How to Make a Shawarma Bar Kid-Friendly for Your Party

Why a build-your-own bar works for kids

A shawarma bar lets each guest decide what goes on their plate, which is a big advantage when you are feeding children with different tastes. One child wants only rice and chicken, another wants a wrap with no sauce, and a third will try everything if it is set up in a fun way. Build-your-own gives kids control, and that often means they eat more and waste less.

Start with mild, familiar choices

Kids often prefer simple flavors at first. Our hand-stacked halal chicken shawarma is a good place to start, and rice bowls over Lebanese rice give picky eaters a safe base. Pita wraps are a favorite for many children, but remember that pita contains gluten. Offer rice bowls as well so guests who avoid gluten have an easy option. Fresh vegetables and house-made hummus are also gentle choices that many kids enjoy with a little practice.

• Serve the chicken plain or lightly sauced so kids can add more if they want
• Put sauces in small cups so guests can taste without committing
• Include a plain option, such as rice, for children who want the simplest plate
• Offer fries, such as zaatar or halloumi fries, as a familiar side

Keep the components separate

Separate pans and serving spoons keep flavors from mixing, which helps picky eaters. Place the meat, rice, vegetables, and sauces in their own containers, and label each one with a simple name and a small picture if you have one. A child who does not like hot sauce should not have to dig through the rest of the line to find something they like. Put the most familiar items at the front of the line and the adventurous sauces toward the end.

Plan for allergies and special diets

Ask parents about allergies when you send your guest count. Some children avoid gluten, dairy, or certain vegetables, and others follow halal or vegetarian choices at home. Label each station clearly, and keep serving utensils separate between items. Our gluten-free vegan falafel is a good option for guests who need it. If you are unsure which items fit a specific need, call (412) 251-1279 before you plan the menu.

Make it fun without making it complicated

Kids enjoy choosing their own food, and a little theme goes a long way. Give the station a name, provide simple paper plates, and let children build their own wraps or bowls with a grown-up nearby to help. Keep the line short by spreading out the stations if you have room, or by serving in two shifts for a larger group. A simple setup with clear choices is easier to run than an elaborate one.

For more ideas on planning a family celebration, see our catering options, which include birthday parties and private events.