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NAYA
Master Critic Review
NAYA
8.4
NAYA’s 44th & 3rd location is a high-volume Lebanese fast-casual spot where office crowds build their own bowls, rolls, and salads with shawarma, falafel, and hummus. Consistently strong multi-platform reviews highlight fresh ingredients, reliable execution, and quick throughput at peak lunch hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Falafel Bowl, Hummus with Garlic Whip
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Fast-casual Lebanese spot building customizable shawarma, falafel, and hummus bowls.
Who should go: Office workers craving fast customizable Middle Eastern bowls at lunch.
When to visit: Weekday lunch rush or early dinner before the commuter crowds.
What to order: Chicken shawarma bowl, falafel bowl, extra garlic whip and hummus.
Insider tip: Ask for extra pickled turnips and toum to brighten bowls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Turtle Bay, especially on weekdays; rely on nearby garages along 3rd Ave and 2nd Ave.
Dress code: Casual and office-wear friendly; anything from work attire to athleisure fits in.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush with steady counter traffic; quieter mid-afternoon and early evening.
Weekend wait: Minimal waits; typically 0–10 minutes since it’s a fast-casual format.
Weekday lunch: Expect 5–10 minutes in line during peak office hours, but service moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — falafel, hummus, salads, and many mezze-style toppings are vegetarian.
Vegan options: Good options — falafel, many toppings, and build-your-own bowls can be fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Most bowls and salads can be made gluten-free; avoid wraps and confirm sauces if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it’s fast-casual with counter ordering and quick turnover, better suited for a casual meet-up than a date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations aren’t used; seating is first-come with high turnover, especially after the lunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy customizable bowls; no dedicated kids’ menu, but the format is simple and quick.
Best For
Better for: Faster throughput, lighter and healthier builds, and fresher-feeling toppings than many Midtown fast-casual peers.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal, slower pace, or a more traditional Lebanese dining experience with table service.