7 Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Singapore: 2023 Guide

Eat & Drink | June 16, 2023

Image: Shabestan

1. Cappadocia Turkish

Image: Cappadocia Turkish

Loved for

Authentic Turkish, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern fare

Prices

S$60++ per pax

Address

69 Bussorah Street
Singapore 199482

Phone

+65 9677 9072

Opening hours

Daily 11:30 - 23:30

Website

Cappadocia Turkish

Cappadocia Turkish restaurant is situated in the heart of Singapore, near the beloved Arab Street. It offers a delightful array of authentic Turkish, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern dishes in a warm and welcoming environment.

The restaurant has captured the hearts of Singaporeans for years, earning multiple awards, including the prestigious Traveler's Choice 2022.

Recently reopened under new management, Cappadocia presents an even more remarkable menu.

Highlights

A comprehensive menu full of traditional Turkish flavors: Cappadocia Turkish takes you on a culinary journey through Turkey, with authentic, traditional dishes, from appetizers (mezze) to the Turkish yogurt drink (Ayran) to finish. As a Turkish restaurant, meat is the star of the show, but there’s ample variety, with chicken, lamb, beef, and even some seafood options like salmon and prawns.
Generous servings of authentic Turkish food: One thing is for sure when you dine at Cappadocia Turkish restaurant: you’ll definitely leave feeling satisfied, thanks to their large plates and generous servings. Many of their dishes feature multiple elements, such as the Cappadocia Mixed Kebab, which is incredibly filling. Additionally, some of the main courses are designed for sharing, like the Mix Cappa Mandi.
Beautifully designed menu with pictures, making it easy to order: Eating at a restaurant that specializes in a particular foreign cuisine can sometimes be confusing when you’re unfamiliar with the dishes. However, Cappadocia Turkish restaurant addresses this concern with a menu that includes pictures and detailed descriptions of the food. By utilizing traditional names and accompanying images, diners can easily navigate the menu and gain clarity about the ingredients and presentation of each dish.

MENU & PRICES: The menu at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant is extensive, featuring several categories of predominantly traditional Turkish dishes as well as Turkish interpretations of other cuisines, including pasta.

Here’s what you’ll find in their menu (along with the price range):

Mezeler (Appetizers): S$13.90 to S$32.90
Pideler (Turkish Pizza): S$21.90 to S$28.90
Sharing Mains: S$58.90 to S$59.90
Kebabs: S$24.90 to S$36.90
Traditional Dishes: S$24.90 to S$38.90
Toprak (Pasta): S$19.90 to S$24.90
Shawarma (Wraps): S$9.90 to S$22.90
Ekmek (Flatbread): S$5.50 to S$8.50
Desserts: S$14.90 to S$16.90
Drinks: S$7.50 to S$16.90

MUST-TRIES:

Cacik
Lahmacun
Mix Cappa Kebab
Adana Lamb Kebab
Beyti Chicken Kebab
Musakka
Izmir Kofte
Butter Ekmek
Kunefe

LOOK & FEEL: Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere, including outdoor dining. The main color theme of the restaurant’s decor is blue, with walls adorned in traditional Arabic tile art. The beautiful floral tile patterns also extend to the table tops, accompanied by colorful lamps. This fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences creates a captivating ambiance. Situated on the bustling Bussorah Street, the restaurant provides a sensory experience with fragrant grilled meats and aromatic kava.

2. Kazbar

Image: Kazbar

Loved for

Authentic Lebanese cuisine

Prices

S$50++ per pax

Address

25 Church Street
#01-03 Capital Square 3
Singapore 049482

Phone

+65 6438 2975

Opening hours

Mon to Wed 12:00 - 22:00
Thu & Fri 12:00 - 22:30
Sat 18:00 - 22:30

Website

Kazbar

Located amidst a variety of restaurants and bars along Church Street, Kazbar stands out as a top Middle Eastern restaurant that offers genuine Lebanese cuisine.

