8 Ohio Middle Eastern Food Spots That Surprise Every Traveler

Ohio’s Middle Eastern food scene always manages to catch me off guard. Wandering through cities from Cleveland to Athens, I’ve stumbled across kitchens that turn humble ingredients into unforgettable meals.

These aren’t just spots for a quick bite, they’re run by passionate owners who bring flavors from home to the Buckeye State, and each plate reveals a story. If you’re planning a trip through Ohio, these eight restaurants deserve a place on your list.

Every stop offers something a little different, whether it’s a bakery tucked beside a grill or a classic eatery with a modern twist. Each one has left a lasting impression on me, not only for the food but for the warm welcome I received. Pack your curiosity, and your appetite, and let’s see what makes these Ohio gems so memorable.

1. Taza, A Lebanese Grill (Cleveland)

The first time I visited Taza, the aroma of freshly baked flatbreads greeted me at the door. Their stone oven is the heart of the kitchen, producing bread that’s both crisp and pillowy, perfect for scooping up creamy hummus or smoky baba ghanoush.

Shawarma here doesn’t need any bells and whistles, it’s seasoned and roasted just right. Every plate arrives with bright salads and pickles that balance the richness. There’s a sense of generosity in every serving, which regulars often mention in online reviews.

What sets Taza apart is their attention to detail. They don’t rush dishes out; instead, flavors are built in layers. You’ll notice a thoughtful mix of spices in the kibbeh and the comforting warmth of slow-cooked stews. It’s a spot where the tradition of Lebanese hospitality shines, even in the midst of busy Cleveland streets. If you’re new to Ohio’s Middle Eastern food, start here for a taste that feels both classic and fresh.

2. Sidon Lebanese Grille & Bakery (Toledo)

Sidon Lebanese Grille & Bakery brings the cozy comfort of a family-run spot right into the heart of Toledo. When I walked in, I noticed the shelves lined with golden pastries and the inviting scent of spices drifting from the kitchen.

The menu covers the classics, kabobs, stews, crisp falafel, but what makes Sidon memorable is the adjacent bakery. After a savory meal, the temptation of freshly baked baklava and honey-soaked cookies is hard to resist. Many locals come just for a box of sweets to take home.

One detail I appreciate is how seamlessly lunch flows into dessert. You can grab a hearty platter, then wander over to choose your favorite treat. The restaurant feels like a bridge between generations, where old-school recipes find a welcoming home in Ohio. It’s a genuine lunch or afternoon escape that always seems to leave guests smiling.

3. Sittoo’s Lebanese Grill (Cleveland & Columbus suburbs)

Sittoo’s doesn’t waste time making an impression, when you step inside, the lively pace and the smell of baking bread pull you in. Their Lebanese stone oven is always in action, turning out pita that’s still warm by the time it hits your tray.

I love how the menu is both approachable and broad. You can mix and match shish kabob, kafta, or falafel, each seasoned in-house and grilled to order. The staff is happy to explain the subtle differences between dishes, which makes it simple if you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Sittoo’s locations across northeast Ohio and the Columbus suburbs share the same easygoing energy. Families gather after soccer practice, students drop in for quick meals, and groups of friends fill tables with platters to share. Every bite, whether shawarma or salad, is made from scratch, keeping Sittoo’s a dependable stop for fresh Lebanese flavors.

4. Aladdin’s Eatery (Multiple Ohio Locations)

Aladdin’s Eatery might surprise you if you think chains can’t deliver genuine flavor. The first restaurant opened in Lakewood, Ohio, and the concept has since grown into a regional name with multiple spots across the state. Each visit, I find a menu that’s more thoughtful than most, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options that actually taste great.

From classic hummus and tabouli to American-influenced wraps and hearty lentil soup, the offerings don’t cut corners. The staff is knowledgeable, ready to suggest favorites or customize a plate for dietary needs.

What makes Aladdin’s stand out is its consistency. Whether you’re grabbing lunch in Cleveland Heights or dinner in Columbus, the quality remains the same. It’s a reliable way to introduce friends to Middle Eastern flavors while keeping everyone at the table happy.

5. Restaurant Salaam (Athens, Ohio)

Stepping into Restaurant Salaam feels like traveling far beyond Athens. The bright decor and lively music set a cheerful mood, making it easy to feel welcome even on a first visit.

What excites me is the menu’s creativity. Salaam has been a fixture in town since 2005, blending influences from North Africa, India, and the Middle East. Seasonal changes keep the menu fresh, so there’s usually a new kebab or vegetarian combination to try.

Locals talk about the care put into each dish and the way spices are balanced without overwhelming the ingredients. I always look forward to tasting something new here, knowing it will be thoughtful and distinctive. Salaam proves you don’t need to be in a big city to enjoy inventive Middle Eastern food in Ohio.

6. Laziza (Kent, Ohio)

Laziza in Kent is remembered as much for its hospitality as for its bold flavors. Located near Kent State University, it draws a mix of students, faculty, and locals who come for both quick lunches and long dinners.

Dishes arrive beautifully plated, from saffron-infused rice to grilled meats and fresh salads. The kitchen uses spices with care, letting the core ingredients shine instead of overwhelming them. Regulars especially note the consistency, meals are always hearty, and service never feels rushed.

I’ve noticed Laziza makes every guest feel welcome, whether it’s your first time in town or you’re a weekly regular. It’s an inviting part of Kent’s dining scene, proving that Middle Eastern flavors thrive even in a small Ohio college town.

7. Al-Madina Grill (West Chester, Butler County)

Al-Madina Grill captures the essence of a neighborhood favorite. Locals often point newcomers here for a first taste of shawarma or falafel, and I can see why. The portions are generous, and the flavors strike a comfortable balance between classic and contemporary.

I’ve always enjoyed the relaxed, unfussy setting. The staff is quick with a greeting and ready to recommend a dessert to pair with your meal. Their baba ghanoush, smoky and rich, stands out for me and is never an afterthought on the menu.

With plenty of regulars and a steady stream of families, this spot makes it easy to feel right at home. It’s a genuine part of the Ohio food landscape, where great food, not fancy surroundings, keeps people coming back.

8. Al-Zaytuna Grill (Hamilton / Fairfield)

Al-Zaytuna Grill has a reputation for keeping things lively. Each visit, I’m reminded how much a friendly welcome can shape a meal, especially when staff remember your favorite order.

Their menu covers a lot of ground, but I especially enjoy the grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs. Kebabs come off the grill with just the right amount of char, and every plate is balanced with fresh salads or creamy dips.

People from Butler County often mention how Al-Zaytuna feels like a meeting spot, somewhere friends gather for casual dinners or families celebrate milestones. There’s comfort in the familiar, but the kitchen always leaves room for a subtle twist or two. It’s a bright highlight on the Ohio Middle Eastern map.