Top 10 Best Mediterranean Food Los Angeles
Best Mediterranean Restaurants
Looking for the best Mediterranean food in Los Angeles? I’ve got you covered with some of my favorite spots that you absolutely need to try!
Holbox: Mexican Seafood Delight
Holbox is a hidden gem offering fresh and flavorful Mexican seafood. Their eight-course tasting menu on Thursday and Friday evenings is a steal at $120. The vibe is lively, and the dishes are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
| Dish Highlight | Price |
|---|---|
| Eight-Course Tasting Menu | $120 |
Bavel: Italian with a Twist
Bavel takes Italian cuisine and gives it a Levant twist. Their fire-roasted meats and handmade couscous are to die for. But the real star? Their hummus, which is often hailed as the best in L.A. And don’t skip the spicy harissa prawns—they’re a game-changer!
| Dish Highlight | Price Estimate |
|---|---|
| Harissa Prawns | $20 |
| Hummus | $14 |
Providence: Seafood Heaven
For a splurge-worthy experience, Providence is the place to be. Known for the freshest seafood, their eight-course dinner menu at $325 is perfect for special occasions. Each dish is a work of art, both in taste and presentation.
| Dish Highlight | Price |
|---|---|
| Eight-Course Dinner Menu | $325 |
République: French-Californian Fusion
République blends French and Californian cuisine in a casual yet elegant setting. From roast duck to sweet corn agnolotti, their menu is diverse and delicious. It’s the kind of place where every meal feels like an experience.
| Dish Highlight | Price Estimate |
|---|---|
| Roast Liberty Farms Duck | $36 |
| Sweet Corn Agnolotti | $24 |
These Mediterranean spots in Los Angeles are sure to hit the spot. If you’re craving vibrant flavors and unforgettable meals, make sure to check them out. For more food adventures, take a look at my picks for the best brunch in Los Angeles and best seafood in Los Angeles.
Unique Culinary Experiences
Los Angeles is a melting pot of flavors, and there are some truly unique culinary experiences to explore. Here are a few standout spots that offer a delightful twist on Mediterranean and other cuisines.
Jitlada: Thai Specialties
If you’re looking for an exciting culinary adventure, Jitlada in Thai Town is a must-try. This cult favorite is beloved for its vibrant mix of regional specialties and Americanized dishes. The crispy morning glory salad is a refreshing start, while the Northern and Southern Thai curry specialties will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. They even have an off-menu item called the Jazz Burger that’s worth asking for! For more on the best spots in L.A., check out our guide on best food los angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Crispy Morning Glory Salad | A fresh, crunchy salad bursting with flavor |
| Northern Thai Curry | A rich, aromatic dish with a medley of spices |
| Southern Thai Curry | A spicier option that packs a punch |
| Jazz Burger | A unique twist on the classic burger |
Ladyhawk: Mediterranean & California Fusion
Ladyhawk, located in West Hollywood, offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean fare and California produce. The two-person mezze platter is perfect for sharing, featuring a variety of flavorful bites. Other highlights include the ahi tuna crudo, dry-aged Rohan duck, and braised beef tagine. This restaurant is quickly becoming one of Southern California’s newer gems. For more Mediterranean options, don’t forget to explore the best mediterranean food los angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Mezze Platter | A selection of Mediterranean small plates |
| Ahi Tuna Crudo | Fresh, lightly dressed raw tuna |
| Dry-Aged Rohan Duck | Rich and savory duck dish |
| Braised Beef Tagine | A slow-cooked Moroccan classic |
El Cocinero: Plant-Based Mexican Menu
El Cocinero is a fantastic choice for those seeking a plant-based twist on traditional Mexican food. The menu features creative meat substitutes, including jackfruit carnitas and eggplant cabeza. One of their standout dishes is the super nachos, made with cashew-based cheeses and an array of toppings, including refried beans and chipotle crema. This spot is perfect for vegans and meat-lovers alike! For more vegan options around the city, check out our list of the best vegan restaurants los angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Jackfruit Carnitas | Flavorful, plant-based meat substitute |
| Super Nachos | Loaded nachos with cashew cheese and toppings |
| Eggplant Cabeza | A creative take on traditional Mexican dishes |
| Chicharron | Crispy, plant-based alternative to pork rinds |
Si! Mon: Panamanian Flavors
For a taste of something different, Si! Mon in Venice brings Panamanian flavors to the beachside dining scene. Their menu features a variety of unique dishes, including uni and littleneck clam shooters and tuna carpaccio. The double-fried green banana patacones are a must-try, and the crispy pork belly lettuce wraps are simply delicious. Don’t miss out on their gluten-free fried chicken drumsticks either! This culinary experience is a perfect way to expand your palate.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Uni and Clam Shooter | A fresh and bold seafood appetizer |
| Double-Fried Patacones | Crispy green banana fritters |
| Tuna Carpaccio | Lightly dressed raw tuna with a twist |
| Fried Chicken Drumsticks | Gluten-free and packed with flavor |
Each of these restaurants offers a unique twist on Mediterranean and other cuisines, making them must-visit spots in Los Angeles. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai, Mediterranean, plant-based Mexican, or Panamanian, you’re sure to find something that excites your taste buds!
