The 16 Best Middle Eastern Foods in Houston

Immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant flavors of the Middle East without leaving Houston. This city is a melting pot of culinary treasures and is renowned for its diverse Middle Eastern food joints serving authentic and mouth-watering delights.
Whether you are craving Lebanese, Iranian, Turkish, or Syrian dishes, Houston has you covered. Each restaurant has its unique spin on hearty kebabs, fluffy flatbreads, exotic spices, and satisfying vegetarian options.
- Proximity: Easily find Middle Eastern restaurants near you
- Variety: Wide variety of cuisines from different countries
- Quality: Explore top-rated restaurants highly recommended by diners
- Vegan/Gluten-Free Options: Diverse menus covering various dietary preferences and restrictions
- Price Range: Places to suit every budget
As you embark on this culinary adventure, we will guide you towards the best in town. Feast your eyes on the list of the 16 Best Middle Eastern Foods in Houston.
- 1. Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine
- 2. Raja Mediterranean Food & Sweets
- 3. Kenz
- 4. Pasha Turkish Restaurant
- 5. Aladdin Mediterranean Grill
- 6. Fairouz Mediterranean Grill
- 7. Tahini Plus
- 8. Shawarma Grill & Cafe
- 9. Ranosh Cafe
- 10. Sayad Mediterranean Kitchen
- 11. Mary'z Mediterranean Cuisine
- 12. Mary'z Mediterranean Cuisine
- 13. Al Aseel Grill and Cafe
- 14. Nazif's Mediterranean Grill
- 15. Shawarma Stop
- 16. Wasfi's
1. Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews rave about the delicious and fresh food served at Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine. Some key points from the reviews are:
- Generous portion sizes at affordable prices
- Impeccable presentation and flavorful dishes
- Fast and friendly service
- Relaxing ambiance and cleanliness
With a high ranking of 4.6, it's no wonder patrons keep coming back for more. Whether you're a local or a tourist in Houston, make sure to stop by this gem for an unforgettable culinary experience.
2. Raja Mediterranean Food & Sweets
Información y Opiniones
- A local gem for Arabic cuisine with fresh and tasty dishes like mixed grill and hummus.
- Amazing food quality, especially the falafel and hummus, paired with exceptional customer service.
- An authentic Mediterranean experience with a welcoming host, despite the humble location.
- A great selection of dishes like beef kofta kebab platter and lamb kebab, topped with complimentary pita bread and oil masala.
Don't let the exterior fool you, Raja Mediterranean Food & Sweets is a hidden culinary delight waiting to be explored!
3. Kenz
Información y Opiniones
- The delicious Koshary is a standout dish, perfect for both meat-eaters and vegans.
- Customers rave about the exceptional service and welcoming atmosphere.
- The Egyptian tea and baklava are highly recommended for a delightful end to the meal.
With a ranking of 4.7 and 960 reviews, Kenz has garnered a loyal following. Visitors praise the attentive staff, flavorful dishes, and cultural experience. Whether you're a fan of Egyptian cuisine or looking to try something new, Kenz offers a memorable dining experience.
4. Pasha Turkish Restaurant
Información y Opiniones
- We were newish to Turkish food, but this place was great. The kenafa was delicious, and the yogurt kebab was a hit!
- If you want to try authentic and super delicious Middle Eastern food, Pasha is the place to go. The owner is extremely pleasant and accommodating.
- Delicious food and very friendly staff. Iskender kebab is a must-have here!
- We absolutely adored Pasha!! The Manti was stunning, and the hummus, chicken adana, and ali nazik were also delicious.
Whether you're a Turkish cuisine enthusiast or trying it for the first time, Pasha Turkish Restaurant promises a memorable culinary experience that will keep you coming back for more.
5. Aladdin Mediterranean Grill
Información y Opiniones
- Husband was in the mood for Mediterranean and he saw the great ratings, but experienced a delay in receiving the order and found some dishes lacking in quality.
- The salad bar plus entree is a good deal, and the staff, especially the bread baking guy, received high praise.
- An Exquisite Culinary Journey at Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant, highlighting the outstanding koftah kabob, lamb shank, and steak kabob.
- The food was really good with ample portions, especially enjoying the bread, and the service was excellent.
