Best Upscale Middle Eastern Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale Middle Eastern Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Middle Eastern Restaurants in Upper West Side | Upscale Middle Eastern Food

• Shawarma Shabazi — Middle Eastern · rated 4.7/5: Shawarma Shabazi pulses with the vibrant energy of a Levantine market, where the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and slow-roasting meats fills the air. Succulent, spice-crusted layers of lamb and chicken are carved directly from the spit into warm, pillowy pitas, finished with a bright crunch of pickled vegetables and a velvet drizzle of nutty tahini. It is a sensory celebration of Middle Eastern street food, where every bite balances smoky char with zesty, sun-drenched flavors.
• Shah's Halal Food — Middle Eastern · rated 4.7/5: The air at Shah’s Halal Food is thick with the savory perfume of cumin and coriander, drawing diners toward a bustling counter where seasoned meats sizzle over an open flame. Each vibrant platter is a masterclass in balance, pairing golden, aromatic rice with the cooling silkiness of their signature white sauce and a sharp, spicy kick that captures the spirited essence of authentic Middle Eastern street food.
• 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.
• Chama Mama UWS — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Nestled in New York's Central Park West Historic District, Chama Mama UWS is a beloved Georgian restaurant renowned for its comfort food, wine, and cocktails. The cozy atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner. With specialties like adjaruli khachapuri and dumplings, plus vegetarian options, there's something for everyone. Enjoy fast service, knowledgeable staff, and outdoor seating for a memorable dining experience.
• Haven UWS — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Located at 226 W 79th St in New York, Haven UWS offers a delightful dining experience. This highly-rated restaurant (4.6 stars) is perfect for both family gatherings and date nights, featuring a varied menu that caters to vegetarian and kosher preferences. Guests laud the friendly staff and delicious dishes like the General Tso Lollipop chicken and warm chocolate babka. Reserve your table today by calling +1 646-609-1059.
• Bustan — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Sun-drenched flavors and the smoky aroma of a wood-fired taboon oven define the experience at Bustan, where the vibrant spirit of the Middle East comes alive through artfully composed shared plates. The space hums with a warm, convivial energy, inviting diners to linger over velvet-smooth mezze and tender, spice-kissed meats that bridge the gap between ancient tradition and modern culinary flair.
• Sido — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Sido captures the soulful essence of the Levant, where the intoxicating scent of za’atar and wood-smoke drifts through a space defined by warm hospitality and vibrant energy. Guests gather around tables laden with velvet-smooth dips, herb-brightened grains, and tender meats kissed by the grill, offering a sensory journey through the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East.
• Basmala — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York, Basmala is a beloved destination for halal food enthusiasts. Known for its standout lamb over rice and lamb gyro, this spot has garnered a loyal following with its flavorful dishes. Rated 4.5 stars, Basmala offers curbside pickup, takeout, and delivery options. Ideal for families, it's open late on most weekdays, ensuring you can enjoy its fresh, distinct taste whenever hunger strikes.
• Bustan NYC — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 487 Amsterdam Ave, Bustan NYC offers a delightful journey through Israeli-Mediterranean cuisine. Rated 4.5 stars by 610 reviewers, this cozy spot serves vibrant, flavorful dishes, including vegetarian options, cooked in a custom clay oven. With outdoor seating, curbside pickup, and a welcoming atmosphere, Bustan NYC is perfect for intimate dinners and casual gatherings. Reservations recommended.
• Bodrum Mediterranean Restaurant — Mediterranean · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the Central Park West Historic District, Bodrum Mediterranean Restaurant offers a charming ambiance and a diverse menu featuring Turkish and Mediterranean delights. Guests can savor dishes like manti, kebabs, and lamb tagine, alongside pizza and fresh hummus. Known for its quick service and cozy atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for families and groups. Reservations are recommended for dinner. Enjoy a meal with coffee, cocktails, beer, or wine at 584 Amsterdam Ave, New York.
• Effy's Cafe — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Effy's Cafe is a charming neighborhood gem located at 104 W 96th St, New York. Known for its health-conscious, Middle Eastern bites, this cozy spot offers a delightful menu featuring omelettes, shakshuka, and challah French toast for breakfast, alongside hummus, falafel, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. With quick service, kind staff, and good prices, Effy's is the perfect place for a casual meal any time of day.
• Deli Kasbah Kosher Grill — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of New York's Upper West Side, Deli Kasbah Kosher Grill is a true gem for lovers of American comfort food. This charming kosher restaurant offers a delightful array of steaks, burgers, and more, all kosher-certified. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and great service, it's a top spot for both dining in and takeout. With outdoor seating, free street parking, and curbside pickup, accessibility is key here. Rated 4.4 with over 561 user reviews, it stands out as a favorite for locals and visitors alike. For reservations call +1 212-496-1500 or visit their website at kasbah-grill.com.
• 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.
• Naya — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: Naya invites guests into a vibrant, contemporary sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the scent of toasted spices and the rhythmic sizzle of the open grill. Tables overflow with a colorful mosaic of velvety dips, emerald-green herbs, and tender, flame-kissed meats, creating a communal dining experience that captures the warm hospitality and bold, sun-drenched flavors of the Levant.
• Kebab aur Sharab — Indian · rated 4.3/5: Located on the Upper West Side, Kebab Aur Sharab is an upscale Indian restaurant offering lunch, brunch, dinner, and late-night fare. With a menu that features vegetarian options and small plates such as kebabs, naan, and chaat, this relaxed spot also serves beer, wine, and cocktails. The ambiance is appreciated, and the friendly staff further enhances the dining experience. Reservations are recommended for dinner. Customers typically spend $50-100.
• Mamoun's Falafel - UWS, Manhattan, NY — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: Located at 508 Columbus Ave, New York, Mamoun's Falafel is a friendly counter-serve Mediterranean eatery renowned for its top-notch falafel, shawarma, and hummus. With a 4.3-star rating from 400 reviewers, this spot ensures a delightful dining experience. Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, enjoy their flavorful offerings, including delicious desserts, in a relaxed setting.
• Carlos & Gabby's — Mexican · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 100 W 83rd St, Carlos & Gabby’s offers an array of flavors that cater to diverse palates. This cozy spot is perfect for takeout or delivery, boasting a diverse menu featuring American, Mexican, and Middle Eastern dishes, all at fair prices. Rated 4.2 stars by satisfied customers, the restaurant is kid-friendly and offers meal options for children. Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, except Fridays and Saturdays, it provides a delightful escape for tasty, wood-smoked wings, burgers, and more. Credit and debit cards are accepted for a seamless dining experience.
• Holy Schnitzel (Upper West Side) — Middle Eastern · rated 4.1/5: Located in the historic Central Park West area, Holy Schnitzel (Upper West Side) is a casual, 100% kosher eatery known for its hearty comfort food. The made-to-order menu includes a variety of salads, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers, with popular choices like schnitzel and chicken fingers. Perfect for families, the restaurant also features a kids' menu and convenient options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
• Moka & Co — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Step into a fragrant sanctuary where the ancient traditions of the Arabian Peninsula come alive through the steam of meticulously brewed Mufawar and spiced Sana'ani coffees. The air carries the warm, inviting notes of cardamom and ginger, drawing guests into a space where velvet-smooth Adeni chai and golden Saudi brews offer a soulful journey through centuries of rich coffee heritage.
• Shah's Halal Food — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: The air at Shah’s Halal Food is thick with the savory perfume of cumin-spiced lamb and flame-seared chicken, promising a hearty experience rooted in authentic street-food tradition. Generous mounds of fragrant, saffron-hued rice serve as the canvas for tender meats and crisp salads, all brought to life by the legendary contrast of cooling white sauce and a bold, spicy kick.
• Miriam — Middle Eastern: Sunlight dances across tables laden with the vibrant colors and bold aromas of a Middle Eastern morning, where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and fresh-baked breads. Sizzling pans of shakshuka and golden, flaky burekas invite guests to dip into silken yolks and zesty sauces, creating a communal feast that celebrates the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of a traditional Jerusalem breakfast. From the crisp crunch of latkes to the comforting, buttery layers of malawach, every plate offers a spirited journey through a rich culinary heritage in a space that feels both lively and deeply welcoming.
