Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and one of the most popular cuisines is Mediterranean. From Lebanese to Greek to Turkish, the city boasts an array of Mediterranean restaurants that will take your taste buds on a journey across the Mediterranean Sea. In this blog article, we’ll explore the best Mediterranean restaurants in Los Angeles, highlighting their unique flavors, dishes, and ambiance. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty gyro or a plate of hummus, this list has got you covered. Get ready to indulge in some of the best Mediterranean cuisine LA has to offer!
Aliki’s Greek Taverna
Address: 5862 Arbor Vitae St, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Phone: +1 (310) 645-9555
Website: elikioliveoil.com
Details: $$, Greek restaurant
Aliki’s Greek Taverna is a small, unassuming restaurant located near LAX that offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience. Customers rave about the delicious, authentic Greek food and the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is friendly, accommodating, and attentive, making customers feel like family. The menu is extensive and offers a variety of fresh, healthy options that are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
The lemon potatoes are a standout dish, as are the chicken souvlaki and gyros. Customers also highly recommend the hummus and seafood dishes. The restaurant’s prices are reasonable, though they may be on the high side for the area. However, customers agree that the quality of the food and service more than justifies the cost. Additionally, the owner takes customer feedback seriously and strives to ensure that every customer has a positive experience.
Overall, Aliki’s Greek Taverna is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Mediterranean cuisine in the Los Angeles area. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, the restaurant’s warm atmosphere, exceptional service, and flavorful dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try this hidden gem near LAX.
Cafe Santorini
Address: 64 W Union St, Pasadena, CA 91105
Phone: +1 (626) 564-4200
Website: cafesantorini.com
Details: $$, Mediterranean restaurant
Cafe Santorini is a must-visit Mediterranean restaurant located in Pasadena, known for its exceptional menu collection of Mediterranean food. Customers rave about the delicious and perfectly prepared dishes, including the must-try chicken kabob plate. The staff is friendly, attentive, and accommodating, going above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with options for both indoor and outdoor dining. Customers particularly enjoy the rooftop patio dining experience, which is perfect for a romantic date night or a family outing. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence is evident in the attentive and respectful service, which anticipates customers’ needs before they even realize they have them.
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Cafe Santorini has been a go-to restaurant for many customers for over 25 years, serving straightforward Mediterranean comfort food in an accommodating setting. The restaurant is known for its grilled kabobs, mezze choices, enormous fresh salads, and pastas. Customers appreciate the restaurant’s consistent commitment to excellence, with each visit being a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Overall, Cafe Santorini is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Mediterranean cuisine in Pasadena. Whether you are in the mood for a romantic date night or a family outing, the restaurant’s exceptional menu, warm atmosphere, and attentive service are sure to exceed your expectations. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try this gem of a spot in Pasadena.
Bavel
Address: 500 Mateo St #102, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone: +1 (213) 232-4966
Website: bavelDTLA.com
Details: $$$$, Middle Eastern restaurant
Bavel, located in the arts district of downtown Los Angeles, is a fantastic restaurant that offers a unique fusion of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine with a Californian twist. Customers rave about the outstanding quality of the food, with every dish being a standout, from the duck Nduja hummus to the lamb rack and char-grilled octopus. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual yet chic, with a beautiful aesthetic that is “insta-worthy” and a great ambiance that sets the mood for a perfect dining experience.
The staff at Bavel is attentive and knowledgeable, providing excellent service without being “upselly”. Customers appreciate the excellent recommendations made by the waitstaff, who are passionate about the food and genuinely interested in ensuring a memorable dining experience. The cocktail and wine selection at Bavel is unique and carefully curated, with options that customers won’t find elsewhere.
Bavel offers family-style meals that are perfect for sharing, allowing customers to try a variety of dishes. The hummus duck Nduja and oyster mushroom kebabs are standout appetizers, and the slow-roasted lamb neck shawarma and grilled dorade are entrees that customers rave about. The restaurant’s wagyu oxtail tagine with cherry reduction and cinnamon is also a customer favorite. Bavel’s pricing is fair and appropriate, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
Overall, Bavel is a must-visit restaurant in Los Angeles for anyone looking for excellent Middle Eastern and North African cuisine with a Californian twist. The restaurant’s outstanding food, attentive staff, and beautiful atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience that customers are sure to enjoy.
Papa Cristo’s Greek Grill and Market
Address: 2771 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Phone: +1 (323) 737-2970
Website: papacristos.com
Details: $$, Greek restaurant
Papa Cristo’s Greek Grill and Market is a must-visit restaurant in Los Angeles for anyone looking for authentic Greek food and products. Located in a small Greek place in the city, it offers a deli-restaurant combo where customers can order their food at the counter and enjoy it at their table. The staff is friendly and efficient, providing fast service while making customers feel welcomed. There is also live music, which adds a great touch to the dining experience.
