Editors’ Choice (Tie)
Bar25 Newburyport
Owner Reza Rahmani, who immigrated from Iran as a child, draws upon his family’s recipes to craft contemporary shared plates rooted in Persian food. Like the “Street Fries”—a mashup of shawarma and French fries with thin strips of tender, long-marinated ribeye steak, dotted with shavings of Parmesan cheese and drizzled with a tzatziki-style sauce on top of a pile of crispy fries. We also love the Imperial Orb hummus—rich and slightly sweet, blended with goat cheese, walnuts, and a pomegranate reduction and served with house-made bread. Vegetarian mini shawarma, stuffed with eggplant falafel, are tasty, but carnivores are well served too, with steak, lamb, chicken, or shrimp. 38 State St., Newburyport, 978-255-3322, bar-25.com
Yella, Andover and Gloucester
The mix of North Shore meets North Lebanon in Yella power couple Danielle and Carlo Berdahn adds up to a deliciously fresh menu of Mediterranean favorites, enhanced with locally sourced ingredients and a dose of fresh fish. Think Fisherman’s Catch tacos, topped with tahini and pita flatbreads. We love the seasonal beach vibes at the Gloucester location just as much as the cozy ambiance in Andover—either way, you’re in good hands. 25 Western Ave., Gloucester, 978-491-5334; 16 Post Office Ave., Andover, 978-749-0011, yellagrille.com
Readers’ Choice
Adriatic Restaurant, Salem
The menu at this upscale spot tilts heavily toward Italian, with brick-oven flatbreads and risotto with shrimp—all made completely from scratch—keeping guests coming back for more. Readers also praise the friendly, and allergy-aware, service at this popular spot. 155 Washington St., Salem, 978-594-1832, adriaticrestaurantandbar.com