ilili Restaurant

Photo of ilili Restaurant

Located in New York, New York

Address: 236 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001, United States

Phone: +1 212-683-2929

Rating: 4.5

Services

  • Outdoor seating
  • Kerbside pickup
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Fast service
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Great tea selection
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Halal food
  • Happy-hour drinks
  • Happy-hour food
  • Healthy options
  • Late-night food
  • Organic dishes
  • Small plates
  • Spirits
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Bar on site
  • Gender-neutral toilets
  • Toilets
  • Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi
  • Cosy
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Upmarket
  • Family friendly
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safe space
  • Lunch reservations recommended
  • Reservations required
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Usually a wait
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Paid street parking
  • Dogs allowed outside

Categories

  • Bar
  • Lebanese restaurant
  • Bar and grill
  • Brunch restaurant
  • Catering food and drink supplier
  • Cocktail bar
  • Mediterranean restaurant
  • Middle Eastern restaurant
  • Restaurant
  • Wine bar

Photos

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Comments

  • Review 1 (2024-12-28 - Rating: 5)

    I love this place! Ive been here for Christmas Eve dinner the last two years, and it has always been excellent. The portions are generous, and the food is incredibly tasty and flavorful, with a great variety to choose from. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it perfect for the holiday season. The service is top notch, very attentive, friendly, and quick to accommodate any requests.

  • Review 2 (2024-10-14 - Rating: 5)

    This is one of the BEST Lebanese restaurants in NYC. The food is so delicious and authentic. Every bite is full of flavor and rich and satisfying! Customer service is excellent. The atmosphere is very elegant and nice. I wish I could give more than 5 starts! So good!Aldo, they great selection of Lebanese wines that are really good.

  • Review 3 (2024-09-08 - Rating: 4)

    Delicious Lebanese food in the heart of New York. The restaurant is beautiful and elegant. The food is excellent.The only issue, it took them some time to bring us the menu and waiters were coming and going and not paying attention that we didnt have the menus yet. Once we ordered, they served everything pretty fast. It is also very noisy in there. But in general it was a good experience.

  • Review 4 (2024-12-31 - Rating: 5)

    Delicious!! Mouhamara, Riz ( I think it was the rice) and the desert you see in the pic are HIGHLY recommended. We got gift card to this place thanks to my partners friends, which gave us an opportunity to try out some new cuisine and dishes. This place looked really fancy, but dont be nervous as the crowd seemed like normal families. I am going for the Labne and Mouhamara next time. The dips come with a lot of pita bread. AND the rice, do not forget the rice. The rice was heavenly. For Indians out there, it was like a ghee pulao with rice and vermicelli with pistachios, cashews, almonds, etc. DELICIOUS DELICIOUS DELICIOUS!!

  • Review 5 (2025-01-03 - Rating: 5)

    A must whenever we are in New York. Delicious food, amazing service and great ambiance. Definitely the best Lebanese restaurant in nyc.

  • Review 6 (2024-07-22 - Rating: 5)

    Food was great! We started with spicy margaritas. Meal was several mezzes, including an unbelievable hummus and beef sausages. The duck shwarmawas good too, but the sauce a bit sweet.Would have preferred seating in the main room but I guess parties of two are not seated there :-/

  • Review 7 (2024-12-13 - Rating: 5)

    Serving some major cheese pull goals with a side of happiness at Ilili!!Perfect food, stunning vibes, and an ambiance that felt like a dream. From creamy basil hummus to smoky pepper cheese mushrooms, every bite was pure bliss. The spicy chicken flatbread stole the show, and the falafel shawarma was an absolute winner! 🫓With lush greens, cozy corners, and sunlight streaming through, the setting was as Insta-worthy as it gets.And that mocktail? Pure happiness in a glass. 🍹💛

  • Review 8 (2024-11-29 - Rating: 5)

    My family came here for the pre fix thanksgiving dinner and it was so great--my first time here. Beautiful decor and ambiance, incredible servers--so attentive and nice, and the food was delicious and VERY much worth the price, all the appetizers were great, some of the best falafel. Would have liked to see the desert options included in the price, not sure why desert would be excluded on thanksgiving, but the one we got was very good! Great portions. Would be curious to try their normal menu.

  • Review 9 (2024-08-25 - Rating: 5)

    The food tastes really good and the portions are big! We ended up with a lot of leftovers to take home.BTW, the White Coffee is not coffee!!! Its orange blossom tea!

  • Review 10 (2024-11-06 - Rating: 5)

    I am a big fan of their labneh with salmon roe. I was missing this in my life without knowing it. Also a big fan of all of their dips. Food is really good.

  • Review 11 (2024-08-09 - Rating: 4)

    Good Lebanese food with absolutely exceptional ice cream (6/5). Best that Ive EVER had in NYC - it was that good. The dolma (4/5), brussel sprouts (4.5/5), and the cheese borek (5/5) were very good. I was disappointed with the mixed grill (3/5). The chicken and meat cuts were very dry, but the lamb chops (4/5) and the kabobs (4/5) were quite tasty and moist. The chocolate and the Arabic milk ice cream blew my mind.

  • Review 12 (2024-08-03 - Rating: 5)

    Gorgeous restaurant with a unique concept of Mediterranean brunch. Everything was delicious and portions were large!! Good spot for groups - circular tables which made it easy to talk with everyone. Service was also great.

  • Review 13 (2024-07-10 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing Lebanese restaurant! We walked in without reservation and were able to dine in the bar area. Amazing food, service was very good regardless of how busy it was on a Friday night. I cant wait to go back and try other dishes.

  • Review 14 (2024-12-21 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili Restaurant is an absolute gem! From the moment we walked in, the ambiance set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The food was simply exquisite—each dish was a masterpiece bursting with authentic Lebanese flavors.Special recognition goes to Chef Efrain, whose culinary expertise elevated every bite. The care and creativity put into each dish were evident and deeply appreciated.The service was equally stellar. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and ensured we felt welcome and cared for throughout the evening.If youre looking for a top-tier Lebanese dining experience in NYC, ilili is the place to go. Five stars across the board for food, ambiance, and exceptional service! Cant wait to visit again.

  • Review 15 (2024-12-05 - Rating: 5)

    Dined here with a friend, and it was an absolutely incredible experience! Our server, Adriana, went above and beyond to make our evening special. She was attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, offering thoughtful recommendations that turned out to be spot on. The food was exquisite—every dish was perfectly prepared and bursting with flavor. Adriana’s tremendous service truly elevated the entire experience. I can’t recommend this restaurant enough and will definitely be returning soon! Ask for Adriana when you come in. Incredible service!!

  • Review 16 (2024-06-20 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent flavors on all the dishes. The salad had a nice variety of veggies and the dressing complemented the greens nicely. The chicken is cooked and seasoned to perfection. Cant go wrong with any of the appetizers and I especially liked the humus. Cheesecake dessert was a great way to finish off a hearty, delicious meal!

  • Review 17 (2024-06-21 - Rating: 5)

    Great food, you can taste the freshness, great service, beautiful atmosphere. Very nice for family or friend dinner, especially a date. Got there at 8 and was sat immediately. Everything was perfect, I will come back with pleasure!

  • Review 18 (2024-12-25 - Rating: 5)

    Was so surprised how amazing this place was! Loved every bite and what a great atmosphere! The staff is very helpful with tips on what to get. That bread is ridiculously good. Really enjoyed everything we tried. Very much family style, order a bunch for the table and dig in. Enjoy!

  • Review 19 (2024-06-16 - Rating: 5)

    We hosted my son’s graduation party at ilili. The food was extraordinary, the catering contact Jessie was very helpful, including with decorations for the room, and Andrew the waiter assigned to our group was terrific. One guest mentioned a citrus allergy and he went out of his way to make sure that every dish she was served was without citrus and even had a special sauce made up for her. The non-alcoholic beverages were delicious and lots of fun for our under 21-year-old guests especially. I had dined at the restaurant before, but never for a private function. I would definitely recommend it highly.

