Best Upscale Middle Eastern Restaurants in East Village | Upscale Middle Eastern Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Middle Eastern Restaurants in East Village | Upscale Middle Eastern Food

• RAKKA — Middle Eastern · rated 4.9/5: Located at 156 1st Ave. in New York, RAKKA is an inviting restaurant renowned for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine and warm hospitality. With a stellar rating of 4.9 based on 94 reviews, it’s a family-friendly spot where you can savor mouth-watering lamb dishes, fresh juices, and delectable desserts. Open every day, RAKKA provides dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, making it a convenient choice for any dining occasion.
• Eastside Story — American · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the heart of East Village, Eastside Story is a laid-back oasis offering an enticing mix of Egyptian and Persian cuisine. With a breezy, comfortable atmosphere, it’s perfect for meetups or parties. Popular dishes include lamb chops, shawarma, and homemade hummus, with vegan and vegetarian options available. Renowned for its hospitable staff and inviting hookah bar, it's a go-to spot for a memorable dining experience.
• Salma — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Salma invites diners into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and sizzling lamb drifts from an open hearth. Vibrant plates of silk-smooth hummus and jewel-toned pomegranate seeds create a mosaic of Levantine flavors, perfect for lingering over with baskets of warm, pillowy flatbread. The atmosphere hums with the soulful warmth of communal feasts, celebrating a rich culinary heritage through every fragrant, spice-kissed bite.
• NYC Falafel Co — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: The air hums with vibrant energy as the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and sizzling chickpeas spills onto the sidewalk, inviting passersby into a bright, modern space. Each bite offers a masterclass in texture, from the shatteringly crisp exterior of golden falafel to the cool, creamy swirl of house-made hummus and the sharp, bright pop of pickled vegetables tucked into warm, pillowy pita.
• Halal in East Village — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant East Village, Halal in East Village offers an inviting dining experience for both lunch and dinner. Located at 400 E 11th St, New York, NY 10009, this restaurant is a hit among locals and visitors alike, boasting a 4.6 rating. With its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes, it promises a memorable meal for all who visit. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 AM and perfect for families, it's a great spot to enjoy classic halal cuisine. Takeout is also available for those on-the-go.
• Haile — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Haile, an inviting Ethiopian restaurant in Alphabet City, offers a delightful array of traditional dishes for dinner and drinks. With warm, welcoming staff and a cozy atmosphere, Haile features both meat and vegetarian options like sambusas and doro wot. Diners can enjoy a selection of wine and honey wine, all in a setting that's perfect for a memorable evening out. Average spending ranges from $20-30.
• Cafe Mogador — Moroccan / Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: This storied neighborhood gem transports diners to a sun-drenched Marrakesh courtyard, where the air is perfumed with the intoxicating scent of slow-simmered tagines and freshly ground spices. Inside the rustic, candlelit space, vibrant mezze platters and fluffy mounds of couscous invite communal feasting, capturing a soulful, bohemian energy that feels both exotic and deeply comforting.
• Caravan of Dreams — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in warm, amber light, this Mediterranean sanctuary transports diners to a sun-drenched coastal retreat where the air hums with the fragrance of toasted spices and citrus-infused olive oils. Vibrant plates of herb-flecked mezze and slow-simmered grains celebrate the bounty of the earth, offering a tapestry of textures that range from velvety hummus to the bright crunch of farm-fresh vegetables. This soulful space invites guests to linger over shared carafes of wine, capturing the communal spirit and rustic charm of a Mediterranean feast.
• Mamoun's Falafel — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: This legendary Middle Eastern institution pulses with energy, drawing diners in with the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and the rhythmic sizzle of golden falafel hitting the fryer. Inside, soft pita pockets are stuffed to bursting with crisp, herb-flecked fritters, creamy tahini, and a signature hot sauce that ignites the palate, offering a masterclass in texture and spice. It is a timeless, no-frills haven where the vibrant flavors of the Levant are celebrated in every savory, hand-held bite.
• Balade — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Balade captures the rustic soul of the Levant, welcoming guests into a warm, earth-toned space where the aroma of freshly baked manakeesh and charred spices fills the air. It is a place for communal celebration, where vibrant small plates and tender, flame-kissed meats bring the sun-drenched flavors of the Middle East to life in an atmosphere of effortless hospitality.
