Middle Eastern cuisine has become one of America’s most beloved food categories — and for good reason. From smoky shawarma and crispy falafel to silky hummus and flaky baklava, these restaurants are winning over diners coast to coast. Here’s a look at the top-rated Middle Eastern spots across the country, curated from thousands of real Yelp reviews.
1. Papa Marcos Grill And Kabob — Waukegan, IL
What they’re known for:
Gyros Plate, Falafel Wrap, Gyros Wrap, Baba Ghanouj, Hummus Lamb Shawerma Plate
Yelpers say:
Absolutely recommended with 5 stars! I heard about this restaurant from TikTok as it is rated the #1 restaurant in Lake County, and now I see why! We stopped in for some lunch. We were greeted by owner Marlene, who is absolutely wonderful. We placed our order and got some fresh lemon water. I ordered the lunch special Chicken and Gyro plate, and he ordered the Lamb Kabob Plate. While we waited for the food, we chatted with Marlene, and we were given some baklava (love that stuff). My goodness, the aroma coming from my plate was so good. The meats were cooked to perfection, and the vegetables were just right. He told Marlene that was not his first choice for food, but this meal changed his mind. The pitas and sauces were delicious as well. The presentation is nice, and portion sizes are large. I brought some home. I feel so bad because I forgot to tip, which is crazy for us. But, this just means we have to return soon and give a large tip. Don’t skip trying this place. You won’t be disappointed! Closed on Sunday, so plan accordingly.
– Angela B.
2. Jafra Mediterranean Restaurant — St. Peters, MO
What they’re known for:
Baklava, Chicken Shawarma, Jafra Mixed Grill, Kibbeh, Stuffed Meat Pies, Stuffed Spinach Pies, Shish Tawook, Beef Shawarma Plate, Chicken Shawarma Sandwich, Falafel Sandwich
Yelpers say:
First time patron, wasnt sure what to expect, but we were absolutely blown away! Every course and every dish was delectable from start to end! The waitress was very kind and attentive, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting, it felt like i was eating at an old friend’s place. If I had to give a recommendation for a new experience, it will always be this place!
– Kyle A.
3. Z&Z — Rockville, MD
What they’re known for:
Lebanese Bride, Hot Halaby Honey, Toum Raider, Lahm Bi Ajeen, Chicken Shawarma Manoushe, Labneh, Harissa Chicken Manoushe, Classic Manoushe, Karak, Aleppo
Yelpers say:
Delicious! Love it here, the Hot Halaby Honey is outstanding and the key lime pie is one of the best I’ve ever had! Please go and support this family owned establishment, they’re lovely and their curation and creation of this space is so thoughtful.
– Lara A.
4. Casa De Falafel — Glendale, AZ
What they’re known for:
Lentil Soup, Falafel Sandwich, Chicken Shawarma Sandwich, Beef Shawarma Plate, Beef Shawarma Sandwich, Falafel Plate, Falafel Tacos, Falafel Wrap, Chicken Schwarma Pita, Beef Saj Plate
Yelpers say:
Can I give this place more than five stars?? Because they deserve it. This is an order-at-the-counter kind of place. The gentleman working noticed us studying the menu and was extremely helpful, even offering a few sample bites before we decided. We ended up getting a chicken wrap, a falafel wrap, hummus and baklava. Hands down, the falafel was my favorite. I asked for the orange hot sauce on the side and it was fantastic. Definitely spicy though so be careful if that isn’t your thing. The falafel was flavorful and moist. The wrap came with lettuce, tomato, pickle, cucumber and sauce inside a tortilla, then grilled. Absolutely perfect. Fresh and delicious. My partner’s chicken was also great. Fewer vegetables than on the falafel wrap. The chicken meat was super juicy and perfectly seasoned. Both meals came with a soup that was a nice addition. But people… hear me out…. The baklava. SO. FREAKING GOOD. Perfectly flaky and the right amount of sweetness. We added it on as an impulse buy while we paid and it ended up being the star of the show. I sincerely can’t wait to go back. Thank you for a great meal!
– Emily B.
5. Fast Eddy’s Quick Mideast — Jacksonville, FL
Yelpers say:
the service was amazing, the staff was very kind. The food was very good and was full of flavor, especially the butger. Oh man it was juicy. The vibe of fast eddies is really nice and calm. This place rips.
– Leonardo G.
6. Wally’s Cafe — Rocklin, CA
What they’re known for:
Lentil Soup, Chicken Shawarma, Beef Lamb Gyro, Chicken Lamb Kabobs, Lamb Kabob Plate, Chicken Kabob Plate, Beef Shawarma Plate, Pomegranate Chicken, Combo Plate, Gyro Wrap
Yelpers say:
Everything was beyond exceptional. All the employees are super friendly and attentive. The restaurant itself was clean and the atmosphere was perfect for our party with little kiddos. We were visiting from Las Vegas and the food is way better than what we have had. This place was one of the highlights from our three day trip!
– Joy B.
7. Aviva by Kameel — Atlanta, GA
Yelpers say:
If you’re looking for fresh, authentic Mediterranean food in Downtown Atlanta, Aviva by Kameel inside the HUB Peachtree Food Court is a must-visit! From the moment I walked in, Kameel made me feel welcome. His energy is contagious, and he genuinely engages with every customer, making everyone feel like family rather than just another order. That level of hospitality is hard to find and really sets this place apart. I ordered their best-selling Chicken Shawarma Wrap, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. The halal, hormone-free chicken breast was perfectly seasoned with Turkish spices, grilled with sweet white onions, and wrapped with creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, fresh cabbage salad, tabouli, and tahini in their homemade wrap. Every bite was packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, and the portion was surprisingly generous. For dessert, I couldn’t resist the Pistachio Baklava, and I’m glad I didn’t. The flaky filo layers were filled with pistachios and lightly sweetened with organic maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Combined with 100% olive oil and a hint of rose water, it was rich without being overly sweet and made for the perfect ending to the meal. What I also appreciate is Aviva’s commitment to quality and healthy eating. They cook exclusively with 100% extra virgin olive oil, use halal, hormone- and antibiotic-free meats, fresh local produce, and avoid processed ingredients. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options while taking care to prevent cross-contamination, making it an inclusive place for people with different dietary needs. The restaurant itself is clean, organized, and inviting. While the prices are a little higher than some food court options, the quality of the ingredients, generous portions, outstanding service, and incredible flavors make it well worth every dollar. If you’re in Downtown Atlanta and craving Mediterranean cuisine, Aviva by Kameel is definitely worth a visit. Great food, generous portions, warm hospitality, and a dining experience that keeps you coming back. Highly recommended!
– Kiran T.
8. Aladdin Market & Grill — Miami, FL
What they’re known for:
Kibbeh, Kanafeh, Gyro Platter, Combo Platter, Baba Ghanoush, Lamb Ribs Platter, Lentil Soup, Falafel Platter, Labneh
Yelpers say:
WOW!! I have never had a Shawarma this good!! I had the mixed shawarma and was was delicious to the last bite, definitely coming back
– Elijah’sProjectProphecy
9. De Babel — Scottsdale, AZ
What they’re known for:
Chicken Shawarma Sandwich, Chopped Salad, Gyro Sandwich, Falafel Sandwich, Chicken Tawook Sandwich, Tawook Plates, Fried Cauliflower Salad, Baba Ganoush, Lentil Soup, Fattoush Salad
Yelpers say:
Phenomenal food with even better service. Cashier down to the cooks will help you find the right meal, fresh flavors and great tasting. Highly recommend.
– Jack D.
10. Sam’s Mediterranean Deli & Catering — Rohnert Park, CA
What they’re known for:
Falafel Wrap, Lamb Beef Gyro Wrap, Chicken Shawarma, Greek Salad, Shawarma Plate, Falafel Plate, BBQ Chicken Wrap, Falafel Shawarma, Beef Shawarma Wrap, Tzatziki
Yelpers say:
I hired Sam to cater a Bridal Luncheon this past weekend. Not only the food was yummy! but Sam is very easy to work with, he is friendly, flexible, and very generous. I highly recommend him!!
– Maria S.
Whether you’re a shawarma devotee, a hummus enthusiast, or just discovering Middle Eastern food for the first time, these restaurants prove that this cuisine is thriving across every corner of the United States. Find one near you and dive in — you won’t be disappointed.
