ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Heights Falafel
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
Heights Falafel is a tiny Brooklyn Heights counter long appreciated for quick, inexpensive falafel, shawarma, and stuffed pitas. It’s a no-frills operation where the appeal lies in warm bread, crisp chickpea fritters, and filling platters that make a reliable workday lunch or low-key takeout stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel sandwich with tahini and salads, Chicken shawarma platter over rice, Lentil or vegetable soup
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Counter-service falafel and shawarma that stay affordable and satisfying a short walk from the Promenade.
Who should go: Locals wanting fast, filling Middle Eastern under twenty dollars.
When to visit: Lunch rush and early dinner for the freshest turnover.
What to order: Falafel sandwich, chicken shawarma platter, a side of hummus.
Insider tip: Portions are generous—add an extra pita and share a platter instead of ordering two full meals.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive, especially after 5pm. Nearby garages on Montague Street are the safest bet.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, sneakers, workday attire all perfectly fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate — small space but usually quiet enough for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak, mainly for counter orders rather than seating.
Weekday lunch: 0–10 minutes most days, steady but fast-moving line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel sandwiches, platters, hummus, salads, and sides.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, salads, hummus, baba ghanoush, and most vegetable sides.
Gluten-free options: Limited — platters without pita can work, but cross-contact is likely.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable falafel and shawarma with no wait compared to sit-down Middle Eastern spots.
Consider Alternatives If: You want full table service, cocktails, or a relaxed linger-over-dinner experience.