Must try Mediterranean Cuisine in NB
Mediterranean food has got to be one of the greatest pleasures of life. From insanely creamy hummus to deliciously tender meat kabobs, I haven’t met a Mediterranean dish I didn’t like. From traditional dishes like Baba Ghanoush to tasty cultural hybrid dishes like pita pizza, these Newport Beach spots all serve up flavorful fare when you’re craving Mediterranean food, so basically most of the time.
Forte Kabob
Serving up handmade organic salads and flavorful choices of entrees, Forte Kabob is a delicious fast-casual spot. Located on the Balboa Peninsula, they use local organic produce to create dishes inspired by California flavors as well as the freshest products available. The Lemon Garlic Hummus is a must, and the Filet Mignon Beef Kabob is so juicy and satisfying.
Damasq Cafe
Located in Corona del Mar, Damasq Cafe offers healthy Halal-certified Mediterranean cuisine. This family-owned spot serves up delectable bites like Chicken and Beef Kafta, Baba Ghanoush, and Sautéed Eggplant. Their homemade Tahini and Garlic “secret” sauces make this local spot all the better. If you’re in a hurry and craving Mediterranean fare, Damasq Cafe is your spot. Get the classic tender Gyro Sandwich or Falafel Sandwich to go and you’ll be satisfied and on your way.
Pita Jungle
Pita Jungle embodies the “art of eating healthy.” Their menu features an extensive list of starters, from the classic Tzatziki to a more adventurous Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus, as well as warm pitas and cold pita wraps. For a less traditional Mediterranean meal, try the Philly Steak Pita or the Kafta Burger, but you can’t go wrong with the Spicy Chicken Wrap! Pita Jungle also has some delicious treats to finish up your meal, like the Walnut Baklava Roll and Carrot Cake.
Blue Mediterranean Cafe
Serving up fresh vegetables, tasty legumes, and hearty grains, Blue Mediterranean Cafe honors traditional Mediterranean fare. The Kafta Kabob, made with grilled seasoned lean ground beef & lamb and served over rice with hummus, garden salad & pita bread, is mouth-watering. This local spot also serves up a number of salads, including Shrimp, Shawarma (chicken), Gyro, and Tawouk (chicken kabob) salad.
Aurora Mediterranean Grill & Lounge
Let me start off by saying: PITA PIZZA. There, I said it. At Aurora, you can enjoy pizza pitas topped with olive oil, garlic, chicken, veggies, and feta or maybe you’re more feeling the Mediterranean Melt — pita topped with marinara, chicken or lamb, mushrooms, green peppers, onions, and feta. They also have a tasty Lamb Gyro if you’re looking for a more classic bite. Offering up a lounge feel, this local spot is passionate about food, music, art, culture, and community.
Port Restaurant & Bar
Port Restaurant & Bar offers an exceptional experience for a Mediterranean food lover looking for a more upscale meal. Utilizing authentically homemade flavors, this Corona del Mar restaurant serves up delicious international bites like grape leaves stuffed with rice, beef, yellow peas, and herbs and an extensive list of kabob plates, including salmon, tiger shrimp, and ground top sirloin beef. Plus, they offer live music nightly.
Panini Café
Panini Café is a great spot for a casual, comfortable Mediterranean dining experience. Located in Corona del Mar, their menu features a substantial list of grilled paninis (it is the Panini Café, after all), as well as Taftoon Wraps (love the Falafel Wrap), and authentic Mediterranean entrees, such as the Fresh Salmon Kabob and Charbroiled Chicken Shish Kabob. On the panini front, the Chicken Pesto, Hummus and Eggplant, and Prosciutto and Artichoke Heart Paninis are all amazing.
