Rainbow Falafel

- 26 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003

For New Yorkers on the move, finding a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal is a daily necessity. Rainbow Falafel, a small but mighty institution near Union Square, has mastered this art. It’s a no-frills spot that has become a go-to for locals seeking authentic Middle Eastern comfort food, particularly its legendary falafel. While the space is compact and the focus is on fast, efficient service, the quality of the food speaks for itself. The atmosphere is casual and buzzing with energy, a testament to its popularity and the constant stream of customers who know they're in for a treat.

The name Rainbow Falafel has been synonymous with "great falafel sandwich" in the area for decades. It's a place where the simple things are done right: fresh vegetables, subtle spices, and a perfect crunch. While some customers may have varying opinions on certain dishes, the overwhelming consensus is that the falafel is a standout. The restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to fresh, healthy ingredients and authentic Syrian recipes passed down through generations. Whether you're an NYU student looking for a quick bite, a local on a lunch break, or a tourist in the Union Square area, Rainbow Falafel offers a tasty and reliable option that won't disappoint.

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Rainbow Falafel is perfectly situated at 26 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA. This prime address places it just steps away from the bustling Union Square Park, a major hub for business, shopping, and public transportation. The restaurant's location is a key part of its appeal, as it’s easily accessible from the L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, and 6 subway lines at the 14th St–Union Sq station. This makes it a highly convenient spot for anyone in the city to grab a quick and delicious meal.

The restaurant's design is focused on efficiency, with a small storefront that is designed for takeout, though some seating is available. Its accessibility features include a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that it can accommodate all patrons. While parking in the area consists of paid street parking, the ease of public transportation makes Rainbow Falafel a highly accessible destination for the majority of New Yorkers.

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Rainbow Falafel specializes in providing fast and convenient service, with a focus on quality and authenticity. The core of their business model is built around serving customers quickly without sacrificing flavor.

• Dine-in: The restaurant offers a casual dine-in experience with limited seating, perfect for a quick and cozy meal.
• Takeout: A major service, takeout is fast and efficient. As one customer noted, a sandwich can be served up in under 30 seconds, a key feature for busy New Yorkers.
• Delivery: For ultimate convenience, Rainbow Falafel offers delivery, bringing its beloved menu items directly to your home or office.
• Full Menu: The menu is extensive and includes a wide range of options beyond just falafel, such as various pies, vegetarian sandwiches, special sandwiches like Chicken Shawarma, and vegetarian combo plates.
• Halal & Vegetarian Options: The restaurant offers a variety of halal food and has a dedicated section of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary preferences.
• Catering: While the primary focus is on individual meals, the availability of platters and combos makes it a viable option for small group gatherings or office catering.

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Rainbow Falafel's success is rooted in its unique attributes and commitment to a simple but effective formula. These are the highlights that have earned it a loyal following:

• Exceptional Falafel: The falafel itself is the star of the show. It's described as fresh, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the outside, a true classic.
• Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine: The food is made using authentic Syrian-style recipes, providing a taste of true comfort food from the region. The pies and soups are particularly popular and are not always found at other falafel spots.
• Fast and Efficient Service: As a "ninja-style" operation, service is incredibly fast, which is a significant advantage during the busy lunch and dinner rushes.
• Healthy & Vegan/Vegetarian Friendly: The menu is packed with healthy options, and a large portion of it is dedicated to vegetarian and vegan dishes, using fresh, wholesome ingredients.
• Great Value: The prices are highly reasonable, especially considering the quality and portion size. This makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious diners and students in the area.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The ambiance is relaxed and casual, making it an unpretentious and welcoming place for a quick and satisfying meal.

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For more information or to place an order, you can contact Rainbow Falafel at the following:

• Address: 26 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
• Phone: (212) 691-8641

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Choosing Rainbow Falafel is all about embracing a classic, no-nonsense approach to great food. The top recommendation is, without a doubt, the falafel sandwich. Its reputation as "the best falafel sandwich" is a title earned through consistently fresh ingredients and a masterful execution of simple flavors. However, the menu offers much more to explore. The "Chicken Shawarma" is also a great option, providing a savory and satisfying alternative to the falafel. For a broader taste, the "Vegetarian Combo Plate" is an excellent choice, allowing you to sample a variety of their most popular items like falafel, hummus, babaghanouj, and grape leaves. The "Chicken Combo Plate" offers a similar opportunity for those who prefer meat.

Don't overlook the soups and pies. The "Syrian-Style Soups," like the Lentil or Split Pea, are hearty and comforting, especially on a chilly New York day. The "Lg. Spinach & Cheese Pie" is a great, flavorful choice for a grab-and-go snack or a lighter meal. The desserts, like the "Baklava" and "Kanafa," provide a sweet and authentic end to your meal. While some customers have had minor issues with dry bread or a salty dish, these seem to be the exception, not the rule. The overall experience, from the lightning-fast service to the delicious and well-made food, makes Rainbow Falafel a perfect spot for anyone in the Union Square area looking for a quick, affordable, and authentically flavorful meal. It's a reliable gem in a city filled with countless dining options.

Rainbow Falafel

26 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA