What is Mediterranean Food Anyway?
Craving sunshine, vibrant flavors, and a cuisine celebrated for its health benefits? You don’t need a plane ticket to the Aegean or a ferry to the Levant. St. Paul, Minnesota, boasts a surprisingly rich and diverse Mediterranean food scene, ready to transport your taste buds to sun-drenched shores with every delicious bite. From fragrant spices to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the Mediterranean culinary spirit thrives in the heart of the Twin Cities. This guide will lead you on a flavorful journey, highlighting some of the best Mediterranean restaurants St. Paul has to offer, ensuring you discover a new favorite dish and perhaps even a new favorite restaurant.
Before diving into the culinary landscape of St. Paul, let’s define what exactly we mean by “Mediterranean food.” It’s more than just gyros and hummus, though those are certainly delicious staples. At its core, Mediterranean cuisine is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, emphasizing olive oil, a variety of colorful vegetables, fragrant herbs, nutrient-rich legumes, sustainably sourced seafood, and lean proteins. Cooking methods tend to be simple, often grilling, roasting, or braising to allow the natural flavors to shine through.
The term “Mediterranean” encompasses a wide range of countries and cultures surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. Think Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Turkey, Spain, Morocco, and many others. Each country brings its unique culinary traditions and influences, which, delightfully, find their way into the kitchens of St. Paul. You’ll notice Greek influences with dishes of souvlaki and feta. Lebanese touches appear with its flavorful shawarma and tabbouleh. You may even find some Turkish influence in dishes of kebabs and stuffed vegetables. This confluence of tastes makes the Mediterranean food in St. Paul so exciting.
Moreover, it’s not just delicious, it’s also good for you! The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized for its health benefits, contributing to heart health, longevity, and overall well-being. It’s rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Numerous studies highlight the benefits of incorporating more olive oil, fresh produce, and seafood into your diet, and St. Paul’s Mediterranean restaurants make it easy to do just that.
Restaurants Where Mediterranean Dreams Come True
Okay, let’s get to the main event. Here are some of the must-try Mediterranean restaurants in St. Paul, each offering its own unique take on this beloved cuisine.
Nikos Mediterranean Grill and Deli: A Neighborhood Gem
Tucked away on Grand Avenue, Nikos Mediterranean Grill and Deli is more than just a restaurant; it’s a warm and inviting neighborhood gathering spot. The aroma of freshly baked pita bread and grilled meats fills the air, instantly transporting you to a sunnier place. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a takeout feast.
Nikos’ menu is extensive, offering a wide range of classic Mediterranean dishes. Their gyros are legendary, featuring tender, seasoned meat wrapped in warm pita with all the traditional fixings. The hummus is creamy and flavorful, served with plenty of pita bread for dipping. Other standouts include the falafel, perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and the souvlaki platters, featuring marinated skewers of grilled meat. Prices are very reasonable, making it an accessible option for all budgets.
What truly sets Nikos apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity. The owners are passionate about their heritage and take pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. They make their pita bread fresh daily. The dishes are prepared with love and care. The restaurant offers traditional baklava for desert. Nikos also has a small deli counter where you can purchase authentic Mediterranean ingredients to take home.
“Nikos is my go-to spot for a quick and delicious lunch,” says one regular customer. “The food is always fresh, the service is friendly, and the prices are great. I especially love their gyros and hummus!”
Suggested Dishes
- Gyro Plate: A classic for a reason. The tender, seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce create a symphony of flavors.
- Falafel Sandwich: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a vegetarian option.
- Spanakopita: The flaky spinach pie will warm you to the core.
(Address and Contact Info Here)
(Image of Nikos)
Mediterranean Cruise Cafe: A Taste of Lebanon in the Heart of St. Paul
For an authentic taste of Lebanese cuisine, look no further than Mediterranean Cruise Cafe. This family-owned restaurant has been a St. Paul institution for years, known for its warm hospitality, generous portions, and incredibly flavorful food. The ambiance is casual and inviting, with colorful décor and comfortable seating.
