I have been a longtime customer of Habibi and have always appreciated the excellent food, fast service, and positive atmosphere. Unfortunately, the recent changes in operations and staffing have resulted in a noticeable decline in both service quality and food consistency.
Since the remodel, the service has slowed significantly, and the food no longer tastes the same. While the updates to the dining area look nice, it appears that less attention has been given to staff training and operational efficiency. I also noticed that much of the original, highly competent staff is no longer present.
There are several issues at the front counter that need attention. The female employee I always end up with is polite but consistently struggles to follow basic instructions and our orders are always messed up. Additionally, items at the front counter frequently run out, and customers must wait while staff go to the kitchen to prepare or retrieve them. This suggests that restocking procedures are not being followed.
The quality and preparation of the gyro meat have also declined. Portions are inconsistent, with pieces sometimes cut too large to eat comfortably or reduced to a pile of small scraps. Toward the end of the day, staff often run short because they have not prepped enough in advance, resulting in smaller portions or unavailable menu items.
Operational efficiency overall seems to be a challenge. When multiple staff members are working, there appears to be confusion about roles and responsibilities. Employees often duplicate tasks or get in one another’s way, causing delays for customers waiting to order or pay.
During peak hours, a clearer structure would significantly improve service. A suggested model might include:
* One person on register and fries
* Two people on the front counter (one dedicated to restocking as needed)
* One person on the grill and phone orders, properly trained to cook items consistently
A separate prep station for phone orders would also reduce disruptions and prevent in‑house customers from waiting while call‑in orders are assembled. It is especially frustrating for customers when priority seems to be given to phone orders while those waiting in the restaurant experience delays, particularly when phone orders receive the last of the gyro meat, while in-house clients are turned away.
TV is loud and makes it hard to order. It would be more appropriate to move it to the dining area. If you want music in the front you could have purchased an streaming device for a fraction of the price. But these items do not belong in the ordering area where it makes it difficult to order and hear.
While the remodel improved the appearance of the dining area, it did not address the operational challenges that most affect customer experience. A large TV, a second dessert display, and additional counter space are less important than efficient processes, well‑trained staff, and consistent food quality.
From a customer perspective, the top priorities are:
1. Reliable, friendly service
2. Consistent and flavorful food
3. Accurate orders
4. Adequate stock of menu items
5. Prompt service
Unfortunately, these expectations are not currently being met. As a result, we have gone from visiting twice a week to once a month, and it is noticeable that the restaurant is not nearly as busy as it once was.
The atmosphere, which used to feel warm and energetic, now feels stressed and disorganized. Staff members often appear frustrated, and that energy carries into the customer experience.
I am sharing this feedback out of genuine concern. Habibi has long been one of my favorite restaurants, and I would hate to see it continue in this direction. With some focused attention on training, organization, and workflow, I believe the restaurant can return to the high standards it once maintained.
I hope this review is received in the constructive spirit in which it is intended, and that meaningful improvements can be made before it is too late.