Are you planning a reunion with that friend who just returned from backpacking through Greece? Or maybe a first date with someone whose profile mentioned loving hummus? Perhaps you simply crave the vibrant flavors of sun-drenched coasts. Whatever brings you to seek Mediterranean cuisine in Columbia, these 11 restaurants deliver authentic experiences worth savoring.
Mediterranean Tea Room
$ | (803) 799-3118 | WEBSITE
Remember when you craved a taste of the Mediterranean but couldn’t hop on a plane? Yeah, that was real life. The fact you could find consistently fresh food with friendly service in a cozy neighborhood spot meant there was always a satisfying meal waiting. Well, the Mediterranean Tea Room is making healthy dining feel indulgent, and the kitchen is doing a great job all around with the flavors and portions.
Falafel King by Bombay Grill
$ | (803) 888-7844 | WEBSITE
Falafel King is definitely a Mediterranean and Indian fusion spot first, but there’s also a solid selection of wraps and bowls because that’s what happens when you crave flavor – you get hungry. This place is hiding among Columbia’s best restaurants, so don’t make the mistake of overlooking it. There’s nothing wrong with a King Bowl with chicken shawarma and garlic naan if you’re not in a hurry to leave.
Boeshreen
$ | (803) 788-2100 | WEBSITE
Mediterranean cuisine is the best kind of comfort food, and since that’s the whole concept of Boeshreen, you’re already off to a good start. The menu here offers a wide variety of Greek and Mediterranean options, which means there are also plenty of great eats.
You can get your own personal dish like the large Greek salad with banana peppers, olives, feta, romaine, tomato, and cucumber, or, if you’re really hitting it off with your dining partner, share some pistachio baklava that’s light, flaky, and rich.
Arabesque on Devine
$$ | (803) 779-6299 | WEBSITE
Start in the cozy dining room of Arabesque on Devine and get swept up in their authentic Mediterranean flavors for a meal or two. Things feeling romantic? You connecting over the atmosphere? Order something to eat that goes beyond typical restaurant fare. The lamb shishkabobs take a classic grilled dish to the next level, and you’ll wonder why you haven’t had them this perfectly seasoned before.
Pitas
$ | (803) 343-3454 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for Mediterranean food in Columbia and you’re not heading to Pitas, then you’re not really looking for Mediterranean food. Simple as that. The staff here are like family welcoming you home – aka making sure everyone feels completely taken care of. Don’t call it just a restaurant, that’s selling it short.
Kairos Mediterranean
$ | (803) 667-9131 | WEBSITE
Have a friend or co-worker who’s really into Mediterranean food? Kairos Mediterranean is the move. This restaurant offers delicious and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine, ranging from standout items like the Kairos Platter to more interesting concoctions like the Lavender Lemonade or Berry and Turmeric Tea. The beauty of the menu here is there are actually affordable options in the $8-$12 range if you’re looking for a quick, healthy meal and don’t want to commit to a full platter.
Going all out with a variety of salads and wraps is also a good idea.
Ambrosia Taverna
$$ | (803) 661-8111 | WEBSITE
It’s easy for Ambrosia Taverna to get lost in the shuffle. They have Greek music, but it’s not the go-to spot for a casual Greek experience. There is an upstairs bar, but it’s not the kind of place you think about for quick service. And while it’s kind of just there, it’s also the perfect Columbia spot for a special celebration. Add in the lamb souvlaki platter with generous portions and it should be obvious why Ambrosia Taverna is here.
Noma Bistro by Al Amir
$ | (803) 401-5882 | WEBSITE
Noma Bistro by Al Amir shouldn’t only come to mind for Mediterranean food. It’s really just a cozy spot that happens to serve falafel, hummus, and lamb, as well as a delicious bbq chicken pizza. The relaxed tables and welcoming atmosphere are ideal for grabbing a meal, and of course you want the falafel if you’re staying for a bit.
Green Olive Restaurant
$ | (803) 764-3740 | WEBSITE
Green Olive Restaurant is a great Mediterranean spot on its own, there’s no doubt about that. It’s our go-to for a quick, tasty meal downtown whether that’s all you’re looking for or you’re waiting to explore the statehouse nearby. They offer a variety of dishes, which mainly revolve around flavorful, fresh options like the Chicken Tips on rice with vegetables or the Gyro wrap.
And not much sounds better than their Turkish flat bread, hot and beautifully presented, over a clean, well-ventilated atmosphere.
Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe – Columbia
$ | (803) 386-0302 | WEBSITE
Consistently one of our go-to spots in Columbia when we’re looking to grab a quick Mediterranean meal, possibly some takeout, and aren’t worried about anything too fancy, because it’s fast casual. Taziki’s is nice but not so upscale that you feel out of place, and we’re all about striking that happy medium between quality food and getting a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Gervais & Vine
$$ | (803) 799-8463 | WEBSITE
Mediterranean spots are a great place to pop in for a meal. They’re casual, easy-going, and don’t require much commitment. But not all Mediterranean spots serve Gervais & Vine food. In fact, only one restaurant in Columbia serves Gervais & Vine food, and it’s Gervais & Vine. That alone makes it a great place to grab a drink and dabble in those eggplant fries if you want.