Safta

It’s been on our list to try since they opened. First impression was that it was smaller than it looked from the outside, I can see needing a reservation during the busy time. Food & service were good but I have a hard time seeing myself come back considering all the other great options. Hummus was delicious - smooth, fresh, nice balance of ingredients. The pita was also light and fluffy. You will need another one so just order another ahead of time. We came during brunch so the menu might be different for dinner. Chicken challah sandwich - big and a solid choice Malawach - solid choice Halloumi salad - very filling , added chicken which was not needed Home fries (not pictured) - excellent fries with a nice aioli sauce

Really enjoyed our brunch here! There are so few places to get malawach so this really hit the spot! The fries were also *amazing*. The only downside I'd say is that they don't have ketchup (requested some for my delish fries) - I was told the chef was against it. Definitely respect his culinary taste but... some of us still like ketchup and I'm not sure that depriving folks of it would necessarily have the desired effect... 🤪

Absolutely, an amazing experience! The atmosphere was very chill and relaxed. Our drinks were perfectly made and refreshing. We started off with the mezze platter, all of dips were stunning, you can taste the freshness of the ingredients, perfectly seasoned with their unique spices and herbs. The main entrees were a hit, we got the whole seabass and the chicken shawarma platter. I cant express how much flavor is packed into these meals. The seabass was fried to perfection and was just flakey and buttery with every bite. The chicken shawarma was layered on bread and was filled with rich flavors of those unique spices, every bite was like the first. All round the food and service was spectacular. I cant wait to visit again.

Some of the best hummus I’ve ever had (and I’ve had a lot). Incredibly smooth and delicious, giving five stars for the hummus alone. Pita was fluffy and fresh. I got take out and everything was tasty, I can only imagine it’s that much better sitting in the restaurant. Got the schnitzel, hummus and falafel. Everything tasted so fresh. Would definitely go back.

We ordered tahina and cucumber salad as starters. The tahina Is up there with the best I have ever tasted. It tasted just like being in Israel and having the freshest tahina. It is made on premises, as is everything, they serve according to our waiter. The thick pita bread was served at room temp. I asked the waiter to have it warmed up. It should always be served warm. The cucumber salad wasn’t cucumber salad. It was a pickle salad and super sour. Too sour for me, and when I said so, the waiter kindly took it back. Management should update the menu to reflect what it actually is. The women dining at the table next to us had exactly the same reaction to the ‘cucumber’ salad. For main dishes, my boyfriend and I each ordered the schnitzel plate. It comes piled high with a huge schnitzel, which though fried is not at all greasy, Delicious French fries served hot and lightly salted just like in Israel are also on the plate, As well as what they call Safta aïoli, which is also delicious. I couldn’t finish my food and our waiter kindly brought over take-home containers. Safta owner: please serve the schnitzel with a steak knife. The butter knife that’s part of the table setting just isn’t sharp enough to cut it easily. For drinks, I ordered the limonana, Which came with a pretty garnish of spearmint and lemon slice, But didn’t taste much like mint in the drink. Limonana is my favorite beverage in Israel and it’s usually mint blended with lemonade. Would be great if they did that here too. My boyfriend ordered their pineapple “gazoz,” which was a real disappointment. It was just Seltzer over pineapple syrup, with none of the accompaniments that come with Gazozs ordered in Levinský market in Tel Aviv, like fruit and herbs. Served as just pineapple flavored seltzer, it didn’t seem worth $10. The decor is really lovely. Modern and sleek But still somehow homey feeling, As a restaurant named Safta - Grandmother - should. I hope to go back sometime soon for brunch, To taste their jachnun and malawach, which I miss having! On the whole I give this restaurant a solid four stars. Worth patronizing, And with a few tweaks it will be perfect.

I discovered this place after seeing it recommended as one of the best spots for shakshuka in NYC — and it truly is. I actually travelled almost an hour from Central Park just to try it, and it was absolutely worth it. The shakshuka is incredible: rich, flavourful, with real roasted pepper pieces and just the right level of spice. The chicken shawarma in pita was also outstanding — so delicious that during our 3-day stay in NYC we ended up making the trip here twice. The team is genuinely warm and attentive. You can see how much care they put into every dish and every guest — it feels heartfelt, not just routine. This is a top, top recommendation from me. Wishing the whole team a Michelin star — they truly deserve it.

