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Habayit Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Habayit Restaurant
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Tiny, family-run Habayit turns out Israeli-style kosher plates, from herb-flecked chicken schnitzel to freshly fried falafel and shawarma, in a modest Pico Boulevard strip mall setting. Locals come for homestyle cooking, generous portions, and a rare kosher option on the Westside.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel plate, Chicken shawarma plate, Grilled schnitzel
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: One of the only kosher Israeli-style spots west of the 405 with homestyle cooking.
Who should go: Kosher diners and locals craving hearty Israeli comfort food
When to visit: Weeknight dinners when the tiny dining room is less packed
What to order: Falafel plate, chicken shawarma, grilled schnitzel with salads
Insider tip: Space is very tight, so call ahead for takeout during peak dinner hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but limited, especially after 6pm; meter spots on Pico or nearby side streets can fill up fast. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual attire is perfectly fine—jeans, shorts, and sneakers are all common for this neighborhood spot.
Noise level: Generally low to moderate—easy to hold a conversation, though it can get livelier during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a 10-20 minute wait, especially from 7pm onward; the dining room is small and fills quickly.
Weekday lunch: No wait typical; seating is usually available right away.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—there are solid vegetarian choices like falafel plates, salads, and egg dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—vegan options include falafel (order without yogurt sauces), salads, and select side dishes.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free options are available; plates like grilled meats and salads can be made gluten-free if you skip the pita.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s cozy and casual, best for low-key dates who appreciate homey vibes but may not suit those seeking a romantic or elegant atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Habayit does not take reservations; walk-ins are the norm, but expect brief waits at peak dinner times.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—families are frequent guests, kids’ portions are available, and the informal setting is ideal for children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Best for affordable Israeli kosher comfort food with generous portions—especially for casual family meals or solo dining.
Skip if: If you want an upscale setting or a broader Middle Eastern menu, pick a competitor with more ambiance and variety.