The food was delicious! The appetizer taster provided a tantalizing array of delicacies. Ziad's special chicken was an exceptional dish with such amazing flavors. I am excited to come back to try more. The ambiance is really cute I like how you can see the chefs in the first room. If thats not your speed they have a second room that is separate. The service was great! They are super nice and family owned. They included a delicious Lebanese coffee on the house. read more

Aya Mediterranean Cuisine - Hot Appetizer Sampler - Mediterranean Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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**INITIAL REVIEW** I am currently on a Greek/Mediterranean food kick after eating it, which was fantastically made and indulged in, when I was at the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs, FL. To my delight, Melbourne Main Street a.k.a. Historic Downtown Melbourne finally had such food added to its food scene when Aya Mediterranean Cuisine (which I will shorthand simply to Aya for the remainder of this review) opened up. Eventually, I got to try Aya out albeit their lunch menu initially. What I got was a fantastic meal in which I long to try more of their fare. Aya is located on the northern side of New Haven Blvd. in Historic Downtown Melbourne. It is the last business on the west side of the train tracks, which used to be Continental Flambe if anyone remembers that. I went in at the latter end of Aya's lunch hours as they close around 2 p.m. to prepare for the dinner rush. The decor looks more like a rustic upscale tavern flanked by fine dining decor, both from the 1980s. Aya was clean with the space optimized to fit the most patrons during a rush, but the restaurant does need some TLC. Almost all the ceiling's tiles had water damage and the carpet was frayed. Not sure if this is something Aya can fix or if the landlord of the building is blocking them from doing renovations, but it is noticeable. To keep things simple, I ordered the Gyro Wrap ($13.99), which was seasoned beef and lamb with feta cheese, onions, lettuce, tomatoes and tzatziki sauce. Side options can be more traditional sit-down with rice or a salad (I assume it is a feta salad), but more of the "fast food" route with fries. I like how they deconstructed the wrap with the slices of beef and lamb, veggies, and sauce being separate, but assembled with pita cut into corners/chips. Yet, all the lamb and beef are on top of one small pita so you can add the veggies and sauce. And if you ordered fries, you can add them in too for the "food truck" experience. Not sure if Aya will allow you to use ketchup on a gyro wrap though. On a sidenote, there was a back "bar" area where alcoholic beverages are sold, and the restrooms - at least the men's restroom - was clean. Ultimately, Aya blends class with a family-feeling when eating at their restaurant. They even give more specification to their food as the generalization may be Greek/Mediterranean, but they have specialization in Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine, something I am sure the family whom owns it, spearheaded by the owner and chef Ziad Aseid, envisioned when they opened this restaurant. Despite the visual issues I found with the restaurant itself, Aya is a solid four-out-of-five stars for their initial review. If they are consistent with their food and service, I will give them their fifth star for consistency in an updated review. read more

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The food and flavors were just what we were looking for. The cold mezze was great, even though one component was sold out and subbed for something different. The portions of the skewers were a little small and the "made to order fries" weren't all that. Overall the family style service was great. The decor left a bit to be desired... specifically the roof tiles and the bathroom. Go for the food, sit at the bar and enjoy read more

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This is worth the visit. You don't need boring breweries or "flatbreads" - you need some flavor and exploration of the options this place provides. From tagine to seafood variants with a good mix of shareable plates and appetizers. A nice family owned location that sides a good job on their recipe and kitchen. Depending on the time of day and day of week you can have a nearly private date without much issue. Make sure you stop by and enjoy the options. read more

Went with my family the night before thanksgiving and the restaurant was empty which we thought wasn't a good sign at the beginning but turned out to be great. Our waitress was awesome and very attentive and friendly. I ordered the Gyro Platter which was delicious! Then I had the pistachio baklava which really tasted homemade. Can't wait to go back! 100% recommended!!! read more

