Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Lower East Side

16 restaurants available nearby

1. ilili

4.7

Exceptional(8016)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Gramercy Park

Booked 80 times today

Welcome to ilili, where the heart of Lebanon pulses through the vibrant streets of Gramercy Park, NYC. This beloved establishment celebrates the rich tapestry of Mediterranean cuisine with a menu that honors traditional flavors while embracing contemporary innovation. Guests rave about the freshness and authenticity, noting that ilili offers "the best overall Lebanese food experience I have ever had" and consistently "phenomenal Lebanese food." From the divine mezze selections to the fragrant fresh pita, every dish is a testament to meticulous culinary craftsmanship. Ilili's atmosphere is as inviting as its dishes, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of New York.

2. Balade

4.7

Exceptional(1002)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • East Village

Booked 11 times today

At Balade in the East Village, New York, the essence of Lebanese cuisine is brought to life through a symphony of authentic flavors and a warm, inviting ambiance. Specializing in Lebanese dishes, Balade's reputation is well-established, highlighted by accolades such as “Best Middle Eastern on Zagat 2015-2016” and multiple “Diners Choice Winner” awards from OpenTable. Patrons rave about the quality and authenticity, with reviews praising not just the food but the overall experience - “The food is to die for, fresh authentic and delish!” and “The hummus is better than the one in Lebanon for sure.” Whether it's the perfectly seasoned shish tawook or the warm, freshly baked pita, Balade offers an unforgettable Lebanese dining experience right in the heart of New York.

3. Zou Zou's

4.6

Exceptional(1461)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 101 times today

Zou Zou’s in Hell's Kitchen stands out as a gem of Mediterranean cuisine, where Chef Juliana Latif brings to life the vibrant flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean. With a culinary heritage touching Lebanon, Israel, Turkey, Egypt, Syria, and Jordan, Zou Zou’s offers a menu that is both authentic and inventive. Diners rave about the experience, with one noting, "The food is some of the best Mediterranean I've had," and another celebrating the "tower of dips" as a must-have. Located in the bustling Manhattan West Plaza, it’s the perfect spot for anyone seeking a lively atmosphere and "flavorful and different" dishes that consistently impress, making every visit memorable. Whether it’s a brunch with endless spritz kits or a dinner with a chef’s tasting menu, Zou Zou’s delivers an exceptional NYC dining experience.

4. Local 92 - Soho

4.5

Awesome(221)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • NoLita

Booked 10 times today

Local 92 in Soho is a celebrated gem for Mediterranean cuisine, particularly noted for its Italian-Israeli offerings. Situated in the vibrant NoLita neighborhood, this mixology bar and restaurant delivers an authentic Mediterranean experience with dishes like the highly praised shashuka and Israeli platter. Patrons rave about the quality and flavor, describing it as “absolutely amazing” and the place where you can “celebrate a lot of family events.” The ambiance, combined with expertly crafted cocktails and attentive service, makes Local 92 a standout. As one reviewer puts it, the place has a “dynamite ambiance,” and the tapas are “to die for,” making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Mediterranean fare in the heart of New York.

5. Mesiba

4.7

Exceptional(21)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Williamsburg

Booked 6 times today

Mesiba features contemporary Levantine cuisine and innovative, vibrant cocktails in an electric and lively design-forward atmosphere to Williamsburg.

6. Skinos

4.6

Exceptional(192)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Financial District

Booked 44 times today

Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Skinos in New York's Financial District, where the rich flavors and creative takes on traditional dishes have diners raving. Celebrating a decade of culinary excellence, Skinos offers a menu that includes "delicious" Mediterranean staples such as the praised crazy feta and exquisite seafood like the "bomb" sea bass. Patrons are consistently impressed, describing the food as "exquisitely beautiful" with "outstanding" presentations. The vibrant ambiance, coupled with attentive service, makes Skinos a top choice for both locals and visitors. One diner summed it up perfectly: "Amazing food and service. Beautiful spot to take pictures." Skinos is the go-to destination for an authentic Mediterranean dining experience.

7. Gazala’s

4.6

Exceptional(395)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Upper West Side

Booked 6 times today

Gazala’s Restaurant is the creation of Chef/Owner Gazala Halabi, who celebrates her culinary heritage as an Israeli Druze. Hospitality is a Druze hallmark—guests are embraced and welcomed with a flavorful meal. Says Gazala, “I want my restaurant to be a place to eat Druze food, to sample Druze culture and be treated like family. It is a little slice of my village on Amsterdam Avenue."

