Los Angeles is known for its diverse food scene, with Middle Eastern cuisine being a prominent player.
From falafel wraps to shawarma, Los Angeles offers a range of Middle Eastern dishes that satisfy any craving. But with so many options, it can be difficult to choose the best spot to indulge in these flavors.
Fear not, as we've curated a list of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Los Angeles.
These restaurants not only offer authentic Middle Eastern dishes, but they also provide a unique dining experience that transports you to the heart of the Middle East.
Whether you're a fan of hummus, kebabs, or baklava, these restaurants have got you covered.
You'll find yourself indulging in dishes that are rich in flavor, spices, and textures – all while enjoying the warm hospitality that is characteristic of Middle Eastern culture.
So, let's dive into the world of Middle Eastern cuisine and discover the best restaurants that Los Angeles has to offer.
Get ready to feast on delicious dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
1. Bavel
Bavel is a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers an amazing food experience. The menu is small but carefully curated, allowing each dish to shine.
The restaurant has a great ambiance and decor, with a friendly and efficient waitstaff. The food is delicious and exquisitely prepared with attention to detail.
The grilled prawns and slow-roasted lamb neck shawarma are highly recommended. The wine selection is also very good and pairs well with the food offerings.
The only small complaint is that the music doesn't match the ambiance and vibe. Bavel is a must-try place for anyone looking for exceptional Middle Eastern cuisine.
2. Anwar's Kitchen
Anwar's Kitchen is a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers authentic Palestinian cuisine. Their focus is on beef, chicken, gyro, and falafel plates, wraps, tacos, and Anwar's Choice.
The food is well-prepared, seasoned perfectly, and cooked just right. The staff is accommodating and welcoming, making customers feel at ease.
The restaurant is clean, modern, and offers indoor and outdoor seating. Prices are reasonable, and the hibiscus tea is a must-try.
If you're in the area and looking for delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern eats, Anwar's Kitchen is the place to go.
3. Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown LA
Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown LA offers delicious Mediterranean and Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. The food is always fresh and tasty, and the portions are generous.
The restaurant has a clean and family-friendly environment, with patio seating available. The servers are friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is relaxed.
The kabobs are a must-try, and the chicken pesto panini and banana bread pudding are also highly recommended.
The hummus and pita bread are delicious, and almost every dish contains avocado. Indoor seating can be limited during busy hours, but the wait is worth it for the delicious food.
4. Bowery Bungalow
If you're looking for a unique dining experience with a fusion of North African and Mediterranean flavors, Bowery Bungalow is the place to be.
With a cozy and eclectic interior design, this restaurant offers a great ambiance for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. The menu is diverse, featuring vegetarian options, meat dishes, and seafood.
The service is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Be sure to try the spiced harissa potatoes and the shishka spiced tenderloin, both highly recommended by diners.
Bowery Bungalow also offers brunch, which is a must-try. Although street parking is the only option, it's worth the effort to dine at this hidden gem.
5. Chell Sotoon Grill
Chell Sotoon Grill is a hidden gem that serves outstanding Persian food.
With free parking available, it's an ideal spot for family and friends events. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the food is fresh and flavorful.
The chicken kabob with barberry rice is a must-try. The restaurant also offers belly dancing shows on weekends, adding to the overall experience.
Highly recommended for those looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
6. California Kabob Kitchen
California Kabob Kitchen is a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers a simple setup with a focus on kebabs.
The food is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The portions are generous, making it a great option for a filling meal or a quick lunch break. The restaurant also offers delivery, making it convenient for those who can't make it to the location.
If you're in the mood for some delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, California Kabob Kitchen is definitely worth checking out.
7. Mirage Grill
Mirage Grill is a hidden gem of a Middle Eastern restaurant. The food is delicious and authentic, with a range of options to choose from.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the service is quick and efficient.
The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Prices are reasonable and portions are generous.
If you're in the mood for some tasty Middle Eastern cuisine, Mirage Grill is definitely worth a visit.
8. Rosemary Grill W LA
Rosemary Grill W LA is a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurant that serves delicious food in a simple setting. The portions are generous, and the meats are well-prepared and flavorful.
The salad lettuce is high quality, and the falafel is moist and delicious. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly. The rice lacks seasoning, but the Sumac helps.
The Shish Kebab is perfectly cooked Filet Mignon, and the french fries are great. The vegetarian platter is delicious, and they take food allergies seriously.
The lamb gyro plate is a must-try. The family-run restaurant knows what they're doing, and the flavor and freshness are above and beyond what you get anywhere else.
9. Sunnin Lebanese Cafe
Sunnin Lebanese Cafe is a great place to try authentic Lebanese food.
This family-owned restaurant offers diverse menu options that include home-cooked meals not commonly found in other restaurants. The portions are generous and the food is of high quality.
