"Ayat has been the culinary heartbeat of New York City's Palestinian community for some time, since co-owners Abdul Elenani and Ayat Masoud started the restaurant in 2020. While the restaurant has been expanding - there are multiple locations across New York, including the newest outpost in Astoria, plus outside of the city with more to come - the heart of Ayat still rests in Bay Ridge, where it all started."
"Diners are greeted with some olives in olive oil, za'atar, and pita - dip your bread into the olive oil and then into the spices. There's a huge fake tree in the middle of the dining room that offers an alfresco feel. The menu includes some Arabic translation, overflows with halal dishes, and offers no alcohol. The portions are huge - come with a big group or make plans to bring back leftovers home in a proudly Palestinian takeout bag."
"The hummus ($9.75) is absolutely silky. Be sure to mix in the pool of olive oil. The muhammara ($13) is nutty and zesty with hints of spice, plus a touch of sweetness from the pomegranate molasses. The chicken shawarma platter ($18) is the move for entrees - the huge plate comes with big chunks of tender, juicy shredded chicken drizzled with white sauce on top of turmeric rice and an oil-drenched salad. Make yourself little filled pita bites using the dips, too."
Ayat opened in 2020 by co-owners Abdul Elenani and Ayat Masoud and serves as a focal point for New York City's Palestinian community. Multiple locations exist across New York and beyond, with the original Bay Ridge location remaining central. The restaurant emphasizes care and attention to detail, offering olives in olive oil, za'atar, and pita upon arrival and an indoor dining room with a large fake tree. The menu features Arabic translation, halal dishes, no alcohol, and large portions. Signature dishes include silky hummus, nutty muhammara, a hearty chicken shawarma platter, and cheese-based knafeh. Cash payments receive a three percent discount.
Read at Eater NY
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