Best Upscale Middle Eastern Restaurants in Houston | Upscale Middle Eastern Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Middle Eastern Restaurants in Houston | Upscale Middle Eastern Food

• MKT BAR — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: MKT BAR serves as a lively urban sanctuary where the clink of craft beer glasses and the aroma of searing steaks create an inviting, high-energy atmosphere. Guests gather to share velvety bowls of hummus before diving into the bold, savory layers of the signature Kamtastic or a perfectly charred steak dinner, all paired with rotating local draughts or a crisp house sparkling wine. The space hums with a social vibrancy, making it the quintessential destination for a spirited happy hour or a relaxed, flavor-forward evening in the heart of the city.
• Haraz Coffee — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Haraz Coffee serves as a warm, aromatic gateway to Yemeni tradition, where the air is thick with the fragrance of slow-roasted beans and the comforting heat of ginger and cardamom. Guests gather amidst elegant cultural decor to savor meticulously crafted brews poured from traditional vessels, finding a peaceful communal haven that honors the ancient artistry of the world’s first coffee culture.
• Fyzas Alhadi — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Fyzas Alhadi invites diners into a vibrant world of Mediterranean flavors, where the air is perfumed with the scent of toasted spices and fresh-chopped herbs. Velvety swirls of hummus and smoky baba ghanouj share the table with golden, crisp falafel and zesty cilantro potatoes, creating a tapestry of textures that celebrate traditional Middle Eastern hospitality. Whether diving into a bright, lemon-kissed taboulee or a hearty salad topped with tender gyro, every plate offers a refreshing journey through sun-drenched culinary traditions.
• Empire Turkish Grill — Middle Eastern: The air at Empire Turkish Grill is thick with the intoxicating aroma of charred meats and warm spices, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the sizzle of the charcoal pit provides a rhythmic backdrop to the meal. Succulent kebabs and tender lamb chops are served alongside colorful arrays of zesty mezze and golden, stone-baked breads, creating a feast that honors the rich, sun-soaked traditions of the Mediterranean. Every visit feels like a spirited escape to a bustling Istanbul eatery, where bold flavors and genuine warmth turn a simple dinner into a celebratory experience.
• Reza Persian Grill — Middle Eastern: The air at Reza Persian Grill is thick with the alluring scent of charred meats and fragrant saffron, drawing diners into a space where ancient culinary traditions meet warm, modern hospitality. Velvety stews bursting with fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds share the table with mounds of buttery, jewel-toned rice and skewers of tender, flame-kissed kebabs. It is a vibrant celebration of Persian flavors, where every bite offers a delicate balance of citrus, spice, and soul-warming comfort.
• Darband Shishkabob — Middle Eastern: The air at Darband Shishkabob is thick with the irresistible aroma of seasoned meats sizzling over an open flame, drawing diners into a lively space where the art of the Persian grill takes center stage. Succulent skewers of tender lamb and saffron-marinated chicken arrive alongside mounds of fragrant dill rice and charred tomatoes, offering a masterclass in smoky, savory flavors. Every plate captures a soulful balance of tradition and technique, turning a simple meal into a vibrant celebration of authentic hospitality.
• Bijan Persian Grill — Middle Eastern: The air at Bijan Persian Grill is thick with the intoxicating scent of saffron and char-grilled meats, drawing guests into a space where traditional hospitality meets refined comfort. Platters of buttery, jewel-toned basmati rice and tender kebabs dusted with tangy sumac take center stage, celebrating the vibrant flavors and ancient culinary artistry of the Silk Road. From the crunch of golden tahdig to the warmth of freshly baked bread, every dish offers a soulful and aromatic journey through the heart of Persian cuisine.
• Cafe Hababi — Middle Eastern: Cafe Hababi invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of freshly ground spices and rich, dark coffee. Vibrant plates of Mediterranean-inspired fare bring a burst of color to the table, offering a tapestry of bold, soulful flavors designed for lingering over long conversations. Whether tucked into a cozy corner or sharing a spread of savory small plates, the space hums with a gentle, welcoming energy that makes every visitor feel like an old friend.
• Kasra Persian Grill — Middle Eastern: Step into a warm sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the smoky aroma of charbroiled meats and the delicate fragrance of saffron-laced basmati rice. This inviting destination brings the soul of Persian hospitality to life, serving up generous platters of tender kebabs and vibrant, herb-infused stews that transform every meal into a rich, aromatic celebration of tradition.
