Unearth The Voyage
Mediterranean food brings together bold spices, smoky grills, fresh vegetables, and warm hospitality in every bite. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the sun-soaked hills of San Francisco, talented chefs are serving up incredible dishes inspired by Greece, Lebanon, Israel, Morocco, and Turkey. Whether you crave perfectly charred kebabs, silky hummus, or flaky pastries, these restaurants prove that a great Mediterranean meal is always worth the journey.
1. Zahav — Philadelphia, PA
Michael Solomonov’s groundbreaking restaurant took home the Outstanding Restaurant award at the 2019 James Beard Awards, cementing its place as one of America’s finest dining destinations. The menu celebrates modern Israeli cooking with an emphasis on smoky charcoal grilling and vibrant mezze spreads.
Every meal begins with the legendary laffa bread and impossibly smooth hummus—a combination so beloved that diners often order seconds. Grilled meats, seasonal vegetables, and creative small plates showcase Solomonov’s skill at balancing tradition with innovation.
Reservations fill up weeks in advance, but the experience is worth the planning. The warm, buzzing atmosphere and unforgettable flavors make Zahav a must-visit for anyone serious about Mediterranean cuisine.
2. Albi — Washington, DC
Chef Michael Rafidi earned a MICHELIN star for his stunning Levantine tasting menu, and in 2024, he was named Outstanding Chef at the James Beard Awards. His cooking draws on family recipes and Levantine traditions, reimagined with impeccable technique and local ingredients.
Each course tells a story, from delicate mezze to richly spiced mains that highlight the depth of Middle Eastern flavors. The wine pairings are thoughtful, and the service strikes the perfect balance between polished and welcoming.
Albi has quickly become one of DC’s most celebrated restaurants, attracting diners who appreciate creativity and cultural authenticity. If you’re looking for a meal that feels both elegant and deeply personal, this is it.
3. Maydan — Washington, DC
A roaring hearth anchors the dining room at Maydan, where flames kiss flatbreads, vegetables, and marinated meats throughout the evening. The MICHELIN Guide has recognized this restaurant with a star over multiple years, praising its bold flavors and theatrical presentation.
Diners gather around the fire to share spreads, grilled dishes, and freshly baked breads that arrive piping hot. The menu draws inspiration from the Caucasus, the Levant, and North Africa, creating a culinary journey that feels both ancient and exciting.
The energy is lively, the portions are generous, and the experience feels like a celebration. Maydan proves that cooking over fire is one of the oldest—and most delicious—ways to bring people together.
4. Zaytinya — Washington, DC
José Andrés opened Zaytinya years ago as a trailblazer for Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese mezze, and it remains a beloved destination for flavorful small plates. The MICHELIN Guide awarded it a Bib Gourmand, recognizing great food at approachable prices.
The menu is massive, offering everything from creamy tzatziki and crispy falafel to tender lamb kebabs and sweet baklava. Each dish is designed for sharing, encouraging diners to try a little bit of everything.
The bright, airy space feels welcoming whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner. Zaytinya introduced countless Americans to the joys of Mediterranean dining, and it still delivers every single time.
5. Galit — Chicago, IL
Zach Engel sources ingredients from Midwestern farms and transforms them using Middle Eastern techniques, earning Galit a MICHELIN star and the 2024 Sommelier Award. The result is cooking that feels both familiar and entirely new.
Dishes like roasted carrots with harissa and house-made pita with whipped feta highlight the beauty of simple ingredients treated with care. The wine program is exceptional, with pairings that elevate every course.
Galit has become one of Chicago’s most talked-about restaurants, drawing crowds who appreciate creativity, hospitality, and flavors that linger long after the meal ends. It’s proof that great Mediterranean food can thrive anywhere, even in the heart of the Midwest.
6. Andros Taverna — Chicago, IL
Near Logan Square, Andros Taverna serves polished Greek classics that have earned a recommendation from the MICHELIN Guide. The menu covers all the favorites—creamy spreads, flaky spanakopita, and perfectly grilled lamb chops.
