Washington’s vibrant food scene offers an incredible array of Middle Eastern flavors waiting to be discovered. From charcoal-grilled kebabs to aromatic rice dishes and freshly baked pita, these restaurants showcase the diverse culinary traditions of the region.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, these ten Middle Eastern eateries across Washington will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets and family tables of the Middle East.
1. Mayd?n: Fire-Kissed Feasts In The Heart Of DC
Mayd?n in Washington, DC, is known for its central open hearth where nearly everything is cooked over live fire. The restaurant was opened by owner Rose Previte and quickly became one of the most talked-about dining spots in the city. Its menu draws inspiration from across the Middle East and North Africa, with an emphasis on communal dining.
The flatbreads are baked fresh and served with dips like hummus and baba ghanoush. A highlight for many guests is the whole chicken seasoned with sumac and za’atar. The space itself is designed with high ceilings and an open cooking area that creates a dramatic atmosphere. Mayd?n earned a Michelin star in 2019 but later lost it in the 2024 update to the DC guide.
The restaurant continues to be highly acclaimed for its approach to fire-based cooking. The atmosphere is often described as warm and communal, encouraging guests to share food and conversation. Mayd?n remains a landmark in DC dining for those interested in Middle Eastern flavors.
2. Albi: Palestinian Flavors With Modern Flair
Albi is the creation of Chef Michael Rafidi, who brings his Palestinian heritage into focus at this restaurant in DC’s Navy Yard. The name means “my heart” in Arabic, and the menu reflects both tradition and innovation. Albi features Levantine flavors and emphasizes the use of a wood-burning hearth. Signature dishes include smoked lamb shoulder and creative versions of hummus.
The restaurant has been recognized by Michelin with a star and by the James Beard Foundation with awards for Rafidi’s cooking. The design includes natural wood, handcrafted ceramics, and earthy colors.
Albi has been praised for telling stories of culture and family through its food. It has become a destination for visitors who want to learn about Palestinian and Levantine cooking in a modern context. The restaurant represents one of DC’s most respected contributions to Middle Eastern cuisine.
3. Lebanese Taverna: A Multi-Generation Washington Institution
Lebanese Taverna began as a small Arlington restaurant in 1979 and has since expanded into multiple locations around the Washington area. It remains owned and operated by the Abi-Najm family. The menu covers Lebanese staples such as hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, kibbeh, and shawarma. Mezze platters are popular and allow diners to sample a wide range of dishes.
The chain includes full-service restaurants as well as cafes in markets and malls. Lebanese Taverna is regarded as a local institution that has shaped how Washingtonians understand Lebanese food. Each location maintains a sense of Lebanese hospitality and consistency in flavors.
The restaurants are known for their freshly baked pita bread, served warm to every table. Lebanese Taverna has become part of the city’s dining culture while still rooted in family traditions. It offers both locals and travelers reliable access to Lebanese cuisine.
4. ilili: Elevated Lebanese At The Wharf
ilili DC is the Washington branch of the New York restaurant founded by Chef Philippe Massoud. Located in The Wharf, it brings a fine dining approach to Lebanese cuisine. The setting is modern with large windows overlooking the waterfront.
Menu highlights include duck shawarma, seafood prepared with tahini and preserved lemon, and creative mezze. The restaurant is noted for using high-quality ingredients such as single-origin chickpeas for its hummus. Desserts include interpretations of Lebanese classics like baklava and knafeh.
ilili DC emphasizes a refined dining experience while still rooted in Lebanese tradition. Its design blends contemporary elegance with Middle Eastern details. The restaurant has been covered widely as part of The Wharf’s culinary development. For visitors, ilili offers an upscale view of Lebanese dining in the capital.
5. La’ Shukran: Late-Night Levantine Delights
La’ Shukran opened in 2024 at Union Market and quickly became part of DC’s Middle Eastern food scene. The restaurant was launched by Chef Michael Rafidi, also of Albi. It has been recognized by local awards, including being named Best New Restaurant at the 2025 RAMMY Awards.
The menu features shawarma, falafel, hummus, and other Levantine street foods. Its atmosphere is casual and vibrant, appealing to younger diners and those looking for late-night options. La’ Shukran emphasizes proper technique, with shawarma cooked on vertical spits and bread baked fresh.
The restaurant is positioned as more accessible and fast-paced compared to Rafidi’s Albi. The space has bright signage and music that create a lively environment. It has quickly become popular for both locals and visitors. La’ Shukran demonstrates how Levantine cuisine thrives in a casual setting in Washington.
6. Villa Yara: Lush Garden Oasis With Lebanese Flair
Villa Yara is a Lebanese restaurant located in Georgetown, not Adams Morgan. It offers a distinctive garden dining space that includes greenery and decorative lighting. The restaurant emphasizes Lebanese home cooking and mezze platters.
Kibbeh, hummus, baba ghanoush, and fresh pickles are central to the menu. Villa Yara highlights seasonal ingredients and incorporates local produce into traditional dishes. Lamb dishes are a particular focus, often prepared with herbs and slow cooking. The restaurant’s design and atmosphere are intended to transport guests to a Mediterranean setting.
The enclosed garden area allows for year-round dining in a lush environment. Villa Yara is valued for offering a relaxed but refined Lebanese dining experience in Washington.
7. Agora: Mediterranean Mosaic In Dupont Circle
Agora is a restaurant in Dupont Circle with a second location in Tysons, Virginia. The menu covers Turkish and broader Eastern Mediterranean dishes. Signature offerings include pide, a boat-shaped flatbread with various toppings, and a wide selection of mezze.
The restaurant’s weekend brunch is popular and includes items like Turkish menemen. Agora’s atmosphere is designed to encourage sharing and communal dining.
The space combines rustic and modern design elements. Its Tysons location extends the concept to suburban diners. Agora emphasizes authenticity in Turkish cooking while also representing neighboring cuisines. It continues to be a well-regarded part of Washington’s Mediterranean dining scene.
8. Rumi’s Kitchen: Persian Grandeur In Mt. Vernon Triangle
Rumi’s Kitchen opened its Washington location in Mt. Vernon Triangle at 640 L Street NW. It focuses on Persian cuisine, with special attention to rice dishes and kebabs. The menu includes tahdig, the crispy rice crust often served with stews like ghormeh sabzi and fesenjan.
Lamb and chicken kebabs are prepared over fire and are menu highlights. The restaurant’s design includes jewel tones, tilework, and spacious ceilings. It is part of a small group of restaurants that began in Georgia.
Rumi’s Kitchen emphasizes traditional Persian flavors such as saffron, dried lime, and barberries. It is named after the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi, whose influence is reflected in the restaurant’s themes of hospitality. The service often guides guests through a traditional Persian meal sequence. Rumi’s Kitchen represents one of the most complete introductions to Persian food in Washington.
9. Bistro Aracosia: Afghan Treasures In Palisades
Bistro Aracosia is located in the Palisades neighborhood of Washington. It specializes in Afghan cuisine and is family-owned. The restaurant’s menu includes dumplings such as mantu and aushak. Slow-cooked lamb dishes and kabobs are central to the offerings.
The sabzi challaw, featuring lamb with spinach and rice, is a signature item. Chapli kabobs are another popular choice. The restaurant also serves a variety of Afghan stews. Its tea service includes green tea flavored with cardamom, served in traditional pots.
A sister location exists in McLean, Virginia. Bistro Aracosia offers one of the few dedicated Afghan dining experiences in the region.
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