Mezeh Mediterranean Grill

Mezeh Mediterranean Grill is a fast-casual restaurant at 2900 Clarendon Boulevard in Arlington, Virginia, offering build-your-own Mediterranean bowls, wraps, and plates from a counter-service format that has earned a strong following among the area's lunch-hour workforce and transit-connected visitors. The Clarendon location sits directly above the Clarendon Metro station on the Orange and Silver lines, making it one of the most transit-accessible dining options in Northern Virginia and a natural stop for visitors arriving from downtown Washington, D.C. The menu is organized around mezze-style components prepared in-house daily: freshly made falafel, marinated chicken with harissa seasoning, slow-cooked lamb, hummus, tzatziki, tabbouleh, pickled vegetables, and a rotating selection of roasted seasonal vegetables, all assembled into bowls or wrapped in warm flatbread according to the guest's preference. The build-your-own format allows significant customization for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-conscious diners, making Mezeh one of the more diet-accommodating options in the Clarendon neighborhood. Unlike many fast-casual chains that rely on pre-made components, Mezeh prepares its proteins and sauces in-house, and the falafel — crispy on the exterior and herb-forward within — is consistently cited by regular customers as the kitchen's standout item. The harissa chicken delivers warming heat balanced by cool yogurt-based sauces. Portions are generous, with a standard bowl typically constituting a complete meal. Prices are among the lowest of any sit-down or counter-service option in Clarendon's busy dining corridor, making Mezeh a practical choice for budget-conscious visitors exploring Arlington National Cemetery, the Marine Corps War Memorial, or the Pentagon district nearby. The restaurant does not accept reservations and operates on a counter-service model; peak weekday lunch hours from noon to 1:00 PM see the longest queues.