Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Royal Egyptian Cuisine in Berkeley

4.9 (100) Emeryville Greenway, Berkeley, CA 94710, United States

Categories

Middle Eastern restaurant

Location on the map

Berkeley, Alameda County, California, US

Phone: +1 510-282-4551
Site: https://twitter.com/EgyptianCuisine

Opening hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:Closed
Wednesday:Closed
Thursday:11 AM–4 PM
Friday:11 AM–4 PM
Saturday:11 AM–4 PM
Sunday:Closed

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.9

100 Reviews for Royal Egyptian Cuisine 2024:

Review №1

2023-12-06 02:01:13

Unbelievable flavor. This guy is so passionate about his craft, he really wants to share and bring people together over his amazing food. I had probably the best fried fish Ive ever had in my life. Everything was bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked.

Review №2

2023-07-29 20:53:07

Chef Elmy and Sharon surprised us with kindness and love. The food was excellent, they gifted us some amazing octopus and a seafood platter that we were beyond words.

Review №3

2023-07-08 04:21:25

This is one of the best dining experiences available in this area, and I can not describe it any better. Chef Elmy is a man of passion, and his passion is feeding you well. The food is phenomenal, nuanced, portion sizes are massive, and the dishes vary by the day. Prepare for an experience, and plan to eat the food there. This is not food that translates to takeout.

Review №4

2023-09-05 15:57:25

Chef Elmy and everyone there (didnt catch their names!) bring with them the warmth of the middle east to an otherwise ordinary street. Their welcoming of me brought an almost nostalgic feeling of hospitality, similar to being at your grandparents place as a kid. The first bite I took of the lamb and beef in pita bread will bring me back to the Chef many times!

Review №5

2023-08-04 05:26:28

Chef Elmy was incredible. I asked if I could get takeout late afternoon for dinner with a friend and he was more than happy to help!We got an incredible seafood platter with fish, mussels, shrimp, and crawfish. And while we were waiting, he served us soup, stew, and cooked my dog some chicken.I cant wait to come back again!

Review №6

2023-12-09 22:38:55

Eat here. Seriously. At least once. I brought my dad here for his birthday (He used to be a Chef) and he said they had the best Gyros hes ever had. Phenomenal food! Come hungry and dont be shy! Chef Elmy loves to talk!

Review №7

2023-11-11 23:26:26

The owners are so nice and kind. On top of that the food was just so amazing. This was my first time here and I definitely want to come back again.

Review №8

2023-07-17 02:45:54

The man, the myth, the legend! Chef elmy comes through. He declared he’d make something new today for the new year, and it was one of the most delicious concoctions I’ve ever tasted!Stop by and experience whatever new ideas he has in mind, and you will never be disappointed.—Updating this three years later, the chef is as lively and inventive as ever. His recent fixation has been seafood of only the most spectacular quality and preparation. Stop by when you have time to savor it!

Review №9

2023-05-16 07:32:04

One time I tried calling in later in the afternoon but they were done taking orders for the day. I decided to pay a visit anyways seeing how I was around the area. I was chatting with Sharon and about to be on my way when suddenly chef Elmy yells out my name (Jacob..?). He says to sit down he will make a feast for me. Ended up with the best crab gumbo I have ever had and was feeling so good afterwards. Top recommendation from me. Come for an experience - Chef Elmy will take care of you.

Review №10

2022-07-04 23:04:13

The best food truck meal, and one of the best meals period, I’ve ever had in my life. Elmy is a magician with fresh ingredients. He doesn’t mess around—he preps and cooks everything as you order it, he makes whatever his menu is that day and you ask no questions and make no substitutions (though he will gladly accommodate vegetarians/vegans!), but you trust him because he’s got ten years under his belt delighting customers. He expects you to eat every bite, and you will! I will for sure be coming back a million times.

Review №11

2023-12-09 22:31:15

Absolutely delicious food, generous portions and kind-hearted owners.

Review №12

2021-11-18 14:46:11

Food experience is phenomenal. You should talk to Elmy anytime you get a chance. He loves serving food, and the messages on the truck says it all.Best vegetarian food around there, and a charming personality serving it.He greatly undercharges the food so please be sure to tip handsomely.