Customers have enjoyed the diverse offerings at Aladdin Mediterranean Grill, including comfort food, halal options, healthy dishes, and vegetarian choices. The restaurant provides various service options like delivery, curbside pickup, and dine-in, catering to different preferences. The friendly atmosphere and attentive staff further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for those looking to indulge in Mediterranean delights.
6. Fairouz Mediterranean Grill
Información y Opiniones
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it perfect for solo dining, lunch, or dinner. Customers have praised the friendly staff, excellent service, and beautiful decor. Fairouz Grill is known for its flavorful and fresh food, with generous portions at reasonable prices.
- The menu offers a variety of great eats & sides
- Customers loved the delicious desserts and Oreo cookie shake
- The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with helpful and friendly wait staff
7. Tahini Plus
Información y Opiniones
Customers have left 475 reviews with an impressive 4.6 ranking. Some key points from their reviews include:
- Absolutely loved the food and the best service. Friendly and welcoming staff.
- Delicious hummus and flavorful meat dishes. Refreshing mint lemonade.
- Outstanding authentic Middle Eastern food with great service and friendly staff.
- Amazing freshly cooked bread, friendly staff, reasonable prices, and clean environment.
With their diverse halal food offerings, Tahini Plus stands out for its delicious dishes, quality service, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for many.
8. Shawarma Grill & Cafe
Información y Opiniones
- Nice little place with delicious food at affordable prices. Outdoor seating available.
- Incredibly delicious menu items. Clean environment with great outdoor seating. Excellent service from multilingual staff.
- Enjoyable experience with reasonable prices, flavorful food, and friendly staff.
- Super friendly service, excellent food quality, and consistent taste with each visit.
9. Ranosh Cafe
Información y Opiniones
- An enthusiastic diner praises the exquisite culinary journey at Ranosh Cafe, highlighting the flavorful kabab chicken and beef, perfectly cooked rice, fresh tea, indulgent fries, and fresh hummus. The service remains top-notch even on busy nights, with ample indoor and outdoor seating options creating a casual ambiance.
- Another satisfied customer commends the restaurant as a great spot for hookah with decent service and delicious food. They particularly enjoyed the beef shwarma plate and spacious patio area.
- While a customer found the food good and well-prepared, they were disappointed by the small and expensive appetizer plate. They noted slow service, unprofessional waitstaff, and mosquitoes outside.
- Despite mixed reviews on ambiance, a diner appreciates the flavorful and well-prepared dishes at Ranosh Cafe. They recommend the spot for those solely focused on excellent food.
10. Sayad Mediterranean Kitchen
Información y Opiniones
- Customers rave about the quality and taste of the food, with many praising the lamb dishes and traditional appetizers like hummus and bread.
- The friendly and attentive staff contribute to the overall dining experience, providing top-notch service to every customer.
- The restaurant's spacious yet cozy atmosphere and clean, bright decor make it an ideal spot for special occasions or a casual meal.
- Many patrons recommend trying the buffet during iftar for a wide variety of dishes and flavors.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite, a leisurely dinner, or a family gathering, Sayad Mediterranean Kitchen delivers on all fronts. Explore their menu of cocktails, comfort food, vegan options, and more to experience the best of Middle Eastern cuisine in the U.S.
11. Mary'z Mediterranean Cuisine
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- One customer was disappointed with the food quality and customer service, mentioning cold hummus and a long wait for service.
- Another customer praised the delicious food and friendly staff, but expressed surprise at the parking fee.
- A different customer enjoyed the scenic patio, hookah, and quality service at affordable prices.
- One customer highly recommended the lamb chops and overall ambiance of the restaurant for a great dining experience.
Overall, Mary'z Mediterranean Cuisine is known for its delectable Lebanese cuisine and impeccable service, making it a must-visit spot in Houston for a flavorful Mediterranean experience.
12. Mary'z Mediterranean Cuisine
Información y Opiniones
- The lamb is delicious and the service is friendly and fast.
- Great atmosphere with awesome service and delicious food.
- Generous portions and delicious food for delivery orders.
Despite some mixed reviews, Mary'z Mediterranean Cuisine continues to attract customers who appreciate the authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and friendly service. If you're looking for a great place to dine with friends, give them a try!
