March 15, 2021

A Mediterranean food truck is adding a brick-and-mortar restaurant.

Moe Fares, who is originally from Lebanon, started Kabab King three years ago and has been looking for a suitable storefront for the past year.

He’s taking over the former Taco John’s space at 1609 E. 10th St., which was going to be another location for Poke Picks.

Fares said he will be joined in the venture by Syrian Yasin Alderani. Their restaurant will include a small market with Mediterranean groceries.

The restaurant’s menu will be similar to the food truck’s offerings: lamb and beef kababs; chicken, lamb and beef shawarma; gyros; falafel; and chislic. Items will come as platters with rice and salad or as sandwiches. Salads will include hummus, tabbouleh and fattoush. Many people are familiar with baklava as a Mediterranean dessert, but “there’s so many,” Fares said.

Some of the entrees will be halal, which means they will be prepared according to Islamic dietary laws, Fares said.

Customers will order at the counter, and there will be seating for 36 diners. The drive-thru won’t be operational right away.

The food truck will continue to operate and will be found a food truck gatherings and events at venues such as Strawbale Winery, Fares said.

He said there is a lot of cleaning and remodeling to do in the building but hopes to open in mid-April.

Kabab King will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

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