Ciya Mediterranean Cuisine — Restaurant in Half Moon Bay

Wow, wow, wow. At the heart of HMB downtown, there is this jewel - Ciya. Simply amazing mediterranean, Turkish and Greek cuisine in an unassuming, family-like, friendly setting. Everything is done "home style". Fresh ingredients absolutely made with passion. And the best of all, they are not trying to take advantage visitors and torists.

When visiting a mediterranean joint, it really comes down to the hummus and falafel which allows a consistent benchmark. Ciya's hummus is absolutely creamy but not done in an industrial or commerical way. There is a clear effort placed on the caliber of ingredients and the effort. It has a gentle attitude and an unapologetic depth. It's rare to find such a breed of hummus in the Bay Area. Ciya's falafels are also a highlight. Well fried, crunchy on the outside, and flavorful on the inside. Both dishes slightly lean on the blander side and hint of salt wouldn't have hurt. But it's okay. It really is okay. It's their signature.

The service was amazing. Both the owner and the servers, who I presume are all family, really welcomed us. Yes, it feels a bit like a few tables in a deli-style eatery. But you get a 5-star service with a smile, friendliness, and again, you can see that they are proud to serve their food. I loved it. Seriously loved it.

And finally, all of this is provided at a very reasonable price, especially for a popular tourist destination.

I am so grateful that we ran into this place at HMB. It will be our continuous go-to everytime we spend the day at the beach. Absolutely...

On a bustling Sunday night around 6:45 p.m., my partner and I discovered this lively spot. Surprisingly, we managed to secure the last table on the inviting back patio. Finding parking was straightforward, with ample street parking directly in front.

I opted for the fries, enticed by their golden crispiness, while my partner, mindful of her allergies, chose the beef kebab. The kitchen’s flexibility to accommodate her dietary needs impressed us. My selection, the beyti kebab, was a delightful new flavor experience I’d highly recommend. The homemade lemonade I ordered was refreshingly good, albeit a tad sweeter than my usual preference.

The patio setting, enhanced by warm heaters, created a cozy atmosphere. The service stood out for its efficiency and warmth. The entire staff, including the owner Hasan, who personally greeted us with hugs, made us feel incredibly welcome. Chatting with Hasan about our mutual appreciation for Turkey added a special touch to our evening.

This establishment isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a highlight of Half Moon Bay, thanks to its exceptional food and the genuine warmth of its staff. Whether you choose to dine inside or outside, be mindful of the dinner rush. It’s a place I eagerly anticipate returning to for more...

We recently dined at Ciya Mediterranean Cuisine and had an overall great experience with a few minor critiques. The food quality and service were excellent. Hassan(the owner) and his son are amazing hosts. From Turkish descent and very welcoming.

Ok, let’s talk about the food…. We started with the appetizer sampler, which was good, and the chicken wrap, which was decent though nothing extraordinary. The standout dishes were the salmon plate, which was very tasty with perfectly cooked rice, and the beyti kebab, which was absolutely delicious. The combination of the flavorful meat, red sauce, olive oil, and yogurt was fantastic and truly something to try.

For dessert, we had two pieces of baklava, which were good but felt overpriced at $7. Additionally, $1.50 for extra pita bread and $3.50 for a soda with the main course seemed excessive. While the food was great and the total ($120, including tip) reflected a premium dining experience, these extra charges detracted slightly from the overall value.

If you’re looking for flavorful Mediterranean cuisine, Ciya is a great choice. Just be prepared for a slightly higher price point. Probably one of the best places to eat in half moon bay, will definitely go again if I’m in the...