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Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Columbus Circle

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15 restaurants available nearby

A photo of ilili restaurant
1. ilili
4.7
Exceptional(7988)
Price: Expensive
• Middle eastern • Gramercy Park
Booked 57 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.
A photo of Zou Zou's restaurant
2. Zou Zou's
4.6
Exceptional(1434)
Price: Expensive
• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen
Booked 59 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.
A photo of Balade restaurant
3. Balade
4.7
Exceptional(998)
Price: Moderate
• Middle eastern • East Village
Booked 7 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.
A photo of Gazala’s restaurant
4. Gazala’s
4.6
Exceptional(392)
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."
A photo of Shalel restaurant
5. Shalel
4.7
Exceptional(219)
Price: Very Expensive
• Middle eastern • Lincoln Square
Booked 15 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 Mesiba restaurant
6. Mesiba
4.7
Exceptional(17)
Price: Expensive
• Middle eastern • Williamsburg
Booked 5 times today
Mesiba features contemporary Levantine cuisine and innovative, vibrant cocktails in an electric and lively design-forward atmosphere to Williamsburg.
A photo of ABA Turkish Restaurant restaurant
7. ABA Turkish Restaurant
4.2
Awesome(729)
Price: Moderate
• Middle eastern • Midtown West
Booked 6 times today
Dive into the heart of Istanbul without leaving New York at ABA Turkish Restaurant, located in the vibrant Midtown West. Known for its authentic Turkish cuisine, ABA offers an unforgettable dining experience that transports you straight to Turkey with every bite. Guests rave about the "real Turkish food from real Turkish people," highlighting favorites like the Iskender kebap and Adana kebap, praised for their authenticity and generous portions. The atmosphere, described as "comfortable and warm," is just as inviting, making ABA a must-visit for both locals and tourists. According to a delighted diner, "The food was amazing! I was born and raised in Turkey so I know how the real deal tastes and this is the real deal." Whether you're craving a robust Eggplant Salad or a delicate Spinach Borek, ABA promises a taste of Turkey that's both genuine and delicious.
A photo of Local 92 - Soho restaurant
8. Local 92 - Soho
3.7
Very Good(213)
Price: Moderate
• Middle eastern • NoLita
Booked 2 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 Skinos restaurant
9. Skinos
4.6
Exceptional(179)
Price: Moderate
• Middle eastern • Financial District
Booked 14 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.
A photo of Sahara's Turkish Cuisine restaurant
10. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine
4.3
Awesome(94)
Price: Expensive
• 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.
‘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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