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    The Middle East

    3.4 (595 reviews)
    Closed Closed

    Order The Middle East Takeout or Delivery

    The Middle East Photos

    THE MIDDLE EAST ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Live music
    Loud
    Hipster
    Outdoor seating

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    Unger taking care of wayward metal heads.
    Praetorian A.

    So this gets four stars. We are here prepping for a heavy metal show and this joint just doesn't stop. Different venues and different bars under one city block. I showed up to load in the band and Nabul greeted me. He's been here since 1970. With warmth he gave us coffee and hospitality. All that goes along with a production and us wee starving artist father annoyingly at the bar with hunger in our eyes. The menu is amazing. I hot down with some shawarma. Local made bread accompanied a bean and rice plate with perfectly cooked medium rare beef. The flavor was perfect with just a little heat to cause deep thinking and contemplation. Unger the bar tender took great care of us whilst reminiscing about past acts and shows. Come and check this joint out. It's chocked full of history, great food and even better ambiance. I would say this is the CBGB of this little area.

    Middle East Burger and Onion Rings
    Brian W.

    I realize I'm missing part of the experience from this restaurant by ordering for takeout, but I still enjoyed the food and have some positive notes to mention. However, it should be noted that this restaurant is also a bar and music venue, so there may be additional details about the actual location that I will miss. For delivery, I ordered the Middle East Burger with onion rings. I didn't ask for/pay for cheese, but it came with cheese so that was a nice plus. As for the food itself: Middle East Burger - I don't think there is anything unique about this burger that makes it from the "Middle East" (no unique seasonings/preparation), but instead it's just a burger from the restaurant "Middle East." Still, it was pretty tasty. The patty itself was large and meaty - and the bun was sturdy and also oversized compared to other burgers I've had before. They gave a lot of pickles and not a lot of lettuce, which was a little strange but not necessarily a bad thing. The meat tasted like it was seasoned well, and again the portion size was a big plus. It wasn't anything over the top and it wasn't the most amazing burger ever, but it was definitely a solid and filling burger that I'd order again. Onion Rings - These were above-average for sure. Even when delivered, they were extremely crunchy and not oily at all. The onion itself tasted sweet and flavorful, and each onion ring was a real pleasure. I'd definitely recommend choosing these over fries, and they don't even cost anything extra! All in all, I give this place a 4/5 because although the food wasn't the best I've ever had, it is still a really solid burger with great onion rings. The price ($15) was also very reasonable, and I'd definitely come back here again!

    Dee C.

    I had so much fun. From the cool security at the door to the patrons inside. I had the pleasure of chatting it up with Remmi, he is one of the security guards there. Such an insightful and kind person, he kept me company outside as I smoked because I was out there alone. The DJ definitely created a vibe, he was playing all the songs that get you hype. New and old school, he for sure catered to all demographics. He and his partner were both super chill. The establishment is pretty clean, there is only one bathroom, so it is obviously shared. You would think that it would be messy or dirty, but it isn't. There is plenty of dancing space and booths to accommodate large groups. The only bad experience I had here was at the bar. I went to get a drink and there was only one person ahead of me. I let the bartender know I needed her after, she acknowledged me then for some reason took care of everyone else that walked up to the bar after me. I tried getting her attention because she served 4 ladies that had just walked up to the bar and asked the guy next to me to buy his drink to let them cut, then proceeded to attend to everyone else after her. I was left wondering what the disconnect was which is the saddest part of all this is. I can understand a busy bar, but if you can serve ppl that walked up after me then there should be no reason I should have to wait. I absolutely hate having to wonder if race played any part in this but unfortunately that was the feeling I was left with. The security personnel here look serious as fudge but are down to earth. I saw one of them picking up stuff from the empty tables, helping clean up. That was awesome cause I love to see those types of things, everyone helping. I went on a Saturday, there was no cover charge. The demographic is great. The music: Old school with New school and everything in between Free parking in the lots behind the stores. Free after 8 pm

    Rebeccah L.

    Went to a rave here last night. Energy was great. Super packed and fun. Will probably return.

    Middle East Restaurant in Cambridge
    Bruce K.

    Met friends here for dinner by accident, thinking that "Middle East Restaurant" was just a description as we were looking for the place next door. We got past that quickly enough with good service and flavorful good food. Imported Lebanese and "Palestinian" beers I'd never had before were very nice to see and went well with our meal. We started off with a combination plate that included hummus and tabouli. Both were very good. The hummus was smooth and rich flavor. The tabouli was crunchy and delicious. Another plate of grape leaves were delicious. Nicely assembled and bite size. Yum. For main course, I chose the lamb kebab plate which came with grilled vegetables, a big portion of rice pilaf and a small salad. The lamb was cooked nicely and tender. All meat. Yum. Great service and very delicious. I can see returning here again.

    two plates of food on a table
    Ellen L.