  • Review 20 (2024-08-23 - Rating: 4)

    Brussel sprouts are the main attraction and an absolute must. Fresh pita. Amazing hummus, mouhamara. Excellent fattoush. Great drinks. Mixed grill was pretty dried out. Lamb shank and rice was mostly rice. Vibe drinks and service top notch. DO NOT get the baklava. Its a literal pop tart for $12. Same size and dimensions, with a graham cracker crust. But those brussel sprouts are amazing.

  • Review 21 (2024-11-23 - Rating: 5)

    Long time Lebanese restaurant in nyc. The space is huge and the food is excellent. I actually had their version of a michelada at the bar and it was so refreshing. I highly recommend ilili and looking forward to returning soon !

  • Review 22 (2024-03-04 - Rating: 4)

    Went there for a birthday dinner and had a great time. The ambiance is very romantic and the food was good. The appetizers were small portions but the shish touk chicken entree was literally for two!.. I enjoyed the toffee bar and my friends loved the baklava plus good coffee!.. service was pretty good too.

  • Review 23 (2024-03-10 - Rating: 5)

    Another exceptional dinner in NYC, ilili was highly recommended and we were looking for something a little different than the normal range of restaurants. It doesn’t disappoint as we admired the reception and bar area, the washroom and the main restaurant were all impressive. Our dinner was excellent and we enjoyed the food and service as well as the reasonable prices for such a good location. We didn’t have drinks so were able to keep the price down.

  • Review 24 (2023-03-04 - Rating: 5)

    The food, the drinks, its vibe, and its service is all wonderful! When you first walk in, you immediately feel like youre at an incredibly high end restaurant. The couches near the bar all feel very cozy and welcoming, and seeing everyone just sitting there and chatting gave me such a heartwarming vibe. At the welcome area, there are almost always 2 or more staff waiting to greet and lead people to their seats. The staff were all incredibly friendly and attuned; filling our waters and replacing plates within a very short amount of time without asking.In regards to the food, I have to say that I am not too familiar with Mediterranean/Lebanese food so I honestly did not have any expectations walking in whatsoever. Our group of 10 decided to order food family style and boy was that the best idea ever; not only do we get to taste a little of everything, everything was extremely delicious! The sauces paired perfectly with the entrees and meats, and we all had fun sharing all the foods together. Definitely get the mixed meat platter for 2, for it came with so many high quality cuts of meats!Please give this restaurant a try and itll be a perfect place to bring your date/family!Thank you for reading and good luck! (:

  • Review 25 (2024-11-10 - Rating: 4)

    I wouldve given ilili a 4+. The food and cocktails tasted very nice. The duck shawarma tasted great as well as the mouhamara. For cocktails, I had the cafe cardamomo, tequila and brandy with espresso.

  • Review 26 (2024-07-12 - Rating: 5)

    The taste is decent, the dining atmosphere is quite good, but overall, doesnt quite match the deliciousness and refinement of their branch in DC

  • Review 27 (2024-01-08 - Rating: 5)

    Place is very pretty and ambience is nice. We went as a party of 15ppl and booked a semi private area in the mirror room. All the food was great and all my family and friends enjoyed every dish. Our server, Mathew, was awesome and really helped everyone at the table.

  • Review 28 (2023-12-13 - Rating: 5)

    I thought ilili was a pleasant change of pace from the usual type of cuisine I go for when visiting New York. Their menu is fairly extensive and it’s best to order a few dishes from each category to split so you can try everything.Walking up as a party of 1, I got a seat at the bar which does full service dining. The ambiance of the restaurant is lovely. It feels very upscale and clean with a warm vibe (plus it was festive for December).The cocktail was ok, not my favorite. I ordered the Beirut to Manhattan and thought it would taste more unique given the ingredients but it just tasted like a regular Old Fashioned.Food wise I was impressed. The best dish of the night was the duck shawarma, which everyone should try. The bread was stuffed with a generous amount of freshly pulled duck meat and it came with this delicious dipping sauce.I also ordered the warm eggplant which has a nice sweet taste to it and the labne dip which I prefer to hummus.Overall, I left very full and satisfied with my meal. Great spot if you’re in the mood for Lebanese food.

  • Review 29 (2023-09-13 - Rating: 4)

    Fresh, quick, variety of classics. Everything was pretty tasty but nothing outstanding. Hummus, nothing special but good. Would come back because i believe its a repeatedly reliable source of good food & fun ambiance. Can be a bit loud if you’re looking to have a conversation with your company.

  • Review 30 (2024-06-27 - Rating: 5)

    I love this place for a group dinner, it is so easy to share small plates. I think it is one of the best Middle Eastern/Mediterranean restaurants in the city. Their cocktail selection is also excellent. We were a vegetarian group and ordered the following:- Watermelon Feta Salad - so refreshing- Fattoush - always awesome- Labne and Mouhamara - great dips- Falafel - surprisingly good and goes well with the sauce- Brussel sprouts - really well done- warm eggplant - delicious- cheese something - also super delicious

  • Review 31 (2023-06-18 - Rating: 5)

    This restaurant is great for large groups. They have lots of space and the dishes are best shared. We had a wonderful meal with our family. We particularly enjoyed the mixed grill, lamb shawarma, and Brussel sprouts. However the falafel was disappointing and rather dry. I do highly recommend the spicy sumac margarita

  • Review 32 (2023-11-28 - Rating: 4)

    Cool place to try Lebanese cuisine. For starters, would recommend the mouhamara. For mains, the duck shawarma is good. The lamb shawarma is also tasty. I did find both of them a bit dry. They come in portions of four pieces each so they are good to share. The tuna tartare is also good. For dessert, would highly recommend trying the mouhalabiyyeh (Lebanese panna cotta). Its a great alternative if you find baklava (also another menu item) too sweet.The ambience here is quite nice. The service is great, and we didnt wait too long for the food. The dishes are on the pricier side, but if you want to try something new on a special occasion this place could be a good option.

  • Review 33 (2024-01-25 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili catered our event, and they did a marvelous job. Jessie Jodet, the Private Events Manager, was very communicative and helpful and a pleasure to work with. We had originally selected a drop-off boardroom lunch for 30 people but later decided to go with full-service catering of the boardroom lunch to serve 36 people. Jessie assured me that the 30-person boardroom lunch would feed 36, and she was right. There was more than enough to serve 36 people.Alex and a staff member delivered the food and set up the buffet. Alex stayed to manage the buffet, and he even plated food for people who are unfamiliar with Lebanese cuisine. He was professional AND charming!The food was beautifully presented. Everything was fresh and appetizing and absolutely delicious! There was a generous amount of food, so that there was never any worry that we were running low on anything. We were very happy to have leftovers.We will definitely contact Ilili again for our future events!

  • Review 34 (2023-12-31 - Rating: 4)

    Came here for brunch which probably was not the best time to come here. didn’t realize they had a lunch and brunch menu and the lunch menu isn’t available weekends. it was fine and some items were def better than others.eggs benedict looked like a saladilili country style breakfast looked pretty worth itshakshuka was fine

  • Review 35 (2024-03-30 - Rating: 5)

    This is not only the best Lebanon restaurant in New York, but I’m sure it’s one of the best restaurants in NY in general. The service is just amazing, I had similar service experience only at very very expensive restaurants. The quality of the food is freaking-tastic!!! Everything was so so good that we could stop eating at all! 100% recommend!

  • Review 36 (2023-08-07 - Rating: 5)

    I went here two years ago for brunch and really liked. I went here yesterday and still really liked it. The flavors were traditional and nuanced. There was a good mix of textures and spices. It’s a really beautiful space with high ceilings and gender neutral bathrooms. The bar looks like a nice space to grab a drink. You can make a reservation here. We had the hummus, labne, mekanek, Brussels sprouts, fatoush salad, shakshuka, ice coffee, and cappuccino. We didn’t feel rushed or like we were waiting long for food.

  • Review 37 (2023-07-04 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili was a wonderful experience. The staff were super friendly and very accommodating of dietary restrictions. We went for a team dinner and reserved a private space. The food was delicious and my team had a wonderful time. I would be excited to go back and try some of their other options.

