Cincinnati/ Food & Drinks
Published on December 13, 2019
Cincinnati's 3 best spots to score affordable Middle Eastern farePhoto: Al-Madina Market & Grill/Yelp

In search of a new favorite Middle Eastern spot?

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable Middle Eastern restaurants around Cincinnati, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to venture when cravings strike.

1. Raya's Lebanese

PHOTO:  SAM L./YELP

Topping the list is Raya's Lebanese. Located at 801 Elm St. in Central Business District, the Mediterranean and Lebanese spot is the highest-rated inexpensive Middle Eastern restaurant in Cincinnati, boasting 4.5 stars out of 102 reviews on Yelp.

Yelper Winston C., who reviewed Raya's Lebanese on Nov. 28, wrote, "The food is flavorful and fresh. The service is great. The warm pita bread straight from the oven is perfect for a cold winter day."

Karen L. noted, "Got the chicken kabob with no pita bread and both salad options. [I] really appreciate their flexibility as I love veggies more than the admittedly-delicious standard pita bread."

2. Al-Madina Market & Grill

PHOTO: AL-MADINA MARKET & GRILL/YELP 

Next up is Corryville's Al-Madina Market & Grill, situated at 6 W. Corry St. With 4.5 stars out of 74 reviews on Yelp, the halal and Lebanese spot has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for an affordable option. 

Yelper Jessica O., who reviewed Al-Madina Market & Grill on Nov. 17, wrote, "We got the meat shawarma sandwiches with chicken and the works. [It was] super delicious and amazingly filling for $10."

Justin H. noted, "They have combo platters and $5.49 shish kafta wraps. If I want a cheap but delicious lunch, Al-Madina is always a solid choice for me."

3. Gyro Hero

Photo: Michael S./Yelp

Central Business District's Gyro Hero, located at 420 Walnut St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the inexpensive Greek, Middle Eastern and breakfast and brunch spot 4.5 stars out of 15 reviews. 

We looked to Yelp to learn more about Gyro Hero.

"Executive Chef Ned Musaitif moved to Cincinnati in 2001," per the bio section of the business' Yelp profile. "Shortly after, he opened up Jordan Valley Restaurant, in Downtown, specializing in Middle Eastern and Greek cuisine. "

Furthermore, we found this information about the business' signature items: "We are the home of Cincinnati's only Gyro Hero, and we do gyro better than anyone!" it writes on Yelp in the section explaining specialties.


This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.