The menu at Mediterranean Cruise Cafe is a treasure trove of Lebanese specialties. The shawarma is a must-try, featuring thinly sliced marinated meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a warm pita with tahini sauce and vegetables. The kibbeh, a deep-fried bulgur wheat shell filled with ground meat and spices, is a delicious and satisfying appetizer. Other highlights include the grape leaves, stuffed with rice and herbs, and the baba ghanoush, a smoky eggplant dip. The mixed grill platters are a great way to sample a variety of dishes.
What makes Mediterranean Cruise Cafe so special is the family behind it. They treat every customer like a guest in their home, offering warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The recipes have been passed down through generations, ensuring that every dish is authentic and full of flavor. The ingredients are fresh, and it’s halal certified.
“This is the best Lebanese food I’ve ever had,” raves one online reviewer. “The flavors are incredible, the portions are generous, and the service is outstanding. I highly recommend the shawarma and the kibbeh!”
Suggested Dishes
- Chicken or Beef Shawarma: Thinly sliced, flavorful meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a warm pita.
- Mixed Grill Platter: A great way to sample a variety of Lebanese specialties, including kebabs, shawarma, and falafel.
- Baba Ghanoush: A smoky and flavorful eggplant dip, perfect with pita bread.
(Address and Contact Info Here)
(Image of Mediterranean Cruise Cafe)
Afro Deli Restaurant & Catering: A Fusion of Flavors in One Place
While not strictly solely Mediterranean, Afro Deli offers a unique and delicious fusion of African and Mediterranean flavors. They have a number of locations in the Twin Cities and the St. Paul location does not disappoint. This restaurant brings a unique and exciting dimension to the St. Paul Mediterranean food scene.
The menu is full of options to try, but the stand out choices are those which combine Mediterranean and African flavors. For example, you can order gyros but they are also able to be served in a Somali pancake. This is something that is unique to Afro Deli and very much worth your time to try. They have a great selection of tea. You can get a sweet Somali tea or get a nice cup of spiced chai.
What makes Afro Deli so special is its commitment to community and its celebration of diversity. The restaurant is a hub for people from all walks of life, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
“I love Afro Deli! The food is always delicious and the atmosphere is great,” says a local resident. “The prices are so reasonable, and I can always find something new to try.”
Suggested Dishes
- Gyro in Somali Pancake: A fusion dish that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Chicken Fantastic: It’s fantastic for a reason.
- Sambusas: A delicious savory turnover.
(Address and Contact Info Here)
(Image of Afro Deli)
Beyond the Restaurants: Exploring Mediterranean Ingredients
The beauty of Mediterranean food lies in its simplicity and reliance on high-quality ingredients. If you’re inspired to try your hand at recreating some of these dishes at home, St. Paul has several resources for sourcing authentic Mediterranean ingredients. Local farmers markets will have the vegetables that you’ll need. Check out the deli counters to get some nice cheeses.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying
To make the most of your Mediterranean food experience in St. Paul, here are a few helpful tips:
- Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and step outside your comfort zone. The Mediterranean culinary landscape is vast and varied, with endless opportunities for discovery.
- Ask for Recommendations: Restaurant staff are often passionate about their food and happy to share their favorite dishes. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
- Share Plates: Embrace the “mezze” tradition by ordering a selection of small plates to share with your companions. This allows you to sample a variety of flavors and textures.
- Consider Dietary Needs: Many Mediterranean dishes are naturally vegetarian or gluten-free. Be sure to inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions or allergies when ordering.
A Culinary Journey Awaits
St. Paul’s Mediterranean food scene is a testament to the city’s diverse culinary landscape and its appreciation for authentic flavors. From cozy neighborhood grills to family-owned Lebanese restaurants and fusions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your appetite and prepare for a culinary journey to the Mediterranean, right here in St. Paul! You might just discover your new favorite restaurant or unlock a newfound appreciation for the vibrant and healthy cuisine of the Mediterranean. The journey is sure to be delicious.
