21 Best Falafel In New York City

Nathan Jahnke

2 min read

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31-12-2024

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New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts a vibrant Middle Eastern food scene, and within it, a fiercely competitive falafel market. Finding the perfect falafel can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but fear not! We've compiled a list of 21 of the best falafel spots in the city that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. This list is based on extensive research, including reviews from food critics, online ratings, and, of course, personal experience.

It's important to note that "best" is subjective, and preferences vary widely. Some prefer a crispier falafel, while others favor a softer texture. Some prioritize the hummus, while others focus on the pita bread. This list aims to provide a diverse range of options, catering to different tastes and budgets.

From Classic to Creative: A Falafel Journey Across NYC

This selection covers diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the quieter corners of Brooklyn and beyond. Whether you're craving a quick, affordable lunch or a more refined dining experience, you'll find something to love on this list.

We've categorized the entries to help you navigate:

Manhattan Marvels

1. Taïm: Known for its innovative falafel preparations and vibrant atmosphere. Expect lines, but the wait is worth it.
2. Mamoun's Falafel: A classic NYC institution, Mamoun's offers consistently good falafel at a great price.
3. The Halal Guys: While not solely a falafel spot, their falafel is a delicious addition to their already famous cart offerings.
4. Hummus & Pita Co.: A solid choice for reliably good falafel, especially if you're looking for something quick and easy.
5. Miznon: This Israeli restaurant offers a more upscale falafel experience, focusing on quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

Brooklyn Bites

6. L'chaim: A popular spot in Williamsburg, known for its excellent falafel and lively atmosphere.
7. Tanoreen: This acclaimed restaurant offers a more elevated approach to Middle Eastern cuisine, featuring beautifully crafted falafel.
8. Halal King: Often cited for its enormous and exceptionally tasty portions.
9. Shahrazad: Known for its authentic Lebanese flavors and excellent falafel.
10. Seven Grand: Not exclusively a falafel restaurant but their falafel is frequently praised.

Beyond the Boroughs

11. Baita: (Queens) This spot offers a modern take on falafel, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
12. Mocha Bleu: (Queens) A cozy spot with consistently good falafel and a friendly atmosphere.
13. Nourish Kitchen: (Queens) Emphasizes healthy, organic ingredients, offering a delicious and guilt-free falafel option.

Hidden Gems & Honorable Mentions

14. King Falafel: A consistent performer, often praised for generous portions.
15. Falafel King: Another strong contender in the falafel arena.
16. Saffron Indian Bistro: While primarily Indian, their falafel is surprisingly good and warrants a mention.
17. Naya: High quality, inventive dishes, with falafel as a tasty highlight.
18. Yemen Cafe: A great option for trying Yemenite cuisine and their unique falafel.
19. Los Tacos No. 1: Again, not a falafel specialist, but their falafel is worth a try.
20. Sweets and Falafel: A popular spot, often lauded for its sweet treats and, of course, falafel.
21. Maman: A bakery/restaurant with a very popular falafel sandwich.

Note: This list is not exhaustive, and many other excellent falafel spots exist throughout New York City. This is simply a starting point for your falafel adventure. Be sure to explore, experiment, and discover your own personal favorite! Enjoy!