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Kunafa shawarma in New York

You want a place that serves a reliable shawarma and follows it up with a proper kunafa.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy spot with a board game theme invites fun while you wait. Chicken shawarma shines with juicy, well-seasoned meat wrapped in soft pita. Kunafa delights with crispy texture and a pistachio topping that melts in your mouth.

Chicken shawarma stands out with juicy, well-seasoned meat wrapped in soft, fresh pita that tastes homemade. Shawarma over rice offers tender, aromatic flavors that make it a top choice.

Sweet and crispy with a crunchy pistachio topping, the kunafa melts in your mouth. Homemade from scratch, it balances sweetness and texture perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the falafel here to be the best I've had in NYC."

"The chicken shawarma here is authentic and incredibly fresh."

"I found the Kunafa dessert to be amazing and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours as food is made fresh.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

02
Laila Bayridge image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with beautiful decor featuring intricate patterns and traditional touches creates a quaint, comfortable setting. The atmosphere is fun and lively, often energized by live belly dancing performances on weekends. Music plays loudly, making conversation difficult during entertainment.

Chicken shawarma stands out with perfectly cooked meat and pairs well with fries. The meat shawarma offers an amazing flavor that complements other dishes like cauliflower and mixed grill.

Knafeh comes out with a perfect temperature and sweetness, not soaked in syrup, topped with pistachios. It melts in your mouth and offers a delicious finish to the meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is so authentic and fresh."

"The chicken shawarma here is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights like Christmas.

2

The belly dancer performs on Fridays and Saturdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Dinner and a show are offered on Friday nights, making it a special event.

03
Mum Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with lively Arabic music and spacious, comfortable seating. The setting is clean and elegant, welcoming a diverse crowd. The vibe balances classy decor with a neighborhood feel.

Lamb shawarma stands out as incredible and perfectly cooked. The chicken shawarma pita offers a magnificent and absolutely delicious flavor.

Fresh kunafa features a creamy khshta filling that stands out. The kunefe offers a sweet, rich taste that suits those with a sweet tooth.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and fresh."

"I thought the shawarma here was the best I've ever had."

"You have to try their fresh Kunafa, it's stuffed with delicious cream."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available, including custom menu options upon request.

2

Expect food to be ready in about 30 minutes, not the promised 15.

3

Takeout is available for all menu items, making it convenient for busy customers.

04
Mazzat image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean spot shines with perfectly seasoned lamb shawarma and homemade kunafa that balances sweet and savory. Cozy, airy vibe with inviting outdoor seating makes it ideal for date nights. Cocktails and soft music add a charming atmosphere.

Shaved lamb in the shawarma comes out done to perfection with very flavorful seasoning. The shawarma sandwich is tasty and pairs well with hummus and falafel.

Homemade kunafa offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It serves as a popular dessert choice alongside dishes like lamb and hummus.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the lamb dishes."

"The shawarma's shaved lamb was moist, tender, and done to perfection."

"You have to try the homemade Kunafa for dessert."

Good to know

1

The start of happy hour is at 3pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups, accommodating up to 26 people.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of options to accommodate dietary restrictions.

05
Hen House Nyc image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Compact Lebanese restaurant with loud eurodance music and bright fluorescent lighting creates a lively yet cozy atmosphere. Staff foster a family-like vibe that welcomes guests warmly despite the tight seating. The space feels clean and unassuming, suited for casual, chill dinners.

Chicken shawarma stands out with its massive size and delicious flavor. Lamb shawarma rates highly for its rich taste and comes in a satisfying platter option.

The kunafa pancake blends the taste and texture of knafeh with a blueberry pancake. It is thick, soft, and crispy, combining cheese and berries for a unique flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try the Mediterranean food, especially the Crunchwrap Supreme."

"The Crunchwrap Supreme stuffed with lamb shawarma had full-on flavor."

"The kunafa pancake is cakey, crispy, and a huge portion."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late night.

2

The Lebanese crunch wrap supreme is only offered late at night.

3

The price of the shawarma is $16.

06
al Badawi image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers live music and handmade pita baking visible from the bar, creating an authentic atmosphere with beautiful murals and unique earthenware. The vibe is warm and friendly, with comfortable seating and a BYOB policy. Some tables have curved wood edges, adding a distinctive touch to the dining setup.

Chicken shawarma comes in hefty portions with moist, flavorful meat and a wonderful yogurt sauce. The mix shawarma and flatbread also deliver strong, tasty flavors.

Baked cheese with syrup and chopped pistachios defines the Kunafa here, pairing well with Arab coffee. It takes about 35 minutes to arrive and serves as a sweet way to end the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and seasoned well."

"I loved the shawarma; it was amazing and delicious."

"I thought the Kunafa here was delicious."

Good to know

1

You need to make reservations to ensure you get a seat.

2

The restaurant is BYOB but they do not have wine glasses.

3

Make reservations to avoid long wait times.

07
Salma image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Small dining space offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere with a rustic, charming decor. Outdoor seating on a small terrace provides a comfortable option for warmer nights and allows dogs. The vibe feels like eating in Beirut, with a welcoming, family-like energy.

Lamb and chicken shawarma come as platter meals with crispy, hot fries. The lamb shawarma matches flavors found in Lebanon and pairs well with kibbeh and moutabal for a satisfying meal.

Knafeh here is light and not overly sweet, served with syrup on the side and a thin sesame bread. It pairs well with iced coffee and offers a different take from other versions.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and flavorful."

"Marcela was so kind and attentive with my shawarma."

"The Kunafa's cheese was so creamy and abundant."

Good to know

1

A reservation is a must due to the limited indoor area.

2

The restaurant is Halal.

3

The restaurant is BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle).

08
Boutros image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Open kitchen design offers an intimate view of chefs at work, enhancing the modern vibe with high ceilings and purposeful decor. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, suitable for date nights or family gatherings. Indoor and outdoor seating includes a full bar and an enclosed streetery, creating a friendly, relaxed setting.

Short rib shawarma stands out for its tender and evenly flavored meat, served on homemade pita bread. It often comes with pickled onions and Fresno chili, paired with creamy hummus for a rich taste.

The kunafa stands out with its Momโ€™s Knafeh dessert offering. It sometimes lacks the expected crispy texture but pairs well with other dishes like labneh and wagyu kebab.

People are saying

"The short rib hummus was the highlight of my meal."

"The short rib shawarma sandwich was amazing and full of taste."

"I highly recommend the kunafa dessert; it's a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates on a first come last served basis.

2

Everything is sold as small plates, and sides must be ordered separately.

3

The prices are high compared to the quantity served.

09
Mesiba image 1
Israeli restaurant

Beautiful, modern space with thoughtful interior design creates an intimate dining atmosphere. Background music ranges from lively to quiet, supporting conversation without overwhelming. Innovative cocktails and table side hummus preparation add unique touches to the Middle Eastern experience.

Mushroom shawarma offers an enjoyable texture and pairs well with cabbage and babaganoush appetizers. Frena bread and charred octopus also complement the shawarma options.

Warm knafeh features a crunchy outside and soft inside texture. It often prompts ordering a second serving due to its appealing taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious, especially the potato pancakes."

"You've got to try the mushroom shawarma; it has a great texture."

"The lamb neck here is incredible, fall-off-the-bone tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations at Mesiba should be made on Resy a few days in advance.

2

A 20% gratuity is added to every check without prior notice.

3

Each cocktail costs $18-$20.

10
Ayat Astoria image 1
Palestinian restaurant

Olive tree centerpiece creates an outdoor patio feel with Palestinian mural adding cultural depth. Warm, inviting atmosphere feels like dining at a friend's home, enhanced by live music. Space fills quickly, reflecting its popularity and lively energy.

Shawarma comes tender and flavorful, featured in platters like chicken shawarma and a unique pizzawarma fusion with halloumi, mozzarella, and creamy tahini sauce. It pairs well with sides like hummus and BBQ chicken.

Fresh kunafa comes hot out of the oven and tastes like the original Palestinian version. It often takes some time to get but serves as a happy ending to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and wonderfully seasoned."

"I found the cheese and watermelon salad to be phenomenal."

"The shawarma here is gorgeous, especially the tree in the center."

Good to know

1

There was a 30-minute wait to get seated during peak hours.

2

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking can be tricky as it's in a residential area.

11
Au Za'atar - Midtown East image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Outdoor and indoor spaces feature heated terraces and table-side shawarma burners that offer a unique dining experience. The atmosphere combines nostalgic Arabic music with a warm, inviting vibe, though noise levels can be high. The setting balances a fancy, renovated interior with casual, interactive elements like self-cooking stations.

Table side preparation makes the shawarma stand out with fresh, authentic flavors. The chicken shawarma tastes close to traditional versions and offers a spectacular experience.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and amazing."

"Alex's Shawarma presentation is an absolute show."

"The Kunafa's lamb was so tender and juicy, it melted my heart."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Expect some dishes to cost over $150, making it a pricey dining option.

3

Table side shawarma takes 30 to 60 minutes to serve, so order early.

12
Little Istanbul Restaurant image 1
Turkish restaurant

Small space with Byzantine Empire chandelier and authentic Turkish decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy spot in Turkey. Staff offer free tea with baklava while waiting, enhancing the welcoming vibe. Seating is limited to four tables, making it an intimate setting.

Chicken shawarma comes with a single long thin cucumber slice, some tomatoes, and crushed chips. Portions are small and not salty, with wraps made in fresh lavash.

Crisp pastry meets soft cheese in the Kunefe dessert, all drizzled with sweet syrup. It blends textures and tastes smoothly for a satisfying finish.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be flavorful and delicious."

"I thought the shawarma here was the best I'd ever tried."

"The Kunafa here is a delicious blend of crisp pastry, soft cheese, and sweet syrup."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 4 AM.

2

The restaurant is halal.

3

The price of the shawarma is $13.

13
Ayat Bushwick image 1
Palestinian restaurant

Palestinian restaurant offers a beautiful, thoughtfully designed space with an open wall to the outside that shapes its atmosphere. Live Arabic music plays throughout the evening, creating an enjoyable, vibrant vibe. The place fills with people who appreciate authentic Middle Eastern food and a lively, welcoming environment.

Shawarma here stands out for its perfect seasoning and variety, including chicken, beef, and kefta options. Plates often come mixed, pairing shawarma with falafel or salads, delivering a rich, flavorful experience.

Kunafa here has a Turkish taste rather than Palestinian. It stands out as a delicious dessert alongside other dishes, though some find it less authentic.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the traditional lamb."

"The chicken shawarma with extra garlic sauce was amazing."

"I thought the kunafa was delicious."

Good to know

1

Ayat Bushwick is a BYOB establishment, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

2

Live music is featured on Saturday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

3

The portions at Ayat Bushwick are generous, making it great for sharing.

14
Ayat East Village image 1
Palestinian restaurant

Palestinian restaurant with beautiful interior and Palestinian art murals creates an authentic vibe that transports guests. The atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, especially on busy weekends. Tables are close together and sometimes uneven, adding a rustic touch to the setting.

Chicken shawarma comes in a large platter with generous portions. The shawarma wrap stands out as fantastic and highly flavorful.

Kunafa takes 25 minutes to prepare. The dessert is brilliant when served.

People are saying

"The Palestinian food here is the most delicious I've ever tasted."

"I found the chicken shawarma platter delicious and so large."

"I found the Kunafa here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest days at the restaurant.

3

The menu includes a 20% gratuity for parties of 4 or more.

15
ilili NoMad image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Phoenician design resembling an ancient ship shapes a spacious, elegant setting with outdoor seating and a pleasant cocktail bar. Noisy atmosphere fills the space, lively and energetic, often crowded with large groups sharing dishes. Lebanese-inspired cocktails and exceptional food create a distinct dining experience.

Duck shawarma stands out with its flavorful and moist texture. The falafel shawarma also earns strong praise for its taste.

Freshly made kunafa takes about 20 minutes to prepare and features an inverted sweet cheese tart with a semolina crust. It comes with orange blossom syrup and sesame pita pillows for added flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with authentic and satisfying flavors."

"I tried the duck shawarma for the first time and it was delicious."

"The Kunafa here is authentic, indulgent, and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made in advance.

2

The restaurant hosts a lively Pride Drag Brunch every Sunday.

3

New Year's Eve includes a four-course meal with music and dancers.

16
Au Za'atar - East Village image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Warm, earthy colors and colorful mosaics create a cozy, authentic atmosphere with tight seating inside and on the sidewalk patio. Outdoor heated seating offers a pleasant option year-round. Lebanese music plays softly, enhancing the inviting vibe.

Table side shawarma offers a fun and interactive experience. The chicken shawarma stands out for its flavor, often served with a fries tower that complements the dish.

Classic Knafeh delivers a sweet, gooey texture that pairs well with a hot pot of tea. It meets expectations with a rich, satisfying flavor that complements the meal perfectly.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the kebabs, is so flavorful and satisfying."

"I thought the chicken and lamb shawarma here were delicious."

"I found the Kunafa to be tasty and very good."

Good to know

1

You need a reservation on a weekend to dine here.

2

Expect over 1 hour wait for chicken shawarma during busy times.

3

Portions are small; 2 chicken kababs cost $28.

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