Boston’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, and Arabic cuisine stands out with its rich, aromatic dishes.
Whether you’re craving savory kebabs, fragrant rice, or delectable baklava, Boston offers a variety of restaurants that bring the authentic taste of the Middle East to New England.
From cozy family-owned eateries to upscale dining experiences, these 13 best Arabic foods in Boston promise to satisfy your taste buds and transport you to the heart of the Levant.
Discover where to find the most mouthwatering falafel, the creamiest hummus, and the most succulent shawarma in the city.
Top 13 Best Arabic Foods in Boston
Boston has a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines, including authentic Arabic food.
If you’re in search of delicious Middle Eastern flavors, here’s a guide to the top 13 best Arabic foods in Boston:
1. Yemeni Mandi: Bab Al-Yemen BOSTON
Restaurant Adddress: Bab Al-Yemen BOSTON (468 Commonwealth Ave)
Yemeni Mandi is a fragrant, flavorful rice dish cooked with a blend of traditional spices like saffron, cardamom, and cloves, topped with tender lamb or chicken.
Bab Al-Yemen BOSTON specializes in this authentic dish, which reflects the culinary heritage of Yemen. It’s served with a side of tangy yogurt and tomato salsa, making it a well-balanced meal that’s both hearty and delicious.
2. Falafel Wrap: Black Seed Halal Grill
Restaurant Adddress: Black Seed Halal Grill (140 Tremont St)
The falafel wrap at Black Seed Halal Grill is a must-try for anyone craving crispy, golden falafel packed with herbs and spices. The falafel balls are made fresh daily, perfectly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Wrapped in soft pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tahini sauce, this dish offers a satisfying vegetarian option bursting with bold Middle Eastern flavors.
3. Grilled Lamb: Al Wadi
Restaurant Adddress: Al Wadi (1249 VFW Pkwy)
Al Wadi’s grilled lamb is one of its most beloved dishes. The lamb is marinated in a secret blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and garlic, before being perfectly grilled to a juicy tenderness.
Served with rice and a side of roasted vegetables, the dish reflects the restaurant’s dedication to authentic Lebanese cuisine, bringing an elegant and robust flavor to your plate.
4. Turkish Kebab: Ali Baba Restaurant & Cafe
Restaurant Adddress: Ali Baba Restaurant & Cafe (145 E Berkeley St)
Ali Baba’s Turkish kebab is a star of their menu. The kebab is made from minced lamb or beef mixed with onions, herbs, and spices, then grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky yet succulent taste.
The dish is served with rice, grilled vegetables, and a tangy yogurt sauce, offering a classic Mediterranean meal that will transport you to the streets of Istanbul.
5. Shawarma Plate: Boston Shawarma
Restaurant Adddress: Boston Shawarma (315 Huntington Ave)
The shawarma plate at Boston Shawarma features thin slices of beef or chicken, marinated for hours in garlic, lemon juice, and various Middle Eastern spices, then slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
The result is tender, flavorful meat served with hummus, tahini sauce, and fresh pita bread. This popular dish is perfect for those looking to savor one of the most iconic street foods of the Middle East.
6. Flatbread Shawarma: Ajeen
Restaurant Adddress: Ajeen (1219 Commonwealth Ave)
Ajeen is known for its flatbread shawarma, a twist on the traditional shawarma wrap. This dish features slow-cooked chicken or beef served on a freshly baked flatbread, topped with tahini, garlic sauce, pickles, and fresh vegetables.
The flatbread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfectly complementing the savory filling. This modern take on a Middle Eastern classic is a favorite among locals.
7. Hummus: Tarboosh Restaurant
Restaurant Adddress: Tarboosh Restaurant (2 Brighton Ave)
Tarboosh is renowned for its hummus, a smooth and creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Served with warm pita bread, the hummus here is a rich, silky appetizer that sets the tone for the rest of the meal. Many customers rave about its perfectly balanced flavors, making it one of the best hummus dishes in the city.