Review №13

2023-09-06 03:19:13

I came here over 20 times. This is the only middle eastern place Ive eaten at in the US that reminds me of home. The chef will take good care of you, just come with a sense of humor and plenty of time - everything is made fresh to order

Review №14

2023-07-13 20:30:50

First time today and I’ll be back! The chicken shawarma was really good with the light pita and amazing chicken. This food truck has good atmosphere and one needs to keep in mind that the chef loves to feed his customers so come without being in a rush and with an empty stomach and you’ll probably be have a great time!

Review №15

2022-09-22 02:32:58

This place is a jewel. Wonderful people and delicious food. Fresh, healthy ingredients. Chef Elmy takes the time to listen to what youre looking to eat and goes above and beyond to delight you. I got the chicken plate (have it all / feed me), which was a huge serving of food. It was the best chicken Ive ever had.Come hungry!

Review №16

2023-06-23 20:08:40

Taking time out of my day to just say that Chef Elmy is just a cool dude. I work for a sales company and tried calling him to pitch him a deal. Although he wasnt interested, he was super funny and just seemed like an overall genuinely happy guy. Definitely was a brighter spot of my day when constantly dealing with crabby business owners. Definitely going to find his truck and try his food next time Im visiting my parents in the Bay Area just because of that.

Review №17

2022-05-21 18:46:10

I’ve been to this food truck the last 2 weekends and it’s such an experience every time! Make sure you have a little extra time bc he makes it fresh, to order so it isn’t quick but it is worth the wait. Top rate customer service!

Review №18

2022-09-25 03:50:13

I love the food here. I can always count on Chef Elmy to create delicious and healthy food. My company had Royal Egyptian cater our picnic, and it was a hit! Everybody raved about the food. I personally thought that the dolma were among the best Ive ever had. There were so many things to eat even for gluten free and vegetarian guests, and it was all at a very reasonable price for the quality and quantity of food you get.Big thanks to Chef Elmy and Sharon for the incredible meal!

Review №19

2021-05-04 08:23:10

This place is a five stars if Ive ever seen one. The portions are crazy for the price. The Mom and Pop is strong. Its so delicious.Just make sure to eat it all! Elmys always watching you

Review №20

2020-06-20 22:52:46

Elmy is a legend. Go enjoy his food truck but remember, it’s his rules. Don’t expect the typical ordering experience here, but do expect to go home with a belly full of delicious food, some of which you didn’t order but he’s going to give it to you anyway.

Review №21

2023-08-16 19:05:01

THE most wonderful food and people! Seriously delicious, fresh, and flavourful! Such a warm and friendly experience. Michelin star in my book.

Review №22

2023-04-07 04:44:19

5/5 stars is too few for this restaurant. They deserve ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ at least.Best falafel wrap Ive ever eaten. The portion sizes are large, and they dont want anyone to leave hungry, so they brought us extra food when we finished. The salad was amazing.Everything about this place is amazing. The food tastes good. The portion sizes are big. Chef Elmy is very friendly. The atmosphere they create is very friendly.The food quality is what I would expect from a fancy sit-down restaurant. Also, vegan friendly. Ill go out of my way to eat there again!

Review №23

2022-07-22 21:46:23

Chef Elmy serves soulful, flavorful, and nourishing food thats shared with a big smile and a lot of warmth. I got falafel, which comes with several delicious sides that all complement each other. It could easily feed two people or at least leave you with solid leftovers. All of the food is cooked fresh, and while I waited I was given an inventive and yummy salad. Theres a lot of seating right nearby with sun and shade options. You can also ask for the food to go and theyll wrap the plate for you. Everyone you come across around there is happy and smiling. Its as if theres a vapor of good feelings coming from the truck. Its also some of the best food out there. I will definitely be back again and again.

Review №24

2023-03-11 23:27:48

A transcendent food truck experience. The Veggie Me Up special was perfectly seasoned and had a huge amount of food. My friend and I were absolutely floored. Put your trust in the Chefs excellent hands; the wait for your food may be long, but thats because heart and soul are poured into every bite. The only negative came when I ran out of more delicious food to eat. Best believe I will be back and bringing more people to experience this gem!

