Anaheim

The Scent of Za'atar: Uncovering Little Arabia

1.5 km76 min6 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Discover how a forgotten strip of mid-century motels and dive bars was transformed into a vibrant, thriving cultural sanctuary. On this immersive walking tour, you will trace the footsteps of resilient immigrants who built an entire community from scratch, armed with nothing but family recipes, entrepreneurial grit, and an unwavering commitment to hospitality. Come hungry for history, and leave with a profound understanding of the human stories behind the baklava.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Forn Al Hara

A traditional Arab bakery introducing the communal oven concept and the foundational history of the neighborhood.

0.07 km • 1 min
2

STOP 2

House of Mandi

Showcasing the newer waves of Yemeni immigrants, featuring traditional tandoor cooking and communal floor seating.

0.29 km • 4 min
3

STOP 3

Little Arabia Lebanese Bakery & Cuisine

Ties into the early days of the enclave, discussing the Lebanese immigrants who fled the civil war in the 1980s.

0.43 km • 7 min
4

STOP 4

Knafeh Cafe

A sensory deep-dive into Knafeh, exploring themes of celebration, cultural pride, and the sweet center of hospitality.

0.43 km • 7 min
5

STOP 5

Kareem's Restaurant

The historical anchor of the tour, detailing the pioneer days of Little Arabia and the 20-year fight for official recognition.

0.32 km • 5 min
6

END

Altayebat Market

The ultimate community hub encapsulating the everyday life, commerce, and cultural preservation of the diaspora.

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for Foodies, history buffs, cultural explorers, and anyone fascinated by the immigrant experience and urban transformation.
  • Best time Late morning to early afternoon, when the bakeries are in full swing and the lunch crowds bring the neighborhood to life.
  • Come hungry You will want to sample the flatbreads, sweets, and mezze along the way. Bring an appetite!
  • Dress comfortably Wear comfortable walking shoes as we will be strolling down Brookhurst Street.
  • Respect the culture When entering the markets and restaurants, remember these are active community hubs. Be mindful and polite.
  • Share the dishes Middle Eastern food is meant to be shared. If you're with a group, order family style.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Sara Aydin
Audio sample
0:000:00

Sara Aydin

  • Identity, Migration & Globalization
  • Germany

Cultural mediator and bridge builder. Tells stories of migration paths, languages, and small worlds in big cities.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

Now only €3.99 incl. VAT