Aladdin Restaurant

Authentic Mediterranean Flavors

Nestled in the heart of Reading, PA, Aladdin Restaurant brings an irresistible array of Mediterranean dishes to every table. As a premier Mediterranean restaurant in the region, Aladdin’s menu is a celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and time-honored recipes. From the moment guests take their first bite, they discover why diners rave about the “tender, well-seasoned” chicken shawarma and declare the hummus “literally the best I have ever had.” Crisp, citrusy Fattoush salads, creamy spinach pies, and perfectly charred beef kabobs showcase the kitchen’s dedication to authenticity. Every dish carries the unmistakable hallmark of the Middle East: bold flavors balanced with fresh herbs and olive oil.

Warm, Knowledgeable Service

At Aladdin Restaurant, exceptional service is more than a promise—it’s woven into the dining experience. Guests often mention how staff members take the time to guide them through the menu, ensuring everyone feels comfortable exploring new flavors. One reviewer highlighted Alicia by name, praising her “professional, knowledgeable, and courteous” service that made the meal flow seamlessly. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, Aladdin’s team greets you with genuine warmth, anticipates your needs, and transforms each visit into a personalized culinary journey.

Inviting Atmosphere & Ambiance

Step through the doors of this recently remodeled Reading landmark, and you’ll be greeted by a bright, spacious dining room accented by cozy fireplaces and soft Middle Eastern melodies. The redesign, completed in 2024, introduced clean lines, comfortable seating, and tasteful décor that transports diners beyond the ordinary. Patrons frequently note the sparkling restrooms and spotless dining area—details that speak to the restaurant’s commitment to comfort and cleanliness. On cooler evenings, both fireplaces glow, creating an intimate setting perfect for date nights or family gatherings. The ambiance strikes the ideal balance between relaxed and refined.

Generous Portions & Exceptional Value

One of Aladdin’s hallmarks is its generous portion sizes. Guests leave with full bellies and often take home leftovers for the next day. “Very large portion sizes… be prepared to take home leftovers,” wrote a recent diner who ordered the three-course grill mix for two. Despite occasional comments about prices being on the higher side, most agree that the combination of fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and sizable servings delivers outstanding value. From family platters to individual entrees, bringing home more than you expected has become part of the Aladdin charm.

BYOB & Cultural Touches

To complement your meal, Aladdin invites you to bring your own bottle of wine. The BYOB policy encourages friends and families to celebrate in style without the extra markup. But the fun doesn’t stop there—on select weekends, live music and belly dancing animate the dining room. These cultural performances add an extra layer of authenticity, turning dinner into an immersive Middle Eastern experience. “It is a BYOB and they have live music and belly dancers some weekends. Worth supporting!” one patron enthused. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends or entranced by a dancer’s graceful movements, Aladdin delivers memorable moments beyond the plate.

A Sweet Finale & Signature Desserts

No visit to Aladdin is complete without indulging in its distinctive Middle Eastern sweets. The homemade aish al saraya—a rich, semolina-based dessert drizzled with orange blossom syrup—earns glowing recommendations: “Order the aish al saraya for dessert and thank me later.” For those craving a cooler treat, the ice cream served with ghazel banat (a rosewater-infused cream) offers a refreshingly unique finish. These decadent desserts have become so popular that many guests plan return visits just to savor them again.

Navigating Wait Times & Ensuring the Best Experience

While Aladdin’s popularity often leads to bustling dinner services, a few guests have noted longer waits and occasional understaffed shifts. On busy evenings, a half-full dining room still meant nearly two hours before dessert arrived. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the evening or calling ahead to check current wait times. Rest assured, the attentive team works diligently to balance quick service with the high standards that keep patrons returning.

Plan Your Visit

Aladdin Restaurant in Reading, PA, stands out as a must-visit Mediterranean destination, offering authentic flavors, heartfelt hospitality, and an inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re on the hunt for the region’s best hummus, generous family-style portions, or a unique cultural night out with live music and belly dancing, Aladdin delivers on every front. Bring your favorite bottle of wine, settle in by the fireplace, and let the aromas of the Levant transport you. With authentic dishes, signature desserts, and friendly faces like Alicia ready to guide you, a meal at Aladdin is more than dinner—it’s a celebration of Middle Eastern tradition in the heart of Pennsylvania.