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NYC’s Best Mediterranean Restaurants

You don’t need to travel around the world to experience a taste of the Mediterranean. From Greek to Turkish to southern French, the eats from this favorite region of Europe are a must-try for anyone who loves a new dish. New York City is a hub for diversity, and that includes its cuisine; at these five establishments, you can experience the healthy, vibrant taste of the Mediterranean right in the heart of NYC.

Best of NYC Mediterranean: Bustan (Upper West Side)

bustan upper west side medi israeli

'Tis the season for dining al fresco. Bustan, an Israeli-Mediterranean restaurant on the Upper West Side, just reopened in the wake of a devastating fire. Beyond its new culinary team, Bustan introduces some enticing new menu items. At the helm are Executive Chef Eli Buliskeria and Pastry Chef Shir Rozenblat. Retreat to Bustan's charming outdoor garden and enjoy the venue's selection of small plates and entrees, which are made in a custom, hand-built, wood-fired brick taboon—a Middle Eastern oven that dates back to Biblical days. 487 Amsterdam Ave., 212-595-5050, bustannyc.com

Best of NYC Mediterranean: Galata Mediterranean Cuisine (Midtown East)

Galata serves delicious dishes and desserts from the Mediterranean, with an emphasis on Turkish cuisine. Try the adana kebab, a hand-chopped lamb grilled on a skewer that will make your mouth water, or opt for the falafel dinner for a vegetarian-friendly meal. If you can’t make up your mind, the mixed grill will give you a taste of many menu items at once. Whatever you do, don’t skip out before dessert, as the selection boasts baklava, Turkish custard, and fig dessert among several scrumptious others. 212 E. 34th St., 212-683-9206, galatany.com

Best of NYC Mediterranean: Naya Mezze & Grill (Midtown East)

Lebanese cooking is the focus at Naya, and they strive to combine the traditional with the innovative, keeping the food authentic and awe-inspiring. You know you’ve come to the right place when the menu offers entire sections for dips and cheese, with over a dozen options to choose from before you even start your real meal. You can go vegetarian, or you can order the beef or lamb, both grass-fed. There are also daily specials to keep you coming back for more, from okra to grape leaves. 1057 Second Ave., 212-319-7777, nayarestaurants.com

Best of NYC Mediterranean: Semsom (Greenwich Village)

There are two sisters behind Semsom, and one of them brought Dunkin' Donuts to Lebanon. If that doesn’t sell you on this eatery, the perfect simplicity of the menu might. Committed to serving natural, locally sourced food, Semsom is a place you can feel good about paying a visit to, whether you choose a wrap, a salad bowl, or a rice bowl. Top it with Baked Beef Shawarma or Mousakka Ratatouille, among other options, and then throw on an extra flavor like homemade hummus or mint yogurt. Additional location in Midtown East and Midtown West. 2 Astor Pl., 212-979-2363, semsomeatery.com

Best of NYC Mediterranean: Turco Mediterranean Grill (Midtown West)

At Turco, everything is made to order in front of your very eyes, so you can trust you’re getting the best. Classics like lentil soup and hummus adorn the menu, as well as falafel and gyro. You also have your choice of numerous variations on chicken and lamb kebabs to suit your every desire. Every main course is also served with homemade bread--it doesn’t get much better than that. 604 Ninth Ave., 212-510-8666, turconyc.com 

Best of NYC Mediterranean: Roti Modern Mediterranean (Financial District)

Roti believes in the goodness of the Mediterranean diet: vegetables, olive oil, lean meat, and grains. You can pick a sandwich on a Laffa wrap or whole wheat pita, indulge in some non-GMO batsami and wild rice, or mix up your mixed greens. Whether you want falafel, salmon kabob, chicken roti, or something else entirely, you’re guaranteed a low-cal, high-satisfaction meal. Additional location in Midtown East. 100 Maiden Ln., 646-494-3359, roti.com

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