During the day, it serves as an affordable and popular destination for brunch enthusiasts. However, as the night sets in, the ambiance transforms into a lively atmosphere where guests can enjoy Arabian music and belly dance performances.

Highlights

An extensive menu of authentic Lebanese cuisine: Kazbar boasts an extensive menu that features a diverse selection of dishes, ranging from mezzeh, soup, salads, wraps, and traditional stews to charcoal-grilled delicacies, seafood, sharing platters, side dishes, condiments, and delectable desserts. During lunch, diners can enjoy the convenience of choosing from 14 value-for-money set menus.
Abundant food choices for both vegans and meat eaters: Plant-based eaters can order salads in large servings such as the best-seller Tabouleh, Fattoush, and Feta Cheese Salad and then opt Mousaka or Couscous Khothar or Potato & Cawliflower Stew for the main. Carnivores can start with cold mezze platter (hummus, moutabel, mohammarah, babaganoush, tabouleh, pita bread) or hot mezze platter (falafel, cheese borek, spinach borek, sambousek and kibbeh) for only S$24 and indulge in the large selection of charcoal-grilled foods.
Exquisite Tabouleh that rivals Lebanon’s finest: At Kazbar, this salad showcases a flawless balance of tangy lemon zest, refreshing mint, juicy tomatoes, and the aromatic flavors of onion and parsley. Vegetarians will undoubtedly find it to be an excellent addition to their daily food repertoire.
The energetic bar at night: Immersing yourself in the lively tunes of Arabian music playing in the background sets the perfect ambiance for a TGIF celebration with friends. Make a stop at Kazbar for delectable kebabs, an extensive selection of crafted liqueur beverages, and captivating entertainment. Live belly dance performances take place at the restaurant every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 21:30 to 22:30.

MENU: Kazbar’s menus are designed for sharing. Diners can always find delicious options of hot & cold starters, salads, dips, pita bread wraps, side dishes, charcoal-grilled meat, seafood, and desserts on the restaurant’s menu.

RECOMMENDED DISHES

Tabouleh
Roast Ouzi Lamb
Kofta Kebab
Shish Taouk
Falafel
Baba Ganoush
Hummus Beiruty
Sambousek
Labneh
Shanklish

AMBIANCE: At first glance, Kazbar may appear like any other bar and restaurant on Church Street, featuring a spacious outdoor dining area and bar tables. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover its Middle Eastern-inspired décor, adorned with Souk-inspired motifs and ambient lighting, creating an enchanting atmosphere that transports you to the heart of the Middle East. Kazbar offers a delightful ambiance, perfect for casual daytime meetings with clients, while also buzzing with energy during the evening hours.

NOTE: Delivery service is available. Diners can order online via Kazbar’s website.

3. Shabestan

Image: Shabestan

Loved for

Authentic Persian cuisine

Prices

S$60++ per pax

Halal

Yes

Address

80 Mohamed Sultan Road
Robertson Quay #01-13
Singapore 239013

Phone

+65 6836 1270

Opening hours

Daily 12:00 - 22:00

Website

Shabestan

Shabestan delights your taste buds with an authentic taste of Persian cuisine – grilled, appetizing dishes of meat, chicken, and seafood, all prepared with delicate Iranian spices and fresh herbs.

This halal restaurant, tucked in the heart of Robertson Quay, attracts both locals and visitors who want to sink their teeth into some of the best Middle Eastern food by the lovely riverside.