    ***3.5 stars*** most experienced runners go for pasta or pizza or some other form of "high" carb meal the evening before a race or long run. me, not so much. the eve of the annual boston marathon, i decided that i wanted medi food, partially b/c this was a source of comfort for me - pita bread, hummus, skewered chicken & salmon, om nom nom! not surprisingly, i ordered a combo dish with a wild salmon & chicken skewer over a bed of rice, black beans, and green salad ($15.98). hubby ordered a beef shawarma rollup w/french fries ($11.97), and we shared a small plate of olives ($3.98) the portions were quite generous for the price, but we both felt that the taste fell a bit flat. both the chicken skewer & salmon lacked flavor, and were a bit on the dry side. i'm not a huge spice/sauce person, but i was left wanting some on my dish. the service was pretty good since we had the waitress most to ourselves, given that we came for a very early dinner (around 1600?) and the restaurant was rather empty. great location, near mit & harvard, next to the central t station.

    1/2 lb. All Natural Cheeseburger

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    Very inclusive venue and fantastic service! Thank you for creating such a safe space for all.

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    Sarma - Sugar Snaps

    Sarma

    4.4(1.4k reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$$$

    Dining at Sarma was a delightful experience. We came on a Tuesday at 6pm and luckily got seated at…read morea countertop within 30 mins. I would recommend calling beforehand to ask about the wait. Although we commuted from Cambridge, this meal was worth it. For two people, we got: - Black Seed Cornbread: it's soft, sweet yet savory. I've never had cornbread like this, and the first bite into this was unforgettable. You must get this. - Honey Nut Hummus: this was honestly fine and I'd probably try a different dip next time. - Warm Gyro bread: well seasoned and great to share between two. I normally don't like gyro but I enjoyed this. - Lamb al pastor: this was a favorite. It was sweet and the lamb was tender. We were really impressed with the sauce. - Brussel sprout bravas: this was okay. I liked the crunchy nuts and the star of this dish was once again the sauce/seasoning rather than the brussel sprouts. With all of these dishes, we ordered enough for two, with a few bites leftover. If you have a smaller appetite, you could get away with ordering a plate less. Overall, I loved the dining experience here. Even though I'm not typically a small plates mediterranean person, I appreciated Sarma - from its beautiful interior space and open kitchen concept, to the liveliness of the restaurant on a random weekday night. Definitely come here if you're in the area (or even if you're not!)

    I had been looking forward to checking out Sarma for quite some time. Unfortunately, the experience…read moredidn't live up to the expectations. The food was overly salty, and the portions were very small.... even for tapas style dining. The flavor profiles just weren't there. The only thing that I would say tasted good was the cornbread and lamb skewer (which was definitely overpriced still). The cornbread was impressive and the ingredients made for a unique flavor. Service was also underwhelming. While the staff did their job, there wasn't much warmth or attentiveness and we didn't feel welcomed. We left feeling pretty disappointed given the hype and effort it took to get a reservation.

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    Sarma - Douggy, our bartender/waiter

