21 Best Falafel in New York City
Discover the vibrant world of "Falafel in NYC" as diverse food culture meets the classic Middle Eastern street food. From traditional hole-in-the-wall eateries to modern gourmet twists, Falafel in NYC offers a melting pot of flavors and experiences. Join the hype and savor the delight of crispy, herb-packed falafel balls that NYC has to offer.
- 1. Falafel Station - New York
- 2. NYC Falafel Co
- 3. Sam's Falafel Stand
- 4. Ba'al Cafe & Falafel
- 5. King Of Falafel & Shawarma Cart
- 6. Hummus Place
- 7. Mamoun's Falafel
- 8. taim mediterranean kitchen - West Village
- 9. Operation: Falafel
- 10. Moshe’s falafel
- 11. Batata
- 12. BZ Grill
- 13. Hazar Turkish Kebab
- 14. Manousheh Bleecker
- 15. King of Falafel & Shawarma
- 16. Sido Falafel & More
- 17. Shoo Shoo Nolita
- 18. Zooba
- 19. Tamam
- 20. The Hummus & Pita Co.
- 21. Rainbow Falafel
1. Falafel Station - New York

2. NYC Falafel Co
Offers vegan and gluten-free options

The restaurant is known for its great middle eastern fast food, including falafel, halal lamb gyros, and chicken gyros. They also have a fresh juice bar. One of the most popular items on the menu is the falafel plate, which customers describe as having a delicious crunchy exterior and soft stuffing.
The halal lamb gyros and chicken gyros are also highly recommended. The lamb gyros are made with tender, flavorful lamb that is grilled to perfection. The chicken gyros are equally delicious, made with juicy, well-seasoned chicken. To complement these dishes, the restaurant offers a fresh juice bar where customers can enjoy freshly squeezed juices.
3. Sam's Falafel Stand
Family-owned falafel stand with a long history

Sam's Falafel Stand is a popular destination for visitors seeking delicious food and friendly service. The falafel sandwich, priced at $8, is a customer favorite, while the falafel platter, available for $10, offers great value with its flavorful sides and sauces.
The falafel at Sam's Falafel Stand is consistently fresh, tasty, and generously portioned. Whether you opt for the sandwich or the platter, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable meal. It is highly recommended for those looking for a quick and delicious bite.
4. Ba'al Cafe & Falafel
Known for their famous falafel sandwiches and homemade hummus

The Ba'Al soup and falafel pita sandwich are two popular food items at a certain dining establishment, known for their delicious taste and high quality. The falafel, in particular, has received rave reviews for its satisfying crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. The pita bread served with the sandwich has been compared to that served at fine dining Mediterranean restaurants, and the kofta is praised for its flavorful seasoning.
Survey responders have noted the generous portions and excellent value provided by the restaurant. Additionally, they have commented on the attentive, speedy, and friendly service received during their visit. Overall, the dining experience at this establishment is a positive one, with delicious and fresh food at a great value.
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5. King Of Falafel & Shawarma Cart

The King of Falafel & Shawarma Cart, located at E 53rd St & Park Ave in New York, is a popular destination for those seeking delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including their best-selling Falafel Platter, which features an original blend of chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and secret spices. These ingredients are ground together and deep-fried in vegetable oil until they reach a golden-brown, oval shape.
Whether you're looking to dine in or grab something quick to go, the King of Falafel & Shawarma Cart is the perfect spot. The cart is open seven days a week, making it easy to stop by whenever you're in the mood for a tasty and satisfying meal. In addition to the Falafel Platter, the menu also includes other mouth-watering options such as shawarma, kebabs, and hummus. With its convenient location and delicious food, the King of Falafel & Shawarma Cart is a must-visit for anyone in the New York area.
6. Hummus Place
Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern twist

Hummus Place is renowned in New York City for serving exceptional fresh hummus. The hummus is made every two hours using high-quality ingredients, offering a budget-friendly, vegetarian meal option that promotes a healthy lifestyle. The menu includes various hummus and falafel options, with a recommendation for the fava hummus topped with hard-boiled eggs and whole wheat pita on the side.
Shakshouka, an easy dish to prepare, can be challenging to find well-made in restaurants. However, Hummus Place prepares a delicious shakshouka, which is another excellent choice from their menu. Overall, Hummus Place is an ideal restaurant for individuals who enjoy fresh, healthy, and vegetarian cuisine and is a must-visit destination for hummus lovers.
7. Mamoun's Falafel
Family-owned and operated since 1971, continuously serving classic falafel dishes

