Must try Mediterranean food blends bold spices, vibrant vegetables, and time-honored cooking techniques into one unforgettable experience. At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine in Houston, we bring that experience to life with dishes that are as nourishing as they are flavorful—and always affordable.
Many assume Mediterranean food is pricey, but the truth is, the average entrée across the U.S. costs just $7.48. At Aladdin, you get even more value. We serve hearty combo plates with one protein and three freshly prepared veggie sides—or all-veggie platters for those who want a wholesome, plant-based meal. Whether you’re craving juicy lamb kabobs, crispy falafel, or creamy baba ghanouj, every bite is made fresh daily.
Mediterranean cuisine spans across Greek, Lebanese, Turkish, and Middle Eastern traditions—each offering something unique for every palate. Even picky eaters will find favorites here. Plus, with halal-certified meats, vegan options, and gluten-free choices, everyone at your table is covered.Must Try Mediterranean Food
Dine in, order online, or grab takeout—Aladdin is your Houston destination for must-try Mediterranean food that’s fast, fresh, and full of flavor. Come hungry and leave happy.

Top Must Try Mediterranean Foods
1. Falafel
When it comes to must-try Mediterranean food, few dishes are as iconic—or satisfying—as falafel. Whether you’re stepping into a Mediterranean restaurant for the first time or you’re already a fan of bold, plant-based cuisine, falafel should be at the top of your list. Must Try Mediterranean Food
Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, onions, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs and spices like parsley, coriander, and cumin. The result? A crispy, golden-brown crust with a soft, flavorful center. It’s proof that vegetables—when prepared with care and tradition—can be just as crave-worthy as meat. Served with creamy tahini, fresh pita, or tossed into a vibrant salad, falafel is a delicious introduction to the variety and depth of Mediterranean food.
Another must-try Mediterranean dish is pilaf—a deceptively simple rice-based dish that packs complex flavor in every bite. Traditionally cooked in seasoned broth with aromatic spices and sautéed onions, pilaf is often mixed with ingredients like roasted nuts, vermicelli, or even lentils for added depth. At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, we elevate our pilaf with premium rice, fresh herbs, and rich spices that turn a humble grain into the perfect base—or side—for any entrée.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat lover, or just exploring new flavors, these dishes are a flavorful entry point into the world of Mediterranean cuisine. Stop by Aladdin in Houston to experience these must-try Mediterranean foods the way they’re meant to be enjoyed—fresh, authentic, and made with love.
2. Pilaf
Pilaf is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine—simple in concept, but incredibly rich in flavor and versatility. At its core, pilaf is a dish made from rice simmered in broth, infused with spices, and often enhanced with ingredients like nuts, vegetables, or dried fruits. At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, our take on this classic is elevated with a unique blend of almonds and cranberries, delivering a sweet and savory combination that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, stews, or vegetable sides.
Unlike plain rice, pilaf is first toasted in oil or butter to bring out a nutty aroma before being simmered in seasoned broth. The result is fluffy, aromatic rice where every grain is separate and packed with flavor. You can enjoy it as a hearty side, or make it the centerpiece of your plate when paired with dishes like our lamb kabobs, curry chicken, or falafel platters.
Pilaf is the perfect choice for diners looking for comfort food with character. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or a longtime fan, this dish is a must-try. With our generous portions and halal ingredients, you’ll savor the tradition in every bite.
3. Lahmajoun
Lahmajoun (also spelled lahmacun) is often referred to as the “Mediterranean pizza,” but this nickname barely scratches the surface of this iconic dish’s rich flavor and cultural history. Originating from regions like Lebanon, Turkey, and Armenia, lahmajoun is a thin, oven-baked flatbread topped with a savory blend of ground beef or lamb, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, and bold Mediterranean spices.
At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, we prepare our lahmajoun fresh in-house using halal-certified ground beef, hand-rolled dough, and a spice profile that includes cumin, paprika, and a hint of cinnamon. It’s baked until the edges are crispy, the meat is perfectly cooked, and the aroma fills the kitchen. The result is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect as a starter, a lunch plate, or a shareable appetizer.
Unlike American-style pizza, lahmajoun isn’t weighed down with heavy cheese. Instead, it celebrates clean, aromatic flavor, making it a popular option for those seeking a lighter, protein-packed alternative. You can enjoy it rolled up with parsley, onions, and a squeeze of lemon, or dip it in our house-made garlic sauce or tzatziki.
