Zaad - Amsterdam Ave

Amazing Mediterranean place in UWS/Columbia. Authentic food, beautiful music, friendly and welcoming staff and the chef! I love their chicken and lamb shawarma, lentils soup, and baklava. Feast for the soul and body! Recommend it to all my friends too!

I ordered a beef shawarma sandwich — the taste was really good, but I wish it had more meat. The flavor was there, but it felt a bit too light overall. They also gave me a sample of lentil soup, and honestly, it was amazing! Full of flavor and really comforting. I didn’t expect much, but it surprised me in the best way.

Perfect casual spot to grab some food. The staff was very polite. Offered a delicious sample of lentil soup when I walked in. I had the falafel pita sandwich and baba ghanoush. They were excellent. Price + tasty = Perfect lunch.

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!

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!