Review №25

2019-11-19 20:59:47

Chef Elmy! What an absolute gem (: everything was delicious and he immediately starts handing you samples and appetizers and soup of the day before you even order. His hospitality was amazing. The falafel was delicious! Its a crazy amount of food. Keep an eye on his Twitter and swing by if hes open, Ill definitely be back

Review №26

2023-10-26 20:11:52

Best gyro I’ve ever had

Review №27

2023-01-02 20:07:00

A true gem in the entire Bay Area. You need to go here for the food AND the experience. We went there as a group of 7. Without knowing what to order, we just asked Chef Elmy to feed 7 people, our food preferences, and he did the rest. Shortly after, we were presented with a magnificent meal. And he told us if he needed anything else to make sure we didnt leave hungry to just let him know. The food was so flavorful and fresh! We drove all the way from San Francisco to eat here, and wed do it again in a heartbeat.

Review №28

2020-10-06 16:49:49

Some of the best middle eastern food Ive had in the Bay! Probably one of the best food deals in the Bay as well — $10-12 gets you a big combo plate with a bunch of homemade sides and a separate plate of delicious appetizer salad. Everything was delicious, including some of the biggest fattest freshest falafels Ive ever eaten. Tip big, Elmy & co. deserve it!

Review №29

2023-05-26 20:46:55

Food is so fresh and delicious! Everything is cooked from scratch. And the service is out of this world! He even offered me something special for my apprehensive little one who cleaned his plate he loved it so much! MUST TRY!!!

Review №30

2019-05-24 02:00:53

More than worth a stop—a beautiful setting, and both the healthiest and most delicious food truck Ive ever encountered.This man immediately made me a salad to eat while I waited for my fresh falafel—No pre-cooked food!—and then delivered a meal which, as promised, brought tears of joy to my eyes. Stop by for the great music and sunshine; stay for some inventive fare and warm conversation.

Review №31

2023-01-13 08:05:57

Chef Elmy has the best food truck in town. Nay, the best restaurant. If you read his signage he makes a few mentions of his bragging rights and it is no joke or cheap sales tactic. My soul cried out as I devoured the last bite of the incredible plate I was given-- there were no more worlds to conquer, no other flavor to savor so sweet. Chef Elmy remade me, but in a way he also broke me-- for I will never enjoy another gyro in the way that I enjoyed his. Yes, a love so true that it must falter... That I must betray to prove my devotion. How can I forget this memory? I cannot, and you will not.

Review №32

2023-04-14 21:53:13

Holy sh*t. The portions are HUGEEEE. ESPECIALLY FOR THE PRICE. the gyro is packkedd with meat and all the sides are delicious. The two workers are very nice and you can tell they put love into the food. Even gave my compimentary soup wile waiting. A gem

Review №33

2022-12-10 19:07:08

I was biking on a cold rainy day when I spotted a food truck bearing a towering pharaoh, and paused to examine the offerings.As I was window shopping (I had left my wallet at home), the owner emerged and insisted I accept a bowl of soup. He was undeterred by my lack of payment methods: “Pay me tomorrow, eat now!” Like many children of immigrants, I was naturally unable to reject his aggressively nurturing presence as he commanded me to get off my bike and eat.Presently, the soup revived my capacity for coherent thought and I realized I had my phone and could order to my heart (and stomach)’s content. The standout: the chunky nugget of falafel with a crunchy exterior and fluffy couscous interior, accompanied with an incredible sauce. He and his wife (?) also smoke their own eggplants! Everything was vegetarian, hearty and delicious.Most of all, I was incredibly thankful to receive this stellar level of hospitality from someone who clearly loves to feed people. I felt like I had emerged from my uncle’s home: dazed, warmed, and balancing more leftovers than I could comfortably carry.

Review №34

2023-03-16 07:28:05

Food was amazing!!!!!! We got the Feed Me and the gyro was so good and the portion was huge! The only thing was that the wait was over an hour for the food... they kindly gave us soup bowls to stop us from getting hangry 😅

Review №35

2022-10-11 21:39:20

Possibly one of the best places to get fresh and relatively cheap meals I know of. Everything is fresh and you can definently taste the hard work that is put into it. Every time I go there he gives generous portions and even occasionally a free side that could constitute a whole lunch on its own. You simply gotta try it.