Whether you’re trying must-try Mediterranean food for the first time or you’re a seasoned fan, lahmajoun deserves a permanent spot on your table—and at Aladdin, it’s made just right.
4. Pita
Pita is more than just bread—it’s the backbone of must-try Mediterranean food. Soft, warm, and endlessly versatile, pita has been a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. At Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, we treat pita with the respect it deserves—handcrafted, freshly baked, and served with everything from dips to entrees. You’ve never really experienced pita until you’ve had it fresh from a Mediterranean kitchen like ours.
Our pita is pillowy and light, with just the right balance of chewiness and airiness. It’s the perfect tool for scooping hummus, baba ghanouj, or spicy muhammara. It’s also ideal for wrapping around juicy kabobs, falafel, or shawarma to create your own custom wrap. Unlike the store-bought version, our pita is baked with high-heat techniques that allow it to puff up and form that signature pocket—perfect for loading with meats, salads, and sauces.
Aladdin’s pita is halal-friendly and made without unnecessary additives, making it a wholesome choice for anyone seeking real, honest food. Whether you’re pairing it with a veggie platter or using it to soak up every last drop of stew, our pita brings comfort, texture, and satisfaction to every meal.
5. Moussaka
Moussaka is often described as the Mediterranean answer to lasagna—but it’s much more than that. This rich, layered casserole is a celebrated dish across Greece, the Middle East, and parts of North Africa. At its heart, moussaka combines roasted eggplant, seasoned ground beef or lamb, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and allspice. These savory layers are then topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden and bubbling.
What makes moussaka stand out is its balance. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables, the warmth of the spices, and the richness of the béchamel all come together into a deeply satisfying experience. Each bite delivers soft textures, bold flavor, and that comforting warmth you expect from a well-crafted baked dish. Must Try Mediterranean Food
Traditionally served hot and often enjoyed as a main course, moussaka is an accurate representation of Mediterranean comfort food. It’s hearty enough to satisfy meat lovers, yet still rooted in the region’s vegetable-forward cooking style. For those unfamiliar with the dish, it serves as a great entry point into Mediterranean cuisine—rich, flavorful, and full of cultural depth.
Whether paired with a simple cucumber salad or served as the star of the meal, moussaka is a must-try for anyone seeking the warm soul of Mediterranean cooking in one iconic dish.
6. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a refreshing, vibrant staple of Levantine cuisine—and one of the most iconic salads in the Mediterranean. Light yet filling, this dish is built around finely chopped fresh parsley, which serves as the star ingredient. It’s mixed with bulgur wheat, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, green onions, mint, and a simple dressing of lemon juice and olive oil. The result is a zesty, herbaceous salad with a crisp bite and a clean finish. Must Try Mediterranean Food
What makes tabbouleh so beloved isn’t just its flavor—it’s how it complements almost everything. It balances grilled meats, brightens up heavier dishes like moussaka or rice pilaf, and even works as a standalone light lunch. The parsley delivers antioxidants and bold herbal notes, while the lemon adds acidity that cuts through rich flavors. Meanwhile, bulgur provides substance and a pleasant, nutty texture.
This salad is naturally vegan, dairy-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a top choice for health-conscious eaters or anyone looking to explore must-try Mediterranean food. It’s often served chilled, allowing the ingredients to marinate together and intensify over time.
Tabbouleh is more than just a side—it’s a celebration of freshness. Every forkful delivers an incredible, lemony burst and a satisfying chew that keeps you coming back. Whether served with pita, hummus, or simply on its own, this dish is a bright, herb-driven classic that deserves a spot on every Mediterranean plate.
7. Kabob
If you’re searching for kabob in Houston or the best Mediterranean restaurant Houston has to offer, Aladdin’s lineup of kabobs represents the pinnacle of must-try Mediterranean food. We offer Houston’s most comprehensive selection of halal kabobs, with each skewer carefully marinated, flame-grilled, and served with your choice of fresh sides at our Mediterranean restaurant near me locations.
Kabob near me searches lead food lovers directly to Aladdin, where we serve Houston’s kabob specialties that have made us the premier Mediterranean food destination in Houston since 2006. Please choose from our tender chicken kabob, Houston favorite, perfectly seasoned beef kabob, Houston selection, or our legendary lamb kabob, Houston that remains our most popular grilled specialty. Want something with heat? Try our signature spicy chicken kabob, a Houston creation that delivers authentic Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist.
