[vektyna]

Depends on the friend. If he's just getting into it, then something like the 90s Berserk anime will seem new and refreshing. I like inuyashiki, although I read the manga rather than watching the anime.

I've heard of that one been on my list for some time

[mello2012]

yes i would, i love anime

[ohrnsteinsauncho7]

naruto or tokyo ghoul, the best

[abdelkhalik]

Find something that's somewhat similar in some aspects so they feel a sense of familiarity.

[King MAGZ]

FMA: Brotherhood
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Berserk
Gantz
Death Note

I believe those are some of the best stories that got me into anime. I still rewatch some of these series lol.

[Oni]

Anime is just the medium. I'd ask your friend what genre he prefers in general. If he likes sci-fi/noir, he might like Cowboy Bebop. If he likes old action movies, he might like Black Lagoon. If he likes gory medieval/fantasy, he might like Berserk. If he likes history or magecraft, the Fate franchise is a go-to. Lots of options.

[vektyna]

A lot of good ideas thank you all!!

[darkhorse123]

Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood

[rominaa]

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)

[CayneJ]

Always deathnote as an early recommendation