Review №36

2023-06-30 23:00:26

Amazing food. Not even good for the price, its genuinely amazing. Ill definitely need to go back.

Review №37

2022-02-18 22:43:54

This place is fire. Guy working is super kind, does a ton of crazy cooking. When I walked up he gets my order and just gives me an appetizer. Tells me to wait on paying. Makes a giant meal, with all the bells and whistles, its super tasty, had a great lunch and then tells me its on him today and I dont have to pay. ??? Basically have to insist on paying. Second time basically same thing. He charges me but like $10, full service again, like 3 plates of food. I was a really active worker so I hate a lot and it was still 2 meals. Think to myself this guy deserves it, tip him $20, basically insists not to take it but I insist. He responds with alright then Ill make and feed 5 strangers in need of food. You just fed 5 people. Outstanding guy, good messages on food cart, great food, really worth going to and makes it all out of the truck.

Review №38

2022-07-04 22:24:18

Amazing food! Get the feed me multi course meal, the chef will make whatever hes cooking that day. Chef is quite the character, gives you a whole experience! Highly highly recommended. Come hungry!

Review №39

2023-02-06 22:45:45

Came on Saturday it was raining and quiet. Found the truck since it was close to wondrous and had amazing reviews. I cannot wait to go back. One of the best meals I have ever had for sure.

Review №40

2022-04-17 21:30:45

Amazing food and hospitality! Best gyro I’ve ever had and delicious salad. Need to come back and try everything on the menu.

Review №41

2021-06-20 03:21:11

Love this place more every time. Food is filling and fabulous. Very vegetarian friendly. Extremely fresh and high quality ingredients. Elmy even make sure our puppy had a full meal alongside ours.Go there when you are hungry and have lots of time to spare. Take a seat and enjoy one of my absolute favorite east bay gems.

Review №42

2021-11-16 22:50:09

I walked away from this lunch in tears. Chef Elmy is so kind and generous. His food is top notch, and you know it is all (appetizer, entree, side) prepared with love and care. So good so good. Can’t wait to bring everyone I know back here

Review №43

2022-03-26 20:13:44

A great gastronomic experience it was when we visited yesterday the Royal Egyptian Cuisine truck parked in our neighbourhood at Berkeley on 67 th Street near the walking track leading to Berkeley Bowl West.As we heard earlier, the Chef Elmy greeted us with free appetizers before we could talk about our order. We went for the veggie items and the Chef, after a wait of 30 mins ( he gave us some hot snacks to taste in between) supplied us two giant wraps filled with freshly cooked rice, pulses, falafel and herbs as take away which lasted for lunch and dinner for two of us! The food was very tasty and the aroma of the fresh items was very good. Thank you Elmy for a very rewarding experience, which we would like to repeat soon. Namaste!

Review №44

2022-04-01 17:35:15

Kind of the best thing in this area, but also kind of the best thing out of a food truck, but also the best experience and food. I go every time the man tweets! @royalegyptiancuisine

Review №45

2023-08-10 21:55:13

I’m not big writer, but this is the best place for lunch in Bay Area.

Review №46

2021-04-02 19:54:43

Would always ride past Elmys food truck on my way to Berkeley Bowl and today stopped by and tried the experience.Elmy is super friendly and will hand you appetizers after you order to eat while the order gets made. Food takes a while but the portion is huge and the service excellent for what you pay for. He had us pay after we finished eating and we made sure to tip him 25%. (Tip: bring tupperware to store your leftovers- youll need it!)Well definitely be visiting again when we have time around lunch.

Review №47

2022-09-17 20:07:55

Amazing!! Don’t rush the experience. Make sure you have enough time to enjoy.

Review №48

2023-05-17 07:10:56

Big portions with even bigger flavour and the most gracious host. Just dont ask too many questions—why would you, anyway?

Review №49

2021-04-04 05:02:19

Grab the veggie or meat plate, go sit down at the park and just trust the man. So good. Great for kids.

Review №50

2020-11-05 03:17:12

Incredible food, amazing cook, but long wait (45 min) for what I originally ordered. This was ultimately worth it, but I had no idea that it was what I was getting in to, since there wasnt a line. I think he was especially busy that day. Ill be back! I wish I had the recipe for his appetizer salad, yum!