• Mimi's Hummus — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Flatbush, Mimi's Hummus is an acclaimed Middle Eastern eatery known for its delightful array of Israeli comfort food, including hummus, shawarma, and the must-try shakshuka. Ideal for families and solo diners alike, this cozy restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. With glowing reviews for its impeccable service and charming ambiance, Mimi's Hummus is a local favorite. Visit: 1209 Cortelyou Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218. 🌐 [mimishummus.net](http://www.mimishummus.net/) 📞 +1 718-284-4444
• Döner Haus — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 240 E 14th St, Döner Haus offers a cozy takeout experience with a focus on traditional German doner kebabs. Featuring mouth-watering halal options, this relaxed eatery combines excellent value and flavorful dishes. With a current rating of 4.4 from over 850 reviews, it's a must-visit for hearty comfort food. Convenient parking, curbside pickup, and a friendly staff make Döner Haus a delicious and easy choice for your next meal.
• Au Za'atar — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: Stepping into this vibrant Levantine haven, guests are immediately enveloped by the intoxicating aroma of toasted za’atar and slow-roasted meats sizzling on the spit. The dining room hums with the energy of communal feasting, where towering tableside shawarma carvings and colorful arrays of silken mezze invite diners to linger over shared stories and warm, pillowy pita. Every bite captures the sun-drenched spirit of the Middle East, blending traditional Lebanese and Jordanian flavors into a soulful experience that feels both celebratory and deeply comforting.
• Big Arc Chicken — American · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of the East Village, Big Arc Chicken serves up an array of Middle Eastern delights in a relaxed setting. Specializing in rotisserie-grilled chicken, kebabs, and comfort food like rice pilaf that patrons adore, this spot is perfect for solo diners, families, and takeout. Open daily, it offers a wallet-friendly dining experience with ample portions, friendly staff, and a commitment to Halal and healthy options.
• Au Za'atar - East Village — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: Au Za'atar - East Village offers an immersive Lebanese dining experience in a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Renowned for its family recipes and extensive wine list, the restaurant serves mouth-watering selections of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy free street parking, outdoor seating, and a welcoming space for groups. Rated 4.3 out of 5 with over 3,800 reviews, Au Za'atar invites you to a delightful culinary adventure.
• Pierre Loti Wine Bar — French · rated 4.3/5: Located in Midtown Manhattan's Union Square, Pierre Loti Wine Bar offers a cozy and dog-friendly atmosphere with romantic outdoor seating. Known for its Mediterranean dishes like Turkish meatballs, hummus, and baklava, the menu also includes pizza and a diverse drink selection, featuring wines, cocktails, and beer. Patrons frequently commend the friendly service and fast pace. Enjoy happy hour from 3:00-6:00 PM on weekdays!
• Horus — Middle Eastern · rated 4.2/5: Horus transports diners to a vibrant oasis where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of charred meats and warm, earthy spices. Inside this atmospheric sanctuary, guests gather around tables laden with colorful mezze and pillowy flatbreads, savoring a tapestry of flavors that celebrates the rich, soulful heritage of Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Ankara #3 — Turkish · rated 4.2/5: Ankara #3 transports guests to the heart of Anatolia, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of charcoal-grilled meats and the comforting warmth of freshly baked pide. Vibrant meze platters burst with the colors of the Mediterranean, offering a tapestry of smoky eggplant, zesty herbs, and cooling yogurt that invites slow, communal dining. It is a lively haven of Turkish hospitality, where every flame-kissed kebab and honeyed bite of baklava tells a story of rich culinary tradition.
• Horus Cafe — Middle Eastern · rated 4.2/5: Discover the culinary delights of Horus Cafe in New York! This relaxed restaurant specializes in delectable Egyptian, Mediterranean, and Moroccan dishes, complemented by impeccable hookah flavors. With a cozy ambiance and friendly staff, it's perfect for groups, wine lovers, and sports enthusiasts alike. Open daily from 12 PM to 4 AM, Horus Cafe offers brunch, lunch, and dinner options, along with cocktails and desserts. Explore it at 93 Avenue B, New York.
• 14 Street Halal Food — Middle Eastern · rated 4.1/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at Zeckendorf Towers, 14 Street Halal Food offers a delightful dining experience with a commendable rating of 4.1 stars. Perfect for families, this Halal food haven serves up lunch and dinner with convenient takeout options. Open till the early hours, they pride themselves on fresh, flavorful dishes with notable mentions of their juicy Chicken over rice and delectable falafel. Visa, MasterCard, and NFC payments accepted.
• Bereket — Middle Eastern · rated 4.1/5: Located at 181 E Houston St, New York, Bereket is a welcoming Turkish restaurant known for its kebabs and authentic Turkish fare. Open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, it offers a child-friendly dining environment with generous portions and friendly service. With a 4.1-star rating from 33 reviews, Bereket is a great spot for lunch or dinner, whether dining in or taking out.
• Horus Cafe on A — Middle Eastern · rated 4.1/5: Horus Café on Avenue A is a cozy spot in New York, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare. Open daily from 9 AM to late, it’s great for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Patrons can enjoy a variety of offerings, including fresh coffee, wine, and savory desserts. With options for both indoor and outdoor seating and a commendable 4.1-star rating from over 650 reviews, it’s an ideal spot to unwind alone or with friends.
• Russ & Daughters — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: This legendary Lower East Side institution hums with timeless energy, where white-coated experts masterfully carve translucent ribbons of silk-smooth smoked salmon behind gleaming glass counters. From the delicate, herb-flecked notes of house-cured gravlax to the rich, buttery depth of smoked sablefish, every plate honors a century-old heritage of craftsmanship that turns a simple morning meal into a quintessential New York ritual.
• Hani's — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Hani’s serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and golden, flaky pastries invites guests to slow down and savor the moment. From the simple, nostalgic joy of a chewy anytime-of-day cookie to the festive elegance of a towering, buttercream-frosted birthday cake, the space radiates a sense of warmth and celebration that makes every visit feel like a special occasion.
• Makabely — Middle Eastern · rated 3.9/5: Nestled in the heart of New York, Makabely offers a cozy spot for pizza lovers. Conveniently located at 51 Columbia St, this neighborhood gem serves up classic New York-style pies and slices. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, it’s a great spot to grab a quick bite with the family; plus, it offers takeout and delivery. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and delicious pizza without breaking the bank!
• Balade — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: This vibrant Levantine escape captures the spirit of a sun-drenched Mediterranean garden, where the air is perfumed with the bright tang of lemon and the earthy warmth of simmering lentils. Crisp, herb-heavy salads like zesty taboule and sumac-dusted fattoush provide a refreshing crunch against tender ribbons of savory shawarma and golden, seared halloumi. It is a sanctuary of wholesome, soulful flavors that blends rustic tradition with a light, contemporary touch, making every meal feel like a nourishing embrace.
• Mehanata Bulgarian Bar — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: Step into a high-energy cultural crossroads where the spirited soul of a Bulgarian tavern meets the playful, neon-lit pulse of a modern urban bar. The air carries the savory scent of sizzling Bulgarian meatballs and toasted prinzesi sandwiches, served alongside an eclectic array of crispy empanadas and golden sliders designed for effortless sharing. Vibrant cocktails like the Strawberry Sidecar flow freely, fueling a boisterous atmosphere where global comfort food and Eastern European tradition collide for a spirited night out.
• Yonah Shimmel Knish Bakery — Middle Eastern: Stepping into this iconic Lower East Side landmark feels like a journey back in time, where the scent of toasted dough and savory fillings drifts beneath high tin ceilings and vintage white-tiled walls. Golden, hand-stretched knishes emerge from the ovens with a satisfyingly dense crumb, offering a comforting taste of old-world tradition in every hearty bite of potato or kasha. This legendary corner bakery remains a timeless sanctuary of Jewish soul food, preserving a simple, soulful legacy that has remained unchanged for over a century.
• Wolfnights — Middle Eastern: This high-energy urban haunt transforms the art of the wrap into a gourmet spectacle, where house-made doughs in vibrant hues are pressed and grilled to order. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of sizzling proteins and exotic spices, as bold Mediterranean-inspired fillings and unexpected crunchy textures are layered into hand-held feasts that pulse with the spirited essence of city life.
• Cafe Mogador — Middle Eastern: This bohemian sanctuary transports diners to the heart of Marrakesh, where flickering lanterns and weathered brick walls create a soulful backdrop for spirited conversation and shared plates. The air is thick with the aromatic steam of slow-simmered tagines and fragrant couscous, inviting guests to linger over vibrant Mediterranean flavors and traditional mint tea in a space that hums with timeless neighborhood energy.