The food at Papa Cristo’s is exceptional, with customers raving about the lamb gyro plate, falafel sandwich, and souvlaki plate. The BBQ on the weekends is also a standout, and customers can pair their meals with Greek beer and wine. Desserts like baklava and Karithopita walnut cake are a perfect way to end a delicious meal. Papa Cristo’s also has an attached market that is worth checking out, offering customers a variety of Greek products.
Papa Cristo’s is not just a restaurant but also a cultural experience. They offer a Thursday evening dinner that gives customers a good exposure to Greek food and culture at a great value. The family-style serving of traditional Greek food, including lamb, chicken, and veggie kabobs, spanikopitas, stuffed grape leaves, and Greek salad, is expertly prepared and a great way to try a variety of dishes. Belly dancers also add to the festive atmosphere, making it a jolly and unforgettable experience.
Overall, Papa Cristo’s Greek Grill and Market is a gem in Los Angeles, offering exceptional food, a relaxed atmosphere, and excellent service. Whether you dine-in or take-out, it is a great place to enjoy all things Greek food.
N.10 Restaurant
Address: 8436 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: +1 (310) 924-2011
Website: facebook.com/n10restaurant
Details: $$$, Italian restaurant
N.10 Restaurant is a must-visit Italian restaurant in Los Angeles for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a cool and trendy atmosphere with beautiful interior design that transports customers to Italy. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and passionate about providing excellent service. The GM, Marco, is particularly outstanding, going above and beyond to ensure customers have a memorable experience.
The menu features authentic Italian dishes made with top-quality ingredients imported directly from Italy. Customers rave about the Spaghetti di Mare, Tuna and Avocado TArtare, Veal Milanese, and Lobster Paccheri. The pizza with truffle is also a must-try for truffle lovers. The cocktails, including martinis, old fashioned, and negroni, are outstanding and pair well with the food. Customers appreciate the freshness and quality of all the ingredients, leaving no after-meal heaviness or bad hangover feelings.
Overall, N.10 Restaurant offers an incredible culinary experience with excellent food, great wine list, and impeccable service. The restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The restaurant provides a great hospitality experience, thanks to great leaders like Marco, who go above and beyond to ensure customers’ expectations are exceeded. The restaurant is also known for its celebrity guests, including legendary Alessandro Del Piero, who occasionally visits the restaurant.
Carousel Restaurant
Address: 304 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203
Phone: +1 (818) 246-7775
Website: carouselrestaurant.com
Details: $$, Middle Eastern restaurant
Carousel Restaurant is a must-visit restaurant in Los Angeles for anyone looking for authentic Middle Eastern and Armenian cuisine. The restaurant boasts a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere with attentive waitstaff, making it an ideal destination for family gatherings or business meetings. The restaurant has multiple seating areas, including an enclosed patio, formal interior, and outdoor seating.
The menu at Carousel Restaurant is incredibly varied, offering a range of Middle Eastern and Armenian dishes. Customers rave about the appetizers, including Hammos, Mutabbel, and Falafel, which are all prepared to perfection. The main dishes, such as Chicken Breast, Lula (Kafta), Filet Shish Kebabs, and Lamb Kanobs, are cooked perfectly and served in generous portions. The pita is very thin, and the salads are fresh and flavorful.
The restaurant offers excellent personalized service, making customers feel like royalty. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the phone ordering system works perfectly. The restaurant also features live music on weekends, creating a festive atmosphere. Customers appreciate the authenticity of the food and the welcoming ambiance, making it a must-go restaurant in LA. The restaurant can be busy on weekend evenings, but it’s definitely worth a visit.
The Hummus Bar & Grill
Address: 18743 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana, CA 91356
Phone: +1 (818) 344-6606
Website: hummusbargrill.com
Details: $$, Middle Eastern restaurant
The Hummus Bar & Grill is a Tarzana restaurant that serves fresh and high-quality Israeli (Mediterranean) cuisine. The giant pita bread is a standout, which is fresh and plentiful. The restaurant is known for having the best hummus options, including the popular mushroom hummus. Customers have also enjoyed the fresh and flavorful salads and tasty fish entrees. The staff are attentive and informed, and the outdoor seating is A+ with easy and free parking in their lot.
The restaurant offers great service and a good variety of Middle Eastern food with flavors and creativity, including their own homemade pita bread. Customers have raved about the savory eggplant and the huge portions of delicious food. Despite the slightly outdated design, the atmosphere is great and the presentation of the food is impressive. Customers have been pleasantly surprised by the easy camaraderie of the staff and the authenticity of the place. The Hummus Bar & Grill is the best choice for dinner if you’re in the area, whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or a meat-eater, as they have something for everyone with over the top taste sensations.
Overall, The Hummus Bar & Grill is a hidden gem that offers beautiful, high-quality real food to nurture your body and delight your taste buds. Customers have been wowed by the amazing selection of hummus, the fresh and plentiful pita bread, and the perfectly cooked shawarma meat dishes. The staff are super friendly and attentive, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves Israeli or Mediterranean cuisine.
AVRA Beverly Hills
Address: 233 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: +1 (310) 734-0841
Website: avrabeverlyhills.com
Details: $$$$, Seafood restaurant
AVRA Beverly Hills is a beautiful Mediterranean restaurant that offers excellent food, service and atmosphere. Apart from the fresh fish on display, the restaurant’s three-course lunch special is highly recommended. The food is of great quality, everything is fresh and the staff are friendly and perfect, making the place clean and welcoming.
The staff at AVRA are highly professional and accommodating, going above and beyond to make customers feel welcome. From greeting patrons at the door to providing recommendations on the menu, the staff provide exceptional service, making the dining experience memorable.
The menu at AVRA is a standout, with a Mediterranean flair that specializes in fresh seafood. The food is described as marvelous and the wine cart perfect, with lobster pasta, wagyu rib eye and East Coast oysters being among the standout dishes. The restaurant is also known for its value for money, with excellent set lunch options and friendly, attentive service that doesn’t feel rushed.
Overall, AVRA Beverly Hills is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in fresh seafood served with a Mediterranean flair. From the world-class service to the exceptional food and beautiful atmosphere, AVRA is sure to make any dining experience a memorable one.
The Little Door
Address: 8164 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: +1 (323) 951-1210
Website: thelittledoor.com
Details: $$$$, Modern European restaurant
The Little Door is a Mediterranean restaurant in Los Angeles that boasts a beautiful ambiance and amazing service. The design is unique, with a lovely patio draped in vines and little white lights, making it one of the prettiest restaurants in LA. The atmosphere is romantic, with lighted branches overhead, and the tables are nicely spaced out. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about service.
The menu is outstanding, with a “Chef Selection” menu available year-round that is similar to the DineLA pricing and set up. The food is excellent, and the portions are substantial, not pretentious at all. Reviewers rave about the sea bass, lamb, grilled octopus, and shaved Brussels sprout salad. The hot lava dessert is a must-try, and the wine selection is fantastic, although a bit pricey.
The Little Door is a little hidden treasure that is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening out. It is a superb restaurant that offers a cool and unique experience. From the exceptional meal to the beautiful setting, this place does not disappoint. If you are looking for a Mediterranean restaurant with a certain caché, outstanding food, and impeccable service, The Little Door is highly recommended.
Momed
Address: 3245 Casitas Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90039
Phone: +1 (323) 522-3488
Website: atmomed.com
Details: $$, Mediterranean restaurant
Momed, short for Modern Mediterranean, is a superb restaurant in Los Angeles that offers delicious food and a wonderful ambiance. The staff is professional, pleasant, friendly, and helpful, making you feel welcome and appreciated from the moment you walk in. The restaurant’s decor is charming, beautiful, and comfortable, with an airy patio dining area that feels safe and socially distanced.
The menu is diverse, focusing mainly on the eastern Mediterranean, with many mouth-watering dishes to choose from. The Mezza hummus platter, Cleopatra salad, and Short Ribs Tajines are just a few of the dishes that reviewers rave about. The charcuterie, bread, and cocktails are also outstanding. The food is fantastic, full of flavors and perfectly cooked, and the service is exceptional, with attentive staff refilling your water and checking on you.
The atmosphere is great, resembling a large, partially open-air patio that provides a charming and comfortable space to enjoy delicious food. The restaurant’s location might be a little out of the way, but it’s worth the trip. Whether you’re looking for a great lunch or a night out, Momed is a perfect spot. It’s one of the best Mediterranean restaurants in LA, and every visit is an incredibly satisfying experience. If you’re in LA, don’t miss the chance to visit Momed and enjoy some of the best Mediterranean food in town.
La Paella
Address: 476 S San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: +1 (323) 951-0745
Website: usalapaella.com
Details: $$, Spanish restaurant
La Paella is a wonderful Mediterranean restaurant in Los Angeles that offers great food, excellent service, and a lovely ambiance. The staff is friendly, warm, and welcoming, making you feel at home from the moment you walk in. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate feel, with nicely private tables even when it’s busy.
The menu is diverse, with many mouth-watering dishes to choose from, including the best Paella in Los Angeles. The seafood Paella, spicy potato, and cheese Croquettes, and tapas selections are just a few of the dishes that reviewers rave about. The food is prepared as if you’re dining in Spain, with flavors that transport you to the Iberian Peninsula.
The atmosphere is great, with a decor that makes you feel like you’re in someone’s home. The service is impeccable, with Spanish servers and a wine list that offers lots of good options. La Paella is a perfect choice for a romantic dinner, an anniversary celebration, or a small dinner party. It’s one of the best tapas and seafood restaurants in Los Angeles, and every visit is an incredible experience. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Spain in LA, La Paella is the place to be.
Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown L.A.
Address: 600 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: +1 (213) 489-4200
Website: paninikabobgrill.com
Details: $$, Mediterranean restaurant
Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown L.A. is an excellent Mediterranean restaurant with a diverse menu and friendly staff. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options and has a lovely atmosphere. The food is fresh and perfectly prepared, with generous portions that will leave you feeling satisfied.
The salmon kabob and chicken shish kebab are standout dishes that are perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. The basmati rice and romaine avocado salad are also must-tries. The coffee is excellent, and the tiramisu is amazing. The breakfast menu is also delicious, with a wide selection of healthy foods.
The service is friendly, attentive, and efficient, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The staff keeps checking to ensure that everything is good, and the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable. The restaurant is perfect for vegetarians, with a great selection of vegetarian dishes on the menu. The prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service.
Overall, Panini Kabob Grill – Downtown L.A. is highly recommended for anyone looking for fresh and delicious Mediterranean food in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, and the portions are large enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
Spitz – Eagle Rock
Address: 2506 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041
Phone: +1 (323) 257-5600
Website: spitz-restaurant.com/mediterranean-food-eagle-rock-restaurant-bar
Details: $$, Mediterranean restaurant
Spitz – Eagle Rock is an excellent Mediterranean restaurant with a friendly staff, a great atmosphere, and a diverse menu. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, making it perfect for any occasion. The food is amazing, with standout dishes such as the chicken doner wrap, beef and lamb kababs, and sweet potato fries.
The salad and wraps are also must-tries, with many good components that will leave you feeling satisfied. The restaurant is perfect for both carnivores and vegetarians, with delicious options for both. The atmosphere is down-to-earth but upscale enough that most anyone would be comfortable there. The prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service.
The staff is great and nothing is too much trouble. They make you feel welcome and ensure that your dining experience is enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to grab lunch with a friend or have a nice dinner with your family, Spitz – Eagle Rock is the perfect spot. It’s a great place to get a taste of German-style doner in the US, with food that is different than the usual meal that you get at your local food court. Overall, Spitz – Eagle Rock is highly recommended for anyone looking for fresh and delicious Mediterranean food in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere.
Jeje Chicken
Address: 16970 San Fernando Mission Blvd suit c-1, Granada Hills, CA 91344
Phone: +1 (818) 832-5252
Website: jejechicken.com
Details: $, Mediterranean restaurant
Jeje Chicken is an excellent Mediterranean and Turkish restaurant with a clean environment, friendly staff, and a diverse menu. The staff is very welcoming, making it a great place to go with family or friends. The food is fresh, healthy, and halal, making it an ideal choice for those who care about the quality of their food.
The Istanbul-style wrap, hot falafels, and burgers are highly recommended, as is the baklava for dessert. The mix kebab plate is a standout dish, featuring ground lamb skewers, chicken kebab, hummus, basmati rice, pickle turnip and chili peppers, served with two pita breads and garlic sauce on the side. The kebab salad is also a must-try, and the food overall is delicious and reasonably priced.
The atmosphere is family-friendly, and the restaurant has an open floor plan with plenty of seating. It’s like a classy fast food restaurant, making it perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Whether you’re in the area for business or pleasure, Jeje Chicken is definitely worth a visit.
Overall, Jeje Chicken is highly recommended for anyone looking for fresh and delicious Mediterranean and Turkish food in a clean and welcoming environment. The friendly staff, diverse menu, and reasonable prices make it a great choice for any occasion.
In conclusion, Los Angeles is home to some of the best Mediterranean restaurants in the world and it’s not hard to see why. With a diverse range of cuisine inspired by the cultures and traditions of the Mediterranean region, LA offers an array of delicious and authentic dishes that are sure to satisfy any foodie’s cravings. From the fresh seafood at The Little Door to the mouth-watering kebabs at Shayan Express, there’s something for everyone. So the next time you’re in LA, be sure to check out one (or all) of these amazing Mediterranean restaurants for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
