Best Shawarma Chicken and Tender Lamb Chops

A new guide published May 1, 2026, by Chowhound identifies the top-rated Mediterranean restaurants across every U.S. State, highlighting the growth of the cuisine’s presence in American dining. The report notes that the Mediterranean diet, frequently cited as one of the healthiest globally, is characterized by the use of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes, whole grains, seafood, and healthy fats such as olive oil.

According to the publication, the diverse range of Mediterranean flavors found in the United States is a result of migration from various regions, including North Africa, Greece, Turkey, Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon. This influence has led to a spectrum of dining options, ranging from local hole-in-the-wall eateries specializing in mezze to high-end establishments.

Regional Highlights

In Alabama, the guide identifies Makarios Kabobs &amp. Grill in Birmingham as a premier destination. The restaurant is noted for providing affordable lunch options in the downtown area. The most popular menu items include ultra-tender lamb chops and hummus served with shawarma chicken. Diners have specifically highlighted the establishment’s large portion sizes.

In Alaska, the featured establishment is Turkish Delight in Anchorage. The restaurant has been operated since 2022 by a sibling team, Engin and Zeynep Kilic. Zeynep Kilic is a former Sociology professor, Fulbright scholar, and award-winning documentarian. The restaurant is recognized for its falafel and döner kebab.

Arizona’s top pick is Haji-Baba in Tempe, a no-frills hotspot that has operated for more than 40 years. The venue combines a restaurant with a grocery store. Its most popular offerings are gyros and chicken shawarma.

In Arkansas, The GOAT Mediterranean Grill in Hot Springs is cited for its service and ambiance. The restaurant’s baba ghanoush received praise from a Tripadvisor diner who described it as the best I have had outside of Greece/Crete.

California’s representative is Bavel, located in the Arts District of Los Angeles. The restaurant’s menu draws from countries including Egypt, Turkey, and Morocco. Notable dishes include Wagyu Beef Cheek Tagine and Duck ‘Nduja Hummus. One Yelp diner described the beef cheek as wildly tender, adding that you don’t even need teeth to eat this.

In Colorado, the guide recognizes Safta in Denver, located at The Source Hotel. The restaurant is led by Israeli chef Alon Shaya.