The 16 Best Middle Eastern Food in New York

For those craving the bold flavors and aromatic spices of Middle Eastern cuisine in the bustling city of New York, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a classic falafel sandwich, a hearty lamb kabob, or a refreshing tabbouleh salad, the diverse culinary scene of New York has you covered.
From trendy food trucks to cozy family-owned restaurants, there is no shortage of Middle Eastern food establishments to explore in the city. With so many mouthwatering options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine. That's where this list comes in handy - providing valuable insights and recommendations to help you find the best Middle Eastern food spot in New York.
- Variety of menu options
- Quality of ingredients
- Authenticity of dishes
- Ambiance and service
So without further ado, here are The 16 Best Middle Eastern Food in New York for you to consider on your next culinary adventure.
- 1. ilili Restaurant
- 2. Shukette
- 3. Salma
- 4. Nish Nush
- 5. Au Za'atar
- 6. Mamoun's Falafel
- 7. Au Za'atar - Midtown East
- 8. Lava Shawarma
- 9. Lava Shawarma NYC
- 10. Balade
- 11. Yara
- 12. Kubeh
- 13. taïm mediterranean kitchen
- 14. NAYA
- 15. taïm mediterranean kitchen
- 16. NAYA
- Monday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–3:15 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–3:15 PM
1. ilili Restaurant
Information and Reviews
This restaurant is popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining, making it a versatile choice for different occasions. Accessibility is also a priority, with options for wheelchair-accessible facilities available.
Customers have left positive reviews praising the delicious food and excellent service at ilili Restaurant. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Delicious food with a combination of flavors that leave you craving more.
- Great ambiance for a relaxing meal with friends or a special someone.
- Impressive interior design and friendly, attentive service.
Overall, customers recommend ilili for its flavorful dishes, inviting atmosphere, and attentive staff.

- Monday: 5–11 PM
- Tuesday: 5–11 PM
- Wednesday: 5–11 PM
- Thursday: 5–11 PM
- Friday: 5–11 PM
- Saturday: 5–11 PM
- Sunday: 4–10 PM
2. Shukette
Information and Reviews
With a remarkable rating of 4.7, based on 1065 reviews, Shukette has received high praise from its patrons. Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Came across this place by chance and it was incredible. Fresh ingredients, fun atmosphere, and must-try dishes like the Halloumi Schnitzel.
- Outstanding foodie experience! Freshly cooked dishes like Frena and Labneh are a must. Excellent service and romantic ambiance.
- A vibrant exploration of Middle Eastern cuisine. Remarkable breads, exceptional hummus, and well-prepared main dishes. Authentic yet uniquely New York ambiance.
- Fantastic experience with attentive service and delicious food. Highly recommended for a lighter yet satisfying meal.
Experience the delight of Middle Eastern flavors at Shukette and indulge in a culinary journey that promises exceptional food and service. Visit their website for more information and make a reservation to savor the taste of the Middle East in the heart of New York City.
- Monday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
3. Salma
Information and Reviews
With a remarkable rating of 4.8, based on 557 reviews, Salma has garnered praise from customers for its exceptional food and service. Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Authentic Lebanese cuisine, unmatched in quality and flavor.
- Generous portions at reasonable prices, creating a delightful dining experience.
- Warm and friendly staff, providing excellent service and recommendations.
- Variety of menu options, including traditional Lebanese dishes executed with perfection.
Experience the essence of Lebanese cuisine at Salma and indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.
- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
4. Nish Nush
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 based on 1548 reviews, it's clear that customers appreciate the quality of food and service at Nish Nush. Here are some key points from recent reviews:
- Delicious food with generous portions
- Great vegan options with fresh ingredients
- Friendly staff and pleasant ambience
- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
5. Au Za'atar
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- This restaurant stands out for its amazing food, beautiful ambiance, and caring staff. The recommendations from the staff, especially Zorbey, make the dining experience delightful.
- The food is described as flavorful and delicious, with standout dishes like hummus, garlic mousse, and sumac fries that tantalize the taste buds.
- Despite some minor criticisms about pricing and table sizes, customers still recommend this restaurant for its high-quality Middle Eastern cuisine and exceptional service.

- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
6. Mamoun's Falafel
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the authenticity and quality of Mamoun's Falafel. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Delicious Mediterranean cuisine with friendly service and a vibrant ambiance.
- Crispy and fluffy falafel that's perfectly cooked, offering a rustic dining experience.