    Douggy, our bartender/waiter

    Sarma - Feta Cheese Gnocchi

    Feta Cheese Gnocchi

    Sarma - Rainbow Carrots

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    Rainbow Carrots

    Oleana Restaurant - Fatteh

    Oleana Restaurant

    4.3(1.9k reviews)
    0.5 miInman Square
    $$$

    For my own birthday this year, I chose Oleana, supposedly one of Boston's best Mediterranean…read morerestaurants, and reservations are almost a month in advance. Overall, I was satisfied. Fatteh: The presentation was beautiful, with a delightful array of layers. Between two layers of crispy chips laid the chewy texture of fried mushrooms, the sweetness of cauliflower, the nutty aroma of pine nuts, and the refreshing sweet and sour taste of yogurt--a random combination that offered a different experience with every bite. The cauliflower, in particular, was crisp yet not tough, with a naturally gentle sweetness--a first for me. However, towards the end, the crispy chips became very slightly oily. Sultan's Delight: Perfect as a main course. The beef was stewed to perfection, incredibly tender and flavorful, almost falling apart the moment it touched the knife. It required absolutely no effort, reminiscent of a master butcher skillfully carving up an ox in Zhuangzi莊子, who kept his knife like new over nineteen years. The tamarind brought a slightly fermented, tangy aroma, while the smoked eggplant puree, likely babaganoush, was smooth and creamy with a mild, pleasant smokiness. The lemon juice, however, adds a refreshing touch, creating an interesting layering of acidity. It looked small, but it was surprisingly satisfying. The only downsides were the beef was slightly over-salty and the basil leaves, which seem to serve only a decorative purpose. Baked Alaska: A signature dessert, very popular on social media. Frankly, I came specifically for this, but after eating it, all I can say is, "Who's promoting this?"... The presentation was truly stunning, and the first few bites were quite good. The meringue was was torched to create a thin, burnt crust, resulting in a delicate and light texture, while the coconut ice cream blended with the bitter aroma of coffee. However, the base, a nut tart similar to a five-nut mooncake五仁月餅 filling, was too dense and heavy; the passion fruit syrup was excessively sweet and acidic, even a small amount was cloying, making it a torture by the end. The restaurant tables were a bit uneven and hopefully they will be repaired soon.

    Lucked out with a Resy opening a couple days before for Thursday @ 5:30pm. Arrived a few minutes…read moreearly, and there was a line of people ~8-10 ppl standing by for walk-ins (everyone was seated). Veggie Mezze - Fatteh ($16) - really enjoyed this crunchy mezze! Sounded simple on the menu - Chicory + Herb Salad ($17) - refreshing start with a sweet and savory salad, enjoyed this, flavors all paired very nicely - Halloumi Cheese ($17) - we aren't fanatics over halloumi but wanted to try this. We preferred the other mezze, but not bad Fried Mussels ($17) - this was alright, would skip next time. -Sultan's Delight ($20) - this was soooo tasty, literally fell apart when poked with a fork; not the biggest portion -Lamb Shish ($18) - was good, but on the smaller side, probably wouldn't order again We were celebrating my friend's birthday, and they brought out a couple cookies topped with meringue dipped in chocolate with a candle. Very friendly staff, good selection of food, a nice little splurge.

    Photos
    Oleana Restaurant - Indoor View

    Indoor View

    Oleana Restaurant - Potato & Red Lentil Kubba with Swiss Chard, Pistachios, Eggplant Jam, Fried Carrots, healthy and yummy

    Potato & Red Lentil Kubba with Swiss Chard, Pistachios, Eggplant Jam, Fried Carrots, healthy and yummy

    Oleana Restaurant - Sultan's delight is a must order every visit ( not vegetarian)

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    Sultan's delight is a must order every visit ( not vegetarian)

    The Helmand Restaurant

    The Helmand Restaurant

    4.2(1k reviews)
    1.2 miEast Cambridge, Kendall Square/MIT
    $$$

    4.5/5! Really…read moreenjoyed the chef's special platter since we got a mix of chicken, beef, and lamb. Meat was tender and flavored well. You also get the option of substituting meats which was nice. My favorite was the chicken. I usually don't eat lamb, but the kabobs did not taste gamey, and I enjoyed it! Special shoutout to the bread they serve. Was probably my favorite part of the dinner!!

    I was very pleasantly surprised by the dinner we had at The Helmand! We arrived on a weeknight and…read moreit was very busy, but luckily the staff were able to still seat us right away. Our table was right next to a huge wood-fired oven where we could see the fresh table bread being made which was pretty cool. We ordered 3 items off the menu, 2 appetizers (Aushak and Mantwo) and 1 main dish (lamb kebab). I've never had Afghan food before, so the ingredients and flavors used in each dish were very unique to me, but everything worked very well. The Aushak in particular was the most surprising.. they called it "ravioli", but it was more dumpling-esque to me, which an interesting bolognese-like sauce with yogurt. You wouldn't think those flavors would work together but they really do. The Mantwo also paired very nicely with the Aushak, with more of an earthy taste to it. The lamb kebab was also very tasty, though it wasn't anything super unique. The free bread for the table was also a surprising highlight, as we got to try various different dipping sauces (which we then also used to supplement the kebab). Service was attentive, the ambiance of the restaurant was nice, and overall really enjoyed our dinner here.

    Photos
    The Helmand Restaurant - Inside Restaurant view

    Inside Restaurant view

    The Helmand Restaurant - Pineapple cake ! 10/10

    Pineapple cake ! 10/10

    The Helmand Restaurant - Afghan Special yogurt drink with fresh mint

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    Afghan Special yogurt drink with fresh mint

    The Middle East - mideastern - Updated May 2026

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