Explore the Mezze Mediterranean Grill menu featuring fresh Gyros, grilled seafood, savory lamb, and vibrant vegetarian options. Enjoy generous portions, friendly service, and traditional Turkish dishes like red lentil soup and baklava at this hidden gem in East Setauket, NY.
Mezze Mediterranean Grill, located at 190 N Belle Mead Rd Suite 8 in Setauket-East Setauket, NY, stands out as a remarkable destination for lovers of authentic Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. From the moment you step in, the welcoming atmosphere coupled with genuinely friendly service sets the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The owner, John, adds a personal touch by engaging with guests and guiding them through the menu, which immediately signals a passion for quality and hospitality.
The menu itself is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, anchored by expertly crafted main dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. The Beyti Kebab is a standout—a succulent Adana kebab wrapped in lavash bread, topped with a vibrant tomato sauce that brings a perfect balance of spices and acidity. Equally impressive is the Iskender, featuring thinly sliced gyro doner layered over crispy bread, finished with rich brown butter, chef’s sauce, and cool yogurt. This dish demands attention for its complex textures and comforting warmth.
Fans of classic Turkish dishes will not be disappointed by the Meatballs Kofte, which arrive grilled to smoky perfection, accompanied by rice and a fresh salad that cuts through the richness. The Gyro Combination, blending marinated chicken and beef, presents a delightful harmony of flavors, ideal for those seeking variety on one plate. Notably, the Chicken Shish Kebab offers tender chunks with that unmistakable char and fragrant seasoning, a true testament to authentic grilling techniques.
Salads at Mezze provide a refreshing contrast and are vital to the authenticity of the meal. The Shepherd (Çoban) Salad shines with its simple, rustic ingredients—tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, parsley—dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice. The Kale Salad adds a modern twist with parmesan and a distinctive chef’s dressing, while the Mediterranean Salad and Caesar Salad cater to diverse preferences without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
For lunch, the platters offer excellent value, combining mains such as Adana or Chicken Adana, or meatballs with salad, a choice of rice or fries, and a drink. These options are perfect for a quick yet fulfilling Mediterranean meal.
Customer feedback consistently highlights the freshness and quality of the food, accompanied by warm, attentive service. Carly Gomes praises the vegetarian options and free hummus sampler, signaling the restaurant’s inclusive menu. Julia Meller echoes the sentiment about large, generously portioned dishes, especially the mixed grill plate boasting multiple meats cooked with precision and bursting with flavor, complemented by bulgur, fresh salads, and traditional baklava for dessert.
Sakina Shah’s remarks on the Pink Sultan dip and perfectly cooked crispy calamari underline Mezze’s excellence in appetizers and seafood, while the grilled salmon and branzino showcase beautifully balanced flavors enhanced by well-prepared sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables. The addition of Turkish sodas brings a unique cultural touch, completing the culinary journey.
In summary, Mezze Mediterranean Grill is a hidden gem in the Setauket area, blending authentic Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine with a warm ambiance and thoughtful service. The menu’s highlights emphasize quality ingredients, traditional preparation, and portion generosity, making each visit a memorable exploration of vibrant and fresh flavors. Whether you're craving a hearty kebab, fresh salad, or a full mixed grill experience, Mezze delivers with finesse and passion.
