ZipPicks Awards
Best French Fries in Bay Ridge
Master Critic Review
Laila Restaurant
7.9
Vibes:
Trendy Table Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Girls Night Out Approved
Instagram Worthy Wonders
A full-service Bay Ridge Middle Eastern room where fries show up as a real plate element—often as the side lane to shawarma and grilled mains. It’s strongest when you order with structure: one signature meat, one cold spread, and one fries-forward side to share.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma with fries, Batata-style spiced potatoes, Mixed grill with fries option
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A sit-down Middle Eastern meal where fries are part of the main rhythm.
Who should go: Groups who like shared plates
When to visit: Weeknights for calmer service
What to order: Chicken shawarma + fries, mixed grill, cold dips
Insider tip: Add exactly one fries side for the table—don’t double with extra rice.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; usually manageable on weeknights, tougher after 6:30pm on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but this is a polished room.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy at the table but the room has energy.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple mezze, salads, and vegetable-based plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—hummus, baba ghanoush, salads, and fries; confirm preparation details.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options available, but cross-contact is possible—ask staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you like shared plates—the room feels stylish without being overly formal, and the menu gives you easy ordering structure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? On weeknights, usually yes with a short wait; weekends are much smoother if you book ahead, especially for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens than toddlers—the space and menu skew adult, but families are welcome earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: A full sit-down Middle Eastern experience with shareable plates and a polished, social atmosphere.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quick shawarma stop or a quiet, low-energy dinner—counter-service or smaller cafes will fit better.