Discover Zaad - Amsterdam Ave: Your Go-To Mediterranean Spot on the Upper West Side

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Introduce

Welcome to Zaad - Amsterdam Ave, a delightful Mediterranean restaurant that has quickly become a cherished spot on the Upper West Side. For New Yorkers in search of authentic, flavorful, and healthy food, Zaad offers a remarkable dining experience. This place is more than just a restaurant; it’s a neighborhood staple that delivers on its promise of high-quality, delicious meals in a welcoming setting. From the moment you taste their perfectly spiced dishes, you’ll understand why it's gaining a reputation as a must-visit destination for anyone craving great Mediterranean cuisine.

What makes Zaad truly special is its commitment to both quality and hospitality. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, creating a relaxed environment where you can truly enjoy your meal. One reviewer even wished they could give it a "6 STAR review," a testament to the unforgettable experience the restaurant provides. The team at Zaad is known for their genuine kindness and humility, often going the extra mile to make customers feel appreciated and valued. This dedication to customer satisfaction is a core part of its identity, ensuring that every visit is a pleasant one.

Zaad is also highly regarded for its wide variety of offerings, particularly for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. It's a place where vegetarians and vegans can find a plethora of exciting options beyond the usual fare. The menu is extensive and thoughtfully curated, featuring everything from flavorful kebabs and shawarma to fresh salads and delicious appetizers. This focus on variety, along with the generous portion sizes, makes Zaad a great value and a reliable choice for any meal. The team’s mission is simple: to provide amazing food that makes you feel good, and they consistently deliver on that promise.

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave is located at 963 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, in a vibrant and accessible part of the Upper West Side. Its location on Amsterdam Avenue makes it a convenient spot for residents, students, and tourists exploring the neighborhood. The restaurant is easily reachable by public transportation, with several bus routes running along Amsterdam Avenue and a short walk from the 1 train at the 103rd Street or 110th Street stations. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick lunch break or a relaxing dinner without a long commute.

The restaurant is also committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance that welcomes all diners. While there is no dedicated parking, as is common in New York City, the ease of public transportation and the pedestrian-friendly nature of the area make getting there a breeze. The option for outdoor seating is a fantastic feature, allowing patrons to enjoy their meal in the open air and soak up the lively atmosphere of the Upper West Side.

Zaad's location contributes to its role as a key part of the community. It’s a great meeting spot for friends, a convenient place for a solo bite, and a reliable option for a family meal. Its visibility and central position on Amsterdam Avenue make it a go-to spot for those seeking high-quality Mediterranean food. Whether you’re on a lunch break, heading home after work, or just in the mood for some fresh, healthy, and flavorful cuisine, Zaad is perfectly placed to satisfy your cravings.

Services Offered

Outdoor seating: Enjoy your meal al fresco in a casual and pleasant setting.
No-contact delivery & Delivery: Get your favorite dishes delivered straight to your door.
Takeout: A quick and convenient option for a delicious meal on the go.
Dine-in: Enjoy a comfortable and welcoming experience inside the restaurant.
Catering: Zaad also offers catering services, bringing their Mediterranean flavors to your next event.

Features / Highlights

Halal food: A significant offering for those who require Halal dietary options.
Extensive Vegan & Vegetarian options: A broad and delicious selection of plant-based dishes.
Healthy options & Comfort food: The menu successfully blends healthy choices with satisfying comfort food.
Casual Atmosphere: A relaxed and friendly environment perfect for any occasion.
Great for solo dining: A comfortable and welcoming spot for individuals to enjoy a meal.
Quick bite: An ideal place for a fast, yet high-quality, meal.
Good for kids: A menu with options that appeal to children, making it family-friendly.

Contact Information

For any inquiries, takeout orders, or more information, you can contact Zaad - Amsterdam Ave by phone at (646) 861-2061. The restaurant's address is 963 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025. This information is readily available for anyone looking to visit the restaurant in person or take advantage of their delivery and takeout services. The friendly staff is always ready to assist with any questions about the menu or services, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

What is worth choosing

When you're looking for a Mediterranean restaurant in New York, Zaad - Amsterdam Ave is a standout choice for several compelling reasons. The food is, without a doubt, the main attraction. As a reviewer noted, their falafel is "by far the best I've had," praised for being "crispy and moist." This commitment to crafting perfect, flavorful dishes extends to their entire menu, with customers praising the fresh salads, tender chicken, and generous portions. The fact that the food is not only delicious but also beautifully plated shows a level of care and pride that is uncommon in such a casual setting.

The extensive menu is another reason to choose Zaad. It offers a wide range of options, from mixed grill plates and halal over rice to a large selection of vegan and vegetarian sandwiches and bowls. This variety ensures that everyone in your group, regardless of their dietary preferences, will find something they love. The availability of Halal food is a major highlight, making it an inclusive spot for a diverse clientele. The menu's focus on both healthy options and satisfying comfort food means you don’t have to choose between a light meal and a hearty one.

Finally, the combination of excellent food, reasonable prices, and remarkable hospitality makes Zaad a truly worthwhile destination. A reviewer highlighted the "great prices for the portion size," indicating that you get excellent value for your money. Most importantly, the staff's "truly kind" nature and desire for customers to "eat well" create a welcoming and memorable experience that goes beyond the food itself. It's this perfect blend of delicious food, great value, and genuine care that solidifies Zaad - Amsterdam Ave as a top choice for anyone in New York looking for an exceptional Mediterranean meal.

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Food & drink

Mixed grill Plate / Bowl
Homemade Chicken Kebab $14.52
Served with Chicken Skewer, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickle ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Salmon Bowl $14.56
Fresh salmon slices paired with steamed rice, mixed greens, avocado, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Zaad Mix Grill $26.00
Served with Kofta Kebab, Chicken Kebab Beef Shawarma, Chicken Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage, Lettuce, Pickles Side of Garlic Sauce, Tahini Sauce.
Homemade Chicken Kofta $14.52
Served with Chicken Kofta Skewer, Basmati Rice or French Fries ,Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Mix Shawarma $15.56
Served with Chicken and Beef Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Homemade Kofta Kebab $14.52
Served with Ground Lamb and Beef Skewer, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Beef & Lamb Shawarma $14.52
Served with Beef Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries ,Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Shrimp Bowl $14.56
Succulent shrimp atop a bed of mixed greens, jasmine rice, and avocado with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a side of tangy citrus dressing.
Homemade Lamb Kebab $14.52
Served with Lamb Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Chicken Shawarma $14.52
Served with Chicken Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage, Lettuce, Pickles, Side of Garlic Sauce.

Salad Bowls
Cauliflower Salad Bowl $10.39
Fresh cauliflower, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and carrots, topped with sunflower seeds and feta cheese.
Fattoush Salad Bowl $11.44
A mix of fresh greens topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, garnished with crispy pita pieces and a sprinkle of sumac.
Eggplant Salad Bowl $11.43
Grilled eggplant, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese, topped with a balsamic vinaigrette.
Falafel Salad Bowl $11.44
Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, feta cheese, red onion, falafel balls, and pomegranate seeds.
Beef Shawarma Salad Bowl $11.44
Tender beef slices, crisp lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and parsley, served with a side of hummus and tahini sauce.
Greek Salad Bowl $9.35
Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, finished with a sprinkle of oregano.
Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl $10.40
Chicken pieces with seasoned spices, mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.

Vegan Plate / Bowl
Eggplant $12.44
Tender eggplant slices paired with a medley of fresh vegetables. Choose additional toppings to customize to your liking.
Hummus, Baba Ghanoush ,Tabouli And Salad $12.44
Creamy hummus, roasted eggplant dip, fresh parsley and bulgur salad, and a mixed greens salad.
Falafel Of Zaad $12.44
Crispy chickpea patties served with fresh vegetables, pickles, and tahini sauce.
Cauliflower $12.44
Roasted cauliflower with chickpeas, quinoa, spinach, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ghanoush And Salad $12.44
Crispy falafel, smooth hummus, creamy baba ghanoush, and a mix of fresh greens.
Koshary $6.00
Koshary is a popular, carb-packed Egyptian street food and national dish made from a layered combination of rice, lentils, and macaroni, topped with a spicy tomato sauce, chickpeas, and crispy fried onions. It's a flavorful and hearty vegan dish known for its contrasting textures and savory, tangy, and spicy notes.

halal over rice
Halal Combo Over Rice $12.47
A mix of seasoned rice, grilled chicken, gyro meat, and kebab, served with salad, fries, and assorted sauces.
Halal Chicken Over Rice $10.39
Tender chicken pieces over seasoned rice, topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and herbs.
Gyro Over Rice $12.47
Seasoned lamb, fragrant basmati rice, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a side of creamy white sauce.
Halal Lamb Over Rice $11.43
Tender pieces of lamb, aromatic rice, crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a drizzle of white sauce.
Fish Over Rice $10.39
Succulent fish, served with fragrant rice, topped with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of savory sauce.
Loaded Fries $10.39
Topped with chicken, beef, and lamb over fried potatoes.
Falafel Over Rice $10.39
Falafel served with seasoned rice and your choice of vegetables.

Sandwiches
Fish Sandwich $10.27
A tender fish fillet topped with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a soft bun.
Nashville Chicken Sandwich $10.27
Spicy chicken breast, pickles, Napa cabbage slaw.
Shrimp Sandwich $10.27
Plump shrimp with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mayonnaise on a fresh bun.
Quesadillas $10.39
A soft tortilla filled with melted cheese and a choice of seasoned chicken, beef, or veggies.
Spicy Chicken Sandwich $10.27
Tender chicken breast with spicy seasoning, crisp lettuce, and zesty pickles inside a soft bun.
Beef Shawarma $10.35
Tender beef slices with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, onions, and tangy tahini sauce in a wrap.
Lamb Gyro Sandwich $10.27
Tender lamb slices with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce in a soft pita bread.
Chicken Kofta $10.35
Spiced ground chicken patty with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions, served with a tangy yogurt sauce.
Halal Burrito $10.39
Packed with seasoned chicken, rice, black beans, fresh salsa, tangy sour cream, and shredded lettuce.
Kofta Kebab $10.35
Seasoned ground meat patties with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and choice of sauce in a sandwich.
Chicken Shawarma Zaad $10.35
Pita bread filled with seasoned chicken, pickles, tomatoes, and a drizzle of garlic sauce. Comes with options for adding onions, turnips, or tahini.
Crispy Chicken Sandwich $10.27
Crispy chicken thigh, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayonnaise on a toasted bun.

Appetizers
Chicken Samosa (3pcs) $7.28
A crispy pastry filled with spiced chicken and peas. Comes with three pieces.
Cheese Fries $6.23
Crisp fries topped with melted cheese and bacon bits, served with a side of ranch dressing.
Baba Ghanoush $5.20
Freshly mashed eggplant mixed with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, garnished with olive oil and parsley.
Beef Samosa (3pcs) $7.28
Triangular pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and peas.
Veg Samosa (2pcs) $7.28
Crispy pastry pockets filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
Foul Mudammas $6.24
Fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil garnished with parsley.
Labaneh $7.28
Creamy strained yogurt topped with za’atar seasoning and olive oil.
Spinach Pie $4.16
Flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese.
Basmati Rice $5.20
Fragrant long-grain basmati rice.
Mozzarella Stick $5.20
Mozzarella sticks coated in breadcrumbs, served with marinara sauce.
Mac Cheese $5.19
Creamy pasta with melted cheddar cheese, sprinkled with a breadcrumb topping.
French Fries $5.20
Golden potato sticks, lightly salted.
Hummus $5.20
Creamy chickpea dip with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkled with paprika.
Falafel (6pcs) $6.24
Six pieces of crispy chickpea patties served with tahini sauce.
Chicken Strips & Fries (4pcs) $13.52
Crispy chicken strips served with golden fries.
Chicken Wings & Fries (4pcs) $13.52
Crispy chicken wings and golden fries, served in a portion of four wings.

