Best Upscale Shawarma in New York City | Top 1 Upscale Spots

26 restaurants in Best Upscale Shawarma in New York City | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• Miriam Street Food — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: Miriam Street Food captures the vibrant energy of a bustling Levantine market, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling shawarma and golden, herb-flecked falafel. Velvety swirls of hummus serve as a rich canvas for tender lamb and earthy mushrooms, while smoky babaganoush and tangy labneh invite guests to linger over warm pita and the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean.
• Nili — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: Nili invites guests into a sun-drenched, airy sanctuary where the vibrant aromas of zesty harissa and earthy chickpeas set the stage for a soulful, Mediterranean-inspired escape. The table becomes a canvas of texture and color, featuring velvety swirls of sweet potato hummus, smoky babaganoush, and golden-grilled halloumi tucked into artisanal bread for a dining experience that feels both effortlessly sophisticated and deeply comforting.
• Laila — Middle Eastern · rated 4.8/5: Laila transports diners to a vibrant oasis where the air is perfumed with the scent of smoldering charcoal and the bright tang of sumac and pomegranate. Guests linger over communal tables adorned with colorful mezze and glistening skewers, finding a warm sanctuary that celebrates the rich, aromatic tapestry of Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Manouche — Middle Eastern · rated 4.8/5: The air at Manouche is thick with the comforting scent of toasted spices and warm, blistered flatbreads emerging fresh from the glowing stone oven. Vibrant mezze plates bursting with citrusy sumac and smoky eggplant invite communal feasting, creating a soulful atmosphere where the rich, sun-drenched traditions of the Levant are celebrated in every bite.
• Miss Ada — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: Sun-drenched and soulful, this Fort Greene gem invites guests to linger over silky swirls of hummus and wood-fired plates that sing with the bright, bold spices of the Levant. The rustic-chic dining room and lush backyard garden hum with the energy of a communal feast, where traditional Israeli flavors are reimagined through a vibrant, seasonal lens. Every bite of smoke-kissed meat and pillowy pita captures the effortless warmth and artistry of a modern Mediterranean gathering.
• Shawarma Mia — Middle Eastern · rated 4.6/5: The air at Shawarma Mia is thick with the irresistible scent of slow-roasted meats turning on vertical spits, where every rotation coaxes out a perfect, savory caramelization. This bustling haven marries the zesty brightness of herb-flecked salads with the velvety richness of house-made tahini, offering a vibrant and soulful escape into the heart of Middle Eastern street food.
• Pahal Zan Kosher Falafel — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: The air at Pahal Zan is thick with the irresistible scent of sizzling chickpeas and warm spices, drawing guests into a vibrant space where golden, herb-flecked falafel spheres are tucked into pillowy pita pockets. Each bite offers a kaleidoscope of textures, from the zesty crunch of house-pickled vegetables to the velvety drizzle of tahini, capturing the sun-drenched essence of Middle Eastern street food. This soulful neighborhood destination brings together bustling energy and authentic flavors to create a dining experience that is both deeply comforting and vibrantly alive.
• Lebanese Eatery — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Lebanese Eatery invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and warm, pillowy flatbread pulled straight from the oven. Vibrant plates of citrus-bright tabbouleh and silky, olive oil-slicked hummus anchor a communal table where slow-roasted meats and charred vegetables celebrate the bold, soulful traditions of the Levant.
• Miriam Street Food — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: Miriam Street Food pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling Levantine market, where the intoxicating aroma of sizzling shawarma and toasted spices spills into the air. Velvety swirls of hummus and golden, herb-flecked falafel are served alongside pillowy flatbreads still warm from the oven, creating a sensory celebration of bold textures and bright, zesty flavors. This lively destination captures the sun-drenched soul of Middle Eastern hospitality, inviting guests to savor the rich, aromatic traditions of the region in every colorful bite.
• Taïm — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: The air at Taïm is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and fresh cilantro, drawing guests into a vibrant space where Middle Eastern street food is transformed into a colorful, sensory celebration. Golden, herb-flecked falafel offer a shatteringly crisp exterior that gives way to a tender, emerald-green center, perfectly complemented by swirls of velvety hummus and the bright, citrusy zing of pickled cabbage. Each pillowy pita becomes a vessel for a sun-drenched symphony of flavors, where cooling tahini and fiery harissa create a meal that feels both soulful and exhilaratingly fresh.
• Taboonette — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: The warm, nutty aroma of freshly baked pita wafts from the signature wood-fired oven, drawing guests into a vibrant space where Middle Eastern traditions are reimagined with modern flair. Each dish is a tapestry of bold textures and bright colors, from succulent slow-cooked meats to zesty, herb-laden salads that capture the sun-soaked essence of the Mediterranean in every bite.
• Mr. Broadway — Middle Eastern · rated 4.3/5: Located at 209 W 38th St in New York, Mr. Broadway is a contemporary kosher deli offering a diverse menu that includes sushi, American, and Mediterranean dishes. With a family-friendly atmosphere, the restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and a variety of desserts, including the highly recommended carrot cake. Open throughout the week (except Saturdays), it’s a great spot to enjoy delicious food and excellent service.
• Shmoné — Middle Eastern · rated 4.2/5: The air at Shmoné hums with the crackle of a wood-burning hearth, where the smoky essence of the charcoal grill meets the bright, zesty aromas of the Levantine coast. Guests are drawn into a lively, intimate space where seasonal ingredients are elevated through fire and spice, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of plates that celebrate the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of the Middle East.
• Pita & Beyond — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: This vibrant eatery serves as a culinary crossroads where the zesty spirit of Mexican street food harmonizes with the soul-warming traditions of the Mediterranean. Diners are invited to share a tapestry of flavors, from velvety hummus and smoky poblano queso to crispy flautas and golden calamari paired with a kick of chipotle aioli. The atmosphere is alive with a playful, eclectic energy, perfect for those seeking a spirited dining experience that celebrates bold ingredients and global fusion.
• Mamoun's Falafel — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: This legendary Greenwich Village landmark hums with the energy of a New York institution, where the air is thick with the savory scent of roasting shawarma and the irresistible crunch of golden, herb-packed falafel. Each signature sandwich—from the Macdougal to the Sullivan—is a masterclass in texture and spice, layering tender meats and vibrant toppings into warm pita for a soul-warming meal that captures the spirit of the city’s historic streets.
• Dar 525 — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across a vibrant, welcoming space where the air is thick with the fragrant steam of slow-cooked tagines and the savory sizzle of cumin-spiced shakshuka. Guests linger over colorful Mediterranean spreads and hearty Syrian egg bowls, savoring a menu that artfully bridges the gap between traditional Moroccan soul food and modern brunch favorites. From the golden, toasted crust of an egg and cheese sandwich to the aromatic depths of fish sayadia, every bite offers a soulful journey through the rich culinary landscapes of the Levant.
• Uncle Momo — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Uncle Momo invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the comforting aroma of toasted brioche mingles with the earthy fragrance of cumin and fresh herbs. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between Parisian bistro charm and vibrant Mediterranean soul, serving up everything from velvety eggs Benedict to jewel-toned beet moutabel and spiced Tunisian eggs. It is a lively neighborhood sanctuary where every plate feels like a celebration of bright flavors and warm, unhurried hospitality.
• Silvana — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Silvana pulses with a vibrant energy, where the enticing aroma of sizzling lamb shawarma mingles with the buttery scent of pastries fresh from the oven. Guests gather to share plates of velvety hummus and golden, crispy cauliflower, pairing these Mediterranean-inspired flavors with botanical cocktails or the comforting ritual of a French press coffee. This soulful neighborhood haunt offers a seamless blend of warmth and modern flair, inviting diners to linger from the first bite of herb-flecked falafel to the final sip of organic tea.
• Boutros — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: Vibrant plates of jewel-toned beets and crisp Lebanese crudité bring a burst of color to this stylish haven, where the air is perfumed with the warm scent of toasted spices and buttery pistachio croissants. The kitchen masterfully reimagines Levantine traditions, swirling silky miso-infused baba ganoush and savory short rib shawarma into artful bowls of hummus that invite guests to linger over a modern, soul-warming feast.
• Balade — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: This vibrant Levantine escape captures the spirit of a sun-drenched Mediterranean garden, where the air is perfumed with the bright tang of lemon and the earthy warmth of simmering lentils. Crisp, herb-heavy salads like zesty taboule and sumac-dusted fattoush provide a refreshing crunch against tender ribbons of savory shawarma and golden, seared halloumi. It is a sanctuary of wholesome, soulful flavors that blends rustic tradition with a light, contemporary touch, making every meal feel like a nourishing embrace.
• Duzan — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: The air at Duzan is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasting meats and warm spices, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the rhythmic slicing of succulent shawarma creates a lively culinary soundtrack. Velvety swirls of hummus and crisp, golden falafel anchor a menu that celebrates bold, traditional flavors, offering a soulful taste of the Levant tucked inside pillowy, hand-stretched pita.
• SyKo — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: SyKo invites diners into a vibrant world of Levantine flavors, where the table becomes a colorful canvas of velvety spreads and aromatic, hand-crafted small plates. Silky hummus and smoky baba ghanoush anchor a menu of shared delights, from the satisfying crunch of golden-fried kibbeh to the bright, zesty pop of herb-flecked grape leaves. It is a soulful destination that celebrates the art of the communal feast, offering a refreshing and authentic journey through Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Sheel Mashi — Indian · rated 3/5: Sheel Mashi pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern street-food sanctuary, where the intoxicating aroma of toasted spices and searing meats draws diners into a world of bold, handheld indulgence. Golden, crackling fried chicken and zesty tawook wraps share the stage with inventive "smash" burgers and pomegranate-kissed beef sandwiches, each bite offering a symphony of textures from crunchy to melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether diving into a spicy, sauce-drenched quesadilla or a classic shawarma wrap, guests discover a playful fusion of flavors that transforms casual dining into a spirited culinary adventure.
• Miriam — Middle Eastern: Sunlight dances across tables laden with the vibrant colors and bold aromas of a Middle Eastern morning, where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and fresh-baked breads. Sizzling pans of shakshuka and golden, flaky burekas invite guests to dip into silken yolks and zesty sauces, creating a communal feast that celebrates the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of a traditional Jerusalem breakfast. From the crisp crunch of latkes to the comforting, buttery layers of malawach, every plate offers a spirited journey through a rich culinary heritage in a space that feels both lively and deeply welcoming.
• Taïm — Middle Eastern: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a Mediterranean marketplace, filled with the irresistible aroma of spice-rubbed shawarma and golden, herb-flecked falafel frying to a perfect crunch. Pillowy pita pockets are stuffed to bursting with velvety hummus, smoky babaganoush, and tender cauliflower, all brightened by drizzles of zesty tahini and cooling tzatziki. It is a sensory journey where traditional street food is elevated through bold, sun-drenched flavors and the comforting warmth of a bustling neighborhood kitchen.
• Shawarma Shabazi — Middle Eastern: Stepping into Shawarma Shabazi feels like an invitation to a soulful feast, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of slow-roasted meats and the comforting steam of golden matzah ball soup. Crispy Moroccan cigars and savory lamb bourekas offer a delightful crunch before giving way to the main event: overflowing plates of succulent, spice-rubbed shawarma and tender prime beef brisket. It is a vibrant culinary crossroads where traditional Middle Eastern warmth meets bold, hearty flavors, creating a dining experience that is both deeply nostalgic and undeniably exciting.