Highlights

An extensive menu of authentic Persian cuisine: Shabestan’s menu presents the best of Persian cuisine. Whether you try their traditional charcoal-grilled Lamb Kubeideh (ground lamb kebab) or classic Persian rice dishes cooked with saffron, nuts and berries, every dish unveils the goodness of scrumptious Persian food right in the heart of Singapore.
Wholesome, flavoursome Shabestan Platter: If you want to know the best-seller item at this restaurant, then Shabestan Platter is the answer. The succulent charcoal-grilled lamb, chicken, beef and jumbo prawns beautifully presented on the plate will satisfy the craving of any meat eater. The food is Halal while food portions are generous.
Persian saffron ice cream: This dessert (S$8) is a must try to complete your culinary experience at Shabestan. The combination of pistachio, cream and saffron in a special recipe will give you one of the best scoops of ice cream in your life.
A memorable culinary experience by the riverside: Go for an alfresco dining to get an exciting dining experience. It is a perfect setting for a romantic date or to spend a leisurely evening with family and friends while relishing authentic Persian kebabs and some great wine.
An exclusive private dining room for business meetings with a capacity to accommodate up to 26 persons. The luxurious room is fully equipped with free and unlimited Wi-Fi access and conference facilities to hold presentations and business meet-ups.

MENU: The menu at Shabestan unfolds the full glory of traditional Persian cuisine with soups, starters, grilled kebab delicacies, fragrant rice specialties, and Persian stews. You can end your exotic meal with a rich selection of traditional desserts. The place also offers a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to go with your Iranian treats.

RECOMMENDED DISHES

Kufte Parsi
Kashk Bademjan
Borani Esfanaj
Shah Pasand Chicken
Tiger Prawn Kebab
Chen Jeh Kebab
Lamb Kubideh
Baghlava
Faludeh Shirazi

ATMOSPHERE: The location by the riverside lends this place a lively, vivacious air. You can either enjoy the delicious Persian spread in elegant, stylish décor while seating indoors or dine outdoors on mosaic-topped tables by the bustling riverside. The staff is extremely helpful with recommendations and service is efficient.

NOTES

Reservation is recommended.
Belly dance performances are available at weekends.

4. Byblos Grill

Image: Byblos Grill

Loved for

Authentic Lebanese and Turkish fare

Prices

S$65++ per pax

Address

14 Bussorah Street
Singapore 199435

Phone

+65 6296 8577

Opening hours

Daily 11:00 - 01:00

Website

Byblos Grill

Byblos Grill pays homage to the captivating coastal city of Lebanon, serving as one of Singapore's renowned establishments for delectable Middle Eastern cuisine.

Founded by Chef Mohamad Slim, this eatery expertly revives cherished traditional dishes, such as succulent kebabs, drawing from his vast culinary expertise.

If you're in search of flavorsome and satisfying Lebanese and Turkish fare in Singapore, look no further than Byblos Grill, conveniently located on Bussorah Street.

Highlights

A true taste of Turkish and Middle Eastern culinary traditions: With the Chef hailing from Turkey, the authentic flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine are expertly brought to life. Utilizing the same spices and ingredients, dishes like Moussaka and Tawook Sote transport you to a Turkish home, providing a dining experience that truly embodies the essence of the Middle East
Fresh ingredients imported directly from the Mediterranean: The restaurant ensures the authenticity of flavors by strictly adhering to original recipes and sourcing ingredients from the region. Many of their ingredients are imported from Turkey and other countries along the Mediterranean coast. With each bite, you can be confident that you are savoring food that truly captures the essence of the region.
Great value for money with generous servings: Whether you opt for the Mezze or Kebab platter to share, you can expect generous portions. This reflects the Middle Eastern and Turkish cultures, where ensuring the satisfaction of guests with ample food is highly valued.

MENU & PRICES: Byblos Grill presents a menu that encompasses various categories of delectable dishes, with some specifically designed for sharing among diners.

Here’s the breakdown of its menu and prices:

Mezze/Starters: S$14.90 to S$36.90
Salads: S$14.90 to S$16.90
Flat Bread/Pide: S$25.90 to S$27.90
Sharing Mains: S$56.90 to S$58.90
Kebabs: S$26.90 to S$38.90
Traditional Dishes: S$28.50 to S$32.90
Seafood: S$21.90 to S$58.90
Pasta and Pizza: S$23.90 to S$24.90
Shawarma (Wraps): S$18.90 to S$24.90
Bread: S$5.90 to S$8.50
Desserts: S$10.90 to S$14.90
Drinks: S$6.50 to S$16.90

MUST-TRIES:

Byblos Mixed Grill
Lamb Kofta
Byblos Beef Steak
Meze Platter
Tabbouleh
Chicken Liver
Sujuk Pide
Mix Byblos Kebab
Lamb Mandi
Faisal Fukhora
Mousakka
Baklava

LOOK & FEEL: Byblos Grill offers both outdoor and indoor seating areas, tastefully decorated to evoke the Middle Eastern theme of the restaurant. The atmosphere is laidback and family-friendly, complemented by soothing blue accents that contribute to a serene dining experience.

5. Fat Prince

Image: Fat Prince

Loved for

• Middle Eastern food with a twist
• Innovative cocktails

Prices

S$50++ per pax

Address

48 Peck Seah Street
Singapore 079317

Phone

+65 3129 7547

Opening hours

Daily 11:30 - 15:00, 17:30 - 00:00

Website

Fat Prince

Fat Prince is a Middle Eastern restaurant famous for its contemporary cuisine and creative cocktail concoctions.

Inspired by the cafe culture of Istanbul, the restaurant provides a comfortable yet festive atmosphere to enjoy the classics like kebabs in a new way.

Established in 2016, the restaurant has retained its quality and regularly introduces new dishes to spice things up for its regulars.

Highlights

Delicious and innovative mezze with something for everyone: Whether you’re a vegetarian or someone who is crazy about seafood, you’ll find plenty of variety in the sharing plates (mezze) options at Fat Prince. Many of the mezze dishes use classic Middle Eastern components and ingredients but with a modern twist. The fresh Herb Hummus, creamy Cashew Hummus, and pit-smoked Aubergine are just a few examples of innovative takes on the basics.
‘Build it’ menu to create your own pita:The latest dinner menu at the restaurant features a ‘build your own’ pita concept with a variety of tantalizing filling options. You will be provided with pita bread and Turkish chilies, allowing you to create a customized wrap right at your table. One highly recommended option is the Pit Smoked Pork Ribeye with cabbage, herbs, and black garlic.
Unique ‘koktails’ to go with the kebabs: Their cocktails, labeled as ‘koktails,’ are truly unique. The restaurant takes a fresh approach to alcohol by offering cocktails with lower than usual alcohol content, and in many cases, even alcohol-free options for those who want to cut back or choose not to drink. However, this doesn’t mean that those who enjoy alcoholic beverages don’t have plenty of options to choose from.

A LA CARTE MENU & PRICES:

Mezze: S$14 to S$32
House-baked Bread: S$4 to S$7
Mains: S$46 to S$48
Build It: S$48 to S$72
Sides: S$18 to S$19
Kebabs: S$12 to $S16
Koktails: S$12 to S$24

SET MENU PRICES:

Set Lunch with a choice of mezze, dip, two kebabs, and chef’s dessert for $29
Set Brunch with a choice of mezze, dip, main, and chef’s dessert for $55 (2-hour free-flow drinks for $69 per person)

MUST-TRIES:

Artichoke & Herb Hummus
Adana Kebab Tartare 2.0
Pit Smoked Aubergine
Truffle Falafel
Pit Smoked Pork Rib
Crispy Seabass Kebab
The Fez (koktail)
The Arabic Effect (koktail)

LOOK & FEEL: Fat Prince exudes a modern ambiance with stunning grand décor. The dining venue is inviting, with plush velvet chairs amidst Arabic mosaics adorning the walls and subtle lighting. Its casual atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for hanging out with friends.

6. Beirut Grill

Image: Beirut Grill

Loved for

Classic Lebanese dishes

Prices

S$40++ per pax

Address

72 Bussorah St
Singapore 199485

Phone

+65 63417728

Opening hours

Daily lunch 11:30 - 15:30
Daily dinner 17:30 - 23:00

Website

Beirut Grill

Established in 2009, Beirut Grill proudly serves a delectable array of Lebanese dishes at highly affordable prices. This Middle Eastern restaurant is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for those seeking a finger-licking meal.

Highlights

An exhaustive menu oozing with culture: A true delight to the senses, Beirut Grill’s menu caters to all customers, from picky eaters to vegetarians and children. Offering both small plates and generous portion sizes perfect for sharing, Beirut Grill is an ideal destination for a comforting meal or a satisfying snack if you’re feeling peckish.
Imported authentic Lebanese spices for zero loss of flavor: Selectively importing the freshest spices from the heart of Lebanon, Beirut Grill ensures that you get the most close-to-home flavors, for you to truly experience an ethnic meal.
Cater for all events and special occasions: Experienced in the catering industry, Beirut Grill is exceptional at delivering and serving their delicious dishes to parties of any size. For an extra-authentic experience, book a spot in their hidden gem – the Arabian-themed lounge on the second floor.
Live drumming and belly-dancing on weekends: Get ready for a hip-shaking bass-blasting night, with a stunning performance of hypnotizing belly dancing to the sounds of traditional drumming rhythms. Fine food accompanied by live entertainment at an affordable price is what Beirut Grill strives to offer.

MENU: Beirut Grill’s menu is bursting with fragrant dishes, with shareable options and personal sizes in case you are feeling selfish. From soup and starters to pastries and mezza options, make your pick from the extensive list of tantalizing appetizers. Once you’re ready for the main event, enjoy a wide selection of kebab meats and vegetarian options, and finish off on a sweet note with the scrumptiously traditional dessert menu.

MUST-TRIES

Beirut Mezza Platter
Mixed Grill
Beef Meshwi
Hummus
Chicken shawarma
Mouhalabiah

ATMOSPHERE: Ideal for a casual dining experience, Beirut Grill sets the scene with a cozy ambiance, offering majestic Arabic decor and traditional lounge areas to transport you to the heart of Beirut.

7. Artichoke

Image: Artichoke

Loved for

Creative Middle-Eastern food

Prices

S$60++ per pax

Address

161 Middle Road
Singapore 188978

Phone

+65 6336 6949

Opening hours

Daily dinner 17:30 - 22:30
Sat & Sun lunch 11:30 - 15:30

Website

Artichoke

With scrumptious dishes by the talented Bjorn Shen, Artichoke boasts a strong personality like no other. It has been steadily climbing the list of Middle-Eastern cuisine since opening its doors in 2010. Artichoke is a fun, feisty, and flavorful kitchen that is definitely worth visiting.

Highlights

Funky Middle-Eastern-inspired menu: Cleverly mixing flavors from the East and West, Bjorn has excelled in creating the ultimate menu that will surprise your taste buds. The menu at Artichoke features finger-licking wings, succulent pieces of lamb that fall off the bone, and Lebanese favorites like Baba Ganoush. If you’re tired of the usual Middle-Eastern standard cuisine, Artichoke’s menu will spice things up with all the right twists, leaving you hungry for more.
Artichoke cookbook available to recreate your favorites: Drooling over the Hot Skillet Prawns? Get your hands on Artichoke’s own cookbook to make all of their top dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen. Featuring 267 pages of recipes, this book is the ultimate treat for your foodie friends.

MENU: From wings and drinks to family mezzes and pizzas, this place caters to everyone’s taste. Finish off with gorgeous mezzes to hit the spot, after nibbling on bites or indulging with their cheese supreme pizza.

MUST-TRIES:

Lambgasm
Lebanese Fried Chicken
Baba Ganoush
Hot Skillet Prawns
Babaganoush
Iraqi Spiced Mushrooms
Turkish Bread
Iberico Pork

ATMOSPHERE: Delicate yet vibrant colors paint the walls of Artichoke’s eclectic venue, adorned with beautifully patterned high chairs and sleek white tables that cover the floors. Bursting with artsy vibes and creativity, Artichoke defies the expectations of a typical Middle Eastern restaurant. However, the food will still take you on a cultural ride, regardless of the unconventional setting.