Drinks
Tea $5.19
A variety of aromatic tea blends. Choose from black, green, or herbal tea.
Ayran $3.64
Ayran is a yogurt-based drink mixed with water and a pinch of salt, delivering a tangy and savory taste.
Lychee Juice $3.75
Lychee juice packed with the sweet, aromatic essence of lychee fruit.
Coffee $5.19
Rich brewed coffee.
Homemade Hibiscus $3.64
Velvety red drink made with hibiscus flowers and light natural sweetness.
Mango Juice $3.75
Fresh mango juice made from ripe mangoes.
Turkish Coffee $5.19
Strong, dark, and rich coffee, finely ground and mixed with sugar.
Soda $2.08
Classic carbonated beverage available in various flavors.
Laziza $3.64
Non-alcoholic malt beverage available in various fruity flavors.
Water $1.75
Pure, refreshing water.
Homemade Lemonade $3.64
Fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water blend.
Guava Juice $3.75
Refreshing blend of ripe guava, creating a sweet and tangy tropical juice.
Latte $5.19
Smooth espresso blend with steamed milk.

Specials
Hawawshi $8.32
Stuffed pita bread filled with minced meat, onions, bell peppers, and spices.

Burgers
Halal Bacon Cheese Burger $0.00
Juicy beef patty topped with crispy beef bacon, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions.
Cheese Burger $9.27
Two beef patties with melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles, served with a side of ketchup.
Chicken Double Cheese Burger $11.35
Two chicken patties, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onions in a bun.
Beef Double Cheese Burger $11.35
Two beef patties, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a bun.
Chicken Cheese Burger $10.27
Chicken breast, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, pickles, and tomatoes on a toasted bun.

Dessert
Baklava With Walnuts $4.16
Layers of thin pastry filled with chopped walnuts and sweetened with honey syrup.
Rice Pudding $4.16
Creamy rice pudding with a hint of vanilla, topped with golden raisins and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Basbousa $4.16
Sweet semolina cake with coconut, topped with almonds.

Vegan Sandwiches
Falafel Cauliflower Sandwich $9.32
Crispy falafel patties, roasted cauliflower, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy tahini sauce on a toasted bun.
Eggplant Sandwich $9.32
Grilled eggplant slices, fresh spinach, roasted red pepper, and hummus on whole grain bread.
Cauliflower Sandwich $9.32
Roasted cauliflower with arugula, red onion, and vegan pesto on whole grain bread.
Foul Mudammas $8.26
Creamy fava beans, tahini sauce, chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, and onions, served with pita bread.
Potato Sandwich $6.25
Garlic mashed potatoes
Falafel Of Zaad $8.26
Crispy chickpea patties, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy tahini sauce on whole grain bread.

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Details

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

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Comfort food
Halal food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Atmosphere
Casual

Crowd
Tourists

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Photos

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Location

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave

New York New York County New York Amsterdam Avenue

963 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 492 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

We picked this place to eat quickly and simply because it looked like it had enough good ratings. I wish I could give Zaad a 6 STAR review!!! The vegan plate was superb! I am a harsh critic of falafel but this was by far the best I’ve had. The plating was also gorgeous for such a hole in the wall restaurant. They gave us free pita bread and were so humble originally declining tips for 3 members of my party. Would highly recommend.
June 09 · Maggie Buckhannon
Neighborhood staple! The menu is extensive and has great veggie options. The falafel is crispy and moist, the salads are fresh, and the chicken is tender and flavorful.Great prices for the portion size and the hospitality is remarkable. Truly kind people who want you to eat well. Coming back soon!
July 18 · Devika Goyal
The chicken shawarma shouldn’t be called that, it’s no where near a shawarma. Chicken has a smell, fishy smell almost or bad chicken smell, ordered take out and wouldn’t recommend.We didn’t even eat the second plate and just had to toss it, as something was off.Found a lot of cartilage from chicken, shows you that it’s not traditional shawarma from a rotating spit, more like chopped chicken with some salt …Please do a better job at Quality Control, I would try again if it improves.
July 12 · Monte Al-Muhandis'
Heard about this Halal place for colleagues and it did not disappoint. Ordered a chicken shawarma salad bowl and lamb kofta plate; hefty portions on each, fresh ingredients, crisp and nonsoggy veggies, and all in all delicious. Owner was exceptionally friendly and welcoming, gave us lentil soup samples while we waited for the food, got us to try authentic koshary for the first time and we will come back for it for sure!Excellent hospitality and food, 100% recommend, and will definitely come again.Thank you!
September 05 · Jumana Mustafa
This place usually has great food however they sold me a raw fried chicken pattie. I have also not heard anything from the establishment regarding my experience. I got food poisoning
August 02 · Derrick Bristow