Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Union Square

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

BergenBrooklynManhattanQueens

Neighborhoods

AstoriaBay RidgeCliffside ParkEast VillageFinancial DistrictGramercy Park

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

21 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Cafe Zaffri

4.5

Awesome(110)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Union Square

Booked 21 times today

Cafe Zaffri, lovingly known as “Zaf’s”, is the third dining concept from the acclaimed team behind New York City mainstays Raf’s and The Musket Room. Located inside The Twenty Two New York, a hotel and private members club located in Union Square. The sprawling restaurant will be open to the public and serve modern interpretations on Levantine cuisine and its diaspora.

2. ilili

4.7

Exceptional(8146)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Gramercy Park

Booked 53 times today

Ilili is a jewel in the heart of NYC's Flatiron District, offering a tantalizing journey through authentic Mediterranean cuisine with a Lebanese twist. Celebrated for its "delicious branzino" and "outstanding Brussels sprouts," ilili showcases the rich flavors and vibrant traditions of Lebanon. Guests rave about the "impeccable taste, creativity, and presentation," making each dining experience truly unforgettable. The extensive mezze selection, perfect for sharing, invites diners to explore innovative yet traditional dishes. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and "top-notch service," ilili stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to savor the true essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

3. Balade

4.7

Exceptional(1020)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • East Village

Booked 8 times today

Balade, nestled in the heart of East Village, New York, offers a "truly authentic Lebanese experience" that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Praised as one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants, Balade's cuisine "is to die for," featuring fresh, authentic, and delicious dishes that transport diners to the vibrant streets of Lebanon. With a warm and hospitable setting, the restaurant is a testament to owner Roland Semaan's Lebanese heritage and hospitality expertise. Balade has been recognized as the Best Middle Eastern by Zagat and has been a Dinner’s Choice Winner on OpenTable. "Highly recommend" this gem for a memorable dining experience!

4. Zou Zou's

4.7

Exceptional(1683)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Hell's Kitchen

Booked 92 times today

Zou Zou's in Hell's Kitchen, New York, offers a vibrant dive into authentic American cuisine with a delightful twist. Known for its creative menu, diners rave about the "amazing fried chicken" and the "scrumptious grape leaf wrapped blackened bass." The restaurant's lively atmosphere and attentive service make it a memorable dining destination. Patrons are consistently impressed with the "generous portions" and the "fantastically flavorful and unique dishes," ensuring a satisfying experience in every visit. Zou Zou's stands out not only for its enticing flavors but also for its warm, welcoming vibe, making it a must-visit for American cuisine enthusiasts.

5. Local 92 - Soho

4.1

Excellent(239)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • NoLita

Booked 1 time today

Local 92 - Soho in NoLita, New York, offers a remarkable Middle Eastern dining experience that stands out for its authentic flavors and innovative fusion with Italian cuisine. Diners rave about the "Israeli platter," which is praised as "absolutely amazing" and a must-try. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by the restaurant's stunning copper bar and unique art, creating a setting that's both cozy and chic. Guests consistently highlight the "stellar service" and the expertly crafted cocktails, making every visit memorable. Local 92 is a culinary gem where Middle Eastern tradition meets modern flair, promising an unforgettable dining adventure.

6. Mesiba

4.3

Awesome(39)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • Williamsburg

Booked 4 times today

Mesiba in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a culinary gem offering authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with a contemporary Levantine twist. Diners rave about the "amazing food" and "exceptional service," making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a vibrant dining experience. The menu features standout dishes like the "cheese-stuffed kreplach" and "warm hummus cart," which are crafted with impeccable quality and flavor. The atmosphere is described as "electric and lively," with a design-forward aesthetic that enhances the overall dining experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Mesiba promises "fantastic" flavors and "absolutely delicious cocktails."

7. Skinos

4.4

Awesome(290)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Financial District

Booked 34 times today

Skinos, located in the heart of New York’s Financial District, offers a captivating Mediterranean dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. Celebrated for its "exquisite ambiance" and "delicious food," this restaurant consistently dazzles with its vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Diners rave about the "amazing seafood squid ink linguini" and "incredible lamb chops," highlighting the culinary expertise that defines Skinos's offerings. Each dish is a testament to the rich Mediterranean heritage, crafted with care and authenticity. The attentive staff and beautiful setting further enhance the dining experience, making Skinos a "hidden gem" for those craving genuine Mediterranean cuisine.

8. 19 Cleveland

new

4.5

Awesome(5)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Middle eastern • SoHo

Booked 13 times today

Rooted in flavor and full of life, 19 Cleveland brings the energy of modern-day Tel Aviv to SoHo, NYC. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or escaping for a quick weekday lunch, every meal here feels like a mini vacation — no passport required.Our menu is a bold blend of Mediterranean traditions and global inspirations, from spicy Thai fish to silky Italian pastas to soulful shakshuka. It’s casual dining redefined — fresh, eclectic, and designed to be shared. Inspired by the cultural melting pot of the middle-east we celebrate the flavors brought together by generations of immigrants who cook with creativity, curiosity, and joy.The atmosphere is lively, the crowd effortlessly cool, and the setting perfect for anything from a laid-back lunch to a vibrant evening out.A neighborhood favorite with a cult following from locals and visitors around the globe. Join us and see what the buzz is about, book now!

9. Shalel

4.7

Exceptional(303)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Middle eastern • Lincoln Square

Booked 9 times today

Shalel in Lincoln Square, New York, is a "charming hidden gem" renowned for its exceptional Middle Eastern cuisine. Dine in a unique, candlelit underground setting that transports you to a Mediterranean haven. The authentic dishes, inspired by flavors from across the Middle East, consistently receive rave reviews for being "delicious and full of flavor." The ambiance, complete with an indoor waterfall, adds a romantic touch, perfect for intimate gatherings. Patrons frequently praise the attentive service and generous portion sizes, making every visit memorable. Shalel is "definitely a place to return to," offering an unforgettable culinary experience that captivates all senses.

10. Gazala’s

4.4

Awesome(413)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Middle eastern • Upper West Side

Booked 4 times today

Gazala’s Restaurant is the creation of Chef/Owner Gazala Halabi, who celebrates her culinary heritage as an Israeli Druze. Hospitality is a Druze hallmark—guests are embraced and welcomed with a flavorful meal. Says Gazala, “I want my restaurant to be a place to eat Druze food, to sample Druze culture and be treated like family. It is a little slice of my village on Amsterdam Avenue."

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Anjana
Atlanta •2 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
I came here for my birthday dinner and the vibes are 10/10. The ambience, decor and interior are so pretty and classy. The food was also excellent. We ordered the prawns, octopus, lamb chops, Brussels sprouts, and the basque cheesecake. We also had lovely cocktails. I’m bumping a star from my review because the service could have been better at this price point.
More info
ililiPrice: Expensive• Lebanese• Gramercy Park
•
4.7
F
francesVIP
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
SUCH a lovely brunch!! I met a dear pal for a belated birthday brunch and this was the perfect spot. It was chic and quiet. Amazing design!! And the food was so yummy! Can't wait to return for dinner!
More info
Cafe ZaffriPrice: Expensive• Middle Eastern• Union Square
•
4.5
B
Bobbi
Caribbean •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Outstanding service and sensational food. The portions are massive, so think about sharing. A must-have is the hummus and freshly made pita. The best I've ever had!
More info
BaladePrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• East Village
•
4.7
J
JillVIP
New York City •38 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 24, 2025
Delicious food, I had the branzino and my friend had the salmon. Both really good and large portions. But during our dinner the air conditioner went out and it became unbearably hot. We might have stayed for dessert, but it was too hot. Next time….
More info
Local 92 - SohoPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• NoLita
•
4.1
I
IlhamVIP
Austin •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 2, 2025
Food was DELICIOUS! And Marc has been a wonderful host!
More info
19 ClevelandPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• SoHo
•
4.5

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