0 Followers
Ayola
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Ayola
8.1
Greek fast-casual spot turning out gyros, shawarma, and crisp falafel with a few sidewalk tables for quick al fresco lunches. Reliable portions and speedy service make it a downtown staple for light Mediterranean bowls and pitas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gyros Pita Sandwich, Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Falafel Plate with Hummus
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Downtown Greek go-to with quick counter service and outdoor seating.
Who should go: Office lunchers and salad-bowl fans
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:00 for fresh turnover
What to order: Gyros pita, chicken shawarma bowl, falafel with hummus
Insider tip: Ask for extra tzatziki and add fries to the pita.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking on Kearny; best to walk or use nearby garages on Sutter or Bush.
Dress code: Casual—office wear or everyday attire fits perfectly.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush; quiets down mid-afternoon.
Weekend wait: Closed weekends, so no dinner rush.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak hours; otherwise minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel, hummus plates, and salads are reliable options.
Vegan options: Limited—falafel and veggie sides work, but sauces often contain dairy.
Gluten-free options: Partial—bowls are safe, but pitas and wraps contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more of a quick, casual lunch spot than a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-up only with a few sidewalk tables that turn over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; simple menu and quick service, but limited seating and no high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Fast, consistent Greek fare with generous portions and quick turnaround downtown.
Skip if: You’re seeking a leisurely sit-down meal or upscale Mediterranean ambiance.
Ayola
7.7
Local Greek counter turning out gyros, falafel, and rice bowls with speedy service and generous portions. A reliable, wallet-friendly stop near Union Square and FiDi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gyros platter, Falafel pita sandwich, Chicken shawarma rice bowl
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Greek fast-casual staples done quickly with good portion value.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners near FiDi & Union Square
When to visit: Early lunch 11:00–11:45 for minimal wait
What to order: Gyros platter; falafel pita; shawarma bowl
Insider tip: Add fries inside the pita ‘Greek-style’ for extra crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce during weekday hours; nearby paid garages like the Sutter-Stockton Garage are your best bet within a 5-minute walk.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are from the office or a quick downtown errand.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from takeout orders and lunch chatter, but easy enough for short conversations.
Weekend wait: Closed evenings; no dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Short lines form between noon and 12:45, otherwise quick grab-and-go.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel, hummus, and veggie plates are reliable vegetarian staples.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—falafel plate and salad bowls can be made vegan if you skip sauces containing yogurt.
Gluten-free options: Some items like rice bowls are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's counter-service and casual, better suited for a quick bite than a sit-down date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-in only; tables turn fast at lunch, and most guests order to-go.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who like Mediterranean food; seating is limited and tight, so not ideal for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper, and heartier portions than nearby FiDi Mediterranean counters.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for ambiance, cocktails, or a leisurely sit-down meal—this is quick, practical fare.