Ibby's Falafel is a cozy counter-service gem where you can devour freshly made lamb shawarma and crispy falafel, perfect for a quick bite or dining al fresco.
"The crispy falafel and nicely charred chicken shawarma at Ibby’s both cost less than $8, but this isn’t just an inexpensive, filling takeout spot. Well, it is those things, but the wraps and platters at this Grove Street spot have combinations of spices and textures that wouldn’t be out of place somewhere that served food on Christofle plates rather than tin foil. And now that they have sidewalk seating, it’s not just a takeout spot either." - hannah albertine, nikko duren, matt tervooren
"Owned by Adnan Kwara, a nephew of the Mamoun’s founder Mamoun Chater, Ibby’s has been a dining resource of the historic downtown neighborhood for 25 years. Favorites on a fundamental Lebanese-Syrian menu include lamb shawarma and falafel sandwiches whose chickpea-bearing orbs are notably fried to order. Vegetarians will do spectacularly here, with a fattoush salad filled with crisp toasted pita, or a platter of baba ganoush and foul — the garlic-stewed fava beans. This remains a budget option in a neighborhood with an upscale restaurant collection." - Robert Sietsema
"Like lots of other counter-service falafel spots, Ibby’s is a good option when you get home late from work, or when you realize that your dinner consisted of two mozzarella sticks and four vodka sodas. But Ibby’s isn’t just an inexpensive, filling takeout spot. The wraps and platters have combinations of spices and textures that wouldn’t be out of place at an expensive, sit-down meal. But we’re not complaining that the crispy falafel and nicely charred chicken shawarma both cost less than $8." - Matt Tervooren
"My brother lived in Jersey City for 10 years, and to this day, Ibby’s Falafel is his first stop when he comes to visit me." - Annie Fitzsimmons
"Ibby’s has been serving fried chickpea falafel and lamb shawarma sandwiches for 22 years. The lamb shawarma, cut to order and served with pita, roughage, tahini, and a red hot sauce, is particularly recommended. The restaurant also offers a selection of Middle Eastern dessert pastries." - Robert Sietsema
