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Lava Shawarma
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Lava Shawarma
7.7
A counter-service Middle Eastern/Mediterranean spot that works as a dependable Flatiron utility—fast plates, warm breads, and a menu that rewards simple choices. The move is to pick one shawarma plate or sandwich, then add one side for contrast rather than building a sprawling order. It’s especially strong for quick lunches and late-ish bites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma plate, Falafel pita sandwich, Koshari (when you want something different)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Fast, filling shawarma-and-falafel comfort with a counter-service pace.
Who should go: Solo lunches and quick takeout
When to visit: Weekday lunch or late evening
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate, falafel pita, koshari
Insider tip: One plate + one side is the sweet spot—skip over-stacking sandwiches.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive, especially after 6pm. Best reached via subway or rideshare.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sneakers, and workday attire all fit. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate — counter-service hum with steady foot traffic, but not overwhelming.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak times; faster turnover than sit-down spots.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of the 12:30–1:30pm rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel plates and vegetable-forward sides make it workable.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, hummus, salads, and koshari can be ordered fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited — plates without pita are possible, but cross-contamination is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it’s more of a quick, functional meal than a linger-and-talk setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with open seating, so just walk in and order.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who eat shawarma or falafel; limited seating and no kids-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Fast, satisfying Middle Eastern plates when you want flavor without a full sit-down commitment.
Skip if: You’re looking for a relaxed, sit-down Mediterranean meal or a date-night atmosphere.
Lava Shawarma
7.7
A Flatiron Middle Eastern counter-leaning spot that works best as a focused, one-plate mission—shawarma or falafel, plus one side for contrast. Keep the order simple and it delivers as a reliable lunch or late-ish bite without turning into a sprawling menu project.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma, Falafel pita sandwich, Koshari
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Fast shawarma-and-falafel comfort that rewards simple ordering.
Who should go: Solo lunches and quick takeout
When to visit: Weekday lunch or late evening
What to order: Chicken shawarma, falafel pita, koshari
Insider tip: One main + one side is the sweet spot—skip extra add-ons.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby but competitive during lunch and after 6pm. Garages within a few blocks are the safest bet.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sneakers, and workday basics all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — counter-service hum but generally easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak times, shorter if ordering to-go
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a brief line that moves quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — falafel pita/plate, sides, and several mezze-style options.
Vegan options: Yes — falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, salads; confirm sauces if strict.
Gluten-free options: Limited — protein plates without pita work, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a classic sit-down date, but solid for a low-pressure, quick bite if you’re keeping things casual.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in friendly with counter seating and fast turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who eat shawarma or falafel; no special amenities, but portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Fast, focused Middle Eastern comfort when you want one reliable plate without the chaos of a full-service restaurant.
Skip if: You’re looking for a long, social meal or a polished dining-room experience — better options nearby for lingering dinners.