Aj's Mediterranean

Walking into Aj's Mediterranean for the first time, the smell of grilled meats, warm pita, and olive oil hits you before you even glance at the menu. I stopped by during a busy lunch hour while driving through 1025 Century Dr, Edwardsville, IL 62025, United States, and the place felt like a neighborhood staple rather than a stop-you-once-and-forget-it diner. People clearly knew what they wanted, which is always a good sign, and the staff moved with the kind of rhythm that only comes from experience.

The menu leans confidently into Mediterranean comfort food, offering classics like shawarma, falafel, hummus, gyros, and fresh salads layered with herbs and citrus. From my own experience working with food-focused projects, consistency matters more than flashy presentation, and that’s where this spot quietly excels. The chicken shawarma I ordered had clearly been marinated overnight, a method commonly used across Middle Eastern kitchens to allow spices like cumin and coriander to fully penetrate the meat. You taste that patience in every bite. The garlic sauce wasn’t overpowering either, which tells me they balance oil and emulsification carefully instead of masking flavor with fat.

Mediterranean cuisine often gets praised for being both hearty and health-forward, and that reputation is backed by research. Studies published by organizations like the American Heart Association link Mediterranean-style diets to lower risks of heart disease, largely due to ingredients such as olive oil, legumes, vegetables, and lean proteins. You see those elements reflected across the menu here, especially in the vegetarian options. I watched a customer next to me order falafel with tabbouleh and lentil soup, mentioning it’s their regular weekday lunch because it fills them up without that afternoon slump.

What really stands out is how the kitchen handles volume without sacrificing quality. During my visit, online orders and dine-in guests overlapped nonstop, yet plates came out fresh and neatly assembled. That suggests strong prep systems behind the scenes, from daily chopping of vegetables to portioned proteins ready for the grill. In professional kitchens, that kind of workflow reduces waste and keeps flavors consistent, something casual diners may not notice but always appreciate.

Reviews around Edwardsville frequently mention generous portions, and that’s accurate. One platter can easily stretch into two meals, which adds to the value without feeling excessive. A family at the next table shared a mix of gyros and appetizers, and I overheard them debating whose hummus was best while tearing into warm bread. Moments like that give the place a relaxed, communal vibe that feels true to Mediterranean dining traditions.

Location-wise, being set along Century Drive makes it convenient for both locals and travelers passing through town. Parking is straightforward, and the interior is clean without trying too hard to look trendy. There’s an honesty to the setup that matches the food. While the restaurant doesn’t claim to reinvent Mediterranean cuisine, it doesn’t need to. Instead, it focuses on doing the fundamentals right, which aligns with how traditional eateries in the region build loyal followings.

One thing worth noting is that peak hours can mean a short wait, especially on weekends. That’s not a flaw so much as a sign of demand, but if you’re in a rush, ordering ahead helps. Based on my visit and what long-time customers shared, this place works best when you slow down just a bit and enjoy the food the way it’s meant to be eaten-unrushed, flavorful, and shared.