al Badawi

- 151 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Al Badawi: Your Essential Destination for Authentic Middle Eastern Flavors in Brooklyn

For New Yorkers seeking a truly authentic and abundant Middle Eastern dining experience, look no further than Al Badawi on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn. Nestled in a neighborhood already celebrated for its culinary diversity, this restaurant has quickly become a local favorite and a must-visit for food lovers across the boroughs. Al Badawi specializes in the rich, comforting, and generously portioned cuisine of the Levant, with a particular focus on traditional Palestinian specialties that are often hard to find outside of the region. This is more than just a meal; it's an immersive cultural journey right here in the heart of Brooklyn.

The atmosphere at Al Badawi is vibrant, casual, and trendy, making it a perfect spot for any occasion, whether it’s a quick solo lunch or a lively dinner with a large group of friends. The restaurant is known for its thoughtful decorations and a colorful, inviting ambiance—though be prepared for a bustling, high-energy environment where conversation might compete with the background music. From the warm, attentive service that many patrons rave about to the sheer quality and freshness of the food, Al Badawi delivers an experience that is consistently highly recommended by the local NYC community and even travelers visiting from out of state. It stands out on Atlantic Avenue as a bastion of deeply flavorful, home-style Middle Eastern cooking, with massive portions designed for sharing and savoring.

Location and Accessibility

Al Badawi is conveniently situated at the Brooklyn address of 151 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA. This location places it squarely in the bustling area of Brooklyn Heights, an accessible and dynamic neighborhood that is easily reached from Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn. Atlantic Avenue is a major thoroughfare, and the restaurant's presence here makes it a central culinary anchor.

For those traveling by car, the location offers a mix of parking options, including free street parking and paid street parking nearby, though like most of New York City, street parking can sometimes be a challenge. The restaurant is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair accessible seating to accommodate all guests. Public transportation options are robust, as the area is well-served by multiple subway lines and bus routes, making it a quick and easy destination for New Yorkers anywhere in the city. The beautiful Brooklyn Heights setting also makes it an excellent starting point or culmination for an evening out exploring the neighborhood.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Enjoy the cozy and trendy atmosphere for lunch or dinner. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially for peak dinner times, as it is a popular spot with locals and tourists alike.
• Takeout: Easily order and pick up your meal for a delicious Middle Eastern feast at home.
• Delivery: For ultimate convenience, delivery services are available to bring the full Al Badawi menu right to your door.
• Catering: Al Badawi offers extensive catering services, perfect for hosting a large gathering or special event. The menu includes large-format traditional dishes like Mansaf Catering, Mashawy platters, and appetizer mixes like the Mezze Filistini Catering.
• Outdoor Seating: Enjoy your meal al fresco with the available outdoor seating, especially pleasant during the warmer New York months.
• Table Service: Full table service is provided, ensuring a comfortable and attentive dining experience.
• Menu Options: The menu is inclusive, featuring a wide range of choices including Halal food, healthy options, comfort food, and excellent vegetarian options.
• Beverages: A selection of alcohol, wine, and mocktails (such as the refreshing Limonana and Hibiscus Bliss) is available, along with various hot and cold drinks.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Palestinian Specialties: Al Badawi is highly praised for serving rarely seen Palestinian specialties. Must-try traditional, large-format dishes include Mansaf (a rich lamb stew with fermented yogurt sauce over rice and saj bread), Maklouba (slowly cooked chicken and vegetables layered with rice), and Fattat Lahma (a multi-layered dish of meat, rice, chickpeas, tahini, and crispy pita chips).
• The Wood-Fired Flatbreads: A standout feature is the variety of Middle Eastern Flatbreads, often described as 'pizza-like,' cooked fresh in the domed oven. Unique offerings include the Pistachio Flatbread (ground pistachio on a bed of mixed cheese) and Chicken & Zaatar.
• Extensive Appetizer Selection: The Mezze game is strong, with a large-format Mezze Filistini platter available, and individual favorites like Muhammarah (roasted red peppers and walnuts), Hummus, and Baba Ghanoush.
• Mashawy (Grilled Meats): The menu features a wide selection of grilled meats cooked to perfection, including Lamb Chops, various Kebabs (Chicken, Beef, Kefta, Lamb), and slow-cooked Lamb Shank.
• Seafood Offerings: The kitchen also offers a dedicated selection of fresh seafood, with options like Red Snapper, Salmon Kebab, and Shrimp Kebab.
• Atmosphere and Vibe: The restaurant is noted for its cozy, trendy, and casual ambiance, attracting a diverse crowd of groups, locals, and tourists. The decorations are colorful and vibrant, adding to the memorable dining experience.

Contact Information

Address: 151 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA

Phone: (718) 689-5888

Operating Hours: While operating hours can occasionally vary, the consistent schedule is a dependable guide for planning your visit to this Brooklyn gem.

• Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Note: Some sources indicate Monday is closed, but their website shows 11 AM - 10 PM. It is advisable to call ahead for Monday service.)
• Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

What is Worth Choosing

What truly sets Al Badawi apart in the crowded New York food scene is its commitment to both authenticity and generous hospitality. Patrons consistently praise the freshness, rich flavor, and high quality of the ingredients used across the expansive menu. When deciding what to choose, New Yorkers should focus on the restaurant’s traditional, large-format platters, as these are the heart of the Palestinian dining experience.

The Mansaf is a signature choice and an absolute must-try—the bone-in lamb with the tangy, fermented yogurt sauce over rice is a culinary experience you won't soon forget. Similarly, the Maklouba and Fattat Lahma represent an incredible value and a wonderful way to experience traditional Levantine home-style cooking, perfect for sharing among a group. These dishes are famous for being served in truly "super-enormous" sizes, ready to feed a family or a hungry party.

Beyond the main platters, the Middle Eastern Flatbreads are a revelation. The Pistachio and the 7 Cheese options are unique and deeply satisfying, baked fresh in their taboon oven. The Malfouf (stuffed cabbage leaves) and the Mezze Filistini platter are excellent choices for starting your meal, offering a vibrant mix of dips and appetizers. Don't overlook the Lamb Chops or Mixed Grill from the Mashawy section if you are craving perfectly grilled meats.

Finally, the dining experience at Al Badawi is a celebration of community. The casual, energetic environment is popular for large gatherings, and the commitment to serving authentic, delicious comfort food makes it a consistently top-rated Middle Eastern establishment in New York City. Whether you are a local or a visitor, choosing Al Badawi means choosing a taste of genuine, heartfelt Palestinian cuisine.

al Badawi

151 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA