When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
De Babel
Why De Babel is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
De Babel is a standout Mediterranean restaurant in Scottsdale known for delivering an authentic and delightful dining experience that makes it a perfect spot to meet friends. With a remarkable 4.8-star rating from over 1,200 reviews, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional customer service that makes guests feel right at home. The menu features vibrant Mediterranean favorites such as falafel, baba ganoush sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, tender Tawook chicken, and flavorful gyros and lamb dishes. Guests often praise the fresh ingredients and generous portions, highlighting signature items like fried cauliflower and hand-cut fries with unique dipping sauces. The staff's friendliness and knowledge, along with their attentiveness to dietary preferences, elevate each visit. De Babel’s family-run approach ensures that attention to detail and care permeate every aspect of the restaurant, creating a memorable experience that has patrons returning time and again. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special meal, De Babel offers a warm, inviting space that captures the true taste of Mediterranean cuisine, making it a favored choice for locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of De Babel
As of recent, De Babel holds a 4.8-star rating based on 1295 reviews.
Reviews of De Babel consistently reveal high customer satisfaction, reflected in its 4.8-star rating from 1,295 reviewers. Positive feedback focuses on the authentic and fresh flavors of the Mediterranean dishes, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and warm, family-oriented atmosphere. Guests appreciate the large portions and the care taken in presenting every dish, which speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and hospitality. Many highlight the welcoming service and personalized menu guidance, which enhances the dining experience. Regular patrons often mention favorites such as the baba ganoush, falafel, Tawook chicken, and fried cauliflower, attesting to the consistently excellent taste and preparation. However, some negative reviews reflect concerns about certain products like the sourcing of some items, such as halva from Israel, which influenced a few customers’ decisions. Despite this, the overwhelming majority of feedback praises De Babel for its authentic cuisine and attentive service. Overall, reviews illustrate that De Babel successfully combines great Mediterranean flavors with a friendly environment, making it a cherished culinary destination in Scottsdale that guests eagerly recommend and revisit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ansar Ahmed
Just delicious! And more than healthy portions; impossible to finish. So, be ready for doggy bagging some. Finally, the prices are more than reasonable. We are from out of town, but whenever we are back in Scottsdale, I know this will be one of our dinner stops.
Elizabeth Nguyen
De Babel is a quick, counter-service spot with a lively atmosphere, especially on a Friday night. We ordered the Chicken Tawook dinner, which came with two sides (we chose hummus and lemon rice). The portions were very generous. The hummus was smooth and enjoyable, and the grilled red onion added a nice touch. The fries tasted fresh, was overflowing, and the pita was large. The lemon rice was a little too tart for our taste, and the Chicken Shawarma had a good amount of filling but was heavy on the pickles. I had to remove some of the filling to enjoy it with the rice to mellow out the flavors. Overall, great service and vibes. It was a decent meal and we’re glad we tried it. If we were local, we might go back, but as out-of-town visitors, once felt like enough.
Morgan Jenkins
Everything we tried was good! If you like Mediterranean food, you will love this place. Tasted like quality food. The customer service was top notch. Everyone was so sweet and friendly. The owner even gave my family of 6 free samples of their delicious tahini ice cream!
Joshua Snyder
I feel pretty confident saying this is the best Middle Eastern food available in the Phoenix area. It's in another league from every other example I've tasted. Excellent presentation, very friendly and accommodating service, well prepared, plentiful portions, and phenomenal flavor, especially if you like some spice in your life. Looking forward to returning to try more items on the menu.
Kalli Moon Adventures
Absolutely delicious! The lamb and kafta were incredibly flavorful and tender, and the pita with sides were both wholesome and fresh ingredients. The staff were very friendly and checked in to make sure everything tasted great! Love this place! Thank you!
How to reach De Babel
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Why De Babel may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at De Babel with your friends? Because De Babel offers an exceptional combination of mouthwatering Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, warm hospitality, and a lively atmosphere that perfectly suits group gatherings. With a glowing rating of 4.8 from nearly 1300 reviews, this family-owned gem in Scottsdale is beloved for its authentic flavors, generous portions, and welcoming service that makes everyone feel like family. Whether your group consists of longtime friends, family members, or new acquaintances, De Babel’s cozy yet vibrant setting encourages connection through shared plates and savory experiences. Its well-crafted menu, featuring favorites like chicken shawarma, lamb kofta, and baba ganoush sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, caters to diverse tastes while maintaining the integrity of traditional recipes. In addition to delicious food, the staff’s genuine kindness and attentiveness ensures your meetup runs smoothly and feels special. De Babel’s blend of quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and community spirit creates a unique hub where memorable social moments naturally unfold, making it an ideal place to rally with your friends for laughter, great conversation, and wonderful food.
What activities can groups enjoy at De Babel?
De Babel is more than just a restaurant; it offers activities that enrich the group dining experience. Primarily, the joy of communal dining shines here as guests share a variety of sumptuous dishes crafted for sharing. Groups can dive into platters of hand-cut fries paired with creamy dipping sauces, freshly made salads loaded with vibrant herbs, and an array of perfectly spiced meats like tawook chicken and gyros. The act of passing and sampling dishes fosters a social atmosphere that enhances bonding and conversation. In addition to eating, De Babel often hosts cultural events and themed nights that bring an extra layer of entertainment to your outing. The warm, inviting ambiance—highlighted by tasteful decor and a friendly, attentive team—also supports relaxed hangouts where friends and families can linger comfortably. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, enjoying a casual reunion, or simply catching up, De Babel’s environment facilitates quality time enriched by excellent food and hospitable vibes.
Why is De Babel perfect for a group meetup?
De Babel’s appeal for group meetups lies in its unique capacity to blend authentic taste with thoughtful hospitality and accommodating space. The restaurant’s interior is stylish yet welcoming, with a layout designed to comfortably host groups without sacrificing intimacy or noise control. The menu is both diverse and expansive, offering ample choices for various dietary preferences and hunger levels—all at generous portion sizes that satisfy even big appetites. Customers often remark on the restaurant’s smooth service flow that supports group dining dynamics, such as quick delivery of multiple plates and attentive yet unobtrusive waitstaff. Significantly, De Babel prides itself on remembering returning guests and personalizing the experience to create a sense of community and care. These factors combine to make a meetup at De Babel feel effortless, enjoyable, and memorable for every member of the group. Whether you want to share classic shawarma wraps, crispy falafel, or homemade desserts like halva and cookies, the setting and service ensure your gathering is a success from start to finish.
How does De Babel’s menu cater to diverse tastes?
The strength of De Babel’s menu is its authentic balance of traditional Lebanese and Mediterranean flavors with subtle contemporary twists, designed with a wide audience in mind. Signature dishes such as chicken shawarma, gyro meat, lamb kofta, and tawook are prepared with fresh spices and herbs, ensuring bold, savory taste profiles that appeal to both newcomers and connoisseurs. Vegetarian and lighter options like tabbouleh, dolmas with pomegranate seeds, and house-made hummus cater well to plant-based diets or those seeking refreshing, healthy fare. The restaurant makes a point of using the finest ingredients—from fresh vegetables to premium meats—to produce a quality that shines in every bite. The generous portion sizes encourage sharing, which naturally invites everyone to sample multiple dishes and explore new flavors together. Complementing the savory dishes are delicious sides such as hand-cut fries and unique offerings like fried cauliflower and okra, adding variety and excitement for groups with diverse preferences.
What makes the atmosphere and staff at De Babel welcoming for groups?
At De Babel, the atmosphere is carefully curated to feel like a warm gathering in a friend’s home, which is particularly inviting for groups looking to relax and enjoy quality time together. The staff are consistently praised for their friendliness, attentiveness, and personal touch—regular guests note how members of the team remember their names, orders, and preferences, which elevates the overall experience. This genuine hospitality fosters a comfortable setting where guests can focus on connecting with one another without distraction. The interior design strikes a balance between stylish and cozy, with tasteful decor and a layout that supports conversation while maintaining a pleasant energy level. Additionally, the family-owned nature of De Babel adds to the “home away from home” feeling, as guests can sense the pride and care invested in the food and service alike. This ambiance encourages guests to unwind, linger, and make a celebration or casual meetup feel truly special.
Why do so many customers return to De Babel for their group gatherings?
Repeated visits from loyal customers stem largely from the consistent quality and caring service that De Babel offers, making it a trusted spot for special outings. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, flavorful food that respects Lebanese and Mediterranean culinary traditions resonates deeply with guests who appreciate authenticity. The large portions and shareable plates make it an economical and satisfying choice for groups who want variety without overspending. Furthermore, the warm rapport established by the staff means visitors feel valued and part of a community rather than just customers. Positive word-of-mouth and high ratings reflect how these elements combine into an experience that people look forward to repeating, whether as a treat for family, a celebration with old friends, or a get-together with new acquaintances. De Babel’s ability to continuously deliver this blend of taste, comfort, and hospitality supports its reputation as an outstanding meetup destination in Scottsdale.
How does De Babel accommodate special dietary needs for groups?
De Babel’s menu is thoughtfully designed to include a variety of options that cater to different dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that groups with diverse requirements can all find something delicious. Vegetarian and vegan guests can enjoy dishes such as baba ganoush, tabbouleh, dolmas, and hummus, which are prepared with fresh, natural ingredients free from animal products. The restaurant practices halal cooking standards, which is important to many diners seeking food prepared according to Islamic dietary laws. Additionally, their kitchen is experienced in handling gluten-free and allergy-sensitive requests, although guests are advised to communicate any specific needs when ordering. This attention to detail reflects De Babel’s broader commitment to hospitality and inclusivity, making it an excellent choice for mixed groups where members may have different culinary restrictions or preferences. Everyone can experience flavorful, thoughtfully prepared meals without compromising their dietary requirements.
What unique culinary touches enhance the De Babel experience for groups?
De Babel doesn’t just serve food — it delivers a cultural and sensory journey that enhances the pleasure of dining with others. Unique touches such as garnishing dolmas with vibrant pomegranate seeds add bursts of color and flavor that delight the palate and eyes alike. The use of hand-cut fries alongside authentic dipping sauces offers an elevated twist on familiar favorites. Dishes like the tawook chicken are praised for their tender juiciness, a testament to careful marinating and cooking techniques passed down through generations. Desserts, including house-made cookies and halva, round out meals on a sweet, memorable note. These culinary details show the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity while creating shared moments of discovery and indulgence during group meals. Combined with the warm atmosphere and attentive service, these special touches make each visit to De Babel feel like a unique celebration of food and friendship.
How does De Babel's reputation and accolades contribute to its appeal for meetups?
De Babel’s reputation as a highly rated and celebrated restaurant strongly contributes to its appeal as a meetup destination. Recognized as one of the top places to eat in the United States by Yelp and featured in prominent local media like Phoenix Magazine and Good Morning Arizona, it carries a prestigious profile that reassures guests about the quality they will experience. Such accolades reflect community trust and expert endorsement, which makes De Babel a safe and smart choice when organizing group outings. When friends or family see the restaurant’s glowing reviews and well-earned praise, they are more likely to be excited about the occasion. This reputation also motivates De Babel to maintain high standards every day, ensuring consistent quality and service. Thus, the restaurant’s public recognition not only influences first-time visitors but also reinforces long-term guests’ satisfaction and loyalty.
Why is De Babel considered a hidden gem for group dining in Scottsdale?
Though De Babel continues to gain recognition, many locals consider it a hidden gem because of its authentic flavors, approachable prices, and warm, family-oriented atmosphere that stands apart from more commercialized dining options. It offers a refreshing alternative to generic chain restaurants by providing a genuine taste of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed setting that feels personal rather than pretentious. The restaurant tends to have a continuous flow of patrons, signaling popularity without overcrowding, which is ideal for groups seeking both excitement and comfort. The combination of delicious, hearty food with a welcoming environment has created a loyal following that values it as a special meeting spot. For those in Scottsdale looking to discover a new favorite for social meals, De Babel’s blend of charm, quality, and community spirit makes it an excellent choice for group dining occasions.
What do first-time visitors say about meeting at De Babel?
First-time visitors often describe their experience at De Babel as warm, memorable, and genuine—qualities that translate perfectly to group meetups. Many remark on the inviting aroma of fresh herbs and spices upon entering, which immediately sets a comforting and appetizing tone. They appreciate the friendly staff who make an effort to explain the menu and accommodate preferences, helping newcomers feel at ease trying new dishes. The interior’s stylish yet calm ambiance also receives praise for making the restaurant feel like a welcoming home away from home. Perhaps most importantly, guests’ first impressions of De Babel often lead to repeat visits, as they are impressed by both the food’s quality and the attentive service. These enthusiastic responses highlight why De Babel is an excellent place for friends and family to gather, share unforgettable meals, and create new traditions together.
How does De Babel promote connection through food and hospitality?
At its core, De Babel sees dining as an opportunity to build connection, not just satisfy hunger. Through carefully crafted dishes rooted in Lebanese and Mediterranean heritage, the restaurant invites guests to partake in cultural storytelling via food. The emphasis on sharing plates encourages communal eating, which has long been recognized as fostering interaction and conviviality. De Babel’s staff contribute significantly by offering warm, personalized service that makes guests feel like valued members of an extended family. This combination of culinary art and heartfelt hospitality transforms a meal into a shared experience that brings people closer. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meal together, groups find at De Babel an environment conducive to laughter, meaningful conversation, and lasting memories. This dedication to connection elevates De Babel from a place to eat into a space to belong.