Byblos Market, on Veterans Blvd. between Bonnabel and Causeway in Metairie, is the second of four iterations of the local Byblos franchise. The Market has been open continuously since 1999. The first is a white tablecloth version not far away on Metairie Road. The third, located on Magazine St in New Orleans, closed in 2012. The fourth, a more modern and trendier casual eatery opened on the periphery of Elmwood Shopping Center in 2020.
In addition to popular gyro and shawarma plates and wraps, more ambitious offerings at the Market include kafta and chicken kabob, beef (filet) kabob, and, when available, grilled shrimp or salmon cooked to order. The chicken kabob is a must-try (ask for some "toum" garlic sauce to go with).
All plates are served with hummus, pita, rice pilaf and salad. Wraps include hummus, pita and salad.
A variety of sides including mujadrah (lentil stew), mousaka (eggplant stew), baba ganouj, kibbeh, falafel, roasted cauliflower and brussells sprouts, spanikopita and many more are offered individually or as a choice-of-four plate.
A wide selection of bottled and canned soft drinks, as well as fresh brewed iced tea are available.
Of the three current Byblos outposts, the Market is the most casual, offering counter service and meals served on disposable dinnerware. The Market is a popular lunch spot. Take out and delivery (via Uber Eats) are available. Orders for gyro and shawarma plates are ready for pick up in fairly short order. The prepared-to-order dishes like salmon, shrimp and kabobs take a little bit longer.
The market portion fills roughly 40 percent of the space, and features imported Middle Eastern staple grocery items, seasonings, beverages and confections. Dairy and perishable items are available from the refrigerated section on the back wall. A selection of wines is also available, as are (oddly, or maybe not) hookah water pipes and smoking accessories.
All is overseen by long-time manager Mason (an Americanization of his actual first name) who has been keeping things running smoothly since the beginning.
Byblos Market: Middle Eastern, 2020 Veterans Blvd, Metairie (Metairie Below Causeway) map - 837-9777