Indianapolis, INMediterranean

Greek Islands is a family-run Old Southside restaurant grounded in familiar Greek cooking and warm hospitality. Moussaka, spanakotiropita, exoheko, crisp salads, and grilled dishes give a table several paths through the menu. The Meridian Street dining room works equally well for one composed plate or a broad meal passed among family and friends.

Canal Bistro brings Egyptian and Lebanese family influences to a Broad Ripple dining room beside the canal. Falafel, moussaka, kebabs, hummus, and salads make up a menu designed for mixing and sharing, while the waterside patio adds an easygoing setting in warm weather. Build a table around crisp falafel and a spread of dips before moving to grilled meats or moussaka for a fuller meal.

Petra Cafe is a late-serving Mass Ave counter for falafel, gyros, shawarma, kebabs, hummus, and other Middle Eastern staples. The falafel contrasts a crisp shell with a green, herbaceous center, making it an appealing start. Casual service and long weekend hours fit nights when the avenue is busy and a full sit-down meal is not the plan.

Sahara Restaurant keeps its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern menu compact on the Broad Ripple strip. Falafel, shawarma, kebabs, hummus, and combination plates cover the essentials without overcomplicating an order. Begin with the chickpea fritters, then use a platter to bring grilled meat, rice, vegetables, and creamy dips together on one generous plate.

Bosphorus Istanbul Cafe fills a small Fletcher Place house with Turkish cooking, from hummus and ezme to kebabs, stuffed vegetables, and baklava. Chicken Mediterranean arrives with rice, salad, pita, and hummus for a balanced introduction. Generous combination plates suit a first visit, while the appetizer list lets a group assemble its own shared feast.