Philadelphia is a city that is famous for its diverse and rich food culture. From pizza to cheesesteaks, it has something for everyone. But if you're looking for something different and flavorful, then you should try the Middle Eastern cuisine.
Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and unique flavors. Fortunately, Philadelphia has some of the best Middle Eastern restaurants that serve authentic and delicious dishes.
Whether you're looking for shawarma, hummus, or falafel, you'll find it all in Philadelphia. The city has a vibrant Middle Eastern community that has brought its culinary traditions to the city.
These restaurants offer a dining experience that is both delicious and culturally enriching. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, there's something for every taste and budget.
So, if you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or looking to try something new, then you're in the right place. In this blog post, we'll explore the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Philadelphia.
We'll cover everything from the food to the atmosphere, so you'll know exactly what to expect. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to experience the best Middle Eastern cuisine that Philadelphia has to offer.
1. Cilantro Mediterranean Cuisine
Cilantro Mediterranean Cuisine is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
The food is the real star of the show, with every dish bursting with flavor and perfectly seasoned. Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options to choose from.
The mixed grill is a great starter, while the chicken shawarma platter and lamb chops platter are both highly recommended.
For dessert, try the kanafeh, which is simply amazing. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, and the customer service is top-notch.
2. Alyan's Restaurant
Alyan's Restaurant is a Middle Eastern gem that offers high-quality and authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
The cozy back room provides a peaceful and lovely atmosphere to enjoy their delicious falafel and kabob sandwiches and platters.
The lentil soup is a must-try, and the tabbouleh is the best around. The service is attentive and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience.
Don't forget to bring your favorite beverage as it's BYOB. Alyan's Restaurant is a top-tier choice for those craving Middle Eastern food in the area.
3. Malooga
Malooga is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves authentic and delicious food.
The dishes are artfully prepared and the meat is tender. The staff is friendly and the service is good.
It is recommended to make a reservation beforehand to avoid a long wait time.
The restaurant offers both casual lunch experiences and nice dinners. Malooga is a great choice for those looking to try traditional Yemeni cuisine.
4. Paprica Grill
Paprica Grill is a hidden gem of a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers authentic Turkish cuisine.
The restaurant's chic space provides a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying Mediterranean favorites such as kebabs, falafels, wraps and more.
The staff is welcoming and attentive, treating customers like family. The food is fresh and tasty, with generous portions at reasonable prices.
Paprica Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious and authentic Turkish dining experience.
5. Villekebabs & platters
Villekebabs & platters is a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers delicious Afghan and Mediterranean cuisine.
The restaurant is clean, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The food is prepared fresh, and the spices and seasoning on the dishes are incredible.
The lamb and beef platter is a must-try and is served in generous portions. The eggplant appetizer is also highly recommended.
The indoor seating is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for lunch with friends or a date night. If you're looking for quality Halal food, Villekebabs & platters is the place to go.
6. Pita Chip
Pita Chip is a family-owned Middle Eastern restaurant that offers delicious Mediterranean fare with an American twist. The menu is easy to understand, and the staff is quick in getting the orders ready.
Customers can choose from pita wraps, salad bowls, and other options, and then pick their protein, including beef, chicken, falafel, and veggies.
The toppings are varied and tasty, with a hint of Buffalo tahini and plenty of garlic sauce. The portions are generous, and the prices are solid.
The restaurant also offers catering services and has a great loyalty program. Pita Chip is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a flavorful and healthy meal.
7. Bishos
Bishos is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. The atmosphere is authentic and inviting, with Arabic music and beautiful decor.
The lamb and beef dishes are a must-try, with a great selection of toppings included in the base price.
The portions are generous and the use of spices makes every dish flavorful. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, catering to both meat-eaters and vegans.
Bishos is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.
8. Zaffron Mediterranean Grill
Zaffron Mediterranean Grill is a Middle Eastern fast food restaurant that serves classic Mediterranean dishes like kebabs and gyros.
The restaurant is known for its delicious hummus and grilled chicken, which is always fresh. The staff is welcoming and observant, providing prompt service even when the restaurant is busy.
The location is in a mall food court, making it a convenient option for those looking for something different from the usual fast food chains.
The interior of the restaurant is cool and the menu offers a good selection of options. Zaffron Mediterranean Grill is a great spot to get Mediterranean-style food in a Chipotle/Qdoba format.
9. Kamals Middle Eastern Cuisine
Kamals Middle Eastern Cuisine offers delicious and authentic Mediterranean and Syrian food.
Their falafel, tahini, hummus, and lemonade are a must-try. Vegetarian options are available and highly recommended.
The smoothies are fresh and come in a variety of fruit combinations.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The restaurant is a great pit stop for a quick and tasty meal.
10. NAYA – Market St
NAYA – Market St is a contemporary Lebanese counter-serve restaurant that offers appetizers, rolls, bowls, and salads. The restaurant has a modern ambiance and friendly staff who provide excellent customer service.
The food is flavorful and fresh, with authentic Lebanese/Middle Eastern style lunch bowls served quickly at a decent price.
The restaurant also offers vegan and gluten-free options. The portions are generous, and the ingredients are of high quality. The lamb kebab and beef shawarma are highly recommended.
The restaurant is always packed, but the line moves quickly. NAYA – Market St is a great place to grab a quick and delicious meal in the city.
11. Al Zaytouna
Al Zaytouna is a Middle Eastern restaurant that is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes. The restaurant offers a variety of entrees, including kabobs, hummus, and Greek salad, all of which are generously portioned.
The atmosphere is cozy and the staff is friendly, creating a welcoming environment for customers.
The restaurant also offers delivery and catering services, making it a convenient option for those who want to enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine at home or for special events.
Al Zaytouna is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious and authentic Middle Eastern food.
12. Twenty Manning
Twenty Manning is a stylish eatery offering Middle Eastern cuisine. The food is fresh, flavorful, and skillfully prepared.
The atmosphere is cozy and warm with large open windows that give an outdoor feel. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu.
The wine and cocktail list is varied and interesting. The outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching.
The prices are reasonable given the quality of the food and the atmosphere. Twenty Manning is a must-visit for anyone looking for an upscale Middle Eastern dining experience.
13. Hummus Grill
Hummus Grill is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves up delicious Mediterranean fare.
With a broad variety of options on the menu, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The food is always fresh and cooked to perfection.
The portions are generous and reasonably priced, making it a great bang-for-your-buck option. The friendly staff provides impeccable customer service, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Whether you're in the mood for a sandwich or a platter, Hummus Grill is definitely worth a visit.
