If you’re out late in Deep Ellum – or just craving a great lamb shawarma – head to Amsterdam Falafelshop
Some would argue that Luscher’s Red Hots was the best late-night joint to open on the seedy corner of Commerce and South Crowdus Streets in a long time. Not me. That honorific goes to Amsterdam Falafelshop, an outpost of a budding national chain now in expansion mode. Quick-fried, crunchy falafel balls (motto: “crush your balls”) get star billing. But they’re just supporting actors to a humble lead, the lamb shawarma.
Thinly sliced lamb chops are marinated overnight then stacked on a vertical rotisserie to spin until the meat’s outside edges are crisped and caramelized. You’ll recognize that as the same method used for authentic trompo tacos. Place your order at Amsterdam Falalfelshop at the counter. A gregarious employee will then carve off a few ounces of lamb, heap the bits into a split disk of pita bread, then direct you to a long, gleaming counter of toppings. That’s where you add heft to your shawarma by heaping on sauces, veggies and flourishes. (Hummus, tahini, cucumber raita and garlic cream are among the standouts.)
Many low-tier competitors substitute prefabricated logs of ground lamb for costlier (and tastier) lamb chops. Buzzed or not, you will appreciate the Amsterdam Falalfelshop difference.
Put Amsterdam Falafelshop on your hit list, especially when you’re near downtown Dallas and get the late-night munchies.