Tasty Treasures of Los Angeles
When I think about the food scene in Los Angeles, my taste buds do a happy dance. This city is a flavor fiesta, and I’m here to spill the beans on some of my top picks, especially if you’re into Mediterranean eats.
Bludso’s BBQ: Texas-Style Barbecue
Bludso’s BBQ is where Texas barbecue gets a Cali twist. This spot is famous for its classic sides like cornbread and mac and cheese, and meats smoked to perfection for up to 14 hours. Their brisket, chicken, and pulled pork are mouthwatering. If you’re craving some hearty barbecue, this is your go-to. For more finger-licking options, check out our list of the best BBQ in Los Angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Brisket | Tender, smoky, and full of flavor |
| Pulled Pork | Juicy and rich, pairs perfectly with their sauce |
| Mac and Cheese | Creamy, cheesy, and a must-try side |
Sadaf Restaurant: Persian Cuisine
Sadaf Restaurant whisks you away to Persia with its traditional dishes. My favorites are the cornish hen, lamb shank, and koobideh kabob, all served with saffron rice and grilled tomatoes. The rich flavors and aromas are like a mini-vacation for your senses. For more exotic flavors, check out our article on the best Indian food in Los Angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Cornish Hen | Marinated and grilled to perfection |
| Lamb Shank | Slow-cooked with aromatic spices |
| Koobideh Kabob | Flavorful ground meat skewers |
Azizam: Persian Daytime Cafe
Azizam is a Persian cafe that I can’t get enough of. The menu features delights like warm barbari bread, fluffy dampokhtak, and grapefruit-sized kofteh tabrizi. The chill vibe makes it a perfect spot for brunch or a laid-back lunch. If you’re hunting for more brunch spots, don’t miss our guide to the best brunch in Los Angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Barbari Bread | Freshly baked, warm, and perfect for sharing |
| Dampokhtak | A fluffy Persian rice dish |
| Kofteh Tabrizi | Hearty meatballs bursting with flavor |
Kismet: Mediterranean Magic
Kismet is a gem with its wide-ranging Mediterranean menu. The dishes are not only tasty but also Instagram-worthy. I love their cucumber salad on rosewater-infused labneh, lamb ribs with plum sauce, and the crispy tahdig rice that’s a real treat. For more Mediterranean goodness, check out our list of the best Mediterranean food in Los Angeles.
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Cucumber Salad | Refreshing and perfectly seasoned |
| Lamb Ribs | Tender and flavorful with a unique plum sauce |
| Crispy Tahdig Rice | A deliciously crunchy rice dish |
Los Angeles is a treasure trove of flavors. Each of these spots offers something special, and I can’t wait for you to dig in!
Hidden Gems
Los Angeles is bursting with Mediterranean spots that might not always make the headlines. I love stumbling upon these hidden treasures where I can savor delicious food in a laid-back setting. Here are a couple of my top picks, along with some other notable mentions that truly shine in the Mediterranean culinary scene.
Dr. Sandwich: Fast-Casual Mediterranean
Dr. Sandwich in Beverly Grove is a must-visit for anyone craving a quick yet satisfying Mediterranean meal. Known for serving some of LA’s best shawarma, salads, and falafel, it’s the perfect spot for a fast-casual lunch (The Infatuation). The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make every bite a delight.
| Dish | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Shawarma Wrap | $10 – $12 |
| Falafel Plate | $9 – $11 |
| Mediterranean Salad | $8 – $10 |
Bavel in the Arts District: Upscale Middle Eastern
Bavel in the Arts District is another fantastic find, offering an upscale take on Middle Eastern cuisine. This place stands out with a consistent and mouthwatering menu. Some of my favorite dishes include the spicy duck ‘nduja hummus, whole roasted lamb neck, and spreadable farm cheese with za’atar and oil (The Infatuation). The ambiance is just as captivating as the food, making it perfect for a special night out.
| Dish | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Spicy Duck ‘Nduja Hummus | $15 |
| Whole Roasted Lamb Neck | $42 |
| Spreadable Farm Cheese | $10 |
Other Notable Mentions
In addition to Dr. Sandwich and Bavel, I can’t help but mention a few other gems that are worth checking out.
- Sadaf Restaurant: A fantastic spot for Persian cuisine.
- Azizam: A cozy Persian daytime cafe with a variety of pastries and coffee options.
- Kismet: Offers a geographically broad Mediterranean menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
These hidden gems represent the vibrant Mediterranean food scene in Los Angeles. Whether I’m in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, I always find something delightful to enjoy. For more ideas on where to eat, check out the list of the best food in Los Angeles.