The kitchen takes pride in sourcing quality ingredients and preparing everything with attention to detail. Each dish tastes like it came straight from a family kitchen in Greece, but with a refined presentation that makes the meal feel special.
The warm, inviting atmosphere makes Andros Taverna ideal for date nights or family gatherings. Whether you’re craving tender octopus or a hearty moussaka, this spot delivers authentic Greek flavors without the need for a plane ticket.
7. Bavel — Los Angeles, CA
Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis opened Bavel in the Arts District, and it quickly became one of L.A.’s hardest reservations to snag. The menu blends influences from across the Middle East, with dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Standouts include silky hummus topped with duck ‘nduja, smoky eggplant, and tender lamb neck shawarma. The flavors are bold, the portions are generous, and the vibe is effortlessly cool.
Even years after opening, Bavel remains a must-visit for anyone exploring L.A.’s dining scene. The combination of inventive cooking, warm hospitality, and buzzing energy makes every meal here feel like an event.
8. Kismet — Los Angeles, CA
Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson put vegetables front and center at Kismet, earning James Beard nominations and a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand mention. The L.A. Times has featured the restaurant on its 101 Best list multiple times.
The menu changes with the seasons, but you can always expect bright, creative dishes that make produce the star. Think charred broccoli with tangy yogurt, fluffy pita with herb-packed spreads, and salads that taste like sunshine.
The casual, neighborhood vibe makes Kismet feel like a local secret, even though it’s anything but. If you want Mediterranean-inflected cooking that celebrates California’s incredible produce, this is the place to go.
9. Laser Wolf — Brooklyn, NY
Perched atop the Hoxton hotel, Laser Wolf serves skewers, salatim, and stunning skyline views. The MICHELIN Guide recommends this Brooklyn outpost, which is the sister restaurant to the original Philly location.
The menu is built around smoky grilled meats and a rainbow of Israeli salads that arrive family-style. Each skewer is perfectly charred, and the salatim offer bright, tangy contrasts that keep every bite interesting.
The rooftop setting adds a special touch, especially on warm evenings when the city lights twinkle in the distance. Laser Wolf brings Israeli shipudiya traditions to New York with style, flavor, and a view that’s hard to beat.
10. Shukette — New York, NY
Ayesha Nurdjaja’s Shukette brings high-energy Levantine cooking to Chelsea, earning praise from The Infatuation and other trusted reviewers. The menu focuses on breads, dips, and live-fire flavors that feel vibrant and bold.
Freshly baked flatbreads arrive at the table with a selection of colorful spreads, from smoky baba ganoush to tangy labneh. Grilled dishes showcase Nurdjaja’s skill with fire, delivering charred, juicy bites that pack serious flavor.
The lively atmosphere makes Shukette perfect for groups who want to share plates and enjoy the energy of a busy New York night. It’s a spot where the food and the vibe come together to create something truly memorable.
11. Shaya — New Orleans, LA
Shaya won the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2016, introducing New Orleans to the joys of Israeli-influenced cooking. The Uptown favorite has remained a beloved destination ever since.
Wood-fired pita is the star here, arriving warm and pillowy alongside creamy hummus and smoky baba ganoush. The menu also features grilled meats, vibrant salads, and creative takes on traditional Israeli dishes.
The warm, welcoming atmosphere reflects the spirit of both New Orleans and Israeli hospitality. Shaya proves that great food can bridge cultures and bring people together, one delicious bite at a time.
12. Safta — Denver, CO
Alon Shaya brought his Israeli cooking to Denver with Safta, earning a recommendation from the MICHELIN Guide. The menu centers on wood-baked pita, mezze, and dishes that celebrate bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
The pita alone is worth the visit—fluffy, warm, and perfect for scooping up hummus, labneh, and other spreads. Grilled meats and seasonal vegetables round out the menu, offering something for everyone.
