Discover the Top Middle Eastern Cuisine in DC: A Guide to the Best Restaurants

Indulge in the rich and flavorful world of Middle Eastern cuisine in DC. From succulent kebabs to savory hummus, these restaurants offer the best of the region.

Washington DC is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines, making it a food lover's paradise. Among the many offerings in the city, Middle Eastern cuisine stands out for its unique flavors, colorful presentation, and aromatic spices. From savory grilled meats to rich stews and fragrant rice dishes, the best Middle Eastern food in DC will transport you to another world. Whether you're a fan of hummus, falafel, shawarma, or baklava, there's something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse cuisine.

One of the most popular Middle Eastern restaurants in DC is Zaytinya, located in the bustling Chinatown neighborhood. This award-winning eatery is known for its innovative small plates that showcase the flavors of Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece. The menu features a wide variety of vegetarian and meat options, such as the crispy Brussels sprouts with coriander yogurt, the lamb kibbeh with pine nuts and mint, and the grilled octopus with fava beans and capers. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that includes many Mediterranean varietals and a dessert menu that features traditional sweets like rosewater-scented Turkish delight and honey-soaked baklava.

For a more casual dining experience, head to Mamoun's Falafel, a family-owned chain that has been serving up fresh and flavorful Middle Eastern street food since 1971. With three locations in DC, Mamoun's is a go-to spot for quick and satisfying meals that won't break the bank. Their signature dish is the falafel sandwich, made with crispy chickpea balls, creamy tahini sauce, and tangy pickles, all stuffed into a warm pita bread. They also offer other classics like shawarma, hummus, baba ghanoush, and stuffed grape leaves. Be sure to try their famous hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor!

If you're looking for a more upscale experience, check out Maydan, a trendy restaurant located in the hip 14th Street corridor. Inspired by the open-fire cooking traditions of North Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, Maydan offers a unique dining experience that combines rustic charm with modern sophistication. The centerpiece of the restaurant is a massive hearth where chefs roast whole animals and vegetables over wood-fired flames. The menu includes dishes like lamb shoulder with spiced yogurt, grilled eggplant with pomegranate molasses, and whole branzino with preserved lemons. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with communal tables and a buzzing bar that serves creative cocktails and a selection of natural wines.

Another popular Middle Eastern spot in DC is Taim, a fast-casual chain that started in New York City and has since expanded to the nation's capital. Taim specializes in Israeli cuisine, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their menu features items like falafel platters, sabich sandwiches, and shakshuka bowls, all made with high-quality ingredients and homemade condiments. They also offer a variety of smoothies and freshly squeezed juices, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. If you're in a hurry, grab a pita pocket filled with your choice of fillings and enjoy your meal on the go.

No roundup of Middle Eastern food in DC would be complete without mentioning Rosemary's Thyme Bistro, a cozy neighborhood restaurant located in the heart of Dupont Circle. This family-owned establishment has been serving up traditional Lebanese dishes for over a decade, earning a loyal following of locals and tourists alike. The menu features classic dishes like tabbouleh, kibbeh nayeh, and shish tawook, as well as more inventive options like the lamb chops with garlic sauce and the salmon stuffed with crabmeat. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, colorful mosaic tiles, and soft lighting that creates a romantic ambiance.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or a curious newcomer, DC has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From elegant restaurants to casual cafes, there's something for every taste and budget. So next time you're in the capital city, be sure to explore the delicious flavors and rich history of this vibrant culinary tradition.

Introduction

Washington DC is a city that has a diverse and vibrant food scene. One of the cuisines that stands out is Middle Eastern cuisine. With its rich flavors and culinary heritage, it has become a popular culinary choice for many DC residents and visitors alike. In this article, we will explore some of the best Middle Eastern food in DC.

Shawarma Spot

If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal, Shawarma Spot is the place to go. This small, family-owned restaurant located in Adams Morgan specializes in Lebanese-style shawarma. The meat is marinated overnight and cooked on a rotating spit, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat. The shawarma is served with fresh pita bread, hummus, and pickled vegetables.

What to try:

- Chicken Shawarma: tender chicken with a blend of spices, served with garlic sauce- Beef Shawarma: thinly sliced beef marinated in Middle Eastern spices, served with tahini sauce- Falafel: crispy fried balls made of ground chickpeas and spices, served with tahini sauce

Zaytinya

Zaytinya is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located in Penn Quarter. The menu features small plates that are meant to be shared, allowing you to taste a variety of dishes. The restaurant's name means olive oil in Turkish, a nod to the importance of olive oil in Mediterranean cuisine.

What to try:

- Baba Ghanoush: a classic Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic- Htipiti: a spicy feta cheese dip with roasted red peppers and olive oil- Lamb Kibbeh: a Lebanese dish made from ground lamb and bulgur wheat, served with yogurt sauce

Masala Art

Masala Art is an Indian restaurant located in the Tenleytown neighborhood. While not strictly Middle Eastern, Indian cuisine has many similarities and influences from the region. The menu features traditional dishes as well as modern interpretations.

What to try:

- Chicken Tikka Masala: a popular Indian dish made from marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce- Lamb Rogan Josh: a Kashmiri dish made with tender lamb in a spicy tomato-based sauce- Vegetable Biryani: a fragrant rice dish mixed with vegetables and spices

Mamoun's Falafel

Mamoun's Falafel is a New York institution that has recently opened a location in Adams Morgan. This small eatery specializes in falafel sandwiches that are affordable and delicious. The falafel is made fresh daily and served with tahini sauce, lettuce, and tomato.

What to try:

- Falafel Sandwich: crispy falafel balls wrapped in pita bread with tahini sauce, lettuce, and tomato- Shawarma Sandwich: marinated meat cooked on a spit, wrapped in pita bread with hummus, lettuce, and tomato- Baba Ghanoush: a classic Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic

Cava

Cava is a fast-casual chain that specializes in Mediterranean-style bowls and wraps. The DC-based company sources its ingredients locally and offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

What to try:

- Harissa Avocado Bowl: a bowl with brown rice, harissa-spiced chicken, avocado, and other fresh toppings- Falafel Wrap: a wrap filled with falafel balls, hummus, and fresh vegetables- Spicy Lamb Meatballs: lamb meatballs with a spicy tomato sauce

Conclusion

Middle Eastern cuisine has become increasingly popular in DC, with many restaurants offering traditional dishes and modern interpretations. Whether you're in the mood for shawarma, falafel, or something more adventurous, there's a Middle Eastern restaurant in DC that will satisfy your cravings.Washington D.C. has a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, there's something for everyone in the capital city. Middle Eastern cuisine is one of the most popular and beloved options in D.C. Here are ten of the best Middle Eastern foods you can try in D.C.

1. Shawarma: A Middle Eastern Delight in DC

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food that has become a staple in D.C. It consists of meat (usually chicken or lamb) that has been marinated in spices and then slow-cooked on a spit. The meat is then sliced and served in a pita wrap with vegetables and sauce.One of the best places to try shawarma in D.C. is at Shouk, a vegan fast-casual restaurant that serves plant-based versions of Middle Eastern classics. Their shawarma wrap is filled with flavorful roasted mushrooms, pickled turnips, and tahini sauce.

2. Hummus: The Creamy Dip You Can't Get Enough Of

Hummus is a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It's one of the most popular Middle Eastern dishes and can be found in almost every restaurant in D.C.One of the best places to try hummus in D.C. is at Zaytinya, a Mediterranean restaurant that serves a variety of small plates. Their hummus is smooth and creamy, topped with olive oil and served with warm pita bread.

3. Baklava: A Sweet Middle Eastern Treat in DC

Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. It's a popular dessert in the Middle East and can be found in many restaurants in D.C.One of the best places to try baklava in D.C. is at Al-Ameer Bakery, a family-owned bakery that specializes in Middle Eastern sweets. Their baklava is flaky and buttery, with just the right amount of sweetness.

4. Tabbouleh: A Refreshing Salad Option in DC

Tabbouleh is a refreshing salad made from parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. It's a popular dish in the Middle East and can be found in many restaurants in D.C.One of the best places to try tabbouleh in D.C. is at Cava, a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant that serves customizable bowls and wraps. Their tabbouleh is fresh and flavorful, with plenty of herbs and a tangy lemon dressing.

5. Falafel: A Vegetarian Favorite in DC

Falafel is a vegetarian Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. The mixture is formed into balls or patties and then fried until crispy.One of the best places to try falafel in D.C. is at Amsterdam Falafelshop, a casual eatery that specializes in falafel sandwiches and bowls. Their falafel is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served with a variety of toppings and sauces.

6. Kebabs: A Grilled Middle Eastern Classic in DC

Kebabs are a Middle Eastern classic consisting of grilled meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken) on skewers. They're often served with rice, vegetables, and a yogurt sauce.One of the best places to try kebabs in D.C. is at Moby Dick House of Kabob, a local chain that serves traditional Persian cuisine. Their kebabs are tender and flavorful, served with fluffy basmati rice and grilled vegetables.

7. Fattoush: A Colorful Salad Bursting with Flavor in DC

Fattoush is a colorful salad made from lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and toasted pita bread. The salad is dressed with a tangy sumac dressing and topped with herbs and feta cheese.One of the best places to try fattoush in D.C. is at Lebanese Taverna, a family-owned restaurant that serves a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Their fattoush is fresh and flavorful, with plenty of crispy pita chips and a zesty dressing.

8. Baba Ghanoush: A Smoky Eggplant Dip in DC

Baba ghanoush is a smoky dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It's similar to hummus but has a distinct smoky flavor.One of the best places to try baba ghanoush in D.C. is at Cava Mezze, a Greek restaurant that also serves Mediterranean dishes. Their baba ghanoush is creamy and rich, with plenty of smoky flavor and a hint of garlic.

9. Mansaf: A Traditional Jordanian Dish in DC

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish made from lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served over rice. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's often served at special occasions.One of the best places to try mansaf in D.C. is at Petra Grill, a family-owned restaurant that specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine. Their mansaf is tender and flavorful, with a creamy yogurt sauce and fragrant rice.

10. Knafeh: A Decadent Dessert from the Middle East in DC

Knafeh is a Middle Eastern dessert made from shredded phyllo dough, sweet cheese, and syrup. It's a decadent and indulgent dessert that's popular in the Middle East.One of the best places to try knafeh in D.C. is at Mazi, a Mediterranean restaurant that serves a variety of small plates and desserts. Their knafeh is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, with a sweet syrup that's not too overpowering.In conclusion, D.C. has a vibrant and diverse Middle Eastern food scene that caters to all tastes. From shawarma to knafeh, there's something for everyone to try and enjoy. So next time you're in D.C., be sure to check out some of these amazing Middle Eastern dishes.

The Best Middle Eastern Food in DC: A Perspective

Introduction

Middle Eastern cuisine has been gaining popularity worldwide, and Washington DC is no exception. With a plethora of restaurants offering delicious Middle Eastern food, it can be difficult to choose the best one. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of the best Middle Eastern food in DC and provide a table comparison for your convenience.

The Best Middle Eastern Food in DC

After thorough research and personal experience, we have determined that the following are the top three restaurants for the best Middle Eastern food in DC:

1. Masala Art
2. Rumi's Kitchen
3. Mamoun's Falafel

Pros and Cons of Masala Art

Masala Art is an Indian restaurant that offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Here are its pros and cons:

• Pros:
• Offers a unique fusion of Indian and Middle Eastern flavors
• Has an extensive menu with plenty of vegetarian options
• Staff is friendly and attentive
• Cons:
• Can be pricey compared to other Middle Eastern restaurants
• Some dishes may not be as authentic as other restaurants
• Can get crowded during peak hours

Pros and Cons of Rumi's Kitchen

Rumi's Kitchen is a Persian restaurant that offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Here are its pros and cons:

• Pros:
• Offers authentic Persian dishes
• Has a cozy atmosphere with beautiful decor
• Staff is knowledgeable about the menu and can make recommendations
• Cons:
• Can be on the pricier side
• Can get crowded and noisy during peak hours
• Some dishes may be too spicy for some diners

Pros and Cons of Mamoun's Falafel

Mamoun's Falafel is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in Middle Eastern street food. Here are its pros and cons:

• Pros:
• Offers authentic Middle Eastern street food at affordable prices
• Has a quick and efficient service
• Location is convenient for quick bites
• Cons:
• Small seating area with limited seating options
• Menu options may be limited compared to other restaurants
• May not offer as many vegetarian options

Comparison Table

Restaurant	Pros	Cons	Price Range
Masala Art	Unique fusion of Indian and Middle Eastern flavors, extensive menu with vegetarian options, friendly staff	Pricey compared to other Middle Eastern restaurants, some dishes may not be as authentic, can get crowded during peak hours	$15-$30 per person
Rumi's Kitchen	Authentic Persian dishes, cozy atmosphere with beautiful decor, knowledgeable staff	Pricier side, can get crowded and noisy during peak hours, some dishes may be too spicy for some diners	$20-$40 per person
Mamoun's Falafel	Authentic Middle Eastern street food at affordable prices, quick and efficient service, convenient location	Small seating area with limited seating options, limited menu options, may not offer as many vegetarian options	$5-$15 per person

Conclusion

Choosing the best Middle Eastern food in DC ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a fusion of flavors, authentic dishes, or fast-casual street food, there is a restaurant that will suit your taste. We hope this article provided helpful insights and a convenient table comparison to make your decision easier.

The Best Middle Eastern Food in DC

Thank you for taking the time to read about the best Middle Eastern food in DC. We hope that this article has given you a glimpse into the delicious and diverse cuisine that can be found in our nation's capital. Whether you are a local or just visiting, we highly recommend trying some of the restaurants on our list.

First and foremost, we want to highlight the incredible flavors of Lebanese cuisine. Lebanese Taverna is a must-visit, with multiple locations throughout the city. Their mezze platters and freshly made hummus are unbeatable, and their grilled meats are always cooked to perfection. Another great spot for Lebanese food is Mama Ayesha's, which has been serving up traditional dishes for over 50 years.

If you're in the mood for something a little different, head over to Moby Dick House of Kabob. This Persian restaurant offers a wide variety of kabobs, from marinated chicken to succulent lamb. Their sides, such as saffron rice and grilled vegetables, are just as flavorful. And don't forget to try their signature yogurt drink, doogh!

For those who love Turkish cuisine, Ottoman Taverna is a must-visit. Their menu features classic dishes like kebabs and pide (Turkish pizza), as well as more unique offerings like octopus and lamb chops. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with warm colors and intricate tile work.

One of the newer additions to DC's Middle Eastern food scene is Shouk, a vegan Israeli restaurant. While it may seem surprising to find vegan food in a cuisine known for its meat-heavy dishes, Shouk proves that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying. Their pita sandwiches and bowls are packed with flavor, and their sweet potato fries are a must-try.

No mention of Middle Eastern food in DC would be complete without talking about the city's beloved food trucks. Halal Guys, Fava Pot, and DC Ballers are just a few of the many options available. These trucks offer quick and convenient meals that are perfect for lunch on the go. Plus, they often have great deals and specials.

Another restaurant that deserves a special shoutout is Maydan. While not strictly Middle Eastern, this restaurant draws inspiration from the flavors and techniques of the region. The menu is centered around wood-fired cooking, with dishes like lamb shoulder and whole fish cooked over an open flame. The atmosphere is equally impressive, with a beautiful courtyard and cozy interior.

Of course, we can't forget about the dessert! Turkish delight, baklava, and knafeh (a cheesy pastry) are just a few of the sweet treats you can find at Middle Eastern restaurants in DC. We highly recommend trying them all.

Overall, we hope that this article has given you a taste (pun intended) of the amazing Middle Eastern food scene in DC. From Lebanese to Turkish to vegan Israeli, there is truly something for everyone. So next time you're in the area, be sure to check out some of these incredible restaurants!

People Also Ask About Best Middle Eastern Food in DC

What are the best Middle Eastern restaurants in DC?

There are many great Middle Eastern restaurants in DC, but some of the most popular ones include:

• Shouk
• Masala Art
• Zaytinya
• Mourayo
• Lebanese Taverna

What is the best Middle Eastern dish to try?

There are many delicious Middle Eastern dishes to try, but some of the most popular ones include:

1. Hummus
2. Falafel
3. Baba Ghanoush
4. Tabbouleh
5. Shawarma

Are there any vegetarian or vegan Middle Eastern restaurants in DC?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan Middle Eastern restaurants in DC, including:

• Shouk
• Falafel Inc
• Vegetable Garden
• Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant

What is the ambiance like at Middle Eastern restaurants in DC?

The ambiance at Middle Eastern restaurants in DC varies, but many have a cozy, intimate atmosphere with colorful decor and low lighting. Some also have outdoor seating areas for al fresco dining.

Is Middle Eastern food in DC expensive?

It depends on the restaurant, but Middle Eastern food in DC can range from affordable to expensive. However, many restaurants offer lunch specials and happy hour deals, making it more budget-friendly.

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