8. Shalel

4.7

Exceptional(234)

Price: Very Expensive

• Middle eastern • Lincoln Square

Booked 10 times today

At Shalel, located in the heart of Lincoln Square, New York, diners are treated to an enchanting Middle Eastern culinary journey that is both authentic and sublime. Since its inception in 2000, Shalel has captivated guests with its meticulously crafted dishes that echo the rich flavors of the Middle East. The ambiance, described as "a cozy underground Mediterranean gem," enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Guests rave about the "charming spot with authentic, tasty dishes!" and commend the excellent service and atmosphere. Whether it's the broccolini salad, babaganoush, or the lamb kofta tagine, each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, ensuring a delightful and genuine taste of Middle Eastern cuisine. Shalel is not just a meal; it's a sensory adventure that's "100% worth the visit."

A photo of Sahara's Turkish Cuisine restaurant

9. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

4.3

Awesome(96)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Kips Bay

Booked 1 time today

Sahara's Turkish Cuisine in Kips Bay, New York, is a culinary gem that brings the essence of Mediterranean flavors to life with a distinctly Turkish twist. Celebrated for its authentic dishes, Sahara's offers a cozy ambiance that echoes the vibrant spirit of Turkey, enhanced by multi-ethnic decor that transports diners straight to the Mediterranean coast. Guests rave about the "seriously delicious" food and "incredible service," highlighting specialties like the lamb shank and hunkar begendi. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Sahara's is lauded for its "amazing Turkish food" and generous portions that ensure a satisfying dining experience. The homemade bread and Aegean olives are just the beginning of what promises to be a delightful culinary journey.

A photo of NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine restaurant

10. NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine

4.7

Exceptional(20)

Price: Very Expensive

• Middle eastern • NoMad

Booked 2 times today

Discover the exquisite charm of modern Turkish cuisine at NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine, nestled in the vibrant NoMad neighborhood of New York City. Celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional flavors, NAR offers a culinary journey that both surprises and delights. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one diner proclaiming it the "best Turkish restaurant in Manhattan!" From the succulent Nar kebab to the divine kunefe, each dish is a masterpiece. The atmosphere is equally praised, described as "cozy and inviting," perfect for both romantic evenings and festive gatherings. Experience why NAR is not just a meal, but a celebration of rich, Mediterranean flavors.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

G
Geysha
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
I went for my birthday and had the best time, would go back for another special occasion. Beautiful decor, very clean and detailed all throughout the restaurant. I would recommend calling for your reservation to ensure better seating but everything was seamless about the reservation process. As for food also amazing, HUGE portions and STRONG drinks so definitely worth the price. I don’t remember the names but our servers but they were amazing and attentive as well as their in house photographer who took gorgeous pics. For a party of three the total came to be around 475 including tax and tip so with everything considered, it turned out to be a great value for the time that we had. 10/10
More info
SkinosPrice: Moderate• Greek• Financial District
•
4.6
N
Nicole
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Food was great, came out quick, and our server was wonderful!
More info
Local 92 - SohoPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• NoLita
•
4.5
A
Ansley
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Our server Grace D was phenomenal. Her honesty in suggesting an app over a main dish based on the portion size and similar flavors was already a great start. From the minute we got our apps to main dishes, there was no gap in how efficient the staff was. We practically didn’t have to wait for the food once it started coming. The flavors were great. I highly recommend the MAKANEK as starter. It wasn’t what I had expected, but it’s already going to be must when we come again. At the end of the meal, she surprised us with a small treat, making the entire experience great. I hope we get Grace again!
More info
BaladePrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• East Village
•
4.7
T
TimothyVIP
New York City •186 reviews
4.0
Dined on Dec 15, 2024
Delicious food, large number of typical Turkish dishes, great selection of Raki and wines. Very enjoyable!
More info
Sahara's Turkish CuisinePrice: Moderate• Turkish• Kips Bay
•
4.3
OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles •2 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 29, 2024
Great overall experience!! Good food, better staff.
More info
NAR Modern Turkish CuisinePrice: Very Expensive• Turkish• NoMad
•
4.7

Explore OpenTable

Lower East Side

Middle eastern

Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Lower East Side

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

16 restaurants available nearby

1. ilili

2. Balade

3. Zou Zou's

4. Local 92 - Soho

5. Mesiba

6. Skinos

7. Gazala’s

8. Shalel

9. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

10. NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable