Restaurant Awards 2025: The Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Vancouver

Gold: Delara

It’s a second gold win in a row for Delara, but no wonder: chef-owner Bardia Ilbeiggi’s kind personality is reflected in the food. Said one judge, “It always feels like it has a mother’s touch no matter how elevated or presented.” Any braised dish is good here, but the fesenjoon is the star: a delectable, sweet and tangy stew of walnut and pomegranate molasses with slow-cooked duck leg. (Tahdeeg, Iranian crispy rice, is an essential side.) The herbed, crispy potato pancakes (kookoo sibzamini) are delightful, too, and as light on the palate as the fresh, breezy interior design of the space is on the eyes.

2272 W 4th Ave.
delararestaurant.ca

Silver: Zarak

Silver winner Zarak is hot on Delara’s heels, continuing to serve up platters of Afghani comfort food with bold, beautiful flavour. The cocktail program here is just as impressive (Dr. Damji’s negroni is made with Black Mission fig-infused gin and cardamom Campari).

2102 Main St.
zarakvancouver.com

Bronze: Yasma

Bronze goes to Syrian/Lebanese spot Yasma this year, where expertly charcoal-grilled kebabs and fried kibbeh stuffed with minced lamb are just two of the top-tier elements on the menu.

550 Denman St.
yasma.ca

Honourable Mentions

Tayybeh
2836 W 4th Ave.
tayybeh.com

Haifa
410 W Georgia St.
haifabarandfood.com

Find more of the best Vancouver restaurants on our list of 2025 Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Award winners.