Albadawi: Authentic Palestinian and Middle Eastern Cuisine on the Upper East Side

albadawi Introduce

Experience a true taste of the Middle East at albadawi, a restaurant that brings authentic Palestinian and Middle Eastern cuisine to the heart of the Upper East Side. This establishment is more than just a place to eat; it's a culinary journey that introduces diners to the rich, vibrant flavors of Palestine. Albadawi stands out for its commitment to traditional recipes and warm hospitality, creating a dining experience that feels both genuine and welcoming. The atmosphere is casual yet trendy, with a cozy feel that makes it an ideal spot for an intimate dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

Albadawi is dedicated to providing a high-quality and memorable meal, whether you're a connoisseur of Middle Eastern food or trying it for the first time. The menu is a celebration of Palestinian culture and cuisine, featuring a wide array of dishes from appetizers to traditional platters. As one review noted, "Palestinian food is incredible and this is a great place to try it." The restaurant's popularity is built on signature dishes like the incredibly fresh and flavorful hummus, which a customer declared "the best hummus I have ever had in my life." This focus on authentic, high-quality ingredients is evident in every dish, from the savory grilled meats to the fragrant rice platters.

The restaurant also serves as a great introduction to the rich and diverse world of Palestinian flavors. While some flavors might be new to diners, the staff, like Jonathan, are known for their exceptional service and willingness to guide guests through the menu. This combination of delicious food and personal service makes albadawi a true gem in the New York dining scene.

---

Location and Accessibility

Albadawi is located at 1725 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128, a prime location in the bustling Upper East Side. The restaurant's position on a major avenue makes it a convenient and visible destination for anyone in the neighborhood. The area is a vibrant mix of residential buildings and commercial establishments, offering a lively backdrop for a unique dining experience.

Accessibility is a key priority for albadawi. The restaurant offers a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a comfortable and accommodating dining experience. For those traveling by public transportation, the Second Avenue subway line (Q train) is just a short walk away, and several bus routes run along 2nd and 3rd Avenues, making it an easy trip from anywhere in the city.

For patrons who prefer to drive, the restaurant's location offers options for both free street parking and paid street parking, a valuable feature in a busy urban area. The availability of outdoor seating adds another layer of accessibility and charm, allowing diners to enjoy their meal al fresco on a pleasant day. The restaurant is also pet-friendly in its outdoor space, allowing dogs outside, which is a great bonus for dog owners in the city.

---

Services Offered

Albadawi provides a comprehensive range of service options to cater to a wide array of needs and preferences, from a full dining experience to convenient takeout.

Dine-in: Enjoy a full meal inside the restaurant's casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. Dinner reservations are recommended, especially for groups, to ensure you get a table.
Outdoor seating: Take your meal outside and enjoy the fresh air and vibrant street life. This is a popular option on warm days.
Takeout: For a delicious meal on the go, you can order your food to be picked up at your convenience.
Delivery: The restaurant offers both standard and no-contact delivery, allowing you to enjoy authentic Palestinian food from the comfort of your home.
Curbside pickup: A convenient option for those who want to get their order without leaving their car.
Catering: Albadawi provides an extensive catering menu, perfect for parties, events, and family gatherings. You can order large platters, appetizers, and traditional dishes to feed a crowd.

---

Features and Highlights

Albadawi stands out for several key features that contribute to its unique and delightful dining experience.

Authentic Palestinian Cuisine: The restaurant is a true representation of Palestinian food, with a menu that includes traditional dishes like Mansaf ($44.00), Maklouba ($39.00), and M’sakhan ($36.00). These are not common dishes in many Middle Eastern restaurants in the city, making albadawi a special find.
Incredible Hummus: A highlight mentioned by a customer is the "best hummus" they'd ever had. The attention to detail in a classic dish like hummus shows the restaurant's commitment to quality.
Healthy and Vegan Options: The menu offers a wide variety of healthy options, vegan options, and vegetarian options, including dishes like FALAFEL ($11.00), Tabbouleh ($14.00), and Wara Dawali ($16.00) (stuffed grape leaves).
Diverse Menu: Beyond traditional platters, the menu features Mashawy (grilled meats like Lamb Chops ($42.00) and Mixed Grill ($39.00)), Middle Eastern Flatbreads, and a full section of delicious Seafood.
Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant is known for its "casual," "cozy," and "trendy" vibe. The presence of features like high chairs and the fact that it is "good for kids" make it a family-friendly choice.
Exceptional Service: The staff, like Jonathan, is praised for their kindness and attentiveness, with one customer receiving a complimentary dessert. This personal touch enhances the overall dining experience.
Unique Beverage Options: In addition to standard drinks, the menu features special mocktails like the Hibiscus Mojito ($14.00) and the Limonana ($6.00), offering a refreshing twist.

