By Owen Prusek 

If happiness and flavor were a place, it would be inside Sticks Kebob Shop, located in The Shops at Willow  Lawn. Greeted by the friendly service of the staff and the sweet smell of authentic Mediterranean food, you know you’re in for a treat.

My first experience with this restaurant was at a young age with my parents after a sporting event in the area. Looking for a new taste, we decided to try the kebob shop located near Kroger and Dick’s Sporting Goods on West Broad Street. Instantly upon walking into the restaurant, you’re hit with the smell of freshly grilled lamb, chicken, and steak, followed by the aroma of herbs in the hummus that people travel across town to try. 

Looking up at the menu board, with an abundance of dishes and combos waiting for you, I decided to start  with the platter of chicken, rice, and hummus with their staple cilantro lime sauce. From that moment on, it didn’t just become one of my favorite restaurants but a weekly tradition for my family and me on Wednesday nights. Collegiate alum and my brother Miles Prusek (‘25) stated, “It easily beat out other local spots, with something new I could try every single time.” 

One aspect of Sticks that I especially loved was that after every time the food came out fresh and hot, the owner of the restaurant, every time, without fail, would come and check on his guests, making sure that the food was everything that they claimed it was, ensuring all customers were satisfied. Compared to other Mediterranean spots in Richmond, the atmosphere, paired with the food, is truly one of the best there is to offer.

Having found so much enjoyment in my time at Sticks, I wanted to share my experience with friends and family, and I will often go weekly with new people. Jake Slater (‘26) shared my enjoyment of the Mediterranean grill, exclaiming, “The flavors here are truly unbeaten.” Jack Callaghan (‘25) recently tried this delicious food, and all he could say was that, “This has been truly one of my favorite experiences at a restaurant in years.” 

Without a doubt, I would recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for something new, since they have an option for everyone, no matter the mood you’re in. One must-have is, without a doubt, the freshly baked pita bread with hummus. The best bang for your buck will also be the platter option, and I have found that mixing two types of kebobs from their meat choices is definitely the way to go. The steak and lamb mix with the cilantro lime sauce will have you coming back for more every single time. For all the side lovers, along with your hummus, the fresh tabouleh is another fan favorite at this establishment. Other sides that are loved are the chilled sesame green beans and the marinated and grilled veggie salad. 

If you’re looking for great food, great service, and a full stomach, look no further than Sticks for one of the best meals in the Richmond area. While the portions will leave you full, the one negative about this restaurant would be the price, which tends to be expensive, especially if you are going with a group. My overall rating of the restaurant is a strong 9.5/10, and definitely a place I would recommend if you are looking for a new spot.

All photos by Owen Prusek.