Aya was just a short walk from our hotel, and since it's a halal restaurant with great reviews, we decided to give it a try. We were warmly welcomed by two cheerful ladies, which made for a great first impression. We ordered the lamb tagine with rice and the chicken shawarma. The lamb tagine was outstanding--flavorful and tender--while the shawarma was good as well. It's a family-owned restaurant, and you can tell the food is made with love. The ambiance was simple and cozy, giving it a nice homey feel. For dessert, we tried their cheesecake, which was delicious. To top it off, the server generously offered us Moroccan coffee on the house. The coffee was amazing, but fair warning--don't drink it at night! It kept me awake until 3 in the morning . I enjoyed the coffee so much that I went back the next day just for it, but unfortunately, they don't offer it as a takeaway. read more

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This is a five star hidden gem! I went here was a large party and the staff were very welcoming and patient with us. The roasted potatoes are to die for - I asked the waitress what seasoning they used for them so I could make them at home. They gave us pita bread that was so warm and At the end of our meal they gave us some special coffee. I will definitely be coming back soon! read more

Authentic Lebanese food ever Really the best Great service especially with authentic Lebanese family read more

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My wife and I went to Aya last night for dinner. Their Valentines menu was amazing. The food is the best in Melbourne. The owners and staff always make us feel special with their great service. Aya is definitely our go-to for the best Mediterranean Cuisine anywhere. read more

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A hidden gem in the Melbourne/PB area. The owners are a lovely, tight-knit family and they always make me feel so welcome. AMAZING food is the cherry on top of it... try the Ziad chicken special (you're welcome) read more

Let me begin with the really cute establishment felt authentic. The menu was a real deal. We selected a few appetizers a couple of entrées. Everything was fresh and delicious. The hummus was amazing and the complementary coffee at the end was probably the single best shot of espresso I've ever had. Definitely recommend it if you're getting ready to come out for a night on the town or catch a concert. read more

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My wife and I have gone to this restaurant many times and always it delights us. So nice to have an option other than the usual restaurants/diners. Aya food is interesting, unique, and special. Wait staff are so courteous, efficient prompt and good explaining the menu offerings, and the cook staff do an outstanding job!! Highly recommend AYA!! read more

Walking in you're greeted with two sweet humans who helped us navigate the menu and provide beautiful recommendations. It was our first time and we went with the hummus and the mix grilled platter with rice. Everything had such fresh, bold and beautiful flavors. The garlic sauce served with the dish was such an excellent addition. Every bite was so delicious I wanted to order more before even finishing the meal I had. Definitely will be coming back to try all dishes and I couldn't recommend this place enough! Would give 10 starts if we could! read more

Aya Mediterranean Cuisine - Mixed Grill Platter with rice. - Mediterranean Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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The mixed skewers are always a hit with us. Just a small hole in the wall but feels like home. Service is always quick and friendly. A great place to take a group of friends. read more

Great food super friendly staff going back next weekend for wedding anniversary great date night atmosphere

A very good restaurant which I recommend. Our group sampled a variety of dishes and all were very good. The server was very good and the staff were friendly. The only detractor, which is why I rated a 4 vs 5, is that the portions were a little small. Overall a solid restaurant and definitely worth checking out. read more

My husband and I went there for a late lunch for a combination of early Motherhood Day and both of our birthdays! The restaurant is family -owned and both of the daughters were attentive to us, during our meal. I had tabbouleh and the lentil appetizer and my husband had dolmades for his appetizer, and I knew that from the amount of food that had arrived before our meal that one, I had ordered too much, and two, I would be bring food home!!! Steve ordered the beef shawarma platter and I ordered the Kafka platter. They both came with a saffron rice , which was mild and flavorful!! We ordered both pistachio and walnut baklava to go and were given some Lebanese coffee while we talked. We definitely enjoyed our meal and speaking with the young ladies about their culture, and will definitely be repeat customers!!! read more

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Aya's is ideal in every way. Family owned, and the food tastes like it Extremely friendly service. I hope Aya's remains in downtown Melbourne, it's such a treat! read more

