Best Mediterranean Restaurants in University Village
2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Shuka
Large-format Eastern Mediterranean feasts, lively room, and serious cocktails.
Notable Picks
#1
Shuka
8.7
Since 2017, chef Ayesha Nurdjaja’s Shuka has anchored SoHo’s Eastern Mediterranean scene with mezze, kebabs, and shareable feasts in a loud, lively dining room and garden. Strong multi-platform reviews and a James Beard–recognized chef back up the menu’s balance of rustic spreads, grilled meats, and crowd-pleasing brunch plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Whipped feta with pistachios, Fried halloumi, Shuka Feast for 2
What makes it special: Large-format Eastern Mediterranean feasts, lively room, and serious cocktails.
#2
Pera Soho
8.4
Opened in 2011 as the downtown sibling of Pera Mediterranean Brasserie, Pera Soho serves Turkish-leaning meze and grilled meats in a spacious dining room that opens onto one of SoHo’s more sought-after garden patios. Thousands of reviews and regular press mentions highlight its role as a go-to for birthdays, corporate dinners, and date nights built around shared plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken and lamb adana rolls, Wild mushroom flatbread, Lamb tartare
What makes it special: Turkish-leaning Mediterranean cooking with one of SoHo’s prettiest gardens.