• Just Falafel — Middle Eastern: Vibrant colors and bold Mediterranean flavors collide in this modern eatery, where the air is scented with toasted pita and zesty lemon. Guests dive into creative, shareable plates like loaded falafel nachos and jewel-toned beet avocado toast, or craft their own custom bowls overflowing with crisp tabbouleh and velvety, house-made hummus. This plant-forward destination reimagines traditional staples with a playful, contemporary spirit, offering a dining experience that is as fresh as it is inventive.
• Cafe Adel — Middle Eastern: Cafe Adel welcomes guests into a bright, airy sanctuary where the scent of freshly baked bread and rich, dark coffee creates an immediate sense of home. Artisanal plates showcase a commitment to fresh, vibrant ingredients, offering a refined yet soulful journey through flavors that bridge the gap between tradition and modern flair. It is a place where time slows down, encouraging long, leisurely meals and intimate conversations amidst a backdrop of understated elegance.
• Kefita Coffee — Middle Eastern: Sunlight streams through the windows of this airy sanctuary, where the deep, floral aroma of premium, high-altitude beans invites guests to slow down and savor the ritual of a perfectly crafted brew. The space hums with a gentle energy as baristas transform specialty harvests into velvety lattes and bright, complex pour-overs, creating a sophisticated yet soulful retreat that celebrates the art of the bean in every cup.
• Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine — Mediterranean: Step into a vibrant oasis where the air is thick with the savory scent of charred meats and warm spices, transporting diners to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Plates arrive brimming with silky, olive-oil-drizzled hummus and tender, flame-kissed kebabs, while baskets of pillowy, steam-filled pita invite guests to linger over a sensory journey of zesty citrus and fresh, aromatic herbs.
• Ranosh Cafe — Middle Eastern: Bathed in a warm, inviting glow, this vibrant Middle Eastern escape hums with the convivial energy of shared plates and the fragrant, lingering swirl of shisha smoke. The air carries the irresistible aroma of charcoal-grilled meats and zesty, herb-flecked mezze, inviting guests to lose track of time over steaming glasses of mint tea and the comforting rhythms of authentic Levantine hospitality.
• Abu Ali — Middle Eastern: Stepping into Abu Ali feels like entering a bustling neighborhood sanctuary where the rhythmic chop of fresh herbs and the smoky aroma of skewers over open flames set a vibrant tempo. It is a place where golden falafel and velvety hummus take center stage, inviting diners to linger over communal platters in an atmosphere brimming with authentic charm and spirited conversation.
• Cafe Layal Midtown — Middle Eastern: Bathed in the neon glow of Midtown, this lively Mediterranean escape invites guests to linger over colorful mezze platters and aromatic hookahs on a sprawling, breeze-swept patio. The kitchen delivers a tapestry of Levantine flavors, from velvety hummus drizzled with golden olive oil to succulent, flame-kissed kebabs that capture the soulful essence of Middle Eastern hospitality. Whether for a sun-drenched lunch or a spirited late-night gathering under the stars, the atmosphere pulses with a convivial charm that makes every visit feel like a celebratory retreat from the city bustle.
• Dimassi's Mediterranean Buffet — Mediterranean: Step into a sun-drenched oasis of Mediterranean abundance, where the air is thick with the scent of toasted zatar and warm, pillowy pita bread pulled fresh from the oven. A vibrant tapestry of flavors awaits at the buffet, from the earthy crunch of golden falafel and tangy hand-rolled grape leaves to a refreshing garden of crisp kale Caesar and zesty chickpea salads. This communal feast invites guests to linger over a colorful mosaic of wholesome, herb-forward dishes that celebrate the timeless traditions of Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Abdallah's Lebaese Cafe — Middle Eastern: Step into a sun-drenched space where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and freshly baked pita emerging warm from the oven. This vibrant cafe invites guests to linger over colorful mezze platters and succulent, flame-kissed kebabs that celebrate the rich, aromatic heritage of Lebanese home cooking in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
• Arpi's Phoenicia Deli & Coffee House — Middle Eastern: This vibrant Mediterranean hub hums with the energy of a Levantine marketplace, where the rich scent of freshly ground Turkish coffee mingles with the savory aroma of slow-roasting shawarma. Guests navigate a bustling counter filled with jewel-toned salads and golden, honey-drenched pastries before settling into sun-drenched nooks to savor authentic flavors that feel both soulful and timeless.
• Istanbul Grill — Middle Eastern: The air at Istanbul Grill hums with the vibrant energy of a Mediterranean bazaar, thick with the smoky perfume of succulent kebabs charring over glowing embers. Guests are invited to linger over colorful platters of silk-smooth hummus and zesty salads, savoring a culinary journey that celebrates bold spices and the timeless warmth of authentic Turkish hospitality.
• Blue Nile — Middle Eastern: Fragrant clouds of berbere and garlic drift through this inviting space, where the communal spirit of Ethiopian dining comes alive over vibrant platters of slow-simmered stews. Guests gather to tear off pieces of tangy, spongy injera, scooping up colorful mounds of earthy Kik Alicha, spiced Yemissir Wot, and tender Gomen in a tactile celebration of traditional flavors. From the crisp crunch of golden sambusas to the refreshing zest of a chilled Timatim salad, every dish offers a soulful and aromatic journey through a rich culinary heritage.
• The Halal Guys — Middle Eastern: The Halal Guys captures the electric energy of a bustling city street corner, where the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the intoxicating aroma of cumin-spiced meats draw in hungry crowds. Heaping platters of vibrant yellow rice and tender, flame-seared gyro are brought to life by a generous swirl of their legendary, velvety white sauce and a daring streak of fiery red chili. This is a sensory celebration of bold Middle Eastern flavors and urban soul, offering a satisfying, no-frills feast that feels both iconic and deeply comforting.
• Miri's Kitchen Persian — Middle Eastern: Stepping into Miri’s Kitchen Persian feels like entering a sun-drenched courtyard where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted saffron and slow-simmered herbs. Diners gather over platters of flame-kissed kebabs and buttery, jewel-toned rice, discovering a delicate balance of tart barberries and fragrant rosewater in every soulful bite. This intimate haven celebrates the warmth of Persian hospitality, turning ancient culinary traditions into a vibrant sensory journey that lingers long after the last spoonful of golden tahdig.
• Albi — Middle Eastern: At Albi, the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of wood smoke and toasted spices, drawing guests toward a glowing hearth that serves as the restaurant’s beating heart. This vibrant space reimagines Levantine traditions through a modern lens, serving up coal-kissed dishes and pillowy flatbreads that capture the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of the Middle East.
• Zoa Moroccan Kitchen — Middle Eastern: Zoa Moroccan Kitchen transports diners to the vibrant markets of North Africa, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of cumin, saffron, and slow-roasted meats. Guests craft their own culinary maps through signature bowls and warm Fatima bread, layering tender lamb or chicken with bright, spice-infused ingredients that evoke the distinct spirits of cities like Marrakesh and Tangier. This modern oasis brings the bold, soulful flavors of Morocco to life in a colorful celebration of fresh ingredients and traditional heritage.
• Khyber North Indian Grill — Indian: The air at Khyber North Indian Grill is thick with the fragrance of toasted spices and the smoky char of the tandoor, where pillowy naan and succulent kebabs are perfected over an open flame. Inside this warm, inviting space, diners savor the deep, complex layers of slow-simmered curries and vibrant masalas that celebrate the bold and soulful culinary traditions of the North Indian frontier.
• Kandahari — Middle Eastern: Kandahari transports guests to the ancient crossroads of the Silk Road, where the intoxicating aroma of saffron-threaded rice and flame-kissed kebabs fills a space rich with warm textiles and golden light. The kitchen honors time-worn traditions, serving up succulent slow-cooked meats and pillowy flatbreads that capture the soulful, aromatic essence of Afghan hospitality. Every meal concludes with the gentle ritual of spiced tea, inviting diners to linger in an atmosphere that feels both exotic and deeply welcoming.
• Kabul Cuisine — Middle Eastern: Stepping into Kabul Cuisine feels like an invitation into a warm Afghan home, where the intoxicating scent of charred kebabs and saffron-infused rice wafts from a glowing tandoor. Guests gather over steaming platters of Kabuli Palaw—fragrant pilaf jeweled with sweet carrots and raisins—and pillowy naan perfect for scooping up rich, slow-cooked stews. The atmosphere hums with a spirit of traditional hospitality, offering a soulful journey through the deep, earthy flavors of the Silk Road.
• Al Aseel Grill and Cafe — Middle Eastern: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the smoky perfume of charcoal-grilled meats mingles with the bright, zesty aromas of freshly crushed garlic and lemon. Long tables groan under the weight of colorful mezze platters and glistening skewers, inviting guests to linger over a communal feast that celebrates the rich, sun-drenched flavors of traditional Lebanese hospitality. It is a bustling haven where every bite of pillowy flatbread and tender, spice-rubbed lamb transports diners to the heart of a lively Middle Eastern kitchen.
• The Afghan Village Resturant — Middle Eastern: Stepping into The Afghan Village Restaurant feels like entering a vibrant cultural sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of cardamom and charred kebabs wafts from the bustling kitchen. Guests gather around communal tables to share mounds of fragrant, jewel-toned Kabuli Pulao and pillowy naan, experiencing a masterclass in Central Asian hospitality that warms the soul.