---

Contact Information

For reservations, catering inquiries, or to learn more, you can contact albadawi directly.

Address: 1725 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128

Phone: (917) 388-2868

---

What is worth choosing

Choosing albadawi is about embracing a truly authentic and delicious culinary experience that is hard to find elsewhere. This restaurant is worth choosing for its dedication to traditional Palestinian cuisine, offering a menu that is both rich in flavor and historical significance. Unlike many other Middle Eastern restaurants that might offer a more generic menu, albadawi provides a focused and authentic taste of a specific culture. The customer reviews, which highlight the incredible hummus, fresh olives, and generous portions, reinforce the restaurant's commitment to quality. The fact that the staff goes above and beyond, like offering complimentary dessert, shows a level of hospitality that makes you feel truly valued as a guest.

The versatility of the restaurant is another major selling point. Whether you are planning a large group dinner, a solo meal, or need catering for an event, albadawi has the service options to accommodate. The atmosphere is appealing, offering a cozy and trendy setting that feels perfect for a variety of social occasions. For those with dietary considerations, the extensive vegan, vegetarian, and healthy options make it an easy choice. Ultimately, albadawi provides more than just a meal; it offers an opportunity to discover and appreciate the incredible flavors of Palestinian cuisine in a welcoming and accessible environment. It’s an absolute must-try for any food lover in New York City.

albadawi Menu

Catering Appetizers
FALAFEL $6.00
(sold by order)
FRIED HALLOUMI CHEESE $12.00
(sold by order)
FATTOUSH Catering
ﬁnely chopped romaine lettuce, tomato, cucumber & mint, topped with baked pita chips
BEITENJAN Catering
fried eggplant drizzled with tahini & olive Oil
Salata Bi Tahina Catering
Finely Chopped Cuecumbers, Tomatoe, Onion and Parsley mixed with Lemon tahini dressing
MEZZE FILISTINI Catering $34.00
mix platter of hummus, baba ghanoush, muhammarah, tabbouleh, salata tahina and labneh
SALATA FILISTINI Catering
Finely chopped Mediterranean cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley dressed with lemon and olive oil
Tabbouleh Catering
ﬁnely chopped parsley mixed with ﬁne bulgur, tomatoes, onions, olive oil, and lemon
IKRAS BI LAHMA Catering $6.00
Meat stuffed triangles
IKRAS BI SABANIKH Catering $5.00
spinach ﬁlled pie (sold by order)
MALFOUF Catering (Sold By Order) $16.00
cabbage leaves stuffed with a blend of rice, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and ground meat with an array of spices
WARA DAWALI Catering $16.00
grape leaves stuffed with a blend of rice, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and an array of spices (sold by order)
ZAHIR Catering
fried cauliﬂower served on a tahini bed topped with olive oil and drizzled with pomegranate molasses (half tray feeds 8 - 12 | full tray feeds 16 - 20)
MUJADARA Catering
combination of long grain rice and lentils topped with crispy fried onions (half tray feeds 8 - 12 | full tray feeds 20 - 25)

Catering Family Platters
Fattat Jaj For 6 Catering $250.00
Fattat Jaj for 6 Catering
Mansaf For 6 Catering $260.00
Mansaf for 6 Catering
Mixed Grill For 6 Catering $250.00
Mixed Grill for 6 Catering
Ouzi Chicken For 6 Catering $190.00
Ouzi Chicken for 6 Catering

Catering Mashawy
Chicken Kefta Catering
Chicken Kefta Catering
Beef Kebab Catering
Beef Kebab Catering
BBQ CHICKEN Catering
BBQ CHICKEN Catering
Chix Kebab (CatMash)
Chix Kebab (CatMash)
Kefta Catering
Kefta Catering
Lamb Chops Medium Catering $250.00
Lamb Chops Medium Catering
Lamb Kebab Catering
Lamb Kebab Catering
Mixed Grill Catering
Mixed Grill Catering

