Discover the top 18 upscale dining experiences
Find 18 upscale mediterranean restaurants in Lincoln Square. Great mediterranean food that fits your budget.
Lincoln Square's Upscale Mediterranean Destinations
Lincoln Square offers a sophisticated selection of upscale Mediterranean dining destinations that provide an elegant escape in the heart of the city. This curated collection spans the diverse culinary traditions of the region, featuring refined Greek seafood at Estiatorio Milos, classic Italian fare at Quality Italian, and inventive Middle Eastern plates at Malka. From the French-inspired flavors of IRIS to the contemporary Mediterranean dishes at TESSA, these restaurants offer a premier experience for diners seeking both luxury and authentic coastal flavors.
30 restaurants in Best Upscale Mediterranean Restaurants in Lincoln Square | Upscale Mediterranean Food
- Norma — Italian · rated 5/5: Norma transports diners to the sun-drenched heart of Sicily, where the air is perfumed with the scent of charred aubergine and slow-simmered tomatoes. Hand-crafted pastas and vibrant, salt-kissed seafood take center stage in a space that glows with Mediterranean warmth, inviting guests to lose themselves in the rhythmic hum of a bustling trattoria. It is a soulful celebration of Italian heritage, where every plate tells a story of tradition reimagined with modern, artful flair.
- Rosetta — Italian · rated 5/5: The scent of golden, oven-fresh dough fills this vibrant artisanal space, where the craft of the Italian bakery is elevated through a stunning array of hand-stretched focaccias and crisp, airy pizza in teglia. From the paper-thin, cheese-filled layers of traditional Recco-style crusts to wholesome sandwiches tucked into vibrant turmeric and multi-grain breads, every bite celebrates a harmony of rustic textures and contemporary flair. It is a sun-drenched haven for bread lovers, offering a sophisticated yet soulful journey through the diverse landscapes of Mediterranean flour and fire.
- Noi Due Carne — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Bathed in a warm, sophisticated glow, this modern Italian steakhouse invites guests into a world where the smoky aroma of the grill meets the refined artistry of the Mediterranean. Masterfully seared prime cuts and rich, house-made pastas take center stage, delivering a symphony of bold flavors in a space that feels both intimate and high-energy. It is a destination where the tradition of the butcher’s craft is elevated by sleek design and a passion for soulful, fire-kissed cuisine.
- The Casbah - Halal Cart — Middle Eastern · rated 4.8/5: Located at 160 W 66th St, New York, The Casbah - Halal Cart offers a delightful medley of Middle Eastern comfort food. Perfect for a quick bite, this halal food cart is a hit on the Upper West Side. Popular dishes include gyros, falafel, shawarma, and chicken, all affordably priced between $1 and $10. With outdoor seating and a kid-friendly atmosphere, it’s a convenient spot to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Loi Estiatorio — Greek · rated 4.7/5: Bathed in the crisp, white-washed glow of a Mediterranean villa, this sophisticated sanctuary transports diners to the shores of the Aegean with its airy elegance and warm, soulful hospitality. The kitchen celebrates the vibrant purity of the Greek pantry, where the golden glint of premium olive oil meets the charred perfection of tender octopus and the delicate sweetness of honey-drizzled yogurt. It is a place where ancient culinary wisdom and contemporary flair converge, creating a dining experience that feels both indulgent and deeply nourishing.
- LaVista Pizza — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Perched where the golden glow of a wood-fired oven meets a panoramic backdrop, LaVista Pizza invites diners into a vibrant space filled with the irresistible scent of blistered dough and simmering San Marzano tomatoes. Artisanal pies emerge from the flames with perfectly charred crusts and molten pools of buffalo mozzarella, capturing the sun-drenched essence of Italy in every crisp, savory bite. It is a place where the clink of wine glasses and the lively energy of the open kitchen transform a simple meal into a spirited celebration of Mediterranean flavor.
- Mama Halal Food — Middle Eastern or Mediterranean are the · rated 4.7/5: Located at the corner of W 54th St and 8th Ave in New York, Mama Halal Food offers delicious halal chicken and lamb dishes served over rice or in gyros, complemented by biryani. With offerings for both meat eaters and vegetarians, this casual eatery is perfect for family dining and takeaway. Open daily from 10 AM to 4 AM, the restaurant boasts a high rating of 4.7 from satisfied customers. Enjoy convenient payment options and friendly service at this highly recommended spot.
- Malka — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Malka pulses with a vibrant, communal energy where the intoxicating scent of charred eggplant and warm, pillowy pita wafts through a sun-drenched, rustic space. Each plate arrives as a colorful mosaic of bold Levantine spices and garden-fresh herbs, inviting diners to linger over soulful dishes that capture the spirited, sun-soaked essence of a Mediterranean feast.
