Top 5 Mediterranean Restaurants to Try in Orlando

If you’re craving the fresh, rich, and soulful flavors of the Mediterranean, Orlando offers a treasure trove of authentic restaurants worth visiting. From Turkish delights and Greek feasts to Lebanese staples and Central Asian specialties, these five standouts bring the best of the Mediterranean region to Central Florida. Here’s your guide to the top Mediterranean restaurants you must try.

Lale (Turkish – Winter Park)
Located in the heart of Winter Park, Lale offers an intimate journey into authentic Turkish cuisine. Known for its beautifully grilled Adana kebabs, creamy baba ganoush, and crispy, syrup-soaked kunefe, Lale charms guests with both its flavors and its warmth. It’s a go-to spot for locals craving comforting, home-style Turkish food, and it holds an excellent reputation with a 4.5-star rating on OpenTable and 4.3 stars on UberEats. Visitors praise it as one of the best Turkish restaurants in the area, often calling out the hospitality and dessert selection as unforgettable.

AVA MediterrAegean (Modern Greek – Winter Park)
Just steps away on Park Avenue, AVA MediterrAegean transports you to the Greek Isles with its Cycladic-inspired architecture and sophisticated Mediterranean menu. Whether you’re sharing crispy eggplant stacks drizzled with honey, savoring lamb-topped hummus, or ending with baklava and pistachio ice cream, AVA offers a full sensory experience. It’s frequently featured in top dining guides, including the Michelin Guide, and impresses diners with a 4.6-star average on Tripadvisor and an impressive 4.8-star rating on OpenTable. Perfect for date nights and celebrations, AVA is where elegance and flavor meet.

Acropolis Greek Taverna (Greek – Downtown Orlando)
In Downtown Orlando, Acropolis Greek Taverna delivers a lively, authentic Greek dining experience. Known for its festive vibe, belly dancing nights, and generous portions, it’s a favorite for both locals and tourists. The menu shines with traditional meze platters, grilled octopus, lamb chops, and of course, homemade baklava. With a solid 4.5-star rating from UberEats and glowing OpenTable reviews, Acropolis consistently ranks as a top pick for anyone craving a true taste of Greece in the city.

Chayhanah (Uzbek-Turkish / Central Asian – Altamonte Springs)
A hidden gem in Altamonte Springs, Chayhanah celebrates the culinary traditions of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey, thanks to its Kyrgyz chef’s authentic touch. Here you’ll find beautifully spiced lamb shish kebabs, fragrant Uzbek plov, and hearty lagman noodle soups, all made with care and precision. Diners rave about the food quality and unique Central Asian flavors, reflected in its outstanding 4.8-star rating and all-positive reviews. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore beyond typical Mediterranean offerings and discover the rich tastes of Central Asia.

Cedars Restaurant (Lebanese / Middle Eastern – Sand Lake, Orlando)
Near Orlando’s Sand Lake restaurant row, Cedars has been serving beloved Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes for years. From fresh mezze like hummus and labneh to sizzling shawarma, kafta kebabs, and house-baked pita, Cedars delivers big on authenticity and flavor. With a 4.6-star rating on UberEats and a solid 4.0-star average on Yelp, it’s praised for its consistency, welcoming service, and light yet satisfying Mediterranean plates. Locals especially love the smoked eggplant dishes and the warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Why These Five Stand Out

Mediterranean cuisine is loved worldwide for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and cultural warmth — and these five Orlando spots each bring something unique to the table. Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale Greek night out, a Turkish comfort meal, or a dive into Central Asian specialties, this list has you covered.

Final Thoughts

Orlando’s Mediterranean dining scene is more vibrant than ever, thanks to restaurants like Lale, AVA MediterrAegean, Acropolis Greek Taverna, Chayhanah, and Cedars. Each one offers a unique take on Mediterranean and Central Asian flavors, making them perfect choices for locals and visitors alike. Next time you’re deciding where to eat, let your taste buds take you on a journey across the sea — no passport required.