Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Governors Island

16 restaurants available nearby

1. ilili

4.7

Exceptional(8019)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Gramercy Park

Booked 89 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. Zou Zou's

4.6

Exceptional(1473)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 126 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.

3. Balade

4.7

Exceptional(1005)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • East Village

Booked 8 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.

4. Skinos

4.6

Exceptional(193)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Financial District

Booked 56 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.

5. Mesiba

4.7

Exceptional(21)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Williamsburg

Booked 9 times today

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

6. Local 92 - Soho

4.4

Awesome(222)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • NoLita

Booked 8 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.

A photo of Sahara's Turkish Cuisine restaurant

7. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

4.3

Awesome(97)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Kips Bay

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

8. 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.

9. Turkish Cuisine

4.6

Exceptional(419)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 1 time today

At Turkish Cuisine in Hell's Kitchen, New York, diners rave about an authentic Mediterranean experience that "can't be beat." Guests often feel as though they've been whisked away to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, with dishes that transport you directly to Turkey. The menu's highlights include "highly sought after" donor kebabs and a Turkish coffee that customers eagerly return for. Fresh vegetables accompany every dish, ensuring a healthy and flavorful meal. Glowing reviews consistently mention the "explosion of new flavors" and the "authentic" atmosphere enhanced by traditional decor. This restaurant is a favorite for both pre and post-theater dining, making it a beloved gem in the Theater District. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Turkish Cuisine promises a delightful Mediterranean feast that's as close as you can get to Turkey without boarding a plane.

10. Gazala’s

4.5

Awesome(395)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Upper West Side

Booked 10 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."

‘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.

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Governors Island

Middle eastern

Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Governors Island

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16 restaurants available nearby

1. ilili

2. Zou Zou's

3. Balade

4. Skinos

5. Mesiba

6. Local 92 - Soho

7. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

8. NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine

9. Turkish Cuisine

10. Gazala’s

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