You Haven’t Truly Eaten Mediterranean Food in Florida Until You’ve Tried These Places

Florida’s Mediterranean food scene has quietly become one of the best in the country, with restaurants that rival anything you’d find in Athens, Istanbul, or Beirut. From family-run Lebanese grills to elegant Greek seafood houses, the Sunshine State is packed with authentic flavors that transport you straight to the coast of the Mediterranean.

Whether you’re craving smoky kebabs, fresh mezze, or flaky baklava, these nine spots will change the way you think about Mediterranean cuisine.

1. Alaturka Mediterranean Grill & Bakery (Palm Harbor)

Walking into this Palm Harbor treasure feels like stepping into a bustling Istanbul market. The aroma of wood-grilled meats and fresh-baked bread hits you instantly, and you’ll understand why it’s a 2025 statewide Best of Florida winner.

Alaturka has mastered the art of Turkish and Mediterranean cooking, with every dish prepared from scratch daily. The mezze selection alone could be a meal, but don’t skip the iskender kebab—tender meat bathed in tomato sauce over torn pita with yogurt.

Save room for kunefe, a cheese-filled dessert soaked in syrup that’s pure magic.

2. Agora Mediterranean Kitchen (West Palm Beach)

Thousands of five-star Google reviews don’t lie—Agora has earned its reputation as one of South Florida’s most beloved Turkish-Greek spots. The staff treats every guest like family, remembering regulars’ orders and greeting newcomers with genuine warmth.

Charred meats come off the grill with perfect smoky flavor, and the lamb shank falls off the bone with barely a nudge from your fork. The hot mezze spread is a riot of colors and textures, each bite better than the last.

The elegant-but-comfortable setting makes it perfect for date nights or family celebrations.

3. Mediterrano (Naples)

There’s a reason Mediterrano sits at the top of every Naples restaurant ranking year after year. This Greek-leaning Mediterranean legend combines pristine seafood with old-Florida charm, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.

The whole branzino arrives tableside perfectly grilled, with crispy skin giving way to tender, flaky flesh. Watch the saganaki flame dramatically before digging into the warm, squeaky cheese.

Grilled octopus is impossibly tender, proving that Mediterrano’s kitchen knows exactly what it’s doing with every ingredient that comes through the door.

4. Mandolin Aegean Bistro (Miami)

Step into the enchanting courtyard and you’ll swear you’ve been transported to a hidden village in the Greek islands. Mandolin has become a modern Florida classic, earning endless praise for its authentic Greek-Turkish coastal cuisine and dreamy atmosphere.

Grilled halloumi arrives golden and squeaky, the perfect balance of salty and creamy. Lamb chops are cooked to pink perfection, while the lemon potatoes soak up all those delicious meat juices.

Every detail, from the blue-painted doors to the herb garden, creates an experience that goes way beyond just eating.

5. Aladdin Market & Grill (Miami)

Don’t let the casual market setting fool you—this unassuming spot serves some of Miami’s best Middle Eastern food, backed by thousands of near-perfect Google reviews. Half grocery store, half restaurant, Aladdin offers authenticity you simply can’t fake.

The shawarma plate overflows with perfectly seasoned meat, while the falafel wrap stays crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Fresh-baked pita comes warm to your table, ideal for scooping up silky hummus.

Prices stay refreshingly reasonable, making it easy to become a regular at this beloved neighborhood gem.

6. Saffron Grill (Miami Beach)

With thousands of glowing reviews and an elite rating, Saffron Grill has earned its place as a Miami Beach heavyweight. Specializing in Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern comfort food, every dish demonstrates why this place stays packed with locals and tourists alike.

The mixed kebab platter showcases the grill master’s skills, with multiple meats cooked to juicy perfection. Lentil soup arrives rich and warming, while the baba ghanoush achieves that elusive silky texture that separates good from great.

Fast, friendly service keeps the energy high without feeling rushed.

7. ShouFi MahFi Mediterranean Grill (Orlando)

Orlando locals know that ShouFi MahFi delivers Lebanese flavors that taste like they came straight from a Beirut kitchen. The from-scratch approach shows in every bite, with spices balanced perfectly and meats marinated to maximum flavor.

Chicken tawook arrives tender and juicy, while beef kafta brings rich, aromatic spices that make your taste buds dance. But the real star might be the garlic sauce—creamy, punchy, and dangerously addictive.

The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner with friends who appreciate real Mediterranean cooking.

8. Petra Mediterranean Restaurant (Tampa)

Two Tampa locations prove that Petra’s Jordanian and Middle Eastern cooking has captured hearts across the city. This beloved spot serves deeply comforting, traditional dishes that remind homesick Middle Easterners of family dinners and introduce newcomers to unforgettable flavors.

Mansaf, Jordan’s national dish, features tender lamb over rice with a tangy yogurt sauce that’s pure comfort food. The shawarma stays consistently excellent, while the mezze sampler lets you taste multiple specialties in one sitting.

Generous portions and warm hospitality make every visit feel like coming home.

9. Garden Mediterranean Grill (Lutz)

Tucked away in Lutz, this Mediterranean gem proves you don’t need to be in a big city to find exceptional food. Garden Mediterranean Grill focuses on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, creating dishes that taste clean, vibrant, and utterly satisfying.

The grill turns out perfectly charred meats with that irresistible smoky flavor, while fresh salads burst with crisp vegetables and bright dressings. Hummus comes creamy and smooth, made fresh daily.

The welcoming staff and relaxed vibe make it a neighborhood favorite where everyone feels like a regular, even on their first visit.