Orange, CA might be known for its citrus groves, but its true flavor secret lies in its vibrant Mediterranean scene. From a family-run taverna tucked behind a strip mall to a sleek spot where you can watch fresh pita puff in the oven, navigating the options can be deliciously overwhelming. So here’s your guide to the ten best spots, where every meal feels like a sun-drenched escape.
Barbonzai Lebanese Eatery | Costa Mesa | Halal Mediterranean Restaurant
$ | (657) 232-0747 | WEBSITE
The original Barbonzai Lebanese Eatery opened in Costa Mesa in 2025 and helped kickstart the fresh Mediterranean trend that’s still going strong. It settled into a tucked-away space next to the restrooms in the food hall with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly soundtrack. Want to eat somewhere authentic and enjoy a flavorful dish made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and smooth hummus? This is the place for you. There are a few realities, however.
Seating is limited, the maximum portion size is generous, and the service policy is accommodating and attentive.
Rosine’s
$$ | (714) 283-5141 | WEBSITE
Rosine’s is the family kitchen you wish you grew up with, complete with the scent of roasting lamb, the clatter of busy tables, and walls that have absorbed nearly three decades of laughter and conversation. There’s a steady hum of activity most nights, so this isn’t the quietest spot for a whispered date, but if you want to share a feast with loved ones or celebrate a simple Tuesday, it’s perfect.
Eat some lamb kabobs, dip warm pita into that garlic sauce, and soak in the generous, welcoming atmosphere. You can also savor the feeling of a meal made with care, where the portions are as hearty as the hospitality.
Medii Kitchen
$$ | (714) 974-4633 | WEBSITE
If you want a fresh and delicious Mediterranean meal with our favorite kabobs in Orange, go to Medii Kitchen. Their generous portions mean you’ll have leftovers for days, and the sublime tzatziki is so creamy you’ll want to order an extra side just to dip everything in. There’s a unique Medii Burger every time you visit, and yes, it has just the right amount of spice.
The service is outstanding, quick, and friendly, with staff that’s extremely attentive, making it a must-visit spot—just be mindful of the single unisex restroom on busy nights.
Villa Haven Restaurant and Brews
$$ | (714) 760-4307 | WEBSITE
At Villa Haven Restaurant and Brews, the Mediterranean dining experience has found its perfect expression. The single-level spot from manager Isabel and her team offers a clean, welcoming atmosphere with live music adding to the vibrant ambiance. The dining area has comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe, in addition to some exceptionally crafted drinks. Try something made with Isabel’s creative touch. Or play it safe with a classic hummus platter.
Luna Grill Newland Center
$ | (714) 377-2000 | WEBSITE
Orange has a bottomless market for casual Mediterranean spots. Luna Grill Newland Center is one of the most popular, and also the most welcoming, featuring a spacious dining room, clean tables, and a very large outdoor patio. Plates range from around $14 to $22, with plenty of gyro pitas and beef bistro options, in addition to a few standouts like the Garlic Bonfire Shrimp. Round out your order with some hummus served with warm pita bread.
Luna Grill Market Place
$ | (714) 352-5544 | WEBSITE
Luna Grill Market Place opened in Orange years ago, and it was one of the original Mediterranean spots in the area. Now that every other restaurant offers healthy bowls and grilled proteins, this isn’t necessarily a place you drive across the county for—but if you’re in Orange looking for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank, it’s one of your best options.
It still gets busy, the staff like Claudia and Khari still provide excellent service with kindness and a smile, and you can still get some garlic shrimp or a kabob plate after you’ve tried the apple walnut salad and realize you need something more substantial. The Luna Grill Member program offers discounts that make the tasty food worth the price, even if the grilled chicken can be inconsistent at times.
Hummus Republic
$ | (714) 737-3133 | WEBSITE
This is as straightforward a Mediterranean spot as you’ll find in Orange. Fresh bowls, healthy options, and generous portions are the key components here—and that’s a good thing. Hummus Republic is the perfect place to take a break from the routinely heavy, complicated, and overpriced meals that you keep going back to. You’ll leave wishing you had this place on your corner.
The Fresh Green Olive HB
$ | (657) 329-0439 | WEBSITE
This is one of Orange’s best Mediterranean spots, and it shows. In a good way. They use warm lighting throughout, there are woven tapestries hanging from the walls, and there’s a whole counter displaying fresh olives and herbs. If you’re looking for a relaxing, low-key, family-friendly option, with the occasional regular who knows the owner by name, stop by.
It’s moderately priced, with most entrees around $15-20, and there’s an open kitchen area where you can watch Adel prepare the chicken kabobs and mixed grilled plates.
Baran Mediterranean Restaurant Bar & Catering
$$ | (714) 340-0035 | WEBSITE
Baran Mediterranean Restaurant Bar & Catering offers three distinct dining experiences. There’s a main dining room with modern Mediterranean decor, a lively bar area perfect for socializing, and a cozy patio that provides a relaxed atmosphere without the typical restaurant bustle. Begin with small plates like shirazi salad or maast moosir at the bar, then move to the dining room for expertly cooked meat dishes like gheymeh, ghormeh sabzi, or fesanjan tadig.
While portions lean modest and prices reflect the quality ingredients, the attentive service from both waitstaff and the welcoming owner makes the overall experience worthwhile.
Papa K’s Mediterranean Kitchen
$ | (714) 760-4126 | WEBSITE
Papa K’s Mediterranean Kitchen, from the family that runs this hidden gem, is the place to eat Mediterranean food in Orange, and everyone knows it. Most of the seating is in the clean, kid-friendly dining room, where you’ll see families and regulars sitting at cozy tables. Are all of those people feeling at home? Yes. That’s part of the charm, and if you want to give it a try, you’ll want to call ahead for the fresh seafood that makes this spot so special.