A True Gem for Middle Eastern Cuisine Dining at safta Middle Eastern Food was an experience that completely exceeded my expectations. From the moment I walked in, the aroma of freshly grilled meats and warm spices set the tone for an authentic meal. The menu offers a wide variety of traditional dishes, and everything I tried tasted homemade and full of flavor. The hummus was velvety and rich, perfectly paired with warm, fluffy pita bread. Their cauliflower was outstanding — golden and crunchy on the outside, yet soft and flavorful on the inside. I also ordered the kebabs, which were tender, juicy, and seasoned just right. The rice was fragrant and light, complementing the meats beautifully. Even the side salads were crisp, fresh, and full of vibrant flavor. What stood out most to me was the balance of flavors — you could taste the freshness of the ingredients and the care that went into preparing each dish. Nothing was too salty or oily; everything felt wholesome yet indulgent. The service was just as excellent as the food. The staff was attentive, warm, and knowledgeable about the menu, making thoughtful recommendations that didn’t disappoint. The restaurant itself has a welcoming, cozy atmosphere that makes you feel at home — whether you’re there for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or even celebrating a special occasion. is the kind of place that you’ll want to return to again and again. It’s rare to find a restaurant that delivers authenticity, quality, and hospitality all in one, but this place truly does. Highly recommended for anyone who loves Middle Eastern cuisine or wants to try it for the first time.

Came here for opening night and it was a success! The food was fresh and flavorful. We especially enjoyed the mezze - very well rounded and high quality. They have some tightening up to do in terms of pacing and service but that’s to be expected on their first night. Will be back!

This is my new go-to spot for authentic Israeli and Mediterranean food. Everything was super fresh and delicious, and the vibe was cozy and fun. Standouts were the chicken shawarma pita, kebab pita, and halloumi salad (if you've never had halloumi salad, get on that, quick!). I haven't tried the hummus yet, but people at the next table seemed to love it so that's next on my list. This place is a gem, so happy it's here!

Food - 5 Stars The short rib appetizer was tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. It could easily be served as a full meal. A must-have! The lamb burger was heavenly--juicy, tender, and clearly seasoned with care. Another must-have. Just be prepared to use a knife and fork! Service - Needs Improvement Unfortunately, the service fell short. The waitstaff was not consistent or attentive. We had two servers--a male and a female--and the coordination just wasn't there. There were three of us at the table, and each of our meals arrived at completely different times. One person was halfway through their meal before the second received theirs, and both were finished before mine finally came out. Part of my meal was missing as well, but after waiting so long, I was too hungry and frustrated to bring it up. After we finished eating, it also took an unusually long time for the table to be cleared and for us to receive our checks. I also noticed that a gentleman seated next to us ordered the same dish as my friend and received a detailed description and bread on the side--items that were missing from my friend's plate. The lack of consistency was obvious and disappointing. Overall I would return for the food--the kitchen is doing an amazing job--but my expectations for service remain low. I'm hopeful things improve over time. The space is casual and appropriate for dining with friends or for a low-key date. *Sorry I couldn't have taken more photos but everyone else finished their meals before I got to mine. So you just get a photo of my burger which was flavorful.

Nice contemporary interior. Comfortable seating. Service was very good. We order three meals : Hummus & beet salad; Mediterranean Lamb & beef burger; Short Ribs w/roasted garlic potatoes and green salad; an Israeli Pale Ale. The ribs weren't very meaty. The burger was very generous.

I live on the Upper East Side, but I still make the trip to Safta on Franklin Ave just for their shakshuka. It's honestly one of the best I've ever tried. The distance never stops me -- it's always worth it. The staff is extremely friendly, and the whole place feels welcoming. Great food, great energy. I highly recommend it!

New spot in the area! Great atmosphere, great service and great food. There are plenty of vegetarian options. The hummus is one of the best I've ever tried.

The food taste better than it looks. I know that sounds weird but it really does. I hate couscous but theirs was really good. I had the Moroccan fish - sea base filet with peppers and a balancing sauce. Nothing was spicy which I loved. The ambiance for dinner is nice and music is low. Service is good. Very attentive. All the food came out together, I'm not too fond of that.

Delicious schnitzel plate, tabbouleh, and mushroom hummus. Great service. Finished with cheesecake that was a bit bland.

So delish and such a great vibe. I'm very picky about hummus and it was some of the best! Can't wait to go back soon.

Delicious humus and their pitas are addicting. Everything is so fresh + tasty. We LOVE it.

Food was delicious and vibe was great! Service was warm and professional. Highly recommend putting this on your list!

Went to Safta for Brunch. The Israeli breakfast was great and perfectly sized. The Malawach and French toast were hits as well.

Delicious and fresh food that is also beautifully presented. extensive drink list as well. service was great and restaurant has lovely ambiance and isn't super noisy so you can actually hear your table mates.

Food was great from start to finish. Everyone was kind and accommodating and also helpful for a friend with a food allergy. The apps were good portioned too and it was just a good vibe overall. We will back!

The food is SO good. Get the mushroom hummus and thank me later!! Also the portions are huge so great for leftovers. Warm people and fun music