Shawarma Press Opens Lawrence Restaurant
The fast-casual chain's newest location near the University of Kansas serves Shawarma wraps, falafels, and made-from-scratch fusion dishes.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Dining Out
Shawarma Press has opened a restaurant at 947 New Hampshire Street in Lawrence, near the University of Kansas campus. The full-service location is owned and operated by sisters Atrooba and Tahima Hashim, who are current university students.
Why it matters
The opening extends the fast-casual chain's footprint beyond its Texas and Georgia base, and the company plans to add up to 50 locations nationwide over the next five years. For Lawrence diners, it adds a new option for Middle Eastern-inspired food near campus.
Shawarma Press launched its first franchise in Irving, Texas in 2017 and now operates a flagship in the downtown Dallas Arts District alongside locations across Texas and Georgia. The company's plan to add up to 50 locations nationwide has not been tied to a specific schedule or list of markets in the source material.
The players
Shawarma Press
A fast-casual restaurant chain that began with a 2017 franchise in Irving, Texas and has expanded to Texas and Georgia locations.
Atrooba Hashim
A co-owner and operator of the Lawrence Shawarma Press location, along with her sister, Tahima Hashim, and a current university student.
Tahima Hashim
A co-owner and operator of the Lawrence Shawarma Press location, along with her sister, Atrooba Hashim, and a current university student.
The details
The Lawrence restaurant serves Shawarma wraps, made-from-scratch falafels, hummus, soups, salads, pastries, and fusion dishes. The location also offers catering with group platters and catering trays.
Timeline
2017: Shawarma Press launched its first franchise in Irving, Texas.
November 10, 2026: Coverage of the Lawrence restaurant opening was published.
Over the next five years: The company plans to add up to 50 locations nationwide.
Market Landscape
Shawarma Press's growth from a single 2017 franchise in Irving, Texas to a multi-state footprint reflects a pattern of fast-casual chains entering college towns near universities. The Lawrence location extends that pattern beyond its existing Texas and Georgia base, into a market anchored by the University of Kansas.
Lawrence diners near the University of Kansas now have a new option for Shawarma wraps, falafels, and catering platters. Those planning group meals or events can use the restaurant's catering trays and platters as an alternative to standard takeout.
The takeaway
Restaurant openings near university campuses often bring affordable, quick-service options for students and staff. Diners curious about the Lawrence location can check its menu and catering options before visiting.
Further reading
For more local options, browse the Dining Out section for other new restaurant openings and reviews.
More information
Find franchise and menu information on the Shawarma Press website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Restaurant Magazine | Restaurant News and Reviews.
