

    (1)

  • Annie L.

    A very local feel in quaint Homewood. The hummus was great but had enough garlic to kill a vampire. I ordered the chicken roll-up: grilled chicken chunks, feta, tomatoes, mustard, and mayo in a pita. The chicken was a little dry and chewy which did not favor well with the pita which was chewy. The pita that was served with the hummus was divide but vastly different from the entree I ordered. The Greek fries saved the day! Crispy, flavorful, and delicious! I may need to order a different dish next time but the over all feeling was good. I would give it another try.

    (3)

  • Wilson B.

    I'm surprised that Nabeel's has such a low rating! I suppose it can have some off nights, but most of the times I've been there, it has been excellent. Food: first and foremost, the cuisine here is (usually) delicious. The bold Mediterranean flavors light up the palate. I highly recommend the Bifteki (feta hamburger-put the vinegar on the bun!), the Youvetsaki (for cold nights), or the stuffed tomatoes. The mint sweet tea is an excellent addition to any meal. The appetizers are about enough for two but not anymore. The feta theologos (a must!) and the dolmades are delectable. Although the menu itself isn't beautiful, the diversity of dishes is ample, with something for everyone. Service: the service is pretty good, not excellent. Typically, the waitstaff is fairly quick for refills and orders. However, I have been at busier times when the wait has been pretty long for the food. (Ask any Greek and they'll tell you that in their culture, time is relative.) Overall, for a somewhat down-home Athenian cuisine with a casual and relaxed atmosphere, I would highly recommend Nabeel's.

    (4)

  • Alyssa D.

    Nabeel's is a go-to spot for my college friends and me in Birmingham. The greek cheese steak with pita chips is excellent -- not my favorite tzatziki sauce in the Bham area, but the foccacia and the pita crunchies are good. They pile on the steak and feta-- glorious. My only complaint is the mediocrity of the wait staff. We chose Nabeel's this weekend for my best friend's birthday -- apparently unwise on the day of an Alabama football game. Almost the entire wait staff was congregated around the television, hooting and occasionally cursing loudly. (They did apologize for the cursing, but what actually bothered us was the lack of service.) Of course I'll go again, and I would recommend it to any Greek food lovers, but I wish that the wait staff were more attentive and less violently committed to Alabama football.

    (4)

  • Jackson I.

    Really? Food was not that good, service was maybe the worst I've ever had. Server (not a kid server) all but abandoned our table. Waited almost 30 after 4 meals served for the 5 the persons food because they didn't have penne pasta. I can cook pasta in 10 minutes at home. So after 1:45 we were finally through with this trainwreck of a dining experience. Not sure how this place stays in business.

    (1)

  • Julia B.

    This review is for the Nabeel's Market. This market is attached to the side of Nabeel's Cafe. The chicken salad is the best traditional chicken salad in Birmingham; I've tried them all! Also delicious: pimiento cheese and French feta cheese. The market is also an excellent and affordable stop for nuts, grains and spices. Although I have eaten these prepared foods in the cafe, they are more tasty (and convenient) from the market.

    (4)

  • Swapna G.

    In short - loved the atmosphere as well as the food. Very charming, very inviting (faded sign, attached grocery store, outside sitting on a crooked pavement, warm and chatter-y inside). You can go dressed up or in an old tee and jeans. Somehow they have managed to create an atmosphere that accommodates both types of crowd. The waiting staff is like your friend's Greek family - aunts and uncles fussing over you (not overly fussing). The grocery store was closed when I was there. But at the counter, they had interesting packaged foods for sale (halwa candy!). Tempting! I have decided to go back to check out the store. I had one of their saldas (peasant salad) which comes with bread. Loved it (olives, feta, just right amount of citrusy taste, what's not to love!). We also had an appetizer that was bread with grilled/oven roasted cheese with seasoning. It was great. You can't go wrong with bread and cheese, can you? Yet their's was better in a homemade family recipe kind of a way. I don't eat meat, so my reviews can't provide much info on those dishes. And I am a sucker for atmosphere. Sometimes the food is not even important once the place has got me with its 'feel'. And I definitely loved the feel of this place.q

    (5)

  • Gary W.

    Food has been slipping a lot lately. Last time we were there thy heated soup 2ce and still cold. Plus the owner is an ass.

    (2)

  • Billy P.

    My wife and I loved going to Nabeel's when we lived in B'ham. The food is good. My wife loves the Taramosalata Dip. I would always get either the Gyro plate or the Bifeki. The first time we went there, a long time ago, I ordered something I really did not care for. I do not remember what it was, but I told the owner and she brought me out a Gyro plate instead. When we went to pay, she would not let me. Very good place to eat if you are in a Greek mood.

    (4)

  • Joe J.

    Nabeel's is rundown! My wife and I spent the weekend in Birmingham from Atlanta. One reason was to go to Nabeel's for a great Greek meal. The food didn't disappoint us, but the portions could be larestaurant is showing severe signs of age! Table tops are chipped, filthy ceiling tile and A/C vents that need a SERIOUS cleaning. Looking at the state of the public areas, I wondered what the kitchen looked like.

    (2)

  • ToddLulu C.

    Was there a change in ownership? Change in management? Something's different.... Had their signature sandwich, the Camel Rider, which wasn't as good as it used to be. The falafel were overcooked, dry, balls of salt. Very disappointing. We went at lunchtime, two white guys working there, one was our waiter who was friendly, nice. The other was the host who rang up our check at the register, he didn't even bother to say thank you, or come again, or even a simple "hello." Silently rude. Likely will not go back again. Place has changed for the worse, used to packed during lunchtime, now it's not as busy... not the same Nabeel's we used to love.

