The 20 Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in New York

Shiraz Kitchen & Wine Bar offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, from crisp falafel and creamy hummus to carefully cooked lamb chops and fragrant rice. An extensive, globally focused wine list and creative cocktails are central to the experience, supported by wine-preserving technology at the bar. The setting combines an elegant dining room, cozy bar seating, and occasional live jazz for a refined yet inviting atmosphere.

Miriam offers a varied menu influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, featuring dishes like silky hummus, grilled branzino, shawarma, and falafel. Plates are thoughtfully composed, with accompaniments such as vegetable purées and fresh salads that keep the meal feeling light. Guests note a clean dining room, appealing presentations, and attentive, efficient service.

Glasserie is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, serving contemporary Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with inventive flavor combinations. Menus evolve frequently, offering shareable plates, flatbreads, hummus, and fresh salads that emphasize freshness. The dining room has a slightly old-world, European feel and is kept very clean, providing a comfortable setting for relaxed meals.

STAR MIX GRILL restaurant serves Mediterranean-style favorites, with gyros and fresh salads frequently highlighted by guests. Lamb is shaved to order, giving the dishes a freshly prepared character. The modest, unassuming space is complemented by consistently welcoming service from the team who run it.

Laila Restaurant And Lounge serves Syrian-influenced Mediterranean dishes known for generous portions, fresh flavors, and options that accommodate vegetarians. Guests highlight well-prepared classics such as grilled seafood, kabobs, and appetizers like baba ganoush. Evenings feature a festive lounge atmosphere with a DJ blending Arabic and other music styles, along with belly dancing performances.

Babylon Restaurant offers generous Middle Eastern dishes featuring tender grilled meats, flavorful vegetarian specialties, and freshly baked flatbreads. Signature plates like lamb shank, lamb shawarma, and silky baba ganoush highlight careful seasoning and attention to texture. A calm, inviting dining room and considerate service create a relaxed setting to enjoy hearty meals, desserts, and traditional hot tea.

Shukette offers vibrant Middle Eastern cuisine in a bustling, high-energy setting. An open kitchen and chef’s counter let guests watch as breads are baked and dips are prepared. Freshly made breads with creamy spreads and a simply prepared fish dish are frequently praised. The atmosphere is animated and the beverage selection focuses on wine and beer.

Natalie's Mediterranean Eatery is a casual, counter-service cafe offering homemade Mediterranean favorites in a clean, bright setting. Fresh falafel, hummus, salads, and soups are frequently praised for vibrant flavors. The kitchen is attentive to gluten-free needs and works carefully with dietary requests. Friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere make it a comfortable stop for Mediterranean classics.

Basil Cafe Restaurant offers Mediterranean- and Middle Eastern-inspired cooking, with dishes like jeweled basmati rice, red lentil soup, marinated skewers, and grilled lamb and salmon. A popular eggplant appetizer and Cornish hen with rice are frequently praised. Guests appreciate the welcoming service and the attractive garden patio with heat lamps, which adds to the overall comfort of the experience.

Kubeh is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant offering a distinctive take on Middle Eastern cooking, with vibrant spices and thoughtfully prepared small plates and mains. Dishes such as warm vegetable plates, kubeh, and slow-cooked meats highlight both freshness and nuance. The welcoming décor and comfortable seating create a homelike setting, while attentive staff provide helpful guidance through the menu, including many appealing options for vegetarians.

Darna Falafel is a small, cozy café known for freshly prepared Middle Eastern fare, including falafel, hearty pita sandwiches, and generous platters. Salads feature crisp vegetables and thoughtful touches like olives, chickpeas, and nuts, while juices and smoothies are made to order. Counter seating and a few outdoor benches create an informal, lively setting. Attentive, friendly staff contribute to a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Persepolis is a Michelin-selected restaurant offering traditional Persian cuisine in a calm, inviting dining room. Guests highlight its flavorful stews, including herb-rich options and pomegranate-walnut variations, along with tender grilled kebabs and fragrant rice preparations. Attentive service and well-spaced tables contribute to a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

Al Badawi, a Michelin-selected restaurant, showcases Middle Eastern cooking with an emphasis on vibrant mezze and grilled specialties. Diners highlight the warm, freshly baked breads, ideal for dipping into hummus, baba ghanoush, muhammara, and other spreads. Pistachio flatbread and kebabs are standouts, complemented by efficient, welcoming service in a pleasantly appointed dining room.

Mamoun's Restaurant serves Syrian and Lebanese cuisine with a focus on fresh, homemade flavors. Guests highlight dishes such as hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, stuffed grape leaves, and grilled eggplant sandwiches. Service is attentive and helpful in guiding guests through the menu and accommodating dietary needs. The setting encourages a relaxed, unhurried meal.

Sofreh is a Michelin-selected restaurant offering refined Persian cuisine in a comfortable, thoughtfully arranged dining room. Dishes such as eggplant dips, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and fragrant rice highlight balanced flavors and careful preparation. Attentive, efficient service and a relaxed atmosphere contribute to an engaging, well-paced meal.

Zaitoon Kitchen serves hearty Mediterranean halal dishes in a casual, counter-service setting. Guests highlight tender kebabs, crisp falafel, and juicy lamb, typically served over seasoned rice with salad. Fresh naan and creamy hummus are frequent favorites, and portions are notably generous. Attentive staff help keep the experience efficient and welcoming for both quick meals and relaxed dining.

Kwik Meal NYC is a well-regarded street cart near Times Square serving Middle Eastern–inspired dishes such as lamb gyros, falafel in pita, and chicken over rice. Guests highlight the fresh ingredients, aromatic marinades, and balanced yogurt and hot sauces. Courteous, efficient service makes it a popular spot for a quick, satisfying meal.