Yelp names 15 top Mediterranean restaurants in U.S.

Yelp just released its annual list of the 15 best Mediterranean restaurants in the U.S., highlighting spots from Los Angeles to New York that are serving up everything from crispy falafel to harissa-spiced lamb.

The surge reflects a broader trend: Mediterranean food is one of the fastest-growing cuisines in America. Over the past five years, interest has jumped more than 40% on Yelp, driven by health-conscious eaters drawn to olive oil, vegetables and lean proteins. The pandemic also pushed diners toward delivery-friendly dishes like grain bowls and mezze platters. Now, chefs are experimenting with modern twists—think za’atar-spiced avocado toast or vegan lamb made from jackfruit—while staying true to tradition.

The top-rated spots include longstanding favorites like Los Angeles’ Saffy’s and newcomers like New York’s Shukette, which blends Israeli street food with local ingredients. Many of these restaurants are in big cities, but the list also features chefs in smaller towns catching on to the trend. Social media has played a role, with dishes like rainbow-colored fattoush salad and loaded hummus bowls going viral.

Next up could be more fusion menus and regional specialties. Expect to see more Mediterranean spots opening outside urban hubs, and possibly a push for better labeling—like clearer vegan or gluten-free options. The rise of this cuisine shows no sign of slowing, proving that Americans aren’t just eating healthier—they’re embracing flavors from across the Mediterranean faster than ever before.