OMG! I repeat visited in less than 24 hours! I had the grape leaves and the Gyro Platter and it was soooooo good that I was sad that I couldn't eat more! The next day was late lunch of the Mixed Grill Platter and if didn't disappoint. Their rice isn't boring or from a box, it's flavorful and moist without being dry. Sarah is so sweet and helpful. Ask her about the photos of where in Lebanon they're taken. I've added them to my local repertoire. Their prices are quite fair for the food you get! read more

The moment we walked in, the staff was very pleasant! The food was amazing 10/10. Loved the whole experience. Will definitely comeback for more. Again the food was amazing!!! read more

Aya Mediterranean Cuisine - Mixed Grill Platter - Mediterranean Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

My wife and I decided to give this place a try. We were blown away! Every dish was exquisite and perfect. The only thing better than the food was the staff and customer service. You definitely need to give this amazing family owned restaurant a shot. read more

Food portion was very small for the price. The taste was not all that. Will not be returning to this place.

I have eaten here several times in the past two years and never disappointed with anything. Food, Service and Ambiance are all outstanding.

What a great experience! Aya is a family run business, and it shows in the attention to detail in the food prep and outstanding service. The flavor profiles are unique and exciting. After enjoying our meal, we were treated with a complimentary Turkish coffee. what a nice touch. read more

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We drove over to this place after going to a movie, and looked forward to a Mediterranean meal. Unfortunately, the server was so rude in taking our order, we left. What an attitude! We walked down to Ember & Oak and had an unexpectedly delicious meal, with outstanding service, so things seemed to work out for the best. There are lots of restaurants in walking distance, so they should think twice before treating customers badly. Let me be clear, as the manager has added an unnecessary response. ATTITUDE is what made us leave, not the fact they didn't have what I preferred. I have no interest in returning again. When in the area, we'll return to Ember & Oak, even though their menu is limited for what I eat. Was excellent with great service, and the service makes the biggest difference. read more

Incredible! By far one of the best in town and such an authentic experience, from food to drinks to coffee after dinner. read more

Aya Mediterranean Cuisine - Mediterranean Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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Wouldn't take an order over the phone. Said to order online and then unexpectedly canceled the online order.

I did an uber delivery. I paid close to $80 dollars for two orders and the serving size was meant for a child. The packing was terrible almost falling out of their cheap packaging. They got the order wrong. I reached out to the restaurant gave them my feedback and they requested to call me and make it right. I'm still waiting. The food itself was not bad but wow I couldn't believe the serving size. You basically ripped me off. read more

Aya Mediterranean Cuisine, 936 East New Haven Avenue, Melbourne, Florida 32901- 3-Stars If Ziad and his daughters, Sara and Aya, look familiar it is because they have been in the restaurant industry for many years, bringing their vision and talents from Lebanon. I was raised on Arabic food and am very familiar with the cuisine. One of my father's grandmothers was born in Beirut and the other was born in Damascus. Both were reportedly great cooks. In those days, Beirut and Damascus were cities in Greater Syria and Lebanon did not exist. France formed the State of Greater Lebanon as an ethnic enclave within Syria in 1920 and formed what is now called the Lebanese Republic in 1926. Although Lebanon adopted its constitution that year, it did not declare its independence from the French mandate until 1943. Sara is the manager, although this restaurant in Historic Downtown Melbourne (located in the space that housed the Continental Flambé for over a dozen years) is named for her little sister. As Sara waits on me, she does not indicate any annoyance that Aya got the naming rights. The website says that the family specializes in authentic Lebanese and Moroccan delicacies. They also serve a few of what are considered Greek dishes. It might be anathematic for me to say, but the Greeks stole their recipes from the Arabs and--in my not so humble opinion--mucked them up. First, I ordered Kibbe Nayeh, one of my favorite cold appetizers. My father used to make it for special occasions. For the uninitiated, this is raw ground steak mixed with cracked wheat, onion, basil, and seasoning, topped with mint, and drizzled with olive oil. I found it to be slightly above average due to the unique twist. If you are brave enough to try it, it's a fun dish. Next, I sampled the Lamb Moroccan Tagine, slowly cooked lamb in saffron, topped with prunes, almonds, and sesame seeds, with a side of rice. I normally love this entrée but this recipe, although flavorful, somehow missed the mark. The Big Boy says, "If you can't get to another Middle Eastern restaurant in the Melbourne area, Aya's Mediterranean Cuisine is serviceable." read more

