Mediterranean Mezze

A mezze spread commonly combines hummus, baba ghanoush, labneh, falafel, olives, salads, and warm flatbread. Many restaurants add grilled halloumi, chicken, lamb kofta, or other hot plates for a larger shared meal.

It often is because staples such as hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, stuffed vine leaves, and baba ghanoush are meat-free. Diners should still ask about yogurt, cheese, meat stock, and shared fryers if they follow a vegan or strict vegetarian diet.

For a full meal, a practical starting point is two or three small plates per person, then adding grilled dishes or bread for the table. Portion sizes differ substantially, so a server can clarify whether the restaurant treats each plate as a taste or a full side.

Hummus and baba ghanoush usually contain sesame through tahini, while flatbread contains wheat and labneh contains dairy. Falafel may share frying oil with other foods, so diners with serious allergies should ask about preparation rather than relying only on menu labels.