The falafel at this establishment is truly exceptional. Its crispy exterior and soft interior make for a delightful combination with each bite. When it comes to the falafel sandwiches, they do not disappoint. Customers rave about their freshness and delicious taste. The pita bread used in the sandwiches is grilled, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Another standout feature is the house-made tahini sauce, which is served hot. This sauce complements the falafel perfectly and further enhances the overall taste of the sandwich. The high ratings given to these falafel sandwiches are well-deserved, as they offer a satisfying and delicious meal option.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
8. taim mediterranean kitchen - West Village
A popular Mediterranean spot in the West Village with a warm and inviting ambiance

The review for the "Best Falafel in NYC" praises the establishment for its delicious and high-quality Mediterranean food, specifically its falafel. The reviewer, Derek W., gives the restaurant a high rating and states that it is ranked #66 out of 800 quick bite options in New York City. The location on Waverly Place in New York City is noted, along with the restaurant's category of quick bites, fast food, and Mediterranean cuisine.
The review highlights the falafel as the best option on the menu, and the restaurant's reputation for serving the best falafel in NYC is confirmed. The restaurant's contact information, including its phone number and website, are provided, making it easy for potential customers to find and try the food for themselves. The review is positive and encourages others to visit the restaurant for a satisfying and tasty meal.
9. Operation: Falafel
Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern twist

The stuffed falafel had a notable appearance with a generous covering of sesame seeds and added toppings of caramelized onions and sumac among the typical chickpea mixture. However, the texture of the falafel fell short, as the exterior was soft and chewy, lacking the desired crunch.
I visited for the first time and opted for a side of falafel with tahini. I found both the falafel and tahini to be exceptional, which is not a common experience for me. The tahini stood out with its exceptional flavor and texture.
10. Moshe’s falafel
Authentic Middle Eastern food in the heart of New York City

The sandwich in question is a large, satisfying meal, filled with crispy falafel, Israeli salad, pickles, fries, lettuce, tahini, and hot sauce. Its generous portion and diverse ingredients make it a popular choice among the many food carts offering ethnic cuisine at the corner of 46th Street and Sixth Avenue.
During lunchtime, this food cart is always bustling with activity, reflecting its reputation for swift and substantial service. The falafel sandwiches are a standout item on the menu, and if you're in the area and looking for a quick and delicious meal, it's definitely worth giving it a try. The combination of flavors and textures in the falafel sandwich is sure to leave a lasting impression.
11. Batata
Authentic Cuban cuisine in the heart of Brooklyn

Batata is a cozy Israeli cafe that offers a variety of delicious and fresh vegetarian options, with popular choices like the sweet potato falafel sandwich and hummus. We tried a mix of hummus, falafel salad, and falafel pitas, and all of them were tasty and fresh. However, the falafel pitas tended to fall apart easily, so diners should be careful.
The falafel salad and the hummus were both flavorful and well-seasoned. The sweet potato falafel was a unique and delicious twist on the traditional chickpea version. Although the pitas were a bit messy to eat, they were still enjoyable. Overall, Batata is a great spot for vegetarians and anyone looking for fresh and tasty Israeli cuisine.
12. BZ Grill
Family-owned gem in Queens serving authentic and delicious Mediterranean cuisine

The falafel appetizer ordered was not enjoyable due to its overcooked exterior and undercooked, gooey interior. The size of the falafel balls was also disappointingly small. The hummus served alongside the falafel was in short supply and lacked any distinct flavor. The pita bread was unremarkable and did not seem fresh.
The homemade falafel, which could have been a highlight, was a disappointment. The Mediterranean spices were not distinguishable, if present at all. The hummus was lacking in taste, and the pita bread failed to add any interest or freshness to the dish. Overall, the falafel dish did not live up to expectations in terms of flavor, texture, or presentation.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
13. Hazar Turkish Kebab
Authentic Hazar cuisine straight from Turkey

The falafel served was crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside, demonstrating excellent preparation. As part of a lunch special order, the falafel was accompanied by hummus and salad, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.
The hummus and salad served as excellent complements to the main dish of falafel. The lunch special provided a balanced and delicious experience, with the crispy exterior and soft interior of the falafel being particularly noteworthy. Overall, the meal was a clear success.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
14. Manousheh Bleecker
Family-owned and operated since 1997, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients

While exploring the bustling city of New York, I stumbled upon a fantastic falafel wrap shop. During my 9-day stay, it was the only place that included tax in the menu price and didn't pressure me into leaving a 20% tip. The falafel wrap I ordered was not only delicious but also incredibly fresh. Its authentic flavors delighted my taste buds and left me craving more.
Besides its affordability and avoidance of tipping pressure, this eatery offers a perfect portion size for their falafel wraps. The balance of ingredients was just right, making each bite enjoyable and satisfying. The quality of the wrap and ingredients used was exceptional for a casual dining option. Despite the many food options available in NYC, this falafel wrap stand out as a memorable and delightful experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
15. King of Falafel & Shawarma
A popular local joint with authentic Middle Eastern flavors

A falafel sandwich is a delicious vegan-friendly option, featuring Falafel balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, stuffed in warm, freshly baked pita bread. The sandwich is then filled with a house salad, typically consisting of lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes pickles, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory falafel. A drizzle of tahini sauce, made from sesame seeds, adds a rich and creamy finish to the dish.
The falafel in this sandwich is consistently outstanding, with a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to satisfy. The chickpeas are ground to the right consistency, ensuring that the falafel balls are not too dry or too moist. The spices used are well-balanced, providing a depth of flavor that is both savory and aromatic. Overall, the combination of fresh ingredients, well-prepared falafel, and delicious tahini sauce makes this sandwich a standout option for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
16. Sido Falafel & More
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine in the heart of New York City

The falafel at this location is a must-try: it boasts a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and delicious interior. The establishment is known for its fresh souvlaki sandwiches and falafel platters, making it a great spot for a quick and tasty meal. The staff is generous with their sauces and pita bread, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
In addition to their delicious falafel, this storefront offers fresh souvlaki sandwiches and hummus platters. Customers can expect generous portions of sauces and pita bread with their meals, enhancing the flavor and satisfaction of each dish. Whether you're in the mood for a sandwich or a platter, this establishment has got you covered with their high-quality and tasty offerings.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
17. Shoo Shoo Nolita
Offers a unique and charming atmosphere with a focus on healthy and delicious breakfast options

The falafel latkes offered at the event were a unique and delicious combination. These crispy, exterior coupled with a tender interior, provided a satisfying texture. The highlights of the menu included labneh, hummus, beef kebab, chicken shawarma, and vegetarian options such as falafel, salads, cauliflower, and eggplant.
The beef kebab and chicken shawarma were standouts. The beef was cooked to perfection and had a delightful smoky flavor, while the chicken was juicy and full of spices. Labneh and hummus were delicious dips that complemented the savory dishes well. The vegetarian options, like falafel, salads, cauliflower, and eggplant, provided a range of choices for those who prefer plant-based meals.
18. Zooba
A blend of MOBA and battle royale gameplay set in a zoo

Taameya is a popular dish in Egyptian cuisine, also known as Egyptian falafel. It is often considered to be one of the best falafel varieties available in New York City. The standout feature of Taameya is its green-colored interior, which is achieved by using fresh herbs and spices in the falafel mixture. The result is a delicious and flavorful bite that sets Taameya apart from other falafel varieties.
Baladi bread is a common vehicle for serving Taameya in Egypt. This type of bread is round, flat, and often has a pocket in the center, making it an ideal vessel for transporting falafel and other fillings. In New York City, Taameya can also be found served in traditional pita bread or on a plate with various accompaniments. Regardless of how it's served, Taameya is a tasty and satisfying dish that is sure to please anyone who tries it.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
19. Tamam
Delicious homemade Turkish cuisine in the heart of New York City

The $15.50 Falafel Platter was ordered with a request for a spicy version and it certainly met expectations. The platter consisted of crispy falafel patties, made from a delicious combination of ground chickpeas, garlic, and mixed herbs. Accompanying the falafel were quinoa, Israeli salad, hummus, warm chickpeas, pickles, and tahini, all served without pita bread. This meal was a 100% vegetarian option, perfect for those following a meat-free diet.
Being a Jewish establishment, it's no surprise that the falafel served here is absolutely delightful. During a previous visit, I tried the falafel with pita bread, and it was a fantastic combination. The white sauce and vegetables served with the falafel added a wonderful layer of complexity and flavor to the meal. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and filling vegetarian meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
20. The Hummus & Pita Co.
Offers a unique and authentic Mediterranean dining experience

The restaurant offers both brilliant falafel and an excellent selection of vegan options. The bowl is affordably priced and provides a generous amount of food, all while maintaining high-quality flavors and ingredients. The falafel could use a bit of improvement, as it was slightly over-fried and hard in texture.
Despite the falafel's flaws, the restaurant remains a viable option for quick and easy meals. The variety of veggies offered ensures a good meal with various options. Vegan customers can especially enjoy the wide array of plant-based dishes available. Although improvements to the falafel may be needed, it does not seem to deter potential repeat visits.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
21. Rainbow Falafel

The falafel sandwich is a standout option, but the pita bread could be improved as it tends to fall apart easily with the first bite. The prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal.
The restaurant offers a good variety of Middle Eastern eats, including both sweet and savory dishes. The falafel is not as exceptional as that of Mahmoun's, likely due to the falafel being not fresh and hot enough. However, the hummus has a nice garlic flavor and there is a wide selection of other Middle Eastern foods that look appetizing.