13. Al Aseel Grill and Cafe
Información y Opiniones
With a remarkable rating of 4.1 stars, based on 1699 reviews, Al Aseel Grill and Cafe has gained a strong reputation for its delicious food and friendly service. Customers have highlighted a few key points in their reviews:
- The lamb kebab and grilled chicken dishes are perfectly spiced and cooked to perfection. The cabbage salad and rice balance the flavors wonderfully.
- The Grilled Pomphret Fish and Grilled Quail are exceptionally flavorful and well-prepared.
- Despite the service fee, the delicious food and fair prices make it a worthwhile dining experience.
- The restaurant offers the best fried chicken, saffron rice, hummus, and addictive shatta, all at an unbeatable quality-price ratio.
Whether you're looking for a delightful Palestinian cuisine experience or simply craving some great grilled food, Al Aseel Grill and Cafe is a must-visit spot that promises to satisfy your taste buds with its diverse offerings. Visit now and enjoy a memorable dining experience!
14. Nazif's Mediterranean Grill
Información y Opiniones
- Customers praise the good atmosphere and friendly staff, with the owner being very personable.
- Many enjoy the variety of appetizers and the mixed grill is a favorite among patrons.
- The food is described as delicious, well-seasoned, and worth the price.
- Guests appreciate the authentic Turkish cuisine and the unique offerings on the menu.
If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a flavorful Mediterranean meal, Nazif's Mediterranean Grill is a must-visit.
15. Shawarma Stop
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews highlight some key points:
- The customer service is very polite and helpful. The place is busy, and the food looks amazing.
- Great vegan options! Very friendly service.
- I love this place! The food is always fresh, juicy, and flavorful. The lamb quality is exceptional.
- Excellent Mediterranean food stop at Almeda Road and MacGregor! Great food, service, and very reasonable prices.
16. Wasfi's
Información y Opiniones
Customers have raved about the welcoming atmosphere, great tea selection, and live music. Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Great services and ambiance, with delicious appetizers like Falafel and Hummus.
- Inviting atmosphere for a casual catch-up with friends, perfect for enjoying tea and sweets.
- Authentic and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine that is a must-try for visitors to Houston.
- Decent prices, flavorful food, and a memorable dining experience.
With a solid ranking of 4.0 based on 1015 reviews, Wasfi's continues to impress and satisfy its patrons with its delectable dishes and inviting environment. Visit Wasfi's for a delightful culinary experience that transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean.
Map of Middle Eastern Foods in Houston
Are you on the hunt for some delightful Middle Eastern cuisine in Houston? We got you covered! Explore our comprehensive map of all Middle Eastern food locations across the city. From savory shawarma spots to notable kebab kitchens, navigate through Houston's tastiest destinations. Let this guide be your key to a whole new culinary experience!
What are some popular Middle Eastern restaurants in Houston?
Houston is home to a vibrant Middle Eastern food scene, with numerous restaurants offering delicious dishes from the region. Some popular options include Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, Andalucia Tapas Restaurant & Bar, Phoenicia Specialty Foods, and Open Sesame Grill.
These restaurants serve a variety of Middle Eastern staples such as shawarma, kebabs, hummus, and baklava, ensuring there is something for every palate.
Whether you are craving a hearty lamb dish or a light and flavorful tabbouleh salad, Houston's Middle Eastern restaurants have you covered.
What are some must-try dishes in Middle Eastern cuisine?
When dining at a Middle Eastern restaurant in Houston, there are several delicious dishes you should consider trying.
Some must-try dishes include falafel, a deep-fried chickpea or fava bean patty, shawarma, thinly sliced meat wrapped in pita bread, and kafta, seasoned ground meat skewered and grilled.
For dessert, don't miss out on baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.
- Falafel
- Shawarma
- Kafta
- Baklava
Are there any Middle Eastern food festivals or events in Houston?
Houston hosts several events celebrating Middle Eastern cuisine throughout the year.
One notable festival is the Houston Arab Festival, which showcases the rich culture, music, and food of the Arab world.
Additionally, there are food truck festivals and culinary events that often feature Middle Eastern food vendors.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options at Middle Eastern restaurants in Houston?
Yes, many Middle Eastern restaurants in Houston offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
You can enjoy dishes such as hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and tabbouleh salad that are vegetarian-friendly.
For vegans, options may include falafel sandwiches, grilled vegetable platters, and lentil soup.

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