Catering Party Box
Party Box Food Mix Catering $150.00
Party Box Food Mix Catering

Catering Pizza
CHEESE MANAQISH $18.00
CHEESE MANAQISH
Lamb Shish Kebab $29.95
2 Skewers of cubed lamb, onion & peppers, grilled Served with rice & topped with vegetable sauce.
Zaatar Manaqish $16.00
Zaatar Manaqish
ZAATAR MARGARITA Catering $19.00
san marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil on a zaatar- infused crust
SHRIMP Catering $23.00
succulent grilled shrimp, tomatoes, onions, and a garlic butter sauce

Catering Seafood
Whole Branzino Catering $34.00
Whole Branzino Catering
Whole Red Snapper Catering $30.00
Whole Red Snapper Catering

Catering Sandwiches
Chicken Shawarma Sandwich Araby Catering
Chicken Shawarma Sandwich Araby Catering
Chix Kebab (CatSanw) $16.95
2 Skewers of small cubed chicken, onions & peppers Served with rice & topped with vegetable sauce.
Chicken Zorbian $16.95
Chicken Glaba cooked with basmati rice, scallion, parsley, onion served mixed and ready to eat.
Chicken Saltah $16.95
Fresh assorted root vegetable stew served in a hot clay bowl topped with whipped fenugreek. Served with a half Chicken Haneeth or Massloug, & warm clay oven bread.

Catering Traditional
Fattat Jaj Catering
Fattat Jaj Catering
Fattat Hummus Catering
Fattat Hummus Catering
Fattat Lahma Catering
Fattat Lahma Catering
Kefta Bi Tahina Catering
Kefta Bi Tahina Catering
Kefta Hindia Catering
Kefta Hindia Catering
Lemon & Garlic Roasted Chicken Ouzi Catering
Lemon & Garlic Roasted Chicken Ouzi Catering
Maklouba Catering
Maklouba Catering
Mansaf Catering
Mansaf Catering
M'sakhan
M'sakhan
Zahr Ma Laban Catering
Zahr Ma Laban Catering
Ouzi Lamb Royal Catering
Ouzi Lamb Royal Catering
M Sakhan
M sakhan

Cold Drinks
Ayran $6.00
a cold yogurt drink popular in the middle east
PEPSI $3.00
PEPSI
Salaam Cola $3.00
salaam cola
Ice Tea $5.00
Ice Tea
Ginger Ale $3.00
Ginger Ale
Seltzer $3.00
Seltzer
Laziza Apple $4.00
Laziza Apple
Orange Juice $5.00
orange juice
Apple Juice $5.00
apple juice
Shirley Temple $5.00
shirley temple
Cranberry Juice $5.00
cranberry juice
Laziza Peach $4.00
Laziza Peach
Ice Coffee $6.00
Ice Coffee
7 Up $3.00
7 Up

Hot Drinks
Cappaccino $6.00
Cappaccino
Espresso $4.00
Espresso
Latte $6.00
Latte
Americano $6.00
Americano
Green Tea $6.00
green tea
Chamomile Tea $6.00
chamomile tea
Qahwa Arabia $8.00
arabian coffee ﬁnely ground with cardamom and boiled in a kettle - serves 2
Sahlab $8.00
a warm and creamy drink made from ground orchid bulbs, milk, and sugar

Mocktails
Arnold Palmer $6.00
Arnold Palmer
Hibiscus Mojito $14.00
hibiscus mojito
Cucumber Cooler $12.00
Cucumber Cooler
Strawberry Mojito $12.00
strawberry mojito
Hibiscus Margarita $12.00
Hibiscus Margarita
Limonana $6.00
Limonana
Mango Mojito $12.00
mango mojito
Classic Mojito $12.00
classic mojito
Laziza Apple $4.00
Laziza Apple
Coco Mojito $12.00
coco mojito
Passion Fruit Mojit $12.00
Passion Fruit Mojit
Raspberry Mojito $12.00
Raspberry Mojito
Guava Mojito $12.00
guava mojito
Cosmopolitan $9.00
Cosmopolitan
Homemade Ice Latte $8.00
Homemade Ice latte
Blueberry Mojito $12.00
Blueberry Mojito