For those seeking premium kabob restaurant Houston experiences, our steak kabob Houston and lamb filet kabob Houston options feature the finest cuts available, marinated in traditional Mediterranean spices and grilled to perfection. These premium Houston Mediterranean food selections represent the authentic grilling techniques that have made Mediterranean cuisine a beloved global cuisine.
Every Mediterranean kabob Houston specialty at Aladdin is crafted with high-quality halal meat sourced in Houston, traditional Mediterranean spices, and fresh grilled vegetables to provide a complete and satisfying Mediterranean cuisine Houston experience. Served with aromatic rice, house-made dips, or your choice of Mediterranean sides, these kabobs are perfect for lunch, dinner, or shared family-style dining, which defines the Mediterranean restaurant hospitality in Houston.
Houston halal food seekers can dine with complete confidence knowing that all meats at both of our Houston locations—Montrose Mediterranean restaurant and Garden Oaks Mediterranean food—are 100% halal-certified. Whether you prefer classic chicken shawarma Houston flavors or crave something more indulgent like our lamb kabob near me specialties, there’s a perfectly grilled skewer that satisfies every appetite.
As Houston’s best Mediterranean restaurant, we make it easy to explore authentic Mediterranean grilling Houston techniques that have been perfected over generations. Our kabob delivery Houston service brings these same flame-grilled flavors directly to your door. At the same time, our Mediterranean catering Houston packages make these kabob specialties perfect for events and gatherings throughout Harris County.
Visit either Mediterranean restaurant Houston location and discover why Aladdin’s kabobs represent the most authentic must-try Mediterranean food Houston has to offer, served fresh daily with the hospitality and quality that have made us Houston’s trusted halal restaurant near me choice for nearly two decades.
At Aladdin, we make it easy to explore the best of Mediterranean grilling. Taste why our kabobs are some of the most must-try Mediterranean foods in Houston.
Delicious Mediterranean Foods for Families Near Me
Looking to explore delicious Mediterranean food with your family? Whether it’s your first visit to a falafel restaurant or you’re craving grilled kabobs and creamy hummus, Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine is the perfect place to start. With two convenient Houston locations—Montrose and Garden Oaks—we’re never far when you’re searching for “Mediterranean food near me.”
Both locations offer a wide range of halal-certified meats, vegetarian favorites, and kid-friendly sides, making dining with the whole family easy and enjoyable. From freshly made falafel to lamb kabobs and vibrant salads, every dish is crafted with quality ingredients and authentic Mediterranean flavors.
FAQS
1. What is the best Mediterranean restaurant in Houston?
Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine is consistently rated as Houston’s best Mediterranean restaurant, serving authentic halal Mediterranean food since 2006. With two convenient locations in Montrose (912 Westheimer Rd) and Garden Oaks (1737 W 34th St), Aladdin offers the most comprehensive Mediterranean menu in Houston, featuring fresh kabobs, homemade hummus, and traditional dishes prepared daily using authentic recipes and halal-certified ingredients.
2. Where can I find halal Mediterranean food near me in Houston?
Aladdin Mediterranean cuisine operates two halal-certified locations serving Houston’s Muslim community and health-conscious diners. Our Montrose location at 912 Westheimer Road (77006) and Garden Oaks location at 1737 W 34th Street (77018) both offer 100% halal Mediterranean food with full dine-in, takeout, and delivery services throughout Harris County.
3. What are the most popular Mediterranean dishes to try in Houston?
The most popular Mediterranean food Houston dishes include lamb kabobs, chicken shawarma, fresh hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, and Mediterranean rice pilaf. At Aladdin, our signature “Build Your Own Plate” allows customers to choose one protein and three sides, creating customized Mediterranean meals that showcase authentic flavors and fresh ingredients prepared daily.
4. Does Aladdin Mediterranean offer delivery and takeout in Houston?
Yes! Aladdin Mediterranean Houston provides comprehensive delivery and takeout services through our website, major delivery apps including DoorDash and Uber Eats, and direct phone orders at (713) 942-2321. We deliver throughout Houston including Montrose, Garden Oaks, Museum District, Heights, Midtown, and surrounding areas with our specially designed packaging that maintains food quality and temperature.
5. Is Mediterranean food healthy and good for weight loss?
Mediterranean cuisine is scientifically proven to be one of the world’s healthiest eating patterns. Our Houston Mediterranean restaurant specializes in heart-healthy ingredients including olive oil, lean halal proteins, fresh vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. The Mediterranean diet can support weight management, reduce heart disease risk by 30%, and provide sustained energy while offering delicious, satisfying meals that don’t feel restrictive.