  • Review 38 (2023-09-04 - Rating: 4)

    We went for brunch- even though the place is pretty big I do recommend booking it in advance.To start with had the hummus and baba ghannouj which came with puffed up pita. Both were amazing and pretty light. We tried a hibiscus flavoured spritz and jet set- both were very refreshing perfect for a brunch.For the main course we ordered American burger, shakshuka and eggs benedict. I especially loved the burger- it was light and absolutely juicy. The fries that came with the burger were some sort of herbed fries and went very well with the burger- I just wish they were a little more crispy.We also tried the French toast- it was so flavourful and different.

  • Review 39 (2021-11-12 - Rating: 5)

    I am a food enthusiast and appreciate all types of cuisines. For Middle Eastern food, one of my favorite categories of cuisines, Ilili NYC is the best I have tried yet in New York City and all of the United States. Strong and unique flavors are present in each and every dish. Complementary textures and flavors are utilized and there is no shortage of dips and warm, authentic Lebanese Pita bread. If seeking recommendations, I highly recommend the hummus with lamb, Labneh, Falafel, and especially, the Kibbeh Bi Laban, which will melt in your mouth, and Stuffed Grape Leaves, which come with extremely flavorful ground lamb meat. My server, Annie, was extremely friendly and attentive. She was knowledgeable about the menu and shared an appreciation for the food. Despite the large restaurant filling up extremely fast, which should be noted as a positive sign, service remained strong and friendly throughout my experience. The atmosphere was grand in presentation, but still allowed for intimate conversation among tables, which is increasingly difficult to find in New York City today. To conclude this review, the food is well worth its value and I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who has an appreciation for Middle Eastern cuisine or just a quality dining experience. I hope to return soon!

  • Review 40 (2023-11-13 - Rating: 4)

    TLDR: Ilili is a great choice for Lebanese cuisine, if youre into Middle Eastern or mediterranean cuisine - youll love this. The mouhamara is great and definitely give that burger a try.Ilili was one of those places I wanted to try for a long time. The menu is quite extensive but our server helped us make some excellent choices. The mouhamara was something different from the usual hummus. A mixture of red pepper, nuts, a bit sweet - very tasty.The waffle and fried chicken was brunchy but slightly different. My favorite though was the burger. Juicy, fatty but a nice blend of Lebanese flavors.Food can get pricy here but if youre looking for a fine dining establishment beyond steak/sushi - this is a great choice.

  • Review 41 (2023-10-01 - Rating: 4)

    For the food we got falafel, shishtawook chicken kebab, the falafel was very tasty and crispy, the chicken was dry and the taste was average. Forbthe sides, we got taboule salad and grape leaves. The taboule wasn’t lemony enough and the portion was very small for the price. The bread was freshly baked. The cucumber drink was average too. Overall the vibe was nice but the food was pricey.

  • Review 42 (2022-06-10 - Rating: 5)

    Oh Ilili, I have nothing but compliments for this restaurant. The ambience is simultaneously homey yet upscale (God bless the interior designers and decorators). You’re definitely going to feel welcomed as the guests and staff represent various ethnicities and shades of melanin. And no matter the occasion (family dinner, date, special occasion, or casual meal), you’ll feel like you’re in the right place.The food is AMAZING! Dinning here was my first Lebanese cuisine experience and there isn’t another Lebanese restaurant I want to try because the menu here is delicious. The mixed grill platter with lamb, chicken, beef, potatoes, and veggies, is absolutely delicious and I order it every time. My lovely friend took me here for my birthday and Valentine’s Day, both experiences were more than worthwhile. The seasonal drinks are also very good and you definitely get the bang for your buck!What makes the overall experience so outstanding, is the staff! They make eye contact with you, smile, and make sure your needs are met in a timely manner. The restrooms are always clean. Lastly, making a reservation here is easy but not necessary (I recommend making a reservation though because it does get busy). Enjoy!