The bright, airy space feels inviting and comfortable, making Safta a great choice for both casual meals and special occasions. Denver’s dining scene is richer thanks to this thoughtful, delicious restaurant.
13. Mandolin Aegean Bistro — Miami, FL
Mandolin Aegean Bistro has been a beloved fixture in Miami’s Design District for years, earning a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and enduring acclaim. The Greek-Turkish menu is filled with classics that never go out of style.
The outdoor garden setting feels like a hidden oasis, with white-washed walls, lush greenery, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Dishes like grilled octopus, fresh salads, and flaky baklava are prepared with care and authenticity.
Mandolin’s charm lies in its simplicity and consistency. It’s the kind of place where you can escape the Miami heat, enjoy a leisurely meal, and feel like you’ve been transported to a seaside taverna in Greece.
14. Estiatorio Milos — Las Vegas, NV
Estiatorio Milos sets the benchmark for Greek seafood, with impeccable fish and produce displays that let diners choose their meal. The Venetian resort location brings this Mediterranean classic to the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.
The focus is on simplicity: fresh fish grilled to perfection, drizzled with olive oil and lemon, and served with seasonal vegetables. Every ingredient shines, proving that great cooking doesn’t need to be complicated.
The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make Milos a standout in a city known for over-the-top dining. If you want a taste of the Aegean without leaving Vegas, this is your spot.
15. Kokkari Estiatorio — San Francisco, CA
Kokkari Estiatorio has been a San Francisco favorite for years, earning recommendations from the MICHELIN Guide and frequent mentions among the city’s most-loved restaurants. The menu features fire-kissed Greek cooking and warm hospitality.
A wood-burning fireplace anchors the rustic dining room, where grilled meats, fresh seafood, and traditional Greek dishes take center stage. The flavors are bold, the portions are generous, and the atmosphere feels cozy and inviting.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a great meal, Kokkari delivers every time. It’s a San Francisco classic that continues to impress locals and visitors alike with its timeless approach to Greek cuisine.
16. Aziza — San Francisco, CA
Mourad Lahlou revived Aziza in San Francisco’s Richmond District, earning recommendations from the MICHELIN Guide for his refined Moroccan cooking. The menu is filled with dishes that balance tradition with creativity.
The basteeya—a flaky pastry filled with spiced meat and topped with powdered sugar—is legendary and not to be missed. Tagines, couscous, and grilled meats round out the menu, offering a full tour of Moroccan flavors.
The intimate dining room feels warm and welcoming, making Aziza perfect for a special night out. Lahlou’s cooking honors his heritage while showcasing his culinary talent, creating an experience that’s both comforting and unforgettable.
17. Zhug — Cleveland Heights, OH
Douglas Katz opened Zhug as a vibrant modern Middle Eastern mezze bar, and local critics quickly named it among Cleveland’s best. The menu is packed with colorful small plates designed for sharing and exploring.
From creamy hummus and smoky baba ganoush to crispy falafel and tender kebabs, every dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and bold spices. The casual, energetic vibe makes Zhug a great spot for a fun night out with friends.
Cleveland’s dining scene has been growing, and Zhug is a shining example of the city’s culinary creativity. If you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to experience Katz’s flavorful, exciting take on Middle Eastern cuisine.
18. Leila — Detroit, MI
Leila brings stylish modern Lebanese dining to Detroit’s Capitol Park, earning attention from The New York Times for its famous “Lebanese sundae.” The dessert—a playful twist on tradition—has become a signature dish that diners travel to try.
Beyond the sundae, the menu offers beautifully prepared Lebanese classics, from tender grilled meats to vibrant mezze spreads. The sleek, contemporary dining room feels sophisticated yet welcoming, making Leila a standout in Detroit’s revitalized downtown.
The restaurant represents the exciting energy of Detroit’s food scene, where chefs are pushing boundaries while honoring their roots. Leila is proof that great Lebanese cooking can thrive anywhere, even in the heart of the Midwest.