6. What vegetarian and vegan options are available at Mediterranean restaurants in Houston?
Aladdin Mediterranean Houston offers extensive vegetarian and vegan Mediterranean options including traditional falafel, stuffed grape leaves, hummus varieties, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, lentil salads, roasted cauliflower, and Mediterranean vegetable platters. Our plant-based options provide complete proteins and authentic Mediterranean flavors while accommodating dietary preferences and restrictions.
7. How much does Mediterranean food cost in Houston?
Mediterranean restaurant Houston prices at Aladdin are surprisingly affordable, with complete meals ranging from $13.95-$25.95. Our popular “Build Your Own Plate” (1 protein + 3 sides) costs $17.95, while our Mediterranean wraps start at $13.95. This represents exceptional value considering our generous portions, fresh daily preparation, and halal-certified ingredients that would cost significantly more at other Houston restaurants.
8. Does Aladdin provide Mediterranean catering services in Houston?
Aladdin Mediterranean catering Houston services accommodate events from 10 to 500+ guests throughout Harris County. We specialize in corporate catering, wedding receptions, religious gatherings, and private events with customized Mediterranean menus featuring kabobs, family-style platters, and mezze displays. Our experienced catering team provides full setup, service, and cleanup for worry-free entertaining with authentic Mediterranean hospitality.
9. What makes food halal and why choose halal Mediterranean restaurants?
Halal food must meet Islamic dietary guidelines governing both ingredients and preparation methods. At Aladdin halal restaurant Houston, all meat comes from animals slaughtered according to Islamic law, with no pork or alcohol ingredients used. Our halal certification ensures food purity and quality that aligns with Mediterranean diet principles emphasizing fresh, natural ingredients and ethical sourcing practices.
10. Are there gluten-free options at Mediterranean restaurants in Houston?
Mediterranean cuisine naturally offers numerous gluten-free options in Houston. At Aladdin, gluten-free choices include all grilled kabobs, rice dishes, hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh (made with gluten-free grains), fresh salads, and roasted vegetables. Our knowledgeable staff can guide gluten-sensitive diners through safe menu options and preparation methods that prevent cross-contamination.
11. What are the best Mediterranean appetizers to share in Houston?
Popular Mediterranean appetizers Houston include our mezze platters featuring hummus varieties, baba ganoush, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, and fresh pita bread. These sharing plates showcase authentic Mediterranean flavors while providing healthy options perfect for groups. Our appetizer combinations allow diners to sample multiple traditional dishes and discover new favorites in a social dining setting.
12. How do I order Mediterranean food online for delivery in Houston?
Order Mediterranean food online Houston through our website at staging.aladdinshouston.com, call (713) 942-2321, or use delivery apps including DoorDash and Uber Eats. Online ordering enables menu customization, accommodates special dietary requests, and offers scheduled delivery times throughout Houston. We recommend ordering directly through our website for the best pricing and fastest service.
13. What’s the difference between Greek, Lebanese, and Turkish Mediterranean food?
Mediterranean food Houston encompasses diverse regional cuisines with distinct characteristics. Greek Mediterranean features feta cheese, olives, and oregano-heavy seasonings. Lebanese Mediterranean emphasizes fresh herbs, lemon, and bulgur wheat in dishes like tabbouleh. Turkish Mediterranean includes unique spice blends and cooking techniques. At Aladdin, we blend these traditions to create authentic flavors representing the entire Mediterranean region.
14. Do you accommodate large groups and private events in Houston?
Aladdin Mediterranean Houston accommodates large groups through our spacious dining rooms and comprehensive private event catering services. Our restaurants can host parties of 20-50 guests, while our catering division serves events up to 500+ people. We specialize in corporate lunches, family celebrations, religious gatherings, and wedding receptions with customized Mediterranean menus and professional service throughout Houston.
15. What are your restaurant hours and locations in Houston?
Aladdin Mediterranean Houston hours are Monday-Sunday 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM (Thursday-Saturday until 10:00 PM) at both locations. Our Montrose restaurant (912 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006) serves the Museum District, Midtown, and downtown areas. Our Garden Oaks location (1737 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018) serves the Heights, Garden Oaks, and northwest Houston communities with the same authentic Mediterranean menu and halal-certified ingredients.