- While the food is tasty, the lack of bathroom facilities and counter vibes detract from the overall experience.
- Great value for money with tasty falafel pitas, although some customers found the portions lacking in ingredients.
These reviews reflect the diversity of experiences at Mamoun's Falafel, making it a must-visit spot for delicious Mediterranean flavors and a cozy dining atmosphere.
- Monday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–2 AM
7. Au Za'atar - Midtown East
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- I found the atmosphere super chill, food excellent, and the server attentive and accommodating to special requests. Portions justify the price, but desserts were limited.
- What an experience! Excellent food, beautiful place, and impeccable service. Highly recommended for Lebanese cuisine enthusiasts.
- Great food, ambiance, and outstanding service. Highlight was the mushroom and caramelized onions appetizer. Sauces provided a flavorful boost to the dishes.
- One of the best food experiences recently! Fresh ingredients, delightful ambiance, and a true hidden gem for a remarkable dining experience.
- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
8. Lava Shawarma
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the quality of the food and service at Lava Shawarma. Here are some key points from recent reviews:
- This is a cute, small place with intentional and inspired seating. The Shawarma sandwich was tasty with a unique twist of french fries inside.
- While the service was great, the atmosphere, particularly the faulty door, left something to be desired. However, it's considered an alright place for the price.
- Customers appreciate the friendly service and delicious food, including options like lamb and chicken platters and seasoned fries.
- Despite some disappointment in the food taste, the staff was praised for being super friendly and accommodating, offering a variety of toppings for the Shawarma.
With a rating of 4.6 stars, Lava Shawarma continues to attract customers seeking a satisfying Middle Eastern dining experience in the heart of the city.
- Monday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
9. Lava Shawarma NYC
Information and Reviews
- Nice cozy place with a good selection of vegetarian options
- Best Mediterranean food in New York with a friendly owner and staff
- Incredible shawarma, amazing decor, and exceptional service
- Top-notch falafels, hummus, and delightful ambience
With a 4.6 rating and 469 reviews, it's no surprise that Lava Shawarma NYC is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful dining experience at this outstanding restaurant.
- Monday: 5–11 PM
- Tuesday: 5–11 PM
- Wednesday: 5–11 PM
- Thursday: 5–11 PM
- Friday: 5–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–11 PM
10. Balade
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Enjoy a feast with the Supreme Platter, which is delicious and generously portioned.
- The waitstaff is welcoming, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu.
- The Beef Shawarma comes highly recommended and the ambiance of the restaurant is beautiful.
- Celebrating special occasions like birthdays is a memorable experience with complimentary offerings and a lively vibe.
- Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
11. Yara
Information and Reviews
- Friendly and accommodating service.
- Delicious food with standout dishes like spicy hummus and halloumi.
- Beautiful decor and nice service creating a pleasant dining experience.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a nice dinner spot, Yara has something for everyone. Check out their website for more information and to make reservations.
- Monday: 12–10 PM
- Tuesday: 12–10 PM
- Wednesday: 12–10 PM
- Thursday: 12–10 PM
- Friday: 12–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
12. Kubeh
Information and Reviews
- I really wanted to like this place more but there were hits and misses with the food. Loved the mezze with a doughy pita especially the red pepper one. Kind of regret getting Middle Eastern eggs as they just seemed standard except for the delicious bread on the side. Kubeh was good but not my favorite. Lovely interior with cultural and personal touches representative of the Middle East. - 4 stars
- I recently had the pleasure of dining at Kubeh, and it exceeded all my expectations! Every dish I tried was bursting with flavor. The staff were incredibly friendly and provided fantastic recommendations. Despite the bustling crowd, the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. Kubeh is definitely a must-visit for any food enthusiast looking for a unique dining experience. - 5 stars
- Beware of menu fraud!! Dishes are not as described. For an ENTRE of a cauliflower salad that was expected to be WARM, we were disappointed by the portion size and quality. Please avoid this place at all costs. - 1 star
- We had an excellent time! Everything tasted spectacular, and someone in our group was middle eastern, and she felt like she was eating her family’s cooking. All the staff we interacted with was kind and helpful. 10/10 would come back! - 5 stars
Kubeh offers a wide range of service options such as Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, and more. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is popular for Lunch and Dinner. With a variety of Alcohol options and a casual yet trendy atmosphere, Kubeh is a great spot for a delicious Middle Eastern meal.
- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
13. taïm mediterranean kitchen
Information and Reviews
- Extremely friendly staff that make everyone smile
- Menu allows for plenty of customization
- Food is very fresh and delicious
- Great options for vegetarians and vegans
Reviews from satisfied customers highlight the exceptional service and delicious Mediterranean cuisine offered at Taïm Mediterranean Kitchen. With a solid rating of 4.3, it's evident that this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The welcoming atmosphere and scrumptious dishes make it a must-visit spot in New York City.
- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
14. NAYA
Information and Reviews
Customers have left positive reviews about their experience at NAYA:
- First time trying Lebanese food and it was wonderful! Great service, fantastic food, and a lovely ambiance.
- Amazing food with rich flavors, great beer selection, and excellent service.
- Wow, amazing food! Quality of the food is top-notch and all HALAL. The best service ever.
- The food here was very good. Especially loved the lamb. Highly recommended for a great dining experience.
- Monday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
15. taïm mediterranean kitchen
Information and Reviews
- Healthy take-away food spot with flavorful dishes and quick service.
- Unbelievably delicious food with fresh ingredients and affordable prices.
- Great job with orders, full portions, and on-time pick-up service.
- Excellent presentation, quality ingredients, and a new favorite spot for lunch.
- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
16. NAYA
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared their experiences at NAYA through reviews. Here are some key points summarizing the feedback:
- A customer enjoyed the delicious Mediterranean salad bowls and efficient service, recommending it as a replacement for other similar establishments.
- Another customer appreciated the inviting atmosphere and quick service for a to-go lunch, though noted slight discrepancies in portion sizes.
- One reviewer expressed disappointment with online orders due to wrong items received, emphasizing the importance of order accuracy.
- A visitor highlighted the unique Lebanese options offered, despite noting a freshness issue during a specific visit.
Overall, NAYA continues to attract customers with its diverse menu, quality ingredients, and attentive service, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all. If you're in the mood for flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine, NAYA is a great choice.
Map of Middle Eastern Food in New York
Explore the vibrant flavors of the Middle East in the heart of New York City. From spicy falafel to creamy hummus, this bustling metropolis is a melting pot of Middle Eastern cuisine. Discover the best shawarma spots, baklava bakeries, and kebab joints that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Beirut or Istanbul.
Where can I find authentic Middle Eastern food in New York?
If you're looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in New York City, be sure to check out well-known establishments such as Mamoun's Falafel, Taïm, and Taboon. These restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes that will satisfy your craving for Middle Eastern flavors.
Additionally, don't forget to explore neighborhoods like Bay Ridge in Brooklyn and Steinway Street in Queens, which are known for their vibrant Middle Eastern communities and plethora of delicious dining options.
Whether you're in the mood for traditional kebabs, shawarma, or hummus, New York City has something for every Middle Eastern food lover.
What are some must-try Middle Eastern dishes in New York?
When dining at a Middle Eastern restaurant in New York City, be sure to try signature dishes such as falafel, meze (a selection of small plates), lamb kebabs, and shawarma. These flavorful dishes will give you a taste of the diverse and delicious cuisine of the Middle East.
Don't forget to save room for dessert! Indulge in baklava (a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey) or knafa (a dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and sugar syrup) for a truly authentic Middle Eastern experience.
Whether you're a seasoned fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or a first-time explorer, trying these must-try dishes in New York City is a delicious adventure.
Are there any vegan or vegetarian-friendly Middle Eastern restaurants in New York?
Yes, there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian-friendly Middle Eastern restaurants in New York City. Places like Byblos Midtown, Nish Nush, and Persian Nights offer a variety of plant-based options that are both delicious and satisfying.
When dining at these restaurants, be sure to try vegan versions of classic dishes such as falafel, vegetable kebabs, tabbouleh, and eggplant dips. These dishes are packed with flavor and are perfect for those following a plant-based diet.
Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to try something new, these Middle Eastern restaurants in New York City have something for everyone.
Do any Middle Eastern restaurants in New York offer delivery or takeout?
Yes, many Middle Eastern restaurants in New York City offer delivery or takeout options for those who prefer to enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their own home. Popular delivery services like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash often partner with Middle Eastern eateries to bring the flavors of the Middle East to your doorstep.
Whether you're craving a hearty bowl of lentil soup, a delicious shawarma plate, or a fresh tabbouleh salad, you can easily satisfy your Middle Eastern food cravings with the convenience of delivery or takeout.
Simply browse through your favorite delivery app or call your preferred Middle Eastern restaurant directly to place an order for a convenient and flavorful meal.

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