The Rise of Arab and Muslim Mediterranean Food in the United States

How halal Mediterranean restaurants shaped American dining and brought authentic Arab flavors to the mainstream.

RakwaSeptember 2, 2025

0 1 minute read

The Mediterranean diet—rich in olive oil, lean meats, fresh vegetables, and legumes—aligns with modern American trends toward healthy eating — Arab Mediterranean food USA

Arab and Muslim Mediterranean food has grown from small, family-run eateries into a major force in the American culinary scene. From falafel stands to high-end halal dining, the influence of Middle Eastern cuisine is now felt across cities such as Dearborn, New York, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles. This evolution reflects both the growth of Arab and Muslim communities in the U.S. and the wider American appetite for healthy, flavorful, and diverse food experiences.

The Cultural Impact

The rise of Mediterranean food in the U.S. goes beyond taste—it’s also about identity and representation — Mediterranean food

. For Arab and Muslim immigrants, opening restaurants became a way to share culture, preserve tradition, and provide halal options for their communities. At the same time, Americans from all backgrounds embraced dishes like shawarma, kebabs, falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh, recognizing Mediterranean food as both delicious and nutritious.

Growth of Halal Restaurants

A key driver of this success is the spread of halal-certified dining, which guarantees food prepared according to Islamic dietary laws. Today, halal Mediterranean restaurants serve not only Muslim customers but also health-conscious Americans looking for alternatives to fast food. Chains and independent restaurants alike now highlight their halal standards as a mark of quality and inclusivity.

Popular Arab and Mediterranean Restaurants in the U.S.

Al Ameer (Dearborn, Michigan): A James Beard Award–winning Lebanese restaurant.
The Halal Guys (New York City): Famous for its halal chicken, gyro, and rice platters.
Shawarmaji (Oakland, California): Specializing in Jordanian-style shawarma.
Naf Naf Grill (Chicago-based chain): Bringing Middle Eastern street food to multiple states.
Mal Al-Sham (Houston, Texas): Known for its authentic Syrian dishes.

These establishments demonstrate the variety and depth of Arab and Muslim culinary influence across the U.S.

San Diego’s halal food scene is smaller but growing, with restaurants offering Mediterranean and South Asian cuisine alongside California’s signature fresh style. — Aladdin Mediterranean Café

Economic and Social Influence

Arab and Mediterranean restaurants also contribute to local economies, creating jobs and fostering cultural tourism. Food festivals featuring Middle Eastern cuisine are now common in U.S. cities, further strengthening intercultural dialogue.

Health Appeal of Mediterranean Food

The Mediterranean diet—rich in olive oil, lean meats, fresh vegetables, and legumes—aligns with modern American trends toward healthy eating. This health factor has boosted the popularity of Arab and Muslim Mediterranean restaurants beyond immigrant communities.