• Bustan — Middle Eastern: This vibrant Mediterranean sanctuary centers around the glowing heat of a wood-fired taboon, where the smoky aroma of freshly baked pita and charred spices creates an immediate sense of rustic warmth. The kitchen breathes new life into ancient traditions, crafting bold, sun-drenched plates that range from silky, herb-flecked spreads to succulent meats kissed by the flame. It is a place where the energy of a bustling garden feast meets modern sophistication, offering a soulful dining experience that lingers on the palate like a warm desert breeze.
• Sido — Korean: Sido invites guests into a vibrant sanctuary where the smoky aroma of grilled meats and the bright tang of fresh herbs fill the air. Golden, crisp falafel and velvet-smooth hummus take center stage on communal tables, creating a soulful dining experience that honors the timeless, sun-drenched traditions of Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Barney Greengrass — Middle Eastern: Stepping into this legendary Upper West Side institution feels like a journey back in time, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of smoked fish and the bustling energy of a classic New York deli. Silky ribbons of Eastern Nova Scotia salmon and buttery sturgeon are hand-sliced with surgical precision, destined to be piled atop chewy, kettle-boiled bagels or toasted bialys. Golden braided challah and fragrant onion rolls round out a spread that celebrates the soul of Jewish appetizing traditions, offering a timeless taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
• Shawarma Shabazi — Middle Eastern: Stepping into Shawarma Shabazi feels like an invitation to a soulful feast, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of slow-roasted meats and the comforting steam of golden matzah ball soup. Crispy Moroccan cigars and savory lamb bourekas offer a delightful crunch before giving way to the main event: overflowing plates of succulent, spice-rubbed shawarma and tender prime beef brisket. It is a vibrant culinary crossroads where traditional Middle Eastern warmth meets bold, hearty flavors, creating a dining experience that is both deeply nostalgic and undeniably exciting.
• Dagon — Middle Eastern: Dagon transports diners to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with its vibrant, high-ceilinged space adorned with lush greenery and warm terracotta accents. The air is thick with the intoxicating scent of fresh-baked laffa pulled from the wood-burning oven, perfectly complementing a parade of spice-forward small plates and charcoal-grilled delicacies. It is a bustling, soulful sanctuary where the energy of the city meets the bold, communal spirit of Levantine hospitality.
• Leyla — Middle Eastern: Leyla captures the spirit of a modern Turkish home, where soft lighting and rustic-chic accents set the stage for a soulful exploration of Anatolian flavors. Fragrant steam rises from blistered, stone-oven flatbreads and tender slow-simmered meats, inviting diners to linger over vibrant small plates that balance bright, zesty herbs with the deep warmth of traditional spices.
• Malka — Middle Eastern: Malka hums with a spirited, theatrical energy, where the aroma of charred herbs and golden-fried delicacies wafts through a room filled with communal laughter and rustic charm. The kitchen transforms simple, sun-drenched ingredients into soulful masterpieces, offering a dining experience that feels less like a traditional meal and more like a vibrant, flavor-packed celebration of life.
• Chama Mama — Middle Eastern: This vibrant sanctuary of Georgian hospitality invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the aroma of fresh-baked bread and melting sulguni cheese wafts from the open kitchen. Diners gather to tear into pillowy khachapuri and savor hand-rolled dumplings bursting with aromatic spices, all complemented by a deep selection of ancient qvevri wines that celebrate the soulful, communal traditions of the Caucasus.
• Gazala's — Middle Eastern: Sunlight streams into this airy sanctuary where the rhythmic tapping of dough against a domed saj griddle sets the stage for a soulful exploration of Druze culinary traditions. Paper-thin, hand-stretched breads arrive warm and supple, ready to be swept through silky swirls of labneh or wrapped around succulent grilled kebabs infused with the bright, earthy notes of za’atar and sumac. This neighborhood gem transforms ancient Levantine flavors into a vibrant, transportive experience that feels both deeply personal and effortlessly inviting.