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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Tea and kunafa

Made for those who pair the meditative warmth of tea with the indulgent, syrupy sweetness of warm kunafa.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
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Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy Mediterranean spot with a board game theme invites fun while you wait. Hot mint tea bursts with fresh, authentic flavor and pairs well with the relaxed vibe. Homemade kunafa shines with a crunchy pistachio topping and perfect sweetness.

Hot mint tea uses real mint and offers a fresh, authentic flavor. It pairs well with a relaxed setting featuring music and board games.

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."

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

"I should have tried the tea and baklava."

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
Istanbul Mediterranean Grill image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Turkish cuisine with handcrafted copperware and a warm, family atmosphere. The environment stays quiet and welcoming, featuring chill music and comfortable seating. It stands out for Halal, affordable dishes and classic hospitality.

Super friendly owners serve free Turkish tea while waiting. The house tea tastes great and feels refreshing.

Top phyllo crispness stands out in the kunefe. The rose flavor stays subtle, and the cheese balance feels just right.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, authentic, and incredibly flavorful."

"I was offered free Turkish tea while I waited."

"I considered the Kunafa to be some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves authentic Turkish dishes and desserts.

2

Baklava is sourced from Gaziantep, known for its quality.

3

The restaurant is Halal and maintains high cleanliness standards.

03
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.

Syrian floral tea stands out with its delicate, aromatic flavor. The organic Syrian tea pairs well with desserts like chocolate lava cake and pistachio gelato, offering a smooth, fragrant finish.

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 tea here is delicious and fresh, just like the food."

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.

04
Laza Dessert Cafe image 1
Dessert shop

Arabic-themed dessert shop offers a cozy atmosphere with a modern, welcoming vibe and an outdoor dining area. The space stays peaceful and chill, making it suitable for work or socializing without loud music. Known for exceptional kunafa, it draws a steady crowd appreciating fresh, high-quality desserts.

Adeni chai stands out as a distinctive tea here, often praised for its quality. Tea pairs well with desserts like crepes and lotusella, creating a solid combo for tea lovers.

The kunafa stands out with its Laza Special version, featuring a pistachio portion and a dreamy taste. The Okyway Special Kunafa Sandwich offers a unique twist that many find incredible.

People are saying

"I found the desserts here to be the best."

"I found the Kunafa here to be super delicious and melt-in-your-mouth good."

"I found the Adeni chai to be the best I have had."

Good to know

1

The price is affordable for most desserts.

2

Laza Dessert Cafe is popular for its knafeh.

3

The cafe offers a variety of sweet options.

05
Ali Baba Mediterranean & turkish Cuisine image 1

Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy authentic Turkish vibe with live jazz music enhancing a lively atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options with a spacious layout despite small tables. The setting combines warm decor that feels inviting and peaceful, suitable for relaxed dinners.

Authentic Turkish tea pairs well with desserts like kazandobi. Generous hospitality includes free refills and complimentary tea with baklava.

Homemade kunefe stands out with its rich flavor and authentic texture. It pairs well with other dishes like lahmacun and katmer, making it a notable dessert choice here.

People are saying

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

"The service here is so attentive and sweet, making tea time lovely."

"You must leave room for the homemade Kunafa."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a special rakฤฑ night every Friday.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Friday night.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups celebrating special occasions.

06
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.

Tea comes with fresh mint, adding a bright, aromatic touch. It pairs well with sweet treats like knafa and baklava.

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."

"I loved their mint tea, it was amazing."

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.

07
Riva Mediterranean & Turkish Cuisine image 1

Warm, inviting spot with authentic Turkish decor and soft music. Enjoy complimentary Turkish tea served with meals. Savor rich kunefe paired with creamy custard and free desserts like tres leches cake.

Complimentary Turkish tea arrives while waiting for meals or takeout. Staff often include free dessert and tea as a courtesy.

Kunefe comes with a rich, sweet texture that pairs well with the Turkish custard served alongside. Desserts also include complimentary tres leches cake and cheesecake.

People are saying

"The food here is high quality, fresh, and amazing."

"They offered complimentary tea while I waited."

"The Kunafa, with shredded phyllo and pistachios, was seriously good."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served daily from 8am to 4pm.

2

Expect longer wait times on Friday and Saturday nights.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:30 PM on Saturday.

08
Soul of Palestine NYC image 1
Palestinian restaurant

Palestinian restaurant with beautiful decor showcasing authentic art and culture creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The space is cozy and calm, attracting those seeking traditional vibes and genuine experiences.

Special tea with sage and mint tea stand out here. Maramya tea offers a unique flavor alongside traditional options.

Knafeh here is absolutely delicious and not overly sweet. It stands out as a must-try dessert to finish a meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes just like home."

"I enjoyed the special tea with sage."

"You have to try the Kunafa; it's delicious without being too sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers a special lunch menu with discounted prices from 11am to 3pm.

3

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours on weekends.

09
NAR Modern Turkish Cuisine image 1
Turkish restaurant

Turkish restaurant with modern decor featuring sea blue banquettes and whitewashed wood. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a hip jazzy soundtrack and thoughtful details inspired by Rumi. Cocktails stand out alongside authentic Turkish cuisine praised for quality and flavor.

Complimentary Turkish tea comes with desserts and gets refilled. It tastes just like the tea served in Turkey, pairing well with sweets like kazandibi topped with cinnamon.

Kunefe stands out as a highlight among desserts here. It pairs well with savory dishes like the Nar kebab and is worth trying before you leave.

People are saying

"You have to try the Nar Kebab; it's so flavorful and delicious."

"The Turkish tea here is fantastic, just like in Turkey."

"I thought the Kunafa here was excellent and perfectly executed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect small portion sizes, so plan to order multiple dishes.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with a bill of $600 for four people.

10
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.

Tea comes served in cute rose teacups with beautifully painted ceramic plates. The tea tastes delicious and is offered generously throughout the visit.

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."

"The hot tea was perfect for the cold weather."

"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).

11
Akdeniz Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a warm and friendly atmosphere with authentic Turkish decor and a spacious layout that avoids typical city crowding. The environment is lively and often loud, making it unsuitable for quiet conversations. A well-stocked bar complements the setting with a variety of drinks.

Complimentary tea follows dinner, often served hot and fresh. Turkish tea pairs well with desserts like kunefe, baklava, and kazandibi.

Crunchy texture and warmth straight from the oven define the kunafa here. It pairs well with fresh Turkish tea and stands out as a satisfying dessert option.

People are saying

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

"The Turkish tea here is the best I've ever had."

"The kunafa was delicious, warm, and perfectly crunchy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 22:00 with a buy one get one free offer.

2

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

A party of 6 has to pay a 20% gratuity automatically.

12
Aseer Juice Time - Papa Kanafa image 1

Bright, spacious interior with colorful decor and a family-only section creates a welcoming atmosphere. Clean, newly renovated space hosts a lively crowd enjoying varied desserts and fresh juices. The vibe balances casual comfort with a touch of artistic flair in wall art and design.

Sweet and karak tea stand out here, with a rich, bold flavor. The Milky kunafa tea offers a unique, creamy sweetness unlike typical sweet teas.

Milky kunafa tea stands out as a sweet tea option. The kunafa comes in varieties like chess kunafa and a Dubai Strawberry Cup with pistachio and milk chocolate. Some kunafa can be burnt.

People are saying

"The Dubai chocolate here is amazing, especially the pistachio flavor."

"Basher gave me the best service and a sample of Adeni chai."

"I believed this was the best kunafa."

Good to know

1

The price of the Dubai chocolate puffs and Banana Milk is $11 each.

2

The menu has no descriptions of what youโ€™re ordering.

3

There is a family-only section available.

13
Zara Forest Grill image 1
Turkish restaurant

Turkish restaurant with authentic decor and spacious seating offers a welcoming atmosphere enhanced by live traditional singing during celebrations. Dimmed lights and Turkish music create a lively yet comfortable vibe. The place suits various occasions, from business lunches to family gatherings.

Turkish tea stands out with its rich flavor and freshness. It pairs well with dishes like Menemen and enhances the joyful atmosphere during celebrations.

Dinner often ends with kunefe, a Turkish sweet cheese dessert. It comes with a scoop of ice cream on top and pairs well with Turkish tea.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has great flavor."

"The Turkish tea here is ideal with the flavorful Menemen."

"I always ordered the kunefe, couldn't resist it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday nights and after 5 PM.

2

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

3

The restaurant charges a 3% fee for credit card payments.

14
Tanoreen image 1
Palestinian restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers beautiful decor and a welcoming atmosphere with festive decorations and a lovely outdoor seating area. The space feels clean and warm but can be noisy during dinner. The bar features notable cocktails alongside a menu praised for exceptional Arabic dishes.

Mint tea stands out as a refreshing choice often enjoyed after dinner. It pairs well with baklava, making for a great dessert combo.

Cheese kunafa stands out with its rich, creamy texture and indescribably delicious flavor. This dish pairs well with other traditional items like fatteh and Mansaf.

People are saying

"The vegan combo is a 10/10, with tons of options."

"You have to get the Kunafa; it's the best we ever had."

"I might get the kibbie again, but thatโ€™s about it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like restaurant week.

2

Expect large portion sizes; consider ordering family style to share.

3

They charge extra for credit card payments, so bring cash if possible.

15
Cafe Mogador image 1
Moroccan restaurant

Moroccan restaurant with cozy lantern-lit ambiance and stylish indoor and outdoor seating creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. The space feels breathtaking and well decorated, though tables are somewhat tight. Music featuring artists like Sade adds to the pleasant vibe while noise can rise when busy.

Moroccan mint tea stands out with its comforting flavor and authentic preparation. It pairs well with spices and tagines, making it a frequent choice for those seeking a true taste experience.

Soft cheese base soaked with rose water creates a distinct flavor. Topped with pistachios, the knafeh offers a rich, sweet taste.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"You should try the mint tea; it's comforting and flavorful."

"I found the Kunafa here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

You need a reservation or patience if you visit during peak times.

2

Expect about 20 minutes wait for a table on Friday nights.

3

On weekends and Friday evenings, the street becomes car-free.

16
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.

Strong and flavorful Turkish tea comes free and unlimited with meals. Staff offers fresh refills and attentive service without needing to be asked.

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 found the food to be authentic, full of delicious Turkish flavor."

"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.

17
MOKAFร‰ image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers cozy atmosphere with stylish Middle Eastern design and multiple seating options including a quiet work space. Music selection enhances the vibe while fast WiFi and many outlets support remote work. Outdoor area and prayer spaces add to the welcoming environment.

Specialty drinks like the matcha latte and signature iced tea stand out. The Adeni chai offers a sweet, perfectly balanced flavor, alongside an incredible iced Yemeni latte.

Offers a pistachio cream knafe and a Knafeh dark chocolate bar with a perfect balance of creamy dark chocolate and knafeh flavor. The kunafa chocolate is deliciously crunchy and not too sweet, with options like Kunafa Cheesecake and croissants filled with the same flavorful knafeh chocolate.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious coffee here."

"The staff here is so friendly and accommodating with your tea."

"The Kunafa chocolate is deliciously crunchy and not too sweet."

Good to know

1

The cafe has wifi and is WFH/study-friendly.

2

They stop serving sandwiches after 5 PM.

3

The coffee shop is open until 11 PM.

18
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.

Mint tea offers a refreshing aroma and an invigorating flavor. Hot mint tea serves as a great way to warm up, and the tea overall is consistently amazing.

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 highly recommend the mint tea, it's a great way to warm up."

"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.

19
Lokum Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar image 1

Mediterranean restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere with live music and belly dancing that create an exotic and lively vibe. Stylish decor and a bay view terrace add to the cozy yet elegant setting. The space supports both dining and dancing, attracting guests who enjoy vibrant entertainment.

Tea comes with desserts and a chance to enjoy jazz music in the background. The setting pairs well with the flavors and atmosphere.

Turkish Kunefe offers a delightful, sweet finish. The Kunefe dessert pairs well with the rich Dubai cake for a satisfying end to the meal.

People are saying

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

"The Kunafa here is amazing, the staff truly made the experience special."

"I enjoyed the delicious tea and food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for hosting events to ensure availability.

2

Live music occurs from Thursday to Sunday, enhancing the dining experience.

3

The bar stays open until 2am, perfect for late-night gatherings.

20
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.

Zaโ€™atar mint tea stands out as delicious and refreshing. Mint tea also offers a really worth it flavor. Overall, the tea is amazing.

People are saying

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

"The tea here is so flavorful and delicious."

"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.

21
Turkuaz Halal Turkish Mediterranean image 1

Rustic interior decorated with Turkish ornaments creates an authentic Mediterranean dining space. Warm, quiet atmosphere supports conversation while live Turkish music adds cultural energy. Spacious seating includes semi-private areas and outdoor options, welcoming groups and families.

Complimentary Turkish tea comes with meals, reflecting the restaurant's import of tea from Turkiye. The menu includes brewed tea alongside drinks like Ayran and desserts such as baked rice pudding.

Kunefe stands out for its rich flavor and perfect texture. It arrives beautifully presented and tastes even better than it looks, making it a memorable dessert choice.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The Turkish food here is very good, especially the kebabs."

"I loved the flavorful lentil soup and tasty cheese pastries."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the 'Night of Nations' event due to high demand.

2

A grill plate for two people with appetizers costs $200.

3

You can only tip in cash at Turkuaz.

22
Opera Cafe Lounge image 1
Turkish restaurant

Mediterranean-style restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a friendly, comfortable atmosphere suited for evening visits. The space feels large and clean with well-decorated interiors and a pleasant outdoor patio for warm days.

Strong Turkish tea pairs well with fresh warm bread and desserts. The tea complements the meal and enhances the overall experience.

Kunafa here stands out for its extreme richness and unique flavor. It ranks as a superior dessert alongside other Middle Eastern sweets and cheesecakes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh, especially the lamb chops."

"I loved the Turkish tea and flavorful lahmacun."

"The Kunafa here is amazing and unlike anything I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

2

The restaurant charges a 3% fee on the bill for using a credit card.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak evening hours.

23
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.

Strong black tea and fragrant mint tea stand out here. The lemonade mint tea offers a fresh twist, perfectly balancing bold flavors.

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."

"You have to try the mint tea; it's so fragrant and sweet."

"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.

24
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.

Hot tea stands out with options like mint tea that offer fresh, vibrant flavors. The menu includes divine teas alongside delicious mocktails, making tea a key part of the 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."

"I thought the kunafa was delicious."

"I loved the mint tea; it was amazing."

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.

25
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.

Tea here features real raw sage and fresh mint, served hot in pots that pair well with meals. The mint tea stands out as a refreshing finish, often surprising with its depth of flavor.

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."

"The tea here is wonderfully flavorful and 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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