Appetizers
Hummus $13.00
Freshly ground chickpeas blended with olive oil, tahini, lemon, and fresh garlic. (topped with chick peas, paprika and blended green garlic)
Falafel $11.00
4 pieces on a bed of tahini and hummus
Beitenjan $15.00
Drizzled with tahini and olive oil.
Halloumi Cheese $16.00
premium Halloumi Cheese fried in olive oil
Baba Ghanoush $13.00
Oven-roasted eggplant mashed with tahini, olive oil, lemon and garlic.
Ekhyar Ma Laban $8.00
Finely chopped mediterranean cucumbers mixed with yogurt and fresh mint.
Fattoush Bowl $17.00
Chopped lettuce, tomato, cucumber & mint, topped w/ baked pita chips & pomegranate molasses
Ikras Sabanikh $5.00
Sauteed spinach stuffed triangles
Lentil Soup $7.00
Lentil Soup
Malfouf $16.00
cabbage leaves stuffed with a blend of rice, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and ground meat with an array of spices
Mezze Filistini $34.00
A mix platter of hummus, babaghanoush, muhammarah, tabbouleh, salata tahuna & labneh
Muhammarah $16.00
Roasted sweet red peppers blended with walnuts, and pomegranate molasses.
Wara Dawali $16.00
Grape leaves stuffed with a blend of rice, parsley, tomatoes & onions w/an array of spices.
Zahir $16.00
Served on a bed of tahini and drizzled with pomegranate molasses.
Salata Filistini $11.00
Finely chopped mediterranean cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley and onions dressed with lemon and olive oil.
Tabbouleh $14.00
Finely chopped parsley mixed with fine bulgur, tomatoes, onions, olive oil and lemon.
Pita Bread $1.00
Pita Bread
Salata Bi Tahina $13.00
Finely chopped mediterranean cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and parsley mixed with lemon tahini.
Ikras Bi Lahma $6.00
beef ﬁlled pie
Kibbeh $14.00
Finely ground bulgur & meat filled w/ ground beef, onion & Mediterranean spices.
Kousa Mahshi $16.00
Persian squash stuffed with a blend of rice, parsley, tomatoes & onions w/an array of spices.
Labneh $12.00
Strained and whipped yogurt paste topped with olive oil.
Cheese Rolls $12.00
Cheese rolls

Seafood
Branzino $38.00
Served with a side of Rice and Lemon Potatoes
Salmon Kebab $34.00
Served with a side of Rice and Lemon Potatoes
Shrimp Kebab $32.00
Served with a side of Rice and Lemon Potatoes
Red Snapper $42.00
Served with a side of Rice and Lemon Potatoes

Laffa/Platter
Chick Shawm Sand $18.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Chicken Shaw Platter $22.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Beef Shawm Sandwh $19.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Beef Shawm Platter $23.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Falafel Sandwich $14.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Falafel Platter $18.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Mix Shaw Platter $23.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.
Mix Shawm Sandwich $19.00
Platters are served with Wood Fired Pita, Pickles and Salad.

Mashawy
Chicken Kefta $29.00
ground spiced chicken served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Chicken Kebab $28.00
served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Lamb Shank $38.00
slowly cooked lamb shanks served over rice and a wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Beef Kebab $34.00
served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
BBQ Chicken $28.00
1/2 BBQ chicken served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Kefta Kebab $29.00
ground spiced beef skewers served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Lamb Chops $42.00
served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Lamb Kebab $32.00
served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad
Mixed Grill $39.00
served over rice with wood fire pita, pickles and salad

