Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Morningside Heights

16 restaurants available nearby

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.

2. Zou Zou's

4.6

Exceptional(1434)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 58 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. 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."

4. 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 Lulu Mediterranean Grill - Edgewater restaurant

5. Lulu Mediterranean Grill - Edgewater

4.2

Awesome(13)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Cliffside Park

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 ABA Turkish Restaurant restaurant

6. 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 Sahara's Turkish Cuisine restaurant

7. 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.

A photo of Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine restaurant

8. Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine

4.4

Awesome(2)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Edgewater

Booked 1 time today

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.

A photo of Zikrayat Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

9. Zikrayat Restaurant & Lounge

new

(0)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Astoria

Welcome to Zikrayat Restaurant. Astoria, Queens. Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and Live entertainment. We look forward to seeing you!

10. Turkish Cuisine

4.6

Exceptional(415)

Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 3 times 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.

‘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

T
Thomas
New York City •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
This place is an upper west side gem - ambiance, service and food !!! We make this a staple every time we visit to NYC
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ShalelPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Lincoln Square
•
4.7
L
Lisavip
New York City •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Everything we ordered was very flavorful. The shawarma hummus was amazing. The chicken was extremely moist. Portion sizes were very generous, so share an entree or be prepared to have extra to take home.
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Gazala’sPrice: Moderate• Middle Eastern• Upper West Side
•
4.6
J
Jeffreyvip
New York City •85 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
A very enjoyable experience at ABA Turkish. A wide selection of appetizers and main dishes made it a bit difficult to choose but everything we ordered was fresh and hot. We tried both the pistachio and walnut baklavas for dessert and favored the sweeter pistachio. The wine list is limited, but the fact that you can bring your own bottle - without corkage - solved that issue nicely. Definitely a restaurant that we will keep on our radar, even with the somewhat noisy atmosphere (even at the early 5:30 hour - on a Saturday - that we arrived).
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ABA Turkish RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Turkish• Midtown West
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4.2
I
IRA
New York City •16 reviews
5.0
Dined on Sep 28, 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!!
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Tosun Mediterranean CuisinePrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Edgewater
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4.4
M
Marthavip
Tampa / Central Florida West •98 reviews
5.0
Dined on Aug 16, 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

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Morningside Heights

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Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Morningside Heights

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16 restaurants available nearby

1. ilili

2. Zou Zou's

3. Gazala’s

4. Shalel

5. Lulu Mediterranean Grill - Edgewater

6. ABA Turkish Restaurant

7. Sahara's Turkish Cuisine

8. Tosun Mediterranean Cuisine

9. Zikrayat Restaurant & Lounge

10. Turkish Cuisine

See what locals rave about

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