    (3)

  • Christy T.

    One of the best restaurants in birmingham! I enjoy trying different foods but usually stick to my favorite of soup and salad.

    (4)

  • Trey S.

    Nabeel's is one of my favorite restaurants in Birmingham. You can't beat the atmosphere and the great food. They aren't always the fastest in getting your food out to you, but then again, if I wanted fast food I'd go to McDonald's. Everything on the menu is great, and Nabeel's is a great place for lunch or dinner.

    (4)

  • EM B.

    Ok. I'm mixed on posting this review. My pastichio was flawless the subtle hast of nutmeg was perfect. My dining companion's souvlaki was the WORST chicken dish I've tasted in my life - the chicken wasn't rancid but the flavor was. The dolmades weren't much to brag about either. From my view the dinner was 3.5 to 4, my companion suggested negative five.

    (1)

  • Ut T.

    If we want Greek, then it is Nabeel's. Casual setting with a great attached Market. Baked Feta is the appetizer of choice and practically anything else on the menu will suffice to get your Greek fix. Charming, no-nonsense dining affair with a quaint neighborhood feel. If DoDiYos is your sleek and glamour, Nabeel's is the warm, worn, trusty collegiate hoodie.

    (4)

  • Nate L.

    Nabeel's is my friend's favorite restaurant in Birmingham, or at least one of the top five. She was quite enthusiastic we try it, and how could I say no? I do find myself more open to new restaurants than, say, new shoes. It's all about comfort, when it comes to clothing. Even though I was a bit concerned about the strong bleach smell as I walked in, we seemed to find a place upstairs where it wasn't noticeable. The cafe has a certain charm to it. It does hold up to the picture in my head of what a cafe looks like. The brick and barrels do add to the idea of an eating establishment in the "Old World." Our server, who may also have been an owner and arguably from upstate New York, was OK but I really felt like she was serving a table of one at times (re: my friend). If only more people would observe Southern hospitality, we'd all be better off. My gyro plate seemed to be in line all of the others I've had around the East. After being in four regions of the country, I'm almost convinced the gyro skewers come from the same location. If they don't, the cooks have amazing consistency. The tzatziki wasn't my favorite and a bit runny. My favorite comes from my hometown. Yes, I'm just as shocked to say that as some are to read it. There's a really strong mint flavor that comes through and compliments the lamb. However, enough of this, what I really wanted to really talk about the taramosalata dip. I've never heard of such a thing, until I stepped into this restaurant. It's a caviar spread, so naturally some people aren't going to like it. People seem to have a "love it" or "hate it" response, when it comes to caviar. I love it. I like food. I like food a little too much. Regardless, this pita spread comes out and I originally misread its base ingredient. It's sour and creamy, so I think it's Greek yoghurt. I still think it's a good guess from an American's standpoint, but I wasn't even close. The people of Nabeel's were kind enough to post the recipe on their website. The base ingredient is stale white bread. Never in a million years would I have guessed that, but there it is as plain as day. It made for an excellent spread, I can tell you that. It had a sour and salty flavor that vaguely reminded me french onion dip. It was excellent and I would get it again, if the opportunity ever presented itself. Now, if I could find an entree to match.

    (4)

  • Marc F.

    To some degree, Nabeel's is americanized, but then again, I can't see why it wouldn't be to some extent; the Birmingham palette is about as adventuresome as a Muslim in sex shop. Despite this, I thought it was overall pretty good. Ended up getting a special at dinner, a grilled Norwegian salmon with lentils and pesto. It was a solid dinner and I really enjoyed it. The portions were a bit small; that's my only grief. Even after salad and dessert, I went home and remained a little hungry. However, as a matter of fact, the Greek salad that came beforehand was perfectly done; for some reason I just really enjoyed it. I think the real kicker for this place though is their market directly next door, which is connected with the cafe. They sell a lot of imported items incredibly cheap. If you're looking to stock up on basic herbs for your kitchen, you might as well hit up this place first. Large tubs of spice for only about 2 dollars! Also, a lot of Greek things that I have no idea what they are but look great!

    (4)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :10:00 am - 9:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : Yes
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch
    Parking : Street, Private Lot
    Bike Parking : No
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : Full Bar
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : Free
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : Yes

Categories

Greek Cuisine

Greek food is a fine melody of the finest pressed olive oil, fresh fermented bread, colorful vegetables, juicy meat, sea food all cooked in spices and fresh rosemary. The people from Greek were great scholars who aimed to excel in everything they do. The results are quite visible in their food as they are the inventors of olive oil which is beneficial to health. Greeks also made different type of wines from the best quality of grapes fermented in controlled environment.

Today, you can find hundreds of restaurants offering authentic Greek food or popularly termed as Mediterranean cuisine in New York city alone. People wait in line to taste the exotic Greek dishes like saganaki, taramasalata, souvlaki, loukoumades, spanakopita, moussaka, and many more. One thing which most people like about these authentic Greek dishes is abundant use of lemon juice, olive oil, fresh rosemary and sea salt. A smart mix of few ingredients can virtually take you on the pebble streets of beautiful city of Greece.

For those who don't have time to enjoy fine dining should try tasting the famous souvlaki with pita which is type of meat dish, also a trademark Greek fast food. For those who are vegetarian, or vegan can try different versions of Greek Salad. So, if you wish to enjoy a hearty yet healthy meal that tastes divine then try dining at the best Greek restaurant in your city. Greek cuisine not only tastes good but also help maintain your body in a natural way through healthy diet.

Nabeel’s Cafe & Market

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