8. Chicken Pita: South End Pita
Restaurant Adddress: South End Pita (473 Albany St)
South End Pita’s chicken pita is a crowd-pleaser, featuring grilled chicken marinated in lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean spices.
The chicken is served inside a freshly baked pita bread with a combination of lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a creamy garlic sauce.
This simple yet delicious dish brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a satisfying option for both lunch and dinner.
9. M’anoush: anoush’ella
Restaurant Adddress: anoush’ella (35 W Newton St)
The m’anoush at anoush’ella is a beloved Lebanese flatbread dish, typically topped with za’atar, cheese, or meats. The flatbread is baked fresh and topped with flavorful, high-quality ingredients.
This dish is perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, offering a delicious taste of the Levant. The combination of soft, doughy bread and savory toppings makes it a standout on their menu.
10. Falafel Plate: Sufra Mediterranean Food
Restaurant Adddress: Sufra Mediterranean Food (52 Queensberry St)
Sufra’s falafel plate is a popular choice among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The falafel is made from a mix of ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, fried to a golden crisp.
Served with a side of hummus, salad, and tahini sauce, the falafel plate is filling and flavorful. The crisp exterior and soft interior of the falafel balls, paired with fresh accompaniments, make this a standout dish at Sufra.
11. Beef Shawarma: Pita Thyme
Restaurant: Pita Thyme (102 Water St)
Pita Thyme is known for its beef shawarma, where tender strips of marinated beef are grilled and wrapped in pita with tomatoes, onions, pickles, and garlic sauce.
The beef is packed with flavor, thanks to a slow marination process that includes a mixture of Middle Eastern spices and olive oil. This hearty wrap is perfect for a quick and delicious meal on the go.
12. Kofta Kebab: Black Seed Halal Grill
Restaurant Adddress: Black Seed Halal Grill (140 Tremont St)
Black Seed Halal Grill’s kofta kebabs are made from minced beef or lamb mixed with onions, garlic, parsley, and a medley of traditional spices.
The kebabs are grilled to perfection, offering a juicy and aromatic experience with every bite. Served with rice, salad, and a garlic sauce, this dish is a favorite for those seeking an authentic taste of Arabic cuisine.
13. Hookah & Mezze: Habibi’s Lounge
Restaurant Adddress: Habibi’s Lounge (1217A Commonwealth Ave)
While known for its hookah, Habibi’s Lounge also excels in its variety of mezze, small plates that are perfect for sharing.
Customers enjoy their baba ghanoush, hummus, and tabbouleh, which are prepared using traditional Middle Eastern methods.
These small, flavorful dishes pair perfectly with their hookah offerings, creating a laid-back atmosphere for those looking to unwind with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there late-night dining options among these restaurants?
Yes, several restaurants like Black Seed Halal Grill, Ali Baba Restaurant & Cafe, and Ajeen offer late-night dining options until 3 AM.
Can establishments accommodate takeout and delivery preferences?
Yes, all highlighted restaurants offer options for dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery.
How can reservations be made at these restaurants?
Reservations can generally be made through the restaurant’s website, OpenTable, or by calling directly.
What types of foods are available at Habibi’s Lounge?
Habibi’s Lounge offers flavored tobaccos, Middle Eastern snacks, and teas, making it an exotic hookah bar experience.
Are there restaurants that cater to both breakfast and late-night cravings?
Yes, restaurants like Black Seed Halal Grill and Ali Baba Cafe open early in the morning and stay open until late at night, accommodating a wide range of dining schedules.
Conclusion
Boston’s Arabic food scene offers a rich array of authentic flavors and experiences. Each restaurant mentioned provides diverse options for Middle Eastern cuisine lovers.
Diners seeking traditional dishes like falafel, shawarma, and kebabs will find plentiful choices through various dining options such as dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
For more details, visitors can refer to restaurant websites or call directly. With varying price points and operating hours, from early morning to late night, Boston ensures accessibility for any craving.
Whether it’s a laid-back cafe or a bustling grill, these 13 spots represent some of the best places to enjoy Arabic food in Boston.
Timothy Russell Dewart