Like every seaside town’s predictable clam shacks and pizza joints, sometimes it feels like Milford’s dining scene is exactly the same. That’s why, every now and again, you want something different. Something original. Something unique. From a sun-drenched patio where grilled octopus meets local oysters, to a family-run spot where generations-old recipes whisper of distant shores. These are Mediterranean restaurants you’ll not only enjoy, but remember.
Shah’s Halal Food Orange
$ | (203) 298-4240 | WEBSITE
Shah’s Halal Food Orange embodies the quintessential late-night spot to many people in that it is, quite simply, just a reliable haven. Everyone is welcome in this halal-scented corner in Milford. Orders are made at the counter, platters are swiftly assembled by a friendly staff member behind you and, during busy hours, patrons grab a seat and enjoy flavorful chicken over rice at the simple tables. Although it’s a fast-casual setup, this food is memorably excellent.
The mixed lamb and chicken platter is exceptionally savory and generously sauced, and the Philly cheese steak is satisfyingly hearty.
Olive Tree
$ | (203) 878-4517 | WEBSITE
This falafel-wrapping, hummus-drizzling, pita-warming Mediterranean gem in Milford has been serving satisfaction for years, and very few people leave here without having experienced the same. Led by a polite and professional wait staff in a clean and friendly atmosphere, little about this home-cooked-meal-like restaurant is about fancy frills. The vegan falafel wrap is divine but, frankly, the portions are much, much bigger.
Midpoint Istanbul Fine Dining
$$ | (203) 745-4741 | WEBSITE
We won’t live to be 130-years-old. But, if we did, we could imagine wanting to savor authentic Middle Eastern delights, like hummus or Chicken Shish, and to enjoy it with a cup of Turkish coffee. This is the approach to take at Midpoint Istanbul Fine Dining. This fine-dining spot in Milford has been serving fresh, authentic dishes and fantastic service for years. It’s a classy-ambiance, patio-perfect, special-night-out experience.
My Gyro Turkish Cuisine
$ | (203) 873-0831 | WEBSITE
Not every Mediterranean spot is made equally, and at My Gyro Turkish Cuisine there’s a lot more going on than a simple gyro wrap. Work your way into this family-owned Milford restaurant, past the welcoming atmosphere, via the freshly made hummus, and you’ll find an authentic Turkish kitchen. The interactive owner-cook takes pride in his kebabs, crispy falafel, and rich red lentil soup. Thankfully, you can settle in here. But get a Lamb Gyro Sandwich and some pistachio baklava to savor.
The consistent quality and quick service make for a lovely little meal.
Chap’s Grille
$ | (203) 562-3966 | WEBSITE
Chap’s Grille isn’t flawless but when the homemade bagels you’re biting into are quite literally a work of comfort, maybe it doesn’t matter. There’s a warm owner on one side, a welcoming chef on the other, plus a comfy atmosphere and a laid back vibe that feels like New Haven. This Mediterranean spot is about as breakfast-focused as things come and a chipotle chicken & avocado panini is as satisfying as it sounds. The pancakes with bacon are a tasty delight.
Pitaziki Mediterranean Grill
$ | (203) 773-5000 | WEBSITE
This Mediterranean grill in Milford moves at a brisk clip during the lunch rush, but once you’re settled at a clean, simple table with your customized bowl—surrounded by the friendly chatter of other diners and a generous portion of well-seasoned chicken shawarma on a bed of rice piled high with fresh toppings like pickled beets and fattoush—you’ll find your own rhythm.
The space at Pitaziki isn’t fancy and you need a serious appetite to tackle their meat combo loaded with gyro and all the fixings. But trust me, this isn’t a meal you’ll eat or forget in a hurry.
South Bay Mediterranean Kitchen
$$ | (475) 241-3996 | WEBSITE
South Bay Mediterranean Kitchen has been serving Milford since it opened and apart from the occasional menu tweak, it hasn’t changed one bit. It’s tucked into a two-level space where the downstairs bar buzzes with energy while upstairs offers a quieter retreat, and the Mediterranean fare can be… adventurous, let’s say. If you’re disappointed by the absence of hummus or waiters who describe every cocktail as if it’s a revelation, then this dressy-casual spot might not be the place for you.
But who can resist generous zucchini blossoms or lamb lollipops that actually taste like something?
Village Bistro Restaurant
$$ | (203) 882-0022 | WEBSITE
One-of-a-kind experiences come in many forms, and having a belly dancer sway beside your plate of mussels in a cozy beachside bistro is just one of them. Village Bistro isn’t where we’d choose to spend our money or time, but it’s undeniably a place unto itself.
The Mediterranean restaurant on the Milford shore has two sides to it: the lively lounge that mixes magic shows with dinner and cigar nights, and the warm indoor dining room, where you can enjoy live music and a cracking signature salmon, all at once.
Bistro Mediterranean & Tapas Bar
$$ | (203) 783-1379 | WEBSITE
While dishes range from satisfying to spectacular at Bistro Mediterranean & Tapas Bar, the standout feature of this cozy Mediterranean spot in Milford is never in doubt. It’s tucked away with a charming back room, so not only will you savor perfectly cooked, generously portioned seafood paella, but you’ll also get to enjoy the warm, inviting atmosphere while you’re at it.
Reliable starters like the bread with olive oil and cheese croquets are the way to go, and the mussels are consistently the best tasting.
Ali Baba’s Kitchen
$ | (203) 535-1164 | WEBSITE
Ali Baba’s Kitchen is a cozy Mediterranean spot in Milford that’s run by a family who basically serve as the neighborhood’s answer to culinary comfort. As well as offering their signature lemon chicken with rice and salad, they also serve things like a flavorful lemon chicken wrap, customizable ginger chicken plates, and freshly prepared meals with house-made white sauce and tzatziki.
Everyone looking for a light, flavorful meal in the area has eaten here, including regulars who swear by their rotating kombucha on tap.
Havenly
$ | (203) 800-4522 | WEBSITE
A beautiful space with a great mission, this Milford restaurant serves very fresh vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Here, families relax and enjoy meals that feel like Arab home-cooking. The falafel is crispy outside and soft inside, while the hummus could use more flavor. Desserts like Asabe and baklava are simple, fresh, and delicious. Some dishes may be a bit dry, but the overall experience remains positive.
The early closing at 7 is worth it for their Turkish coffee, outstanding teas, and refreshing juices. Chef Neida creates dishes inspired by her journey from Iraq to Syria and Turkey, and the restaurant helps train refugees and build a community of women seeking refuge.
RAWA Mediterranean Fusion, Middle Eastern Food, Pizza Place
$$ | (203) 691-5781 | WEBSITE
This Mediterranean fusion experience blends Middle Eastern flavors with pizza-place accessibility, genuine warmth, and inimitable made-in-Milford charm. There’s spacious seating throughout the restaurant, and in it, you’ll find yourself savoring the Lambazeen pizza, losing words over the shrimp biryani, and genuinely relaxing in the cozy atmosphere.
The artwork adds to the beautiful setting while attentive staff provide complimentary Baklava and share stories about the fresh dips like hummus, labneh, and avocado dip with warm pita. The sweetened iced hibiscus with lemon refreshes as you catch up with family or friends in this wheelchair-accessible spot that caters to vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diets with options like their great salad.
Bin 100 Restaurant
$$ | (203) 701-8970 | WEBSITE
Do you crave exceptional Mediterranean cuisine? Have you ever imagined enjoying out-of-this-world fried oysters in a quirky, beautifully designed dining room? Are you someone with dietary restrictions who still wants amazing options? If yes to any of these, then Bin 100 Restaurant is going to go down a storm. This standout spot in Milford combines dishes many of us will dream about with a fixed price menu that’s a great deal. It’s a wonderfully satisfying combination.
