When it comes to Mediterranean dining, Richmond Hill has it all. In fact, our vibrant mezze spreads and sizzling kebabs are reason enough for friends to linger long after the plates are cleared. We have family-run tavernas perfect for a weeknight feast, elegant BYOB spots ideal for celebrating with a crowd, and cozy falafel joints that make any day feel special—and from all these corners, we’ve gathered the very best.
SOFRAM Richmond Hill
$$ | (905) 787-9797 | WEBSITE
After hearing mixed reports about SOFRAM Richmond Hill over the past year, we were hesitant to return. Now that we’ve accepted that some restaurants go through rough patches and come out stronger, SOFRAM has truly turned things around under new ownership. The updated space feels welcoming with warm lighting and comfortable seating, and the menu shines with Mediterranean classics.
The dishes are still packed with perfectly balanced flavors that work together beautifully—like that melt-in-your-mouth lamb shishkabab, the tender beef, and the tiger shrimp we first fell for during their better days. We’ll be back for more, regularly. And if you catch us there, those are satisfied smiles.
Me Va Me
$$ | (905) 417-5676 | WEBSITE
The original Me Va Me in Richmond Hill is great, but it’s more of a takeout spot. The one we’re talking about here is the plaza location, which is much, much bigger. The menu is still the same, and it focuses on Mediterranean classics, which you can get in platters or as individual dishes, with fantastic fresh pita on the side.
Because the kitchen knows how to handle both meat and vegetables with care, you can’t go wrong choosing the mixed meat platter, the vegan kebab, or the Greek salad with roasted chicken breast.
Naami Catering
$ | (416) 655-5003 | WEBSITE
Naami Catering means “delicious taste”—an appropriate name for a restaurant whose aromas are so rich and inviting that it feels like you should bring your appetite and start feasting, too. But this cozy spot makes up for its unassuming appearance with a menu full of great Persian dishes. Like their savory Koobideh kebabs or the shawarma wraps with just the ideal amount of seasoning and tenderness from the meat. The Ash stew is also delicious, and comes with a comforting warmth.
The inside is so welcoming it’s perfect for family meals and small groups, but the friendly atmosphere provides a genuinely pleasant dining experience.
Persian Kebab House
$ | (905) 773-3700 | WEBSITE
This welcoming spot in Richmond Hill has kebabs that we can only describe as transcendent. While we ate them, time stopped and the restaurant dissolved around us like pixels in The Matrix and nothing existed besides the truth of grilled meat and flavorful marinades. Lamb kebab is (obviously) the specialty, but the menu also includes fantastic lamb shank, delicious chicken shawarma, popular veg falafel wraps, and generous portions at very reasonable prices.
Plus, it’s decorated with warm lighting and comfortable seating that will help cheer you up even after your food is gone.
Tahini’s
$ | (289) 317-3325 | WEBSITE
The specialty at Tahini’s, a favorite spot in town for Shawarma and falafel bowls, is (unsurprisingly) shawarma. But anything here that involves their housemade sauces is delicious—you also want the Fattoush salad with Butter chicken, especially with a dollop of that delicious garlic sauce. You get to pick your toppings (with options like finely chopped vegetables and generous sauces), and there’s really no wrong decision.
The place is very clean, with consistent and generous portions that make it worth the slightly high prices. While the sauces can be overly generous at times, making meals messy, Ash and his team provide exceptional food and customer service, making it a must-visit for delicious wraps and bowls.
Lazeez Shawarma
Lazeez Shawarma has been serving Richmond Hill for years, and clearly they’ve spent every day perfecting their chicken shawarma. This spot is cozy and very casual, and at peak hours you can expect a steady stream of customers. Once you grab a table, order the chicken shawarma platter, with meat that’s perfectly seasoned and grilled to tender perfection. It comes with fresh vegetables and warm pita, so keep making wraps until someone stops you and/or you can no longer move.
Joe’s Hamburgers
$ | (905) 884-4846 | WEBSITE
Joe’s Hamburgers offers a warm and cozy atmosphere that feels a little like a neighborhood gem that’s been around forever, and we mean that in the best way possible. The food here is delicious and well-executed, from their Joe’s Big Burger with cheese, to fries with gravy, to the flavorful chicken shawarma dinner. This spot is a nice alternative to the usual suspects in Richmond Hill if you’re planning a casual meal for families or couples.
Tasty Shawarma
$ | (905) 237-2825 | WEBSITE
This is a fantastic spot that works for any situation—whether it’s grabbing a quick lunch, meeting up with a group of friends, or dining solo when you need to satisfy a serious craving. The menu centers on hearty Mediterranean fare, like the flavorful chicken shawarma plate, fresh greens and chicken with pita, and some excellent shawarmas.
There’s a good chance the friendly staff will check in to see how everything is—and you’ll be too busy enjoying your meal to reply, “Amazing!” On top of all that, the space is comfortable and spacious, making this a solid choice for a casual hang (especially if you can snag one of the ample indoor seats).
Osmow’s Shawarma
$ | (905) 882-5455 | WEBSITE
This very casual spot in Richmond Hill feels like it’s one quick order away from being a takeout joint. But Osmow’s Shawarma is a sit-down restaurant with incredible Mediterranean flavors, and the atmosphere feels like a constant neighborhood gathering.
What you’re going to want to order here is the shawarma—specifically the juicy, marinated meats (which come with that tantalizing garlic sauce you should soak up with your wrap) and the customizable wraps (which have that signature flavor adventure). It’s kid-friendly, great for groups, and perfect for having quality time.
Real Shawarma sandwich
$ | (289) 379-8227 | WEBSITE
The towering Philly Steak sandwich from Real Shawarma sandwich makes you gaze in wonder, like you’re reenacting the first scene of a food documentary—or a late-night craving. It comes with a side of perfectly balanced spices, and tells you everything you need to know about this Richmond Hill spot: you’re in for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Other dishes follow suit, like chicken shaved off the spit and grilled for extra crispness that builds a world of juicy meat on a plate or fresh toppings that channel the vibrant, welcoming flavors of the Mediterranean. And despite only having a small space and its not-expensive $15 price, Real Shawarma sandwich isn’t rushed or overly fancy—you could totally wear a hoodie and jeans to eat a huge portion with a friendly owner nearby.