Best Middle Eastern Food In LA

Discover the Delicious and Diverse Cuisine of the Middle East in Los Angeles 🍽️

The culinary scene in Los Angeles is as diverse as its population, and with its large Middle Eastern community, the city boasts an array of delicious and authentic Middle Eastern dishes. From savory kebabs to crisp falafel, the Middle Eastern food in LA is a gastronomic delight. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore the best Middle Eastern food in LA, highlighting some of the most popular and unique restaurants in the city.

Introduction

Los Angeles has a rich history of Middle Eastern immigrants, who have brought with them an array of dishes that are now staples of the city’s culinary scene. The food of the Middle East is renowned for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and unique spices. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there are plenty of Middle Eastern restaurants in LA that are worth a visit. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best places to experience Middle Eastern cuisine in the city. Join us as we explore the vibrant flavors of the Middle East!

What is Middle Eastern cuisine?

Middle Eastern cuisine is a collective term used to describe the foods of various countries in the Middle East, such as Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Israel, and more. Middle Eastern cuisine is often characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs, as well as its use of spices like cumin, turmeric, and sumac. Popular dishes include hummus, falafel, shawarma, kebabs, tabbouleh, and baba ghanoush.

The Best Middle Eastern Food In LA

Here are some of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in LA, where you can experience the delicious flavors of the Middle East for yourself:

1. Zankou Chicken 🍗

Zankou Chicken is a legendary LA institution, famous for its juicy rotisserie chicken and crispy falafel. The family-owned chain has been serving hungry Angelenos since 1962 and has gained a cult following for its fresh ingredients and delicious food. Try their garlic sauce – it’s legendary!

2. Al-Watan Halal Restaurant 🍛

If you’re looking for authentic Pakistani cuisine, head to Al-Watan Halal Restaurant. From spicy curries to fragrant biryanis, this family-owned restaurant serves up hearty portions of delicious food that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

3. Dune 🌯

Dune is a modern take on the classic Middle Eastern wrap joint, offering delicious falafel, shawarma, and hummus bowls. Their food is made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and their wraps are bursting with flavor. Try their falafel wrap with extra hot sauce – it’s a game-changer!

4. Carousel Restaurant 🍽️

Carousel Restaurant has been a fixture in LA’s Middle Eastern food scene since 1987, and for good reason. The restaurant offers a diverse range of Lebanese dishes, from hummus and tabbouleh to lamb kebab and chicken shawarma. The restaurant also hosts live music and belly dancing performances on weekends, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out.

5. Sunnin Lebanese Cafe 🍴

Sunnin Lebanese Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious Lebanese food in LA since 1989. The restaurant offers a range of traditional Lebanese dishes, including kebabs, falafel, and shawarma, as well as unique specialties like kibbeh nayeh, a Lebanese raw beef dish. Don’t forget to try their homemade garlic sauce!

FAQs

1. What is the difference between Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine?

Middle Eastern cuisine is a subset of Mediterranean cuisine, which also includes the foods of Greece, Turkey, and other countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. Middle Eastern cuisine is characterized by its use of unique spices and seasonings, while Mediterranean cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients like seafood and vegetables.

2. Is Middle Eastern food healthy?

Yes, Middle Eastern food can be very healthy. Many traditional Middle Eastern dishes are made with fresh ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins, which are great for your health. However, some Middle Eastern dishes can be high in fat and calories, so it’s important to choose wisely.

3. What are some popular Middle Eastern spices?

Some popular Middle Eastern spices include cumin, turmeric, sumac, paprika, and cinnamon. These spices are used to add depth and flavor to dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma.

4. What is the national dish of Lebanon?

The national dish of Lebanon is kibbeh, which is a dish made from ground meat, bulgur wheat, and spices. Kibbeh can be served raw or cooked, and is often stuffed with ingredients like nuts, onions, and lamb.

5. What is the traditional Middle Eastern breakfast?

The traditional Middle Eastern breakfast typically includes bread, cheese, olives, and spreads like hummus and labneh, which is a tangy yogurt dip. Other common breakfast items include falafel, shakshuka, and ful medames, which is a hearty bean stew.

6. What is the difference between shawarma and gyros?

Shawarma and gyros are very similar dishes, but they have some key differences. Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made with marinated meat that is slow-cooked on a spit and sliced into thin strips. Gyros, on the other hand, is a Greek dish made with seasoned meat that is also cooked on a spit, but is usually served in larger chunks.

7. What is falafel made of?

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, and deep-fried into balls or patties. Falafel is often served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

8. What is tabbouleh?

Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad made from chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. Tabbouleh is a bright and refreshing dish that is perfect for summertime.

9. What is hummus made of?

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. This creamy, tangy dip is often served with pita bread or vegetables.

10. What is baba ghanoush?

Baba ghanoush is a Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. This smoky, savory dip is often served with pita bread or as a side dish.

11. What is Kanafeh?

Kanafeh is a Middle Eastern dessert made from shredded phyllo dough, soaked in sweet syrup, and layered with cheese or cream. This decadent dessert is often served warm and topped with pistachios or other nuts.

12. What is Shawarma?

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made by marinating meat (often chicken, lamb, or beef) in spices, and then roasting it on a spit. The meat is then shaved off in thin slices and served in a pita bread with vegetables and sauce.

13. What is Kibbeh?

Kibbeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef), bulgur wheat, and spices, shaped into balls or patties and fried. Kibbeh can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer, and is often served with yogurt sauce or hummus.

Conclusion

The Middle Eastern food in LA is a celebration of flavors, colors, and aromas that reflect the diverse cultures and traditions of the region. From the tangy hummus to the spicy shawarma, the food of the Middle East is a culinary delight that should not be missed. Whether you’re a fan of traditional dishes or modern takes on classic favorites, there’s something for everyone in LA’s Middle Eastern food scene. So, go ahead and explore the delicious cuisine of the Middle East – your taste buds will thank you!

So, what are you waiting for? Head out to one of the many Middle Eastern restaurants in LA and discover the vibrant flavors of this delicious cuisine for yourself. And if you’re already a fan of Middle Eastern food, why not try something new and explore a new restaurant or dish? With so much to discover, the possibilities are endless!

Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of all information presented, and readers should always do their own research before making any decisions. The opinions