Watan Mediterranean Grill — Restaurant in Lexington

I don’t usually write reviews, but Watan Mediterranean Grill in Lexington, Kentucky absolutely deserves the spotlight. This place isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a culinary experience that completely blew me away. If you love authentic, flavorful, and fresh Mediterranean food, Watan will feel like a dream come true.

From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for something special. The smell alone was enough to make my mouth water — spices, grilled meat, fresh herbs, and warm bread. The vibe of the restaurant is clean, modern, and welcoming. The staff greeted me like family, and you can feel that this place is run with love and pride in the food.

Let’s talk about the food, because that’s where Watan truly becomes legendary.

🥙 The Chicken Shawarma: Life-Changing

The chicken shawarma is honestly the best I’ve ever had — and I’ve had a lot. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, and grilled to perfection. It’s served over fragrant basmati rice that soaks up all the flavor. They top it with this creamy, garlicky white sauce that I could probably drink by the bottle. Every bite is savory, tangy, and mouthwateringly good. You get a generous portion, and every element feels like it was prepared with care.

🥗 Fresh Salads and Sides

Their side salad is no afterthought. It’s crisp and refreshing with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a light vinaigrette that balances out the rich main dishes. And their hummus? Smooth, creamy, and absolutely packed with flavor — especially when you dip the warm, fluffy naan-like bread they serve it with. I could honestly eat that combo alone and leave happy.

🍖 Lamb, Beef, and Kabobs — All Incredible

I’ve tried the lamb and beef dishes as well, and I swear they melt in your mouth. The seasoning is perfection — bold but not overwhelming. The kabobs are juicy and grilled just right, and the rice pilaf is never dry or bland. Everything feels balanced and thoughtfully made.

🥤 Drinks and Extras

Even the drinks are solid — they offer some traditional options, and their sweet tea and lemonade hit just right. The portions are generous, and the value is unbeatable for the quality you’re getting.

🌟 Service That Feels Like Family

On top of all that, the staff is amazing. They’re friendly, fast, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve. You’re never rushed, and they always check in with a smile to make sure everything’s perfect — and it always is.

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Final Thoughts:

Watan Mediterranean Grill isn’t just good — it’s unforgettable. It has become my go-to place for comfort food, for celebrations, for whenever I want to treat myself or impress someone with truly amazing cuisine. The food is fresh, authentic, flavorful, and made with care. The staff makes you feel at home, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean food or you’ve loved it for years, this place will blow you away.

If I could give it ten stars, I would. If you’re in Lexington, do yourself a favor and eat at Watan. You will NOT regret it.

Best. Mediterranean....

I have eaten there food a few times order to go for me and I loved it , I stoped by with family to try and I had the platter for 2 , it was amazing, the food is unbelievable good! But along with that the service is beyond the food in my books the willingness to accommodate people for you to enjoy the food is something that is rare in the restaurant business, yesterday I was hungry I needed food but since I’m on a high protein diet diet , I stoped by and asked if he could make me a bowl the way I needed it , without any hesitation or questions or anything he took my order as if it was a menu item they had and excited it flawlessly, this is my number one place to go now and take all my guest to when there in town. Keep up the good work we need more places like this! And fyi the tea and baklava they give you in the end is amazing I just can’t have it due to diet restrictions, but if you can go grab you some…… I promise you won’t be...

This place was such a win! My husband and I had never been out for Mediterranean food before and the staff recommended the dinner for 2 to try a bit of everything. This was more like a dinner for 4 or 5 people! There was so much food and everything was excellent and we took more than half home for leftovers. My husband really isn't a humus person and he loved it. The beef skewers were my favorite and the rice was so flavorful. My husband eats chicken pretty much everyday so he usually doesn't get chicken when we go out, but he liked the chicken the best but honestly we loved it all. The staff kept checking on us and brought us more pita bread and sauces and even some tea. This was great experience and would rate it higher if I could! I love that it is family owned and they really know how to...