Traditional
Bamia $34.00
fresh baby Okra cooked in tomato stew and chunks of Beef
Fattat Lahma $38.00
6 layer dish of meat, rice, chickpeas, garlic tahini, crispy pita, slivered almonds, & mint
Fattat Jaj $36.00
6 layer dish of roasted chicken, rice, chickpeas, mint yogurt, crispy pita, garlic sauce & slivered almonds
Kefta Bi Tahina $37.00
Kefta kebab, sliced onions, potatoes, green peppers, and tomatoes served sizzling in a stew of lemon curry tahina sau
M’Sakhan $36.00
Fresh taboon bread topped with sautéed onions, sumac, pine nuts & 2/1 chicken
Maklouba $39.00
Slowly cooked chicken, carrots, potatoes, cauliflower, eggplant & rice topped with parsley and slivered almonds
Mansaf $44.00
A stew of bone in lamb chunks & fermented yogurt sauce served over a bed of fresh sajj bread & rice, topped with slivered almonds
Zahr Ma Laban $38.00
golden cauliflower cooked in a yogurt stew with chunks of lamb
Ouzi Chicken $34.00
Traditional rice, minced meat, peas, carrots, onions, herbs & spices made with 2/1 tender roasted Chicken, lemon, garlic and garnished with fresh parsley and roasted slivered almonds.
Ouzi Lamb $38.00
Traditional rice, minced meat, peas, carrots, onions, herbs & spices made with generous size pieces of succulent chunks of roasted lamb and garnished with fresh parsley and roasted slivered almonds.

Middle Eastern Flatbreads
7 Cheese Flatbread $18.00
Mix of 7 Cheeses topped off with Black Seeds
Chicken & Zaatar $23.00
Chicken Marinated with Zaatar over cheese
Mixed Shawarma Flatbread $24.00
Chredded Chicken and Beef over Cheese
Shrimp $23.00
Succulent Baby shrimp over a bed of cheese
Zaatar Flatbread $16.00
Zaatar and Olive Oil
Pistachio $24.00
Ground pistachio on a bed of mixed cheese
Lahama Bi Ajeen $22.00
Grount Beef Flatbread

Sides
Side Of Rice $5.00
Side of Rice
Side Of Fries $6.00
Side Of Fries
Lemon Potatoes $6.00
Lemon potatoes
Side Extra Pita Bread $2.00
Side Extra Pita Bread

Dessert
Chocolate Tahini Brownies $15.00
fudgy brownie topped with a layer of creamy tahini & a sprinkle of sesame seeds
Baklava $12.00
3 peices of layered ﬁllo dough stuffed with walnuts and topped with syrup
Baklava Sundae $16.00
Baklava Sundae
Cheese Cake $9.00
Cheese Cake
Basbousa $9.00
semolina cake topped with sweet rose extract
Nutella Cheese Cake $10.00
Nutella Cheese Cake
Tres Leches $10.00
Tres Leches

albadawi Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Groups
Tourists

Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free street parking
Paid street parking

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

albadawi Photos

albadawi Location

albadawi

New York New York County New York 2nd Avenue

1725 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA

albadawi Reviews

An average rating of ★4.3 from 390 user reviews.

flatbreadappetizersmansafmezze platterpalestinianzaatarouzi lambmaqlubamusakhanhummus, baba ganoush

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

This was our first time trying Palestinian food. We had the platter and the chicken with vegetables and rice. The entree could have been better seasoned but that’s probably an authentic flavor I haven’t tried before. Jonathan took great care of us and even brought us a complimentary dessert!
September 02 · Dyuthi Prakash
Palestinian food is incredible and this is a great place to try it. I love the walls and everything inside of it. The hummus is the best hummus I have ever had in my life. The olives are incredible I had to ask for more. Johnathan was kind enough to pack me a few to go. Absolutley gem of a place.
August 02 · M J
Generous and well-balanced portions of protein, carbs, and vegetables served in an inviting and lively atmosphere.The food is exceptionally tasty, pairs well with any BYOB beverages or the mint tea.The only critique would be that even during peak diner hours, the establishment seems to be understaffed.Definitely worth a visit.
July 31 · Joe Yoo
Literally so good. Went for a friends birthday and I can’t recommend enough going with a group of 4+ because there are so many dishes and you should try as many as possible!! Standouts to me were the stew and the dips but everything truly was 100/10. The meat was all perfectly textured and cooked, and the flavors of everything were so balanced. Also baklava sundae with tahini ice cream?!?? Are you kidding! Delectable. Note that it’s BYOB!!
June 30 · claire jackson
The food is great. We had lots of yummy stuff. My only objection was that the waiters were not attentive at all. I had to ask for desert menu. I had to ask for check . Just not paying attention to us
August 23 · Soheil Ak