San Francisco’s food scene has something for everyone, including some excellent Middle Eastern spots. Whether you’re after the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, there are several restaurants in the Bay Area to check out serving everything from Turkish favorites to Persian steaks.
Savor traditional Iranian dishes at a family-owned spot in Sunnyvale. Enjoy prime, dry-aged steaks in an elegant spot in Palo Alto. Go for a traditional Turkish brunch at a cozy destination in Presidio.
Whether you’re craving tender kebabs, creamy hummus, or rich, spice-filled stews, the Bay Area delivers.
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Discover these 10 restaurants with the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco.
For modern Mediterranean flavors in a historic setting — try Dalida (Presidio)
Dalida is the kind of spot that feels special without trying too hard. Acclaimed chefs Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz give modern Mediterranean flavors a Californian touch—think lamb chops with herb sauce and octopus in a lemon-caper dressing. For the full experience, go for the chef’s menu. The wine list leans natural and global, and the seasonal cocktails are as thoughtful as the food. Big windows, wallpaper, and an intimate patio make this a standout for the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco.
For Turkish brunch and casual dinners near Golden Gate Park — head to Lokma (Richmond District)
Lokma serves Turkish-inspired fare in a cozy space. Go for the popular brunch to enjoy a complete traditional Turkish breakfast spread for two starring dishes like scrambled eggs with Turkish sausage, feta, hazelnut spread, and warm pita. Dinner favorites include grilled lamb and a selection of dips and small bites. Drinks range from Turkish tea to natural wines. The laid-back vibe, indoor-outdoor seating, and soft wood interiors make Lokma a go-to for weekday meals and weekend hangs.
For some of the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco by a celebrated Turkish chef — book a table at Kitchen Istanbul (Richmond District)
At Kitchen Istanbul, chef Alican Boynak showcases flavors from across Turkey, spotlighting mezes, charcoal-grilled kebabs, and seasonal ingredients. The acclaimed wine list, led by Joseph DiGrigoli, has earned recognition from Wine Spectator and Star Wine List, as well as shoutouts in major publications. It’s a relaxed, brick-walled space with a thoughtful menu and standout pairings—ideal for date nights and laid-back dinners with friends.
For Mediterranean comfort foods and craft cocktails — try Zaytoon (Albany)
Zaytoon celebrates its founders’ Palestinian roots with a menu of Mediterranean comfort foods with a modern American twist—think house-made hummus, hand-rolled grape leaves, and grilled kebabs. The craft cocktail menu highlights regional flavors like honey and tahini. The relaxed and friendly service makes this a great option for a quick bite or an easygoing group meal.
For Northern Iranian small plates and natural wines — check out Komaaj Mazze Wine Bar (Mission District)
Komaaj Mazze Wine Bar brings the flavors of Northern Iran to San Francisco. The menu centers around Iranian dishes designed for sharing—think fresh salads and creamy spreads. A curated selection of wines from the Caucasus, along with house-made sharbats complements the food. At lunch, you’ll find satisfying rice bowls and wraps, while the cozy space and bold flavors make this spot a standout for those exploring the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco.
For bold Mediterranean spices and shareable spreads — head to Barcha (Financial District)
Barcha is a destination for standout Mediterranean dishes with influences from North Africa and the Middle East. Favorites include spiced beef dumplings, silky hummus, and the signature Persian tahdig. The newly remodeled interior sets the tone for lively gatherings, while the large heated patio makes for a cozy, romantic spot year-round. Don’t miss the popular happy hour with creative cocktails and small dishes like hummus b’lahmeh.
For traditional Iranian dishes at a long-standing, family-owned spot — visit Chelokababi (Sunnyvale)
Family-owned Chelokababi is known for its traditional Iranian dishes like Persian kebabs and slow-cooked stews. Classic dishes like ghormeh sabzi and koobideh are paired with saffron rice and grilled tomatoes. Pair your meal with a house-made yogurt drink or glass of Persian tea. The cozy dining room has Iranian accents, setting an atmosphere that fits both casual lunches and group dinners.
For Anatolian tasting menus in a modern atmosphere in one of the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco— book a table at Taksim (SOMA)
Taksim is where you go for seasonal, California-inspired take on traditional Balkan and Anatolian cuisine. Start with the Turkish manti dumplings or wood-fired flatbread, then move on to the grilled branzino or lamb chops. For dessert, the pistachio baklava is a must. Wines and cocktails are thoughtfully curated to match the food—expect options that nod to both the Mediterranean and California. The interior is sleek and warm, with golden lighting that makes it great for an intimate dinner.
For prime, aged steaks and Persian hospitality — try Arya Steakhouse (Palo Alto)
Arya Steakhouse blends a classic steakhouse experience with Persian warmth and hospitality. Executive chef Mike Hashemi leads the kitchen, where steaks are butchered in-house, halal, and aged for 28 days. The aged ribeye is a standout, but the menu also includes traditional Persian dishes like kebabs and stews. Expect warm hospitality and a richly decorated space filled with Persian art and tapestries—an ideal setting for both special occasions and casual nights out.
For a modern twist on Moroccan flavors and some of the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco — book a table at Aziza (Richmond District)
Aziza, a MICHELIN-recommended restaurant is where you go for modern Moroccan cuisine under the direction of acclaimed chef Mourad Lahlou. Standouts include chicken with preserved lemon, basteeya, and seasonal vegetable spreads. The cocktail list is inventive, often with a nod to North African ingredients. With dim lighting, sleek design, and attentive service, Aziza sets the scene for a sophisticated night out and holds its own among the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco.
From charcoal-grilled kebabs to Persian stews and Northern Iranian small plates, the Bay Area’s Middle Eastern dining scene is diverse and flavorful. Whether you’re planning a relaxed dinner or a special night out, these standout spots are ready to welcome you.