Review №51

2023-03-17 22:31:56

Amazing delicious food, Elmy is a great chef and makes sure you have a wonderful time eating there I 100% recommend trying it

Review №52

2021-10-25 21:02:18

Food was really really good. Make sure you have some time if you come here because chef elmy makes everything after you order so it could take a while. Before our entree we were offered some soup and appetizers which was also really good.

Review №53

2023-09-04 05:00:56

This place is really special. The food, quality and service is exceptional

Review №54

2020-08-04 22:52:27

I spotted this food truck while working on a road paving crew nearby. I’m glad I decided to stop in. Elmy is a real character. And I’m telling you it was the best tasting food I have ever had. Period. Don’t let the neighborhood scare you off. His food is exceptional!!!

Review №55

2022-06-10 20:55:38

Amazing food and the chef, Almey, was so sweet! Vegetarians: definitely use the magic words Veggie me up! for the most amazing (and huge) vegetarian plate youve ever seen. Thank you, Almey!

Review №56

2018-07-28 05:46:11

Best Gyro I have ever eaten! Eating at Elmy’s is more than an excellent meal, it’s an experience.

Review №57

2018-09-26 00:29:14

Chef Elmy will take care of you! He is a very friendly, hospitable gentleman.When I got to the truck he appeared busy, preparing what I thought was another customers meal. We greeted one another as he continued to prep. When he turned around he handed me the bowl of food he was working on along with a bottle of water and informed me about the feast he was about to prepare for me. I got a delicious and nutritious 4 course meal without even having to ask for it! A pleasant surprise! Especially if youre a non-picky eater (aka a true foody).The other reviews are right. Even just approaching Chef Elmys truck is a worthwhile experience on its own. Hes the man!Its hard to tell when hes there since he moves around the bay but he informed me today that hes there Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday. Though I may be mistaken about Saturday...

Review №58

2021-10-01 08:20:57

Elmy is possibly the most charming man alive. He just kept handing us amazing food and razzing us. Takes great pride and joy in his food. Also massively undercharges, so tip well.

Review №59

2019-02-23 21:30:05

Amazing food truck, one of the few places in the bay where I can say that every item on the menu is delicious. Chef Elmy is very friendly and will make sure you get the best he has to offer. Every dish is hand crafted and has excellent GF options. If you want a quick bite in the area this is the best option you can pick.

Review №60

2022-10-08 23:39:19

Great fresh food and friendly service. Wasn’t too happy to find out when I got home that I was charged a $0.50 fee for using my credit card. If there was a sign or told that I would’ve paid with cash.

Review №61

2022-11-26 22:38:04

Amazing flavor! The chef is so nice, and they play lovely music. It’s really a cozy spot!

Review №62

2019-08-09 20:59:15

Amaaaazing. Had a 4 course meal for $12. Hands down beats any experience I’ve ever had. As in I’ve paid for Michelin star restaurants but Elmy is something else. Before you even say hello, he is already handing you an appetizer. And then after you say hello, while you’re still munching on your first app, he hands you a delicious salad. At this point I’m wondering if I should even order any food. Lol. Ended up getting a chicken shawarma wrap. Which came with another surprise falafel on the side. I’m already full, before I even take my first bite of the wrap. THE CHICKEN IS PHENOMENAL. Can you tell I really like this place & it was my first time.

Review №63

2020-10-15 22:21:45

During COVID I started a Little Passports subscription for my two younger daughters. They study a different country every month, learning geography, culture, history etc. We end each lesson by trying that country’s food. I found Elmy’s truck through a Google search. We got there right before he closed and he was so generous! Kept giving us food to try and wouldn’t take any money! Such a great guy! We will definitely be back!

Review №64

2019-04-02 23:59:18

Food truck. Opinionated outspoken chef, real great guy, dont let him scare ya lol Food is extremely tasty and in large quantities. Unusual recipes. Excellent veg and non veg options. More than what you pay for. Unique. Cant really compare to somewhere else Ive been before.

