Sanaa's Gourmet Mediterranean

Sanaa's Gourmet Mediterranean on Phillips Avenue in downtown Sioux Falls brings the flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean to South Dakota with a genuine commitment to authenticity and quality. The menu reflects deep roots in Lebanese and broader Mediterranean culinary traditions. House-made hummus — silky, lemony, and finished with olive oil and a dusting of paprika — has become the dish most cited by local food writers and repeat visitors as the restaurant's defining achievement. Lamb shawarma, roasted on a vertical spit and carved to order, arrives wrapped or plated with rice, pickled vegetables, and garlic sauce, rivaling preparations found in larger American cities. The mezze platter is the best introduction for first-time visitors, offering a spread of dips, breads, olives, and small plates that covers the breadth of the menu in a single order. Fresh pita, baked in-house, accompanies most dishes. The dining room is welcoming and modestly decorated with Mediterranean-inspired colors and art, suitable for weekday lunches and more leisurely weekend dinners. The restaurant is BYOB-friendly and does not hold a liquor license, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious diners in Sioux Falls. Reservations are recommended for dinner on weekends.