  • Review 43 (2023-07-09 - Rating: 5)

    There’s restaurants you go to genuinely appreciate food & start to feel that one of our sole purposes of life is to pursue & enjoy delicious cuisines. Lebanese food achieves that harmony of veggies, meats, herbs & spices. Ilili simply brings some of the best version of it to New Yorkers.An elegant & spacious spot with high ceilings, relaxed vibe and warm service, ilili has just enough options for everyone. I decided to go all veggie- and spread out a hearty mezze lunch with recommended classics like hummus, labne, fresh pitas, falafels, tabouleh, roasted Brussel sprouts and finish off with one very special sweet kunafeh.The hummus & labne absolutely stood out for me in mains. Super smooth and flavorful bites with fluffy fresh pitas as I got creative with this fascinating spread of healthy ambrosia. Falafels are good, but am sure you’ll have better ones elsewhere. Tabbouleh & Brussel sprouts are refreshing, yet quite heavy with their portions even to share.I highly recommend the semolina kunafeh. It’s a delicate yet decadent, sweet but light dessert even with its cheese filling and sesame bread served on the side. You can taste the freshness, the love in each bite.Need I say, I am definitely coming back for the meats!

  • Review 44 (2023-09-16 - Rating: 5)

    Weve been to Ilili many times , but mostly for dinner. This time we decide to try brunch. The ATAYEF VEAL BACON were delectable and a great bite of light pancakes with bacon, fig jam, pickles, and hot peppers. Lamb & beef meatballs with cherry sauce (KEBAB KEREZ) and the LEBANESE BURGER with fries were juicy and flavorful. I wish the fries were a little more crispy though. The GRANDMA MARIES LEBANESE TOAST, their take on French Toast made from chorek brioche, poached figs, ricotta labne whip, and Lebanese syrup was very tasty. No too sweet and certainly a different twist on the traditional bruch staple. Finally, we fisnished the meal with the KNAFE BIL JIBNEH, an inverted sweet cheese tart, made with semolina crust, orange blossom syrup, and sesame pita pillows. The knafe was very good, with light semolina crust. But in our opinion, the pita pillows were not necessary. They came out of left field; and since the pita was not sweet took the dessert into a different direction.

  • Review 45 (2022-11-28 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely amazing restaurant with succulent meat dishes and flavorful appetizers and sides. The trio of flavored butters add distinct tastes to the meats based on your palette. Service is a bit loose but definitely personal and engaging. GREAT job Philippe! 😁

  • Review 46 (2023-10-12 - Rating: 5)

    I love this place. The food, the service and the entire experience is just amazing. Alex Lilov helped us yesterday night. What am amazing person and host. Make sure to ask him to show you how to drink Lebanese Arak.

  • Review 47 (2022-01-19 - Rating: 5)

    Wow. This restaurant blew me away. It does everything it is supposed to do right, right. From the moment I was first greeted at the door to the moment I left, everything was great. They truly understood the Restaurant Week assignment and executed every dish that we ordered, to perfection. They will have my business in the future for sure. We ordered the hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, black iron shrimp, salmon, chicken breast and the two desserts. Everything was amazing. It was a new burst of flavor, texture and temperature with every dish we ate. The service is great, each course of the dinner was checked on by our waitress and the waters were always full. I will say that this restaurant can certainly step up the furniture in terms of the chairs and tables, and it will be the finishing touch it needs. The chairs felt slightly flimsy and too laid back for something that I’d like to lounge in. The table itself can use some real candles instead of the fake ones. I appreciate the technology with mobile payments through the wait staffs mobile devices, but I felt uncomfortable touching the screen multiple times to pay for my meal. Overall, great experience that can be enhanced through minor touches.

  • Review 48 (2023-02-23 - Rating: 5)

    Delicious food in a beautiful setting. I will definitely be back. Highly recommend the warm eggplant, hummus and muhammara dip even though the Brussel sprouts is one of their most popular dishes, I feel like the dips have the top spot for me! Very vegetarian friendly!