Their hummus is a must-try, and the lamb kabab is one of the best in town. The atmosphere is welcoming and the service is great.
Sunnin Lebanese Cafe is a must-visit for anyone craving traditional Lebanese cuisine.
10. York Kabob
York Kabob is a top-notch Middle Eastern restaurant that serves up delicious and fresh food.
The service is professional and friendly, and the staff is always ready to help. The chicken and beef wraps are a must-try and the hummus is perfection.
Although the prices are a bit high, the quality of food is worth it. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere and is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
If you are looking for healthy options and tasty Mediterranean food, York Kabob is the place to go.
11. Marouch Restaurant
Marouch Restaurant is a family-owned Middle Eastern restaurant that serves delicious Lebanese and Armenian dishes. The staff is friendly and welcoming.
The open kitchen design allows you to see the food being made, which adds to the experience. The portions are well-sized for the price, and the flavors are fantastic.
The vegetarian combination, hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh are the highlights of the menu. The lamb sausages with pine nuts and the mixed meat plate are must-try items.
The restaurant has a relaxed and spacious ambiance with Arabic music playing in the background. If you're looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Marouch Restaurant is the place to be.
12. Mima's Mediterranean
Mima's Mediterranean is a must-visit for anyone who loves Middle Eastern cuisine. The food is simply amazing!
Every dish is prepared with care, using authentic ingredients to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The daily specials are particularly noteworthy, offering a variety of delicious options that are sure to satisfy.
From the first bite to the last, Mima's Mediterranean will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more.
If you're looking for a Middle Eastern restaurant that delivers on taste and quality, look no further than Mima's Mediterranean.
13. Z falafel
Z falafel is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves up delicious and authentic falafel and shawarma.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is fast even during busy times.
The Grilled Combo plate is a must-try, with generous servings of rice, chicken, beef, and falafel, all cooked fresh to order. The hummus and pita bread are also top-notch.
Enjoy your meal on the small private patio. This unpretentious counter-serve restaurant is a great lunch spot in the heart of the city.
14. Shayan Express Restaurant
Shayan Express Restaurant offers delicious and inexpensive Middle Eastern cuisine.
The menu is easy to understand and the staff is super friendly. Their kabob plates are well-packed and the higher-end items are worth the price.
The rice and hummus are notably tasty. This is a classic restaurant with exceptional service and superb food.
It's a great place to try something different and experience the unique flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.
15. Aslan Mediterranean
Aslan Mediterranean is a family-owned restaurant that serves authentic and delicious Mediterranean food.
The restaurant has a minimal decor and a relaxing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a casual dining experience.
The menu features a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, including vegetarian plates, beef shawarma, and falafel. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
The staff is welcoming and provides friendly service. Aslan Mediterranean is a great option for anyone looking for an authentic Mediterranean meal in a cozy setting.
16. MEZE
MEZE is a delightful Middle Eastern restaurant that offers authentic Armenian cuisine.
The small and friendly atmosphere provides excellent service and a warm ambiance. The food is fresh and delicious, with many different options to choose from.
The staff is helpful and knowledgeable, making recommendations and providing suggestions to ensure a wonderful dining experience.
The counter-serve setting is perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. MEZE is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.
17. Basbussa
Basbussa is a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers amazing food and great service. The atmosphere is beautiful, with a stunning bar and spacious seating area.
The live music and belly dancer add to the ambiance and provide great entertainment.
The menu features unique and delicious dishes, such as the roast beef and grilled fish. The hookah flavors are also worth trying.
The prices are a bit high, especially for the lamb menu, but the experience is worth it. Basbussa is a great place to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine and have a good time.
18. Twist & Grill
Twist & Grill is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves delicious and nutritious food. They offer a variety of healthful shawarma wraps, salads, and bowls that are perfect for a quick and easy lunch.
The restaurant is great for health-conscious individuals who want to eat fast food without compromising on nutrition.
One of their popular dishes is the "Beef It Up" combo wrap which is both tasty and healthy. The restaurant offers a build-your-own option for shawarma wraps, salads, and bowls which allows customers to customize their meal according to their preferences.
Twist & Grill is a must-visit restaurant for anyone who loves Middle Eastern, Greek, or Mediterranean cuisine.
19. Kebab Bar
Kebab Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
The restaurant offers fantastic hummus, great salads, and large portions that use high-quality ingredients.
The salmon kabob, shrimp kabob, chicken kabob, beef koobideh, and steak kabob are all excellent. The staff is friendly, and the service is quick.
Kebab Bar is a great value for money and highly recommended for anyone looking for delicious Mediterranean food.
20. Al Wazir Chicken
Al Wazir Chicken is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
This restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including rotisserie chicken, lamb, and beef kebabs, served with fresh pita bread and flavorful hummus.
The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience. Don't miss out on this hidden gem of Middle Eastern cuisine.
