Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Washington Heights

15 restaurants available nearby

1. Gazala’s

4.6

Exceptional(391)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Upper West Side

Booked 23 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."

A photo of Lulu Mediterranean Grill - Edgewater restaurant

2. Lulu Mediterranean Grill - Edgewater

4.2

Awesome(13)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Cliffside Park

Booked 1 time today

Lulu Mediterranean Grill in Edgewater is a beacon of Middle Eastern cuisine, where each dish sings with authenticity and quality. Patrons rave about the "absolutely delicious" food, highlighting the Adana kebab and lamb shish as must-tries. The atmosphere is described as both relaxing and vibrant, perfect for enjoying traditional flavors with a modern twist. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive service and the welcoming environment, with one guest noting, "Dining at this restaurant is truly a delightful experience!" Whether you're there for the flavorful hookah or the exquisite mezze platter, Lulu Mediterranean Grill promises a memorable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.

A photo of Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine restaurant

3. Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine

4.3

Awesome(2)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Edgewater

Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Edgewater, is a gem for those seeking authentic Middle Eastern delights. Renowned for combining traditional Turkish dishes with modern culinary techniques, Tosun offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests rave about the "delicious Turkish food" and the "shepherd salad and Turkish tea" that make you feel like you're "having breakfast in the heart of Istanbul." With a menu celebrated for its high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, Tosun ensures every dish from the lentil soup to the Turkish Breakfast is a testament to Middle Eastern gastronomy. Patrons consistently praise the restaurant for its "friendly staff" and "cozy but spacious ambiance," making it a must-visit for an authentic taste of the Middle East right in Edgewater.

4. ilili

4.7

Exceptional(7983)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Gramercy Park

Booked 120 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.

5. Zou Zou's

4.6

Exceptional(1431)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 120 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.

6. Balade

4.7

Exceptional(998)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • East Village

Booked 19 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.

7. Shalel

4.8

Exceptional(217)

Price: Very Expensive

• Middle eastern • Lincoln Square

Booked 16 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."

8. Mesiba

4.7

Exceptional(14)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Williamsburg

Booked 3 times today

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

9. Local 92 - Soho

3.6

Very Good(213)

Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • NoLita

Booked 5 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

10. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

4.3

Awesome(94)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Kips Bay

Booked 6 times 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.

‘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

OT
OpenTable Diner
New York City •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 16 Nov 2024
Unique delicious and memorable! One of my favorite restaurants in NY. A hidden gem.
More info
ShalelPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Lincoln Square
•
4.8
K
Kate
New York City •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 12 Nov 2024
Fabulous dining experience! Excellent service, attentive without intruding, and our appetizer and entrees were delicious! Unfortunately we didn’t have room for dessert, next time! We thought it was BYOB but then saw other diners ordering glasses of wine, so I would clarify that before our next visit. Which will be soon!!
More info
ABA Turkish RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Turkish• Midtown West
•
4.2
L
Limor
New York City •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 10 Nov 2024
What a gem in NYC! Great food, fun atmosphere, delicious drinks. It is loud so not a place to go if you're looking for quiet conversation. Staff is friendly. Highly recommend!
More info
Gazala’sPrice: Moderate• Middle Eastern• Upper West Side
•
4.6
I
IRA
New York City •16 reviews
5.0
Dined on 28 Sept 2024
What a find!! In a small strip-type mall on River Road in Edgewater, Tosun checks every box. The food is authentic Middle Eastern, of high quality and tremendous value. A four kebab platter for two with sides and bread and bread and salad was just $85 and there was enough left for lunch for two the next day!! It's BYOB, so there's even more savings there. Highly recommended!!
More info
Tosun Mediterranean CuisinePrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Edgewater
•
4.3
M
Marthavip
Tampa / Central Florida West •98 reviews
5.0
Dined on 16 Aug 2024
This is the place on the Hudson/Bergen Gold Coast. The ambience is wonderful, from entering via the parking lot of an auto-body repair shop to eating outdoors next to a palisades cliff with lush vegetation and fauna. The lunch menu provided ample, well-made servings and a wide selection. We've been here before and find this place still alluring.
More info
Lulu Mediterranean Grill - EdgewaterPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Cliffside Park
•
4.2

Explore OpenTable

Washington Heights

Middle eastern

Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Washington Heights

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

15 restaurants available nearby

1. Gazala’s

2. Lulu Mediterranean Grill - Edgewater

3. Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine

4. ilili

5. Zou Zou's

6. Balade

7. Shalel

8. Mesiba

9. Local 92 - Soho

10. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable