New York City is known for its world-class dining scene, which ranges from glamorous MICHELIN-Starred restaurants to laid-back neighborhood favorites. When searching for the best Middle Eastern restaurant in NYC, you can find everything from Lebanese dishes in the East Village to family-style Turkish cooking in Midtown West and Mediterranean-inspired menus on the Upper West Side.
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Read on to discover 10 of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in NYC.
For family-inspired Druze dishes in a cozy neighborhood spot — book a spot at Gazala’s (Upper West Side)
Gazala’s was founded in 2007 by Gazala Halabi, who brings her Druze Mediterranean heritage to this intimate NYC destination. The restaurant’s flavor-packed menu is built around family-inspired Druze recipes and includes an array of salads, accompanied by hot mezze dishes and mains such as kebabs. Gazala’s is known as a neighborhood gem for its phenomenal cooking and welcoming vibe.
For Levantine cuisine in an elegant atmosphere — book a spot at Caffe Zaffri (Union Square)
Located in The Twenty Two New York hotel and private club, Caffe Zaffri is an elegant, all-day spot for Middle Eastern food in NYC. Standouts on the Levantine-influenced menu include skewer service (get the cabbage and striped bass), the signature chicken liver mousse, and sweet mezze for two. Pair your meal with a glass of Middle Eastern wine or cocktail with ingredients like pistachio and saffron, then linger in the stylish dining room with plush, curved booths and red marble accents.
For eastern Mediterranean in a sophisticated space— book a reservation at Zou Zou’s (Hell’s Kitchen)
Chef Juliana Latif is an alum of the city’s top restaurants, and her pedigree shines at Zou Zou’s, her chic eastern Mediterranean brasserie in Manhattan Plaza. The menu stars shareable dishes like traditional spreads, Moroccan fried chicken for two, and Zou Zou’s signature duck borek, all served in a stunning space wrapped in seafoam green tile with cherry red banquettes. Don’t miss Chez Zou, the restaurant’s equally swanky upstairs lounge.
For Mediterranean flavors from a celebrated chef at one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in NYC — reserve a place at Zaytinya (NoMad)
The NYC outpost of José Andrés’ Zaytinya anchors the NoMad Ritz-Carlton. Come for the elegant Mediterranean hits like spreads, mezze, and family-style dishes like whole lamb shoulder and a kebab platter that make the restaurant a top spot for groups. To sample the best of the menu, opt for the chef’s tasting experience. With dramatic archways and lush greenery, the interiors are as show-stopping as the food.
For innovative dishes at a best Middle Eastern restaurant in NYC — reserve a place at Dagon (Upper West Side)
Dagon‘s name means “from somewhere in the Mediterranean,” and the restaurant’s compact menu is a showcase for modern Israeli cuisine with Levantine influences. Dishes range from small plates like hummus and flash-fried cauliflower to heartier mains like harissa BBQ chicken and dry-aged beef kebabs with house-made harissa. Enjoy them in the cheery, foliage-filled space with an open kitchen.
For laid-back Lebanese in one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in NYC — head to Balade (East Village)
The East Village‘s laid-back vibe defines Balade, a neighborhood spot known for standout Lebanese dishes. Settle into the cozy, wood-filled interior for a feast of more than twenty mezze options including hummus, sambousik, baba ghanouj, and jwaneh (chargrilled chicken wings). Made-for-sharing platters and pita pizzas make Balade a great destination for large groups. Don’t miss the popular bottomless brunch.
For contemporary Levantine cuisine in a fun and lively environment — book a reservation at Mesiba (Williamsburg)
At Mesiba inside Williamsburg’s chic Moxy Hotel, chef Eli Buli serves up updated takes on Levantine dishes. The menu features traditional favorites like baba ganoush and kreplach along with modern dishes like tuna belly with black lime dust. The sophisticated, plant-filled space is a favorite for weekend brunch starring shakshuka, the cult-favorite schnitzel, and breakfast drinks like mimosas.
For innovative Lebanese cuisine in one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in NYC — book a table at ilili (Gramercy Park)
A strong contender for the best Middle Eastern restaurant in NYC, ilili draws crowds for its modern Lebanese menu and impressive interior design. The dining room is adorned with geometric wood paneling, creating a warm and chic setting for dishes like lamb chops with labneh yogurt foam and halibut in pistachio beurre blanc. Add in a pitch-perfect, Lebanese-leaning wine list, and it’s easy to see why this remains one of the best restaurants in Gramercy Park.
For stellar coastal Mediterranean food in a romantic setting — book a table at Shalel (Lincoln Square)
For a sophisticated date night spot head to Shalel. The subterranean location screams romance, complete with a candlelit, exposed-brick dining room filled with rich fabrics and textures. The menu features crowd-pleasing Middle Eastern classics like shakshuka and lamb kofta tagine, while dishes like moussaka and jamón serrano croquetas reflect the restaurant’s Greek and Spanish influences.
For top Turkish cooking in a laid-back favorite — book your group’s reservation at ABA Turkish Restaurant (Midtown West)
ABA Turkish Restaurant is beloved for its casual ambiance and deep menu of Turkish and Mediterranean classics. Come for the Turkish breakfast feast or the dinner menu, loaded with salads, appetizers, and mains like lamb shank, chicken chops, and kebabs, plus plenty of vegetarian options. A neighborhood staple since 2010, the restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in NYC.
New York’s reputation as a hub for world-class dining means there are several options for the best Middle Eastern food in NYC. When you book at a best Middle Eastern restaurant in NYC, you’ll find everything from casual Turkish spots to glam Levantine destinations.
