+1 231-598-9303
Nawal's Mediterranean Grille, located at 14253 Northland Dr in Big Rapids, MI, is a captivating culinary destination that effortlessly transports diners to the vibrant shores of the Mediterranean. Specializing in authentic Mediterranean cuisine, this cozy restaurant offers a diverse menu that celebrates rich, bold flavors and fresh, handmade ingredients. Whether you're craving the tender, juicy Lamb Gyro or the comforting warmth of the Spicy Lentil Soup of the Day, every bite at Nawal’s promises an unforgettable taste experience.
The menu at Nawal's is a treasure trove of Mediterranean delights, featuring classics like the falafel wrap, stuffed grape leaves, and the award-winning chili that has garnered loyal fans. Vegetarians and vegans are beautifully accommodated with dishes like Mujadara, Koshary, and Ful Medames—each prepared with care, bursting with earthy, aromatic spices, and thoughtfully balanced textures. Not to be missed are the exquisite desserts, especially the baklava, praised repeatedly by guests as the best they've ever tasted.
Step inside, and you're instantly enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere accented by eclectic Mediterranean décor that evokes the charm and warmth of a seaside bazaar. The genuine hospitality shines brightest in Nawal herself, whose motherly warmth and engaging presence make every visit feel like a gathering of old friends. Diners frequently mention her attentiveness and the detailed guidance she offers, ensuring newcomers and regulars alike can navigate the enticing menu with ease.
Customer testimonials paint a vivid picture of what it’s like to dine at Nawal’s Mediterranean Grille: Patrick Cameron shares how the staff’s welcoming nature made a first-time visit feel like coming home, highlighting the “best gyro” he’s had in decades. Noah Elenbaas’s heartfelt praise conveys the depth of flavor and authenticity that defines each dish, stating that if he could eat here forever, he would do so gladly. Amanda Frye marvels at the variety and quality, especially the standout baklava and the saffron rice, while Jim Johnson emphasizes the fresh, handmade approach to every plate, particularly noting the ground lamb and overall authenticity.
Whether indulging in the Walnut Crusted Chicken, savoring a shawarma plate, or sharing a starter combo with friends, Nawal's Mediterranean Grille delivers consistently fresh, vibrant Mediterranean fare in a setting that feels both special and comforting. For those in Big Rapids seeking a culinary journey rich with tradition, flavor, and heartfelt hospitality, Nawal’s is a destination not to be missed.
For reservations or catering inquiries, call +1 231-598-9303 and prepare to embark on a truly memorable Mediterranean feast.
From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed and like we were regular customers (this was our first time). Excellent service, food was amazing. Best gyro I’ve had since I lived out East 25 years ago. Atmosphere is great. Cannot recommend highly enough. When we get back to Big Rapids, we’ll stop every time.
Everything about this place is amazing. Nawal is motherly, nurturing, and chatty. The food is flawless. Every single dish is delicious and authentic and immaculately flavored. I highly recommend the Moroccan chicken and the bread pudding. If I could only eat food here until I died, I would be more than happy. Honestly, I could die after eating here and have no regrets.
Nawal's Mediterranean Grill, tucked away in Bulldog Crossing, Big Rapids, is more than just a restaurant—it's a genuine culinary escape! Do not let its unassuming location fool you; step inside, and you are transported by the eclectic Mediterranean decor and warm ambiance. The greeting from Nawal (pronounced Noel), the owner, is a delight in itself. Her warm smile and detailed menu overview speak volumes about her passion. Every dish is a testament to authenticity: the ingredients are incredibly fresh, and everything is handmade, right down to the ground lamb. We were thoroughly impressed by the grape leaves and Greek salad, but the gyros were, without a doubt, the finest I have ever tasted. We even ordered extra grape leaves to go! To top off the experience, we were entertained by a talented young magician after our meal. I wholeheartedly recommend Nawal's and am already counting down to my next visit!
What a little gem of a place. The owner was so pleasant and our waitress was very good. We tried a lot of different things knowing we would bring some home and we were not disappointed. The food we tried was chicken gnocchi soup, spicy lentil soup, fattoush salad, chicken and lamb gyro, and saffron rice. Dessert was bread pudding and baklava. The baklava is hands down the best. I have had it over seas and several places in the U.S and this truly was the best baklava I have ever had.
Authentic and amazing! Nawal's Mediterranean Grill, situated in Bulldog Crossing, Big Rapids, is a hidden gem. The restaurant's eclectic Mediterranean decor establishes a genuine ambiance. One should not be misled by its unassuming appearance and location. The cuisine is exceptionally authentic, with fresh ingredients and handmade preparations, including the ground lamb. The owner, Nawal (pronounced Noel), welcomed us with a warm smile and provided a detailed overview of the menu. We selected the grape leaves, gyros, and Greek salad, all of which were delightful, with the gyros being the finest I have ever tasted. We also requested a couple of servings of grape leaves to go. Furthermore, we were entertained by a talented young magician following our meal. It goes without saying that I wholeheartedly recommend Nawal's Mediterranean Grill and eagerly looking forward to my next visit.
It was wonderful! The food was fantastic. We got the chicken shawarma, and the two specials, Moroccan chicken and lamb shank and all of them had great flavors that we will never forget. I also ordered peach and Hibiscus ice tea which I highly recommend. It tastes like vacation. Finally we finished the meal off with some baklava and bread pudding which were just as exquisite as the rest of the meal! To top it all off, the owner came and spoke to us and she was very kind and funny. Overall a 10/10 experience!
The staff was really friendly and the food was great. The portions were generous so I split them into two meals. It was a dish I would eat again because it was rich in protein.
Nawal’s Mediterranean Grille is absolutely fantastic! The food is incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the service is warm and welcoming. The highlight of my visit was definitely the hummus — it’s hands down the best I’ve ever had. Creamy, perfectly seasoned, and so delicious that I could’ve made a meal out of it alone. If you’re looking for authentic Mediterranean food done right, this place is a must-try!