- Nocello — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Nocello invites guests into a refined yet intimate escape where the soft hum of conversation mingles with the intoxicating scent of fresh basil and toasted garlic. The kitchen transforms simple, high-quality ingredients into masterfully plated Italian classics, from velvet-smooth risottos to perfectly seared proteins that sing with Mediterranean herbs. It is a destination where the art of slow dining is rediscovered, leaving diners enveloped in a sense of warmth and culinary nostalgia.
- Hooda halal food — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Located at 601 W 115th St, New York, Hooda Halal Food is a beloved destination for those craving mouth-watering gyro, falafel, and other halal street-food specialties. This popular food cart has earned a stellar 4.6 rating from over 100 reviews, thanks to its flavorful dishes, generous portions, and friendly service. Conveniently accepting various payment options, it's a hit among students and locals alike.
- Estiatorio Milos — Greek · rated 4.5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary of Mediterranean elegance, where a glistening altar of pristine seafood on ice serves as the vibrant heart of the room. The kitchen honors the raw beauty of the Aegean with the simple alchemy of charcoal, sea salt, and liquid-gold olive oil, creating a masterclass in flavor served amidst an atmosphere of crisp white linens and sophisticated coastal charm.
- Ella Social — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Ella Social pulses with a vibrant, sun-drenched energy, inviting guests into a rustic-chic sanctuary where the communal spirit of the Mediterranean takes center stage. Fragrant clouds of toasted spices and fresh herbs drift from the kitchen as colorful tapas and coastal-inspired cocktails transform the table into a celebratory feast. It is a place that captures the effortless charm of a seaside escape, encouraging diners to linger over shared plates and spirited conversation long after the last glass is poured.
- Leyla — Turkish · rated 4.5/5: Leyla transports diners to a chic Istanbul townhouse, where the air hums with conversation and the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pide and sumac-dusted meats. Vibrant mezze plates and slow-cooked Anatolian classics arrive at rustic wooden tables, creating a communal feast that glows under the soft, golden light of an intimate Mediterranean sanctuary.
- Farinella — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Sun-drenched windows and the intoxicating scent of rising dough invite diners into this vibrant Italian sanctuary, where the rhythmic dusting of flour sets the stage for a meal rooted in artisanal tradition. Hand-stretched pizzas emerge from the heat with perfectly blistered crusts, while ribbons of golden pasta are tossed in sun-ripened sauces that celebrate the soulful, rustic elegance of the Mediterranean.
- Shalel — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Descend into a subterranean sanctuary where flickering candlelight and the soothing murmur of a trickling waterfall transform a hidden grotto into an intimate Mediterranean escape. The air carries the enticing fragrance of aromatic tagines and charred mezze, inviting guests to linger over wine in secluded, stone-walled nooks that feel worlds away from the city streets above.
- Blue Seafood Bar and Eatery — Seafood · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, Blue Seafood Bar and Eatery offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for enjoying Pan-Mediterranean seafood and tapas. With a diverse menu featuring oysters, lobster, and tapas, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options, there's something for everyone. The cozy bar is ideal for savouring wine, cocktails, and happy hour specials. Reservations recommended.
- estiatorio Milos Midtown — Greek · rated 4.5/5: Discover the charm of estiatorio Milos Midtown, an upscale Greek eatery known for its culinary excellence and fresh seafood, sourced directly from Greece. Nestled in New York City, this chic establishment not only offers a delightful brunch and dinner menu but also serves exquisite wines and desserts. With a 4.5-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, it's highly recommended for an exceptional dining experience.
- Rampoldi New York — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Nestled off Broadway near Lincoln Center, Rampoldi New York boasts an elegant blend of Italian and French cuisine, perfect for a pre-show meal or special occasion. With a 4.5-star rating, locals adore its expertly crafted dishes and sophisticated ambiance. Enjoy a glass of wine, delectable desserts, and attentive service. Convenient curbside pickup and various payment options make dining here a breeze. Find them at 49 W 64th St, New York.
- Kashkaval Garden — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Hell's Kitchen, Kashkaval Garden offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere perfect for a delightful dining experience. Specializing in Mediterranean fare, this hidden gem serves flavorful fondue, skewers, and pita, alongside a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Open for brunch, lunch, dinner, and late-night bites, it also features a vibrant happy hour. The attentive staff and eclectic menu ensure a memorable evening. Reservations recommended!
- Quality Italian — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Quality Italian reimagines the classic steakhouse through a vibrant Mediterranean lens, where soaring ceilings and warm leather banquettes create an atmosphere of high-energy sophistication. The air hums with the aroma of sizzling dry-aged cuts and house-made pastas, while playful, theatrical presentations turn every meal into a shared celebration of modern Italian-American flair.
- Soulvlakigr — Greek · rated 4.4/5: Soulvlakigr transports diners to a sun-drenched Athenian courtyard where the smoky aroma of charcoal-grilled meats and wild oregano fills the air. Hand-stretched pitas cradle tender, flame-kissed skewers and cool, garlic-infused tzatziki, creating a vibrant sensory experience that captures the rustic heart and spirited hospitality of the Mediterranean.
- The Greek Kitchen — Greek · rated 4.4/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched haven feels like a getaway to the Aegean, where whitewashed walls and rustic accents create a backdrop for the intoxicating aroma of wood-fired lamb and wild oregano. The kitchen breathes life into Mediterranean traditions, serving up charred octopus drizzled with golden olive oil and honey-soaked pastries that capture the bright, briny essence of the Greek isles. It is a place where the lively clatter of shared plates and the warmth of genuine hospitality invite diners to linger over crisp wine and conversation long after the sun sets.
- Arias Hell's Kitchen — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Arias Hell's Kitchen strikes a harmonious chord in the heart of the theater district, where the warm glow of an intimate dining room sets the stage for a journey through Italy’s most cherished culinary traditions. The air hums with the enticing aroma of garlic-infused olive oil and slow-simmered sauces, accompanying plates of velvety handmade pastas and rustic classics that capture the essence of a sun-drenched Mediterranean kitchen. It is a spirited escape where the vibrant energy of the city gives way to the timeless comfort of a perfectly poured glass of wine and a meal crafted with heartfelt passion.
- Pomodoro Rosso — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Sun-drenched flavors and rustic charm converge at Pomodoro Rosso, where the vibrant aroma of garlic-infused olive oil and bubbling red sauces spills from a kitchen dedicated to the art of the Italian table. Guests lose themselves in a world of silken, hand-rolled pastas and garden-fresh ingredients, savoring a dining experience that feels like a warm, spirited embrace from the heart of the Mediterranean.
- Chios Taverna — Greek · rated 4.4/5: Nestled at 2030 Broadway, New York, Chios Taverna offers a charming Greek dining experience right in the heart of Manhattan. Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, this locale is perfect for family outings and group gatherings. Highlights include delightful dishes like spiced cauliflower and spanakopita, plus a variety of spreads. Rated 4.4 stars, it accommodates dine-in, takeout, and delivery, accepting both cash and credit cards.
- IRIS — French · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Midtown West at 1740 Broadway, IRIS offers a trendy culinary destination with a focus on Mediterranean flavors inspired by Turkish and Greek cuisine. Featuring a cozy, romantic atmosphere, the restaurant is perfect for an intimate dinner or a lively happy hour. Popular dishes include the octopus, spiced lamb flatbread, and pistachio baklava. IRIS invites guests to experience its blend of exceptional food and welcoming ambiance.
- TESSA — Mediterranean · rated 4.4/5: Located in the Central Park West Historic District, Tessa brings a sophisticated touch to modern American cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Enjoy a cozy, stylish atmosphere perfect for lunch, dinner, or happy hour. Popular dishes include the wagyu burger, cacio e pepe, and a delightful array of desserts. Attentive service and a first-floor bar enhance your dining experience. Visit 349 Amsterdam Ave, New York.
- ABA Turkish Restaurant — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: ABA Turkish Restaurant captures the soulful essence of the Mediterranean, welcoming guests into a space where the smoky perfume of the charcoal grill mingles with the bright, citrusy notes of traditional spices. Silken hummus and vibrant vegetable mezze provide a fresh prelude to succulent, flame-kissed meats, all served alongside pillowy breads that arrive warm and fragrant from the oven. It is a culinary sanctuary where the warmth of Anatolian hospitality shines through every dish, inviting diners to linger over flaky, honey-soaked baklava and the deep, aromatic ritual of Turkish coffee.
- Miriam — Mediterranean · rated 4.3/5: Miriam transports diners to a sun-drenched Mediterranean oasis where the air is perfumed with the warm, earthy aroma of toasted za’atar and freshly baked pita. Vibrant plates of creamy hummus and sizzling shakshuka arrive at bustling tables, creating a communal tapestry of bold flavors and bright citrus notes that celebrate the soulful, rustic heart of Levantine cooking.
- Bagels & Co. — American · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side's Lenox Hill, Bagels & Co. offers a delightful kosher dining experience. Serving fresh bagels, coffee, breakfast sandwiches, pizza, and salads, this cozy spot also features sushi and falafel. Known for its friendly staff and prompt service, it's a favorite among locals for breakfast and more. With a welcoming vibe and a diverse menu, you're sure to leave satisfied.




















