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Mediterranean food lunch spots in Midtown East

Mediterranean food offers a light, satisfying way to refuel before heading back to the office.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Chick Shop image 1
The Chick Shop image 2
The Chick Shop image 3
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Falafel restaurant

Basement takeout spot offers classic Israeli flavors with fresh, flavorful falafel and creamy hummus. Atmosphere is casual and convenient, located inside an atrium with plenty of seating. Popular for quick, satisfying lunches with many vegetarian options.

Offers fast service and delicious food ideal for a quick lunch. Convenient for to-go orders and located near other lunch spots.

Falafel stands out with its crispy texture and fresh, warm preparation. Hummus offers a creamy taste that complements the flavorful sabich and chicken shawarma, enhanced by green sauce and mango chutney.

People are saying

"I thought their hummus was the best in town."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fresh and delicious."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be crispy, fresh, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

To find the restaurant, enter from 50th, go downstairs, and head to the back right corner.

2

The restaurant is located in the lower level of the building.

3

The Chick Shop offers classic Israeli flavors and many vegetarian options.

02
King Of Falafel & Shawarma Cart image 1

Food cart offers authentic falafel and shawarma with freshly made, crunchy falafel and well-spiced flavors. Atmosphere feels grungy inside, but outdoor seating near a fountain adds charm. Lines can be busy, with samples given while waiting and no seating directly at the cart.

Offers a solid lunch option with better choices than many food trucks nearby. Serves falafel and shawarma that stand out during lunch hours.

Falafel stands out with its crunchy, moist texture and fresh, crisp flavor. Shawarma offers a spicy, flavorful bite that complements the authentic Mediterranean taste.

People are saying

"I thought the falafel here was the best in the city."

"I thought their shawarma was the best in the city."

"I thought the Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, was outstanding."

Good to know

1

You get to taste the falafel before you buy.

2

The chicken platter costs $10 and they take credit cards.

3

The food truck offers vegan options.

03
Tartinery Café - Bar | Olympic Tower image 1

Enjoy magnificent views of St. Patrick's Cathedral while savoring a well priced lunch combo featuring soup and petite tartine. The menu shines with Mediterranean favorites like labneh and hummus, all in a peaceful atmosphere perfect for work or relaxation.

Lunch combos include a soup and petite tartine for $15.5, offering a well priced and perfectly sized meal. The ambiance stays pleasant and peaceful with live music during lunch hours.

Labneh stands out with options like smoked salmon and a classic tartine. Hummus and avocado toast also feature alongside protein smoothies with strawberries.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be tasty and delicious."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so kind and attentive."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be light, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

2

The kitchen closes at 4:30 PM, despite the all-day menu.

3

Lunch deal includes a soup and small tartine for $15.5.

04
Souvlaki GR – Midtown East image 1

Small basement space mimics an outdoor Greek cafe with beautiful decor and Greek music playing. Atmosphere feels intimate and cozy, with a quaint, well-kept vibe that transports diners to Greece. Space can feel cramped and warm as it fills up, adding to the lively energy.

Offers a $30 Lunch Restaurant Week deal with multiple dishes. Includes mastica after lunch for a refreshing finish.

Greek dips like tzatziki and spicy whipped feta stand out with rich flavors. The hummus is chunky and creamy, complementing a menu full of classic Mediterranean dishes like moussaka, kalamaki, and lamb burgers.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and served in generous portions."

"The Mediterranean food here is ridiculously delicious with huge portions."

"The Lunch Spot here has delicious food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

A reservation is recommended as this place gets busy.

2

The restaurant offers a happy hour for drinks.

3

They impose a 22% service charge on a party of four.

05
fresh&co image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with plenty of seating and a clean, corporate-like setting. Atmosphere feels friendly and chill with loud music that sets an energetic tone. Offers a variety of healthy and flavorful options, making it suitable for breakfast and lunch.

Quick service and healthy lunch bowls stand out here. Plenty of options for salads and breakfast make it a solid spot for a fast, nutritious meal.

Chicken shawarma stands out with its fresh flavors. Hummus avocado toast tastes very fresh and creamy. Falafel wrap is tasty but flaky, and would benefit from original pita bread.

People are saying

"This is my favorite lunch spot for fresh, healthy food."

"I usually ordered the Mexican Pepita Caesar salad."

"I loved the amazing chicken shawarma bowl."

Good to know

1

The total cost for 2 eggs, bacon, cheese on a bagel, and a medium coffee is $9.50.

2

They offer signature salads and bowls, plus create-your-own options.

3

Fresh & Co offers a variety of options for breakfast and lunch.

06
Tartinery Café - Bar | Grand Central image 1

Open café buzzes with lively atmosphere and offers quick lunch combos featuring fresh Mediterranean flavors like Labneh tartine and pistachio chicken salad. Friendly service complements casual fare and a solid drink selection, perfect for personal or business meals.

Lunch offers quick combos with a soup and sandwich special and a good drink selection. Service stays congenial and attentive during personal or business meals.

Freshness stands out with the Labneh tartine and the pistachio chicken salad. The avocado and hummus bread adds a creamy, flavorful touch to the Mediterranean offerings.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, good, and original."

"The happy hour staff, especially Carlos and Chris, were so kind and helpful."

"The Mediterranean Food, especially the labneh tartine, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with $5 beers.

2

The happy hour offers 2 for 1 tarts.

3

The location is perfect for happy hour before catching the train.

07
Shah’s Halal Food image 1
Halal restaurant

Small, compact space offers a cozy atmosphere with clean, spotless tables and a peaceful, relaxing vibe. Music plays softly, enhancing the chic and fresh environment. Food service is fast, with affordable prices and well-regarded halal dishes.

Offers a quick lunch option with a chicken lunch platter that satisfies hunger efficiently.

Falafel features prominently across dishes like platters and gyros, offering a filling and tasty option. Shawarmas and rice combos also deliver solid Mediterranean flavors with satisfying portions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really good."

"The Mediterranean food, especially the falafel platter, is very filling and delicious."

"This lunch spot has really fresh and tasty food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has halal certification.

2

The food is served very fast with no long waits.

3

The dining area is clean and hygienic.

08
Uncle Gussy's image 1
Greek restaurant

Generous portions of juicy pork souvlaki and well-seasoned gyros make this food truck a best value lunch spot for local workers. Fresh tzatziki with garlic adds a flavorful Mediterranean touch. Lines form fast thanks to its authentic Greek vibe and fair prices.

Offers best value for money lunch with a menu that consistently hits the spot. Serves local white collar workers from a truck, maintaining this for almost two decades.

Tzatziki sauce comes with a bit of garlic and hits the right spot. It pairs well with hot sauce and grilled onions for a flavorful Mediterranean touch.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is awesome, especially the gyro."

"The food trucks here serve flavorful, tender Greek food."

"I found their Mediterranean food to be the best quality food truck in NYC."

Good to know

1

Get there before 12 pm to avoid the lunch rush.

2

They only accept cash; Venmo/ePay is also an option.

3

They close around 3:30 or 4 PM, so call ahead to confirm.

09
Ali Baba Mediterranean & turkish Cuisine image 1

Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy authentic Turkish vibe with live jazz music enhancing a lively atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options with a spacious layout despite small tables. The setting combines warm decor that feels inviting and peaceful, suitable for relaxed dinners.

Lunch offers a variety of choices with a superb special priced around $20. The spot serves delicious casual meals ideal for weekday breaks or celebrations.

Kebabs stand out with soft lamb, juicy Adana, and high-quality meat in the Ezmeli Kebab. Fresh mezes and ripe tomatoes add to the authentic Mediterranean flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"Nisa's attentive service made our Mediterranean Food experience fantastic."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and great lunch specials."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a special rakı night every Friday.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Friday night.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups celebrating special occasions.

10
The Casual Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a cozy, family-like atmosphere with ambient lighting and tasteful decor featuring light neutrals and Santorini photos. The space feels like a small, clean tavern with a mini-bar and a cool bar design. Guests enjoy a calming vibe that transports them to Greece.

Offers healthy and hearty lunches with a cozy atmosphere. Suitable for casual meals or catching up with friends.

Falafel comes in large, crispy pieces served with fries, pita, bulgur wheat salad, and beets. The casual bowl mixes rice, tomatoes, feta, tzatziki, and pork souvlaki well. Halloumi arrives with a unique jelly, and lamb shawarma overflows from pita breads. Tzatziki tastes fresh and delicious.

People are saying

"The salads here are fresh, perfectly spiced, and full of flavor."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be deeply flavorful and authentic."

"This lunch spot has amazing falafel and tender chicken souvlaki."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers takeout for those on the go.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a great option for families.

3

The restaurant accommodates larger groups comfortably.

11
Avra 48th Street image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a spacious interior with a large outdoor dining area extending down the street. Atmosphere shifts from bright and euro modern to romantic and charming depending on the time. The space fills with a lively crowd, especially around the bar, creating an energetic vibe.

Lunch features a three-course prix fixe meal with options like Greek salad and grilled branzino. Staff stay accommodating even during busy service, making it suitable for business lunches.

Fresh bread with hummus and olives arrives unexpectedly with drinks. Halloumi stands out as a must-try dish, alongside flavorful Chilean sea bass kebabs and consistent quality in Greek salad, branzino, and octopus.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and worth every penny."

"The service here is great and the waitstaff are attentive."

"The Mediterranean food service was friendly and fast."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

The restaurant charges $800 for a table of four.

3

Expect large portions, so come hungry.

12
Yara image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious restaurant with vaulted entrance and open floor plan hosts live jazz music that creates a lively atmosphere. Large tables accommodate groups comfortably, surrounded by beautiful decor and intimate seating areas. Music can be loud, adding energy but sometimes making conversation difficult.

Lunch features a chic atmosphere ideal for small groups or special events. Owners often eat outside and are friendly and welcoming. Portions are generous enough to provide leftovers for next day.

A thorough mezze selection features Babaghanouj paired with warm pita bread and excellent hummus, both plain and with ground beef. The fattoush salad stands out, alongside tender and juicy Mixed Grill and Beef Shawarma, all seasoned well with fresh ingredients.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and delicious, like a home-cooked meal."

"The Mediterranean food here is authentic and delicious, especially the hummus."

"This lunch spot has amazing mezze and authentic Lebanese cuisine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekend nights.

2

Happy hour is available downstairs with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Live jazz performances occur every Wednesday night with no cover charge.

13
NAYA image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant with friendly, fast-paced atmosphere and crowded lunch hours. Space features a distinctive ceiling design and limited seating, often occupied by employees. Food offers tender lamb kebabs and fresh tabbouleh, combining efficiency with flavorful, reasonably priced dishes.

Lunch here offers flavorful food at an inexpensive price with a focus on healthy options. Lines can be long but move quickly, and service runs smoothly even during busy hours.

Lamb kebabs come tender and flavorful with just the right spice. Beef shawarma is super tender and pairs well with vermicelli rice, making the dishes moist and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and tasty."

"This lunch spot's Mediterranean food is fresh and flavorful."

"The Mediterranean food's lamb kebabs were so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

There is no dine-in option at the location I went.

2

The food is reasonably priced, which is cheap for NYC.

3

During the weekdays, the line can go out the door every day but it moves along well.

14
Omar Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant combines fast plate ordering with a quiet back dining area decorated with fresh flowers and chandeliers. Upbeat staff create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like an escape to Egypt. Noise levels vary, with the front bustling and the back calm for conversation.

Convenient location next to the mosque makes it easy for a quick lunch. Offers a good mix of taste, variety, and speed for take-out meals.

Shawarma stands out with delicious chicken flavoring that is not overly fatty and a phenomenal chicken shawarma platter. Falafel offers a perfect crispy crunch outside and soft inside, especially great in pita with hummus and salad. Lamb dishes, including spicy lamb platters, and baba ganoush add fresh, flavorful variety.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and delicious."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be authentic and full of flavor."

"This is the best lunch spot in the area by far."

Good to know

1

Shawarmas are around $12 and the platters cost approximately $19 plus taxes.

2

You need to bring cash to this restaurant.

3

Takeout is cheaper than dining in.

15
CAVA image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

High ceilings and many seating options create an open, clean, modern space with appealing aesthetics. The atmosphere feels welcoming and vibrant, energized by attentive staff. Fresh, flavorful Mediterranean bowls and quality cava stand out as key features.

Efficient staff handle the lunch rush smoothly, keeping wait times short. Food stays consistently fresh and orders arrive on time during busy hours.

Falafel balls and a spicy falafel option stand out as vegan-friendly choices. Salads come with toppings like Tzatziki, Pickled Onions, and Skhug. Service is patient and kind, making ordering easy for newcomers.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"It's my go-to for fresh, flavorful Mediterranean food."

"The Lunch Spot staff are so friendly and make everything just right."

Good to know

1

Be prepared for a line during rush hour.

2

Go before 12pm to avoid the rush.

3

If you’re ordering on the app for pickup, plan for your order to be ready about 30 minutes minimum after the pickup time.

16
Pita Yeero image 1
Greek restaurant

Tiny, well-designed shop operates as a fast and fresh concept with no seating, preparing food in front of customers. Atmosphere balances between lively and relaxing, fitting casual meals and special nights out. Known for authentic gyro, freshly shaved meats, and gluten-free pita option.

Fast and delicious office lunch options make this a go-to spot. The pita serves as a light lunch choice, though bowls run over $17, the highest for takeout in the area.

Beef and lamb pitas come with fresh ingredients and a choice of gluten-free pita bread. Falafel bowls arrive on time and are voluminous, with gyros served alongside tart tzatziki instead of white sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"This lunch spot has delicious and fresh food."

"The Mediterranean food here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Visit on Tuesday 9/26/2023 for half off.

2

The restaurant offers Mediterranean food with a gluten-free pita bread option.

3

Customers can choose from items to assemble their pita or bowl.

17
Little Collins image 1

Small cafe with tight seating and large windows offers a warm, welcoming vibe despite occasional loud music and conversations. The space blends a mom-and-pop feel with modern touches, creating a lively atmosphere during busy times.

Lunch features a kale salad with grilled chicken, squash, and roasted quinoa. Service stays professional with manageable wait times even during the lunch rush.

Shakshuka stands out with its rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked eggs. Yogurt granola with tangy labneh and house-made tahini granola adds a crunchy, nutty depth to the menu.

People are saying

"The coffee here is proper and expertly crafted."

"The Mediterranean food here is packed with flavor."

"The wait at this lunch spot is worth it."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait during peak hours.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a table.

3

On weekends, expect a 30-minute wait between 10 and 11 am.

18
Kotti Berliner Döner Kebab @ The Hugh image 1

Food hall setting creates a loud atmosphere with many dining options nearby. Kebabs feature fresh ingredients and crunchy yet soft bread, with beef served as steak strips rather than shaved meat. Sauces include a spicy curry-style red sauce that stands out from traditional döner flavors.

Friendly and helpful service stands out during the busy lunch rush. Frequent visits show it as a reliable lunch spot with delicious options and catering available.

Doner kebabs here melt in your mouth like steak with fresh ingredients and a flavorful white sauce. The taco kebab and fries come perfectly prepared and taste amazing.

People are saying

"I thought the kebab here was amazing and melted in my mouth."

"This lunch spot's doner kebabs are fresh and delicious."

"I thought their Mediterranean food was the best kebab around."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $15 for a beef sandwich with veggies.

2

Portion sizes may be smaller than expected for the price.

3

There are limited choices for sauces and side dishes.

19
The Original Pita Grill (Certified OU) image 1

Upstairs seating offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with Hebrew music creating a homey vibe. The space feels relaxed and inviting, suitable for quick meals with a touch of cultural ambiance.

Offers a big selection with variety suitable for both lunch and dinner. Serves quick kosher meals making it a solid choice for a lunch spot in the city.

Chicken shawarma stands out with a well-made, compact wrap that balances all ingredients. Falafel comes out delicious and the baba ganoush salad adds a notable side option.

People are saying

"I found the kosher food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I enjoyed the Mediterranean food, especially the falafel."

"Shakira always got the office lunch orders right."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:30 PM on Fridays instead of the stated 1 AM.

2

Customers should not order sushi after 7 PM.

3

The restaurant offers catering for Shabbat.

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Midtown East, New York

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