East Side Pockets

Fresh Syrian falafel wraps and other Middle Eastern classics.

By Jenna Pelletier

If you’re having trouble finding it, just look for the line of Brown students snaking out the door, almost onto Thayer Street. It’s worth the lunchtime wait to wrap your hands around one of East Side Pockets’ falafel or kabob wraps—which will overflow with a flavorful mix of tahini, hot sauce, hummus, hot peppers, pickles, and more, if you order it with everything (as you should). Owner Paul Boutros has been living in the States for decades, but still stays true to the falafel recipe he learned from his dad, who served the chickpea fritters for a living in Syria before the family moved here.

East Side Pockets

278 Thayer St, Providence, RI


  • Must Have

Falafel Wrap (with “everything”)

Super crispy falafel balls are stuffed inside pita and topped with an array of crunchy vegetables and sauces. One of the best deals in town, this wrap is big enough for two meals.

  • Insider Tip

This is a great bet if you’re hungry for late-night eats. The restaurant is open until 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday.

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