Vegetarian & Vegan Mediterranean Diet: 5 Tasty & Healthy Meals to Try
The vegan Mediterranean diet is having a moment — and for good reason. It’s flavorful, fresh, and rooted in centuries of health-forward tradition. Whether you’re plant-curious or a long-time herbivore, the Mediterranean diet offers a wealth of vegan Mediterranean food options that don’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
At 19 Cleveland, we embrace the diversity of Mediterranean cuisine — blending Tel Aviv’s spirited food culture with global ingredients and a playful NYC twist. These five dishes are favorites among our guests following a vegetarian Mediterranean diet, but they’re equally loved by meat-eaters who want something healthy, colorful, and craveable.
1. Spicy Falafel Burger
Falafel has been a cornerstone of Mediterranean street food for generations — crisp-edged, herb-packed, and endlessly adaptable. Recently, it’s found new life in burger form, stacked with pickled vegetables, spicy spreads, and all the texture you want in a satisfying plant-based meal.
At 19 Cleveland, the falafel burger gets a bold upgrade with heat, crunch, and layers that feel both indulgent and balanced. It’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down — just the right amount of kick wrapped in a bun.
2. Shakshuka
Few dishes capture the heart of a vegetarian Mediterranean diet quite like shakshuka. Traditionally made with simmered tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and spices — then finished with poached eggs — it’s warming, rustic, and deeply rooted in North African and Levantine home cooking.
Our version leans into that tradition with slow-cooked flavor and a just-set egg nestled in the center. Served bubbling hot, it’s perfect for brunch or a cozy midday pause that tastes like it’s been cooking all morning.
3. Falafel Sandwich
When it comes to vegan Mediterranean food, the falafel sandwich is about as iconic as it gets. Chickpea falafel, fresh chopped veggies, creamy tahini, and warm pita — it’s the kind of no-fuss combination that satisfies every time.
Ours keeps it classic, with just enough zip and crunch to make it sing. It’s quick to grab, easy to love, and full of the kind of fresh flavor that keeps you coming back.
4. Mushroom Cigars
Not every mezze dish is a dip — and these delicate phyllo rolls are proof. Filled with seasoned mushrooms and baked until golden, mushroom cigars offer an earthy, savory bite with a crisp outer layer that practically shatters when you take a bite.
They’re tucked into our small plates menu as a quiet standout — perfect for pairing, sharing, or starting off the night with something a little unexpected.
5. Hummus Varieties
No list of vegan Mediterranean dishes would be complete without hummus. Rich in chickpeas and tahini, it’s a source of plant-powered protein and one of the most versatile dishes on the table — equally suited for dipping, spreading, or spooning over a salad.
At our place, hummus shows up in several forms — from the silky classic to seasonal twists — always drizzled, dressed, and served with plenty of pita. However you order it, it’s a grounding dish that ties the whole table together.
Explore the Best of the Vegetarian & Vegan Mediterranean Diet at 19 Cleveland
Whether you’re here for a full Mediterranean dinner or a light Mediterranean lunch, we’ve got plant-based options that celebrate flavor and creativity. Curious about what else is on the menu? Contact us to book a table or swing by our Nolita location for something fresh, warm, and unforgettable.