  • Review 49 (2024-11-30 - Rating: 4)

    Ilili is my very favorite restaurant in the city I’ve been frequenting it for years at least once a month. One less star because they decided lately to take out the chicken liver. Please bring it back it’s one of the main reasons my friends and I go there. You need this delicacy !!

  • Review 50 (2022-11-21 - Rating: 5)

    I wish i could give this restaurant 10 stars. it was that good.every single aspect of this place was incredible-they did not disappoint in any way and left me with a positive and lasting impressionthis is my new favorite restaurant in new york city.creative and impeccable dishes, exceptional service, beautiful interior decor, delicious strong drinks, what more can you ask for?Only thing to note their shrimp was a bit overcooked. it wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t impressive - i could’ve made it at home, the flavor wasn’t spectacular or outstanding.I’m still giving it 5 stars because i have literally nothing else bad to say about this place.The lamb ribs were so fall apart tender, juicy, with a smokey spiced flavor. I had the best french fries with garlic aioli, and the eggplant crisps were so soft yet crispy, not dry at all and a bit sweet in the best way possible.I will recommend this place to anyone who asks me where to go eat in nyc

  • Review 51 (2022-12-18 - Rating: 5)

    Soooo yummy! We ordered tabbouleh, Brussels sprouts, the salmon, labneh, and got the ice cream and baklava for dessert. Everything was delicious and fresh. My mom, who is extremely picky, loved everything she ate. Service was fast and friendly. This is a beautiful space as well. It got crowded fast, but we had a reservation for 5:30. Would really recommend!

  • Review 52 (2022-07-10 - Rating: 5)

    New york has a love affair with Lebanese cuisine. Every neighborhood has at least one restaurant that’s good. But the difference between good and great is the extra mile- from the first page of the menu, taking about Arak and how it should be paired with different dishes to small poem about drinks, to the entire presentation and eating experience beautifully designed to transport you to Lebanon. Having been there, I can tell you the food here is at par with the local taste and everyone who likes Mediterranean food must try this place. We wanted to try a lot of things off the menu and god more good than we could eat. First off, the pita breads are soft like fur, literally. We got jalapeño hummus and Kibbeh Nayyeh, to kick things off. beef Tartare was amazingly spiced and melted in mouth; while hummus provided a wonderful kick to the palette.We followed that up with Tabbouleh and Black Iron Shrimp. Incredible dishes that I barely got to touch because my date loved them so much, not inclined to share. I did sneak a taste of the tabbouleh and I can see where she was coming from 😆Last but certainly not the least, as the size of the thing speaks for itself, Traditional Lamb Shank dinner for two. It came out in a beautiful past iron pan where the servers mixed the meat with rice on the bottom with roasted veggies. It was delicious beyond belief.I also got Somewhere between Uptown and Upstate cocktail. From the first sip of the drink to it’s last drop- it was one of the smoothest and playful drink I’ve ever had. Kudos to their Beverage Director for coming up with it. (Yes, they have a beverage director 😄)Highly recommend ilili for anyone craving a Lebanese meal or looking for a fine dining experience. I didn’t eat anything or see anything on neighboring table that didn’t taste heavenly or look like something I want on my table next time. Definitely need to visit back for their Duck Shawarma and Moussaka. Until next time!

  • Review 53 (2024-10-08 - Rating: 5)

    Phenomenal meal. Tasty drinks. Great service.

  • Review 54 (2024-07-20 - Rating: 5)

    TASTY and AUTHENTIC mediterranean food! Toum for dipping was chef’s kiss. Cozy and romantic atmosphere. Got the mixed grill which was perfect for 2 people. On another occasion, we got several mezzes to share.

  • Review 55 (2023-08-23 - Rating: 4)

    Loved the ambience. Great mezze. Best babaganouche and hummus I’ve ever tasted. The mix grill was ok for me because the chicken was somewhat dry. Duck shawarma was flavorful and moist and the pistachio baclava was excellent.

  • Review 56 (2023-01-31 - Rating: 5)

    Loved ilili!! Def adding this one to NYC favorites! The puffy pita bread was amazing! They made sure to remember that we were celebrating a birthday! The service was excellent and all our dishes were delicious.

  • Review 57 (2024-01-14 - Rating: 5)

    I ventured into a restaurant that I had dreamed about, and it did not disappoint. The food was nothing short of spectacular, truly living up to the lofty expectations set by my imagination. Each dish was a masterpiece of flavor, beautifully presented and skillfully prepared. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing the dining experience with their impeccable service. What stood out was how each ingredients natural flavor was respected and elevated, creating a symphony of tastes that danced on the palate.I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an extraordinary culinary adventure. Its a place that not only meets expectations but exceeds them. Im already planning my next visit, eager to explore more of their delightful menu.

  • Review 58 (2022-11-01 - Rating: 5)

    Wow. This place is amazing. From 15L bottles of wine all the way through dessert. Didn’t find a bad thing on the menu. Possibly the best hummus I’ve ever had & don’t forget to get a side of toum (garlic sauce) because their’s is incredible. Highly recommend. We stopped in with no reservation and had a table in about 25 minutes.

  • Review 59 (2024-10-13 - Rating: 5)

    A well ran establishment with seemless service and a buzzing atmosphere that makes you excited to be there. The style of the restaurant is beautiful and the staff are all excellent at their jobs!! The cook on the meat was top notch. Our mixed grill beef was more like a filet mignon!! The cheese rolls have an incredible flavor and the bread is sooo incredible. We had an incredible experience! 10/10!!

  • Review 60 (2024-07-27 - Rating: 5)

    Best Lebanese restaurant. Mouhamara walnut dips is just the best. Too bad they don’t have the Mekanek in NYC, only in DC.

  • Review 61 (2022-07-06 - Rating: 4)

    Three years agoMy first visit to a Lebanese restaurant and was satisfied with the overall experience. The food was mostly tasty and pleasing. The potato appetizer was a bit overcooked where some of the pieces was burnt or cooked to a point where they became charred and inedible. Additionally, one of the guest at our table mentioned that one of the bread was a bit undercooked or raw. We had several appetizers and I am used to eating chicken liver but I feel the chicken liver here was good and seemed to be well prepared but shouldn’t taste as if you ate raw chicken or it’s blood. The hummus was okay and a bit bland. The octopus was tasty and so were the meatballs so these were five stars. I had the lamb chops which in my opinion was savory and delicious so I ate every bit of it. Overall it was a great experience and the staff was friendly. Great ambience so will give five stars here. There should be more effort in making or preparing the food for this restaurant to be a five star.Update - June 2022We dined at Ilili this past Thursday and enjoyed our visit. Everything was delicious and we plan to revisit the restaurant very soon. We had the hummus which was delicious and so was the lamb sausage and rock shrimp. Our roasted chicken was amazing in taste with the garlic aioli side. The salmon dish was a bit on the dry side. I was a bit disappointed with the wait for our table though we arrived before our reservation and still had to wait while there were available seating.

  • Review 62 (2024-06-03 - Rating: 4)

    This is my second time here and love this place!Food is amazing and the service is top!Delicious dining experience! Definitely my favorite Lebanese restaurant in Manhattan so far ♥️♥️♥️

  • Review 63 (2024-04-14 - Rating: 5)

    This is lebanon in new york probably better ! This is luxury fine dining at its best! Portion a bit smaller than other lebanese restaurants ive been at but the taste omg its unbelievable! A must try in newyork city 👍🏼👍🏼

  • Review 64 (2021-04-11 - Rating: 4)

    Great thorough check in process, beautiful ambiance, energetic server with wonderful recommendations and delicious plates to share! Great for a girls night out! I just wish we could sit around longer. I understand the need to reset the table for the next guests, but will only go when I know I don’t need to sit and talk long.

  • Review 65 (2023-07-25 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent experience at Ilili last night!The food and the service was amazing.Our server Adriana was very professional and explained everything on the menu including the great wines and desserts!Well done!

  • Review 66 (2024-08-30 - Rating: 5)

    The restaurant’s entrance is on the bar side, so diners can enjoy the view outside without being suddenly disturbed.Their pita bread are very delicious, and the bbq is pretty good too. The restