Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in East Village (10003)
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Mamoun's Falafel (East Village)
An East Village institution for classic, affordable falafel.
Notable Picks
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Late Night Legends
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A long-running East Village counter that delivers reliable, no-frills falafel and shawarma at student-friendly prices. The pita sandwiches are fast, well-seasoned, and built for late-night cravings. High review volume reflects steady quality over many years.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel sandwich, Chicken shawarma pita, Lentil soup
What makes it special: An East Village institution for classic, affordable falafel.
#2
Taboonette
8.3
A bright, counter-service offshoot of Taboon focused on taboon-oven pitas, shawarma, and sabich. The menu balances comfort and freshness—creamy hummus, crisp salads, and smoky meats show up with steady praise. Strong cross-platform review volume supports its reliability.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb shawarma pita, Sabich with eggplant, Cauliflower pita
What makes it special: Taboon-oven Israeli street fare with excellent throughput.
Worthy Picks
#3
Salma
7.9
A neighborhood Lebanese grill with a straightforward menu of charcoal skewers, house-made dips, and family-style platters. The cooking leans traditional—bright tabbouleh, garlicky toum, and well-seasoned shawarma. A cozy, low-key option that feels local rather than scene-driven.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mixed grill platter, Fattoush salad, Stuffed grape leaves
What makes it special: Charcoal Lebanese staples done simply and well.
#4
Fortuna
7.6
A newer kosher Middle Eastern spot mixing Israeli favorites with a polished neighborhood dining room. Think schnitzel and braised beef sandwiches alongside several hummus variations and seasonal salads. Good for a sit-down meal when you want something familiar but well-made.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken schnitzel pita, Shawarma platter, Classic hummus with pita
What makes it special: Kosher, dairy-free Mediterranean done with real care.