Review №65

2021-11-24 02:09:01

Food that nourishes the heart and leaves you with an irrepressible sense of gratitude for chefs like Elmy that cook for the pleasure of sharing.PS: please tip generously, the food is insanely underpriced

Review №66

2018-07-02 23:57:51

Organic, healthy and absolutely delicious shawarma, wraps, and salads. Elmy likes to add extras, like a bowl of soup which is different every day, and dolmas. He really has his spicing down for max flavor. Only minus is the wait at busy times.

Review №67

2023-05-07 22:41:37

Literally wont let you leave hungry if you tried. Super nice people and super good food.

Review №68

2022-05-27 19:16:49

First time visiting getting two gyros to go, and ended up getting a full plate with sides and salad. Everything was great, will absolutely go back and try other menues

Review №69

2022-03-12 21:59:20

Very few places completely floor you with the food AND the experience. Theres only about 5 food places at which Ive had a Ill remember this forever moment. This is certainly one of them.Pro tip: COME HUNGRY!

Review №70

2022-08-27 06:21:59

Some believe the chef here is the reincarnation of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh, returned to life after 4,000 years such that we might all taste the transcendent flavors of the worlds beyond

Review №71

2020-02-25 15:33:07

NB: Truck is named Royal Egyptian Cuisine. Elmy is the best. Everything is fresh from scratch, high quality ingredients, huge portions--bring a friend or bring an appetite. Not strictly Egyptian, hes an artist and hell throw in some quinoa if he feels like it. Its a labor of love, and hes *such* a character. Elmy is usually working alone, so not the fastest, but well worth the wait.

Review №72

2021-02-27 23:28:58

Our family of four enjoyed a HUGE feast. Everything was delicious and Elmy really takes care of the guests.

Review №73

2022-10-09 00:11:49

Really good food for a good price! Chef has definitely earned his bragging rights.

Review №74

2021-02-05 21:39:13

Before asking what my friend and I wanted to order, the chef gave us both water, a falafel, and some delicious greens. I was in love before I even knew what I wanted to order

Review №75

2019-07-29 19:05:57

It is so good, so so good. Im not even sure what the name of the plate that I had was, but it was the best thing I have ever eaten from a food truck. I cannot wait to go back.

Review №76

2023-04-22 21:42:43

Waited an hour and a half for food so greasy and creamy that it made me physically sick

Review №77

2020-07-10 20:30:42

This food is incredible! Truly a hidden gem and Elmy is a character in the best way.

Review №78

2021-10-02 20:43:48

So fun, such good food. We had like four courses, and entertainment. And the food was amazing!!

Review №79

2022-04-22 18:53:00

The best Egyptian food ever

Review №80

2019-06-14 18:47:16

Elmy will feed you something healthy that youll love. Highly recommended.

Review №81

2023-03-03 21:54:05

Best of the best. Beautiful example of humanity and amazing food.

Review №82

2019-03-04 21:36:51

Elmy will make you glad to be a human. His food is love.

Review №83

2022-02-11 03:13:03

More than just a food truck, its an experience and a travel. Highly recommended

Review №84

2022-09-01 21:11:40

Delicious flavorful food, great people, great price.

Review №85

2022-05-07 20:24:19

Very kind people! the service is great and food was so good!

Review №86

2021-08-31 23:17:36

Veg or non veg roll out. This man is legend. Shouts to Elmy. JAH.

Review №87

2022-04-23 17:15:05

Great food, good price, wonderful people.

Review №88

2021-05-07 20:58:52

Great food and a unique experience. Highly recommended!

Review №89

2021-11-24 02:12:46

Best food truck I have ever been to...

Review №90

2023-11-25 00:20:33

One of a kind

Review №91

2021-12-09 07:01:31

So much food... and so good!! And they are so friendly!!

Review №92

2019-10-05 20:03:10

Had to wait 50min to get my food. Stay away unless you dont mind waiting.

Review №93

2022-08-27 00:19:14

Great food with a great chef!

Review №94

2022-08-22 01:55:12

A lot of food freshly made!!

Review №95

2023-06-08 19:11:26

The food is fire!

Review №96

2020-12-28 23:04:11

Amazing!! I cant compliment them enough!

Review №97

2021-11-20 21:01:57

Delicious...a must have!

Review №98

2023-03-08 22:08:43

Extremely delicious

Review №99

2022-06-18 19:46:43

Best Egyptian food ever!

Review №100

2021-05-29 02:57:28

Just the best