While you may not be able to sit on a Greek island and sip on a cocktail anytime soon, at least there are some great options for Mediterranean food in Syracuse. Rich in flavors and steeped in culture, this cuisine is a delight that sometimes gets overlooked. From gyros and falafel to hummus and baklava, get ready for some delicious dishes.
Here are three places where we like to get Mediterranean food these days.
Baghdad Restaurant – Syracuse
With such a diverse range of cuisines, it’s no surprise that you can find great Mediterranean food at Salt City Market. Featuring a mixture of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, at Baghdad you’ll find shawarma and gyros along with spanakopita and Iraqi tacos. If you’re stuck on what to choose, go for the mixed appetizer. That way you can choose 3 from the following: hummus, eggplant salad, labneh chips, jajek, and baba ghanoush. But if you’re not feeling as traditional, you can always get your entree with fries instead of rice. As for drinks, Baghdad is one of the only places around where you will find regional specialties including Traubi, Sinalco, Shabi, Shani, and Shinenah.
Byblos Mediterranean Café – Syracuse
When you visit Byblos, you’ll be treated to some truly delicious dishes from the family-owned Lebanese restaurant. Named after the Lebanese city of Byblos, they offer all of the traditional Mediterranean dishes you’d expect, including many vegetarian options. Baba ghanuj, falafel, gyros, kebabs, kibbeh… Violette is the mastermind behind the menu, and puts her personal touch on every dish. She recommends the kebab platters, which are also their most popular dish. As for the hummus? It’s some of the best and freshest I’ve ever had. And don’t forget to finish your meal with some of their famous baklava.
Kiki’s Authentic Greek Food – Camillus
Tzatziki on fries? Yes, and it’s delicious! That’s one of the popular dishes at Kiki’s – and for good reason. The fries are freshly cut and the tzatziki sauce is locally famous. In addition to their appetizers of spanakopita, pita, falafel, and grape leaves, Kiki’s offers an extensive variety of gyros. Lamb, chicken, pork, fish, veggie. Something for everyone’s taste. Kiki’s remains a great spot to grab a quick and flavorful lunch or dinner, and a staple in the village of Camillus.