Aya Mediterranean Cuisine - Mediterranean Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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Authentic food, attentive service. Lovely decor. We started with the Hot Mezza Special. For the main course, I had the Chicken Tagine. My husband had the Mixed Grilled Platter. For dessert, we had the Kunafa with 3 cups of morrocan coffee (my husband had 2 lol) Thank you to the Aya, Sara and the very friendly and professional staff for making us feel at home. We will return. read more

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The wait staff is friendly, and ready to answer questions about the menu. The dad is the chef and his cooking is amazing. I want to take him home with me. His daughters were the original waitresses and they remember you and are so sweet. They have a new waitress and waiter and they are just as nice and helpful. Now to the food. I can't say enough about the fabulous food. The rice is to die for. The lamb dishes are out of this world. EVERYTHING is wonderful. I have enjoyed everything I ever tried here. YOU MUST go!!! read more

I went to Aya expecting much more than this. You are looking at the chicken swarma platter that I paid over 17 dollars for and was extremely disappointed. Obviously "platter" is an absolute oversell for this dish. Not only was the portion size an absolute joke, but they put two large pieces of pita at the bottom of the dish to make it seem like there was more food than there was. The sides consist of more pita, a container of rise and some pickles and lettuce tossed inside. I rarely leave reviews, but this was one I had to make. Waste of money and time. Very disappointing. read more

Mediterranean food is my all-time favorite & this family-owned restaurant knocks it out of the park!! Our service was amazing. Everyone is kind and friendly and the running trains right outside the window offer such a cute eating experience. It was everything I could've asked for on a date night plus the Kibbeh Nayeh was a star dish for us. We'll be back for more :) read more

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This was our first experience with Moroccan food. We really liked it. Ziad's chicken, the chef's creation, was delicious. The Tawouk chicken arrived cold and very dry. Instead of bringing a fresh dinner it got reheated and even drier. The garlic sauce was spectacular though. Veggies were fresh and tasty. We tried the Lebanese wine. It was super. Aya is family run with great service and good food. The restaurant was busy and our server smiled and provided attentive service to everyone. A nice departure from the majority of the restaurants nearby which serve pub grub. read more

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Excellent food and friendly staff! Every dish we had was delicious. Recommend the cold mezze platter, the mixed kebabs, and lamb tagine. Everything was cooked to perfection. read more

We had an amazing lunch here. All of the food was authentic and made with love. We met the family and they were so happy to be a part of our experience. We had the hummus, Greek salad, chicken and lamb. All was amazing! read more

Really great food and excellent service. The baba and falafel wrap hit the spot, and the staff was very friendly.

First visit and will not be the last ! Definitely authentic Lebanese food ! Fresh ingredients This time Had the falafel wrap and chicken shawarma platter , was not dissapointed . Falafels were perfect ! Great service , nicely priced , and I was even able to purchase fresh garlic dip to take home . Nicely run family owned restaurant ! Cannot wait to try the tabouli ( I have had home made tabouli before and I look forward to give it a try at this restaurant ). I just wish they were a little closer ( we live in fort pierce , so it's about 55 minute ride ) read more

This place is 10 out of 10. Such great service and food. They are so friendly and the food is to die for. We had great wine too. My husband had the gyro platter. I had the falafel platter. Hummus is amazing. Grape leaves appetizer is about the best we have had. I can't wait to go back! Thank you for a wonderful dinner. read more

We went for a late lunch last week. I had a falafel pita which was absolutely delicious. My husband had a gyro which he also said was delicious. Everything is made from scratch, not just tossed in a deep fryer. Our server was a delightful young woman, who made us feel very welcome. We will definately be back very soon. read more