In search of a new favorite Mediterranean spot?
Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable Mediterranean restaurants around Minneapolis, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to venture when cravings strike.
1. Afro Deli
Topping the list is Afro Deli. Located at 720 Washington Ave. SE in the University District, the African and Mediterranean spot, which offers sandwiches and more, is the highest rated inexpensive Mediterranean restaurant in Minneapolis, boasting 4.5 stars out of 166 reviews on Yelp.
On its website, the casual eatery says it "provides a delicious fusion of African, Mediterranean and American themed food in a fast, fun and friendly environment."
Look for menu options like chicken gyros served with onion, tomato and tzatziki sauce; the Afro Steak Dinner marinated in African spices served with lime, cilantro and bell peppers; and the Afro Asian Chicken Suqaar, sautéed in Korean sauce and African spices served over rice. The full menu can be seen here. Afro Deli also caters.
2. Trieste Café
Next up is downtown's Trieste Café, situated at 10 S. Fifth St. With 4.5 stars out of 123 reviews on Yelp, the deli, Mediterranean and Greek spot has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for an affordable option.
The casual eatery serves up salads, sandwiches and combination plates. Expect menu options like pita sandwiches stuffed with falafel, hummus or baba ghanoush, a Greek salad with chicken, spanakopita with salad and gyros.
3. Zakia Deli
The family-owned Zakia Deli, located at 2412 Kennedy St. NE in Northeast Minneapolis, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the inexpensive Mediterranean and Lebanese spot 4.5 stars out of 86 reviews.
The counter-service restaurant features a small outdoor patio and an expansive menu that includes breakfast fare, vegetarian and meat sandwiches, daily specials and deli sides. Look for the Philly cheesesteak with bell pepper and onion on a homemade hoagie; chicken gyro with lettuce, tomato and onion on pita bread; and the falafel breakfast with egg and cucumber. Zakia Deli also caters.
4. Soho Cafe
Then there's Soho Cafe, which has earned four stars out of 68 reviews on Yelp. Dig in at the Greek and Italian spot by heading over to 2532 Hennepin Ave. in Uptown.
Check out Greek options like the classic gyro, the falafel sandwich with deep-fried spicy chickpeas mixed with spices or the feta cheese sandwich topped with tomatoes, olive oil and oregano. Soho Cafe also has pizza available by the slice or by the full pie. The full menu can be seen here.
