Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Lower East Side
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Manousheh Grand
Lebanese flatbreads and mezze baked to order in a tiny cafe.
Notable Picks
8.6
Manousheh Grand is a cozy Lower East Side spot focused on Lebanese flatbreads, mezze, and cafe-style plates baked to order in a stone oven. Locals use it for casual breakfasts, light lunches, and laid-back meetups built around warm breads, hummus, and vegetarian-friendly options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Za’atar & jibneh manousheh, Hummus fatteh, Kofta manousheh
What Makes it Special: Lebanese flatbreads and mezze baked to order in a tiny cafe.
#2
Semkeh NYC
8.4
Semkeh NYC brings the Bushwick Lebanese favorite to Broome Street with shawarma burritos, falafel burgers, and mezze that lean bold and garlicky. The Manhattan outpost feels like a modern fast-casual canteen where you can build a full platter or grab a stuffed pita on the go.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma burrito, Semkeh tuna sandwich in tahini, Batata harra with garlic and herbs
What Makes it Special: A Bushwick-loved Lebanese spot now serving shawarma burritos and mezze on Broome.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
NYC Falafel Co is a deli-like counter turning out halal platters, gyros, and falafel sandwiches well into the night at approachable prices. It’s an especially useful option when you want a fast, filling Middle Eastern plate before or after a night out on the Lower East Side.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel platter over rice, Chicken & lamb combo platter, Lamb gyro sandwich
What Makes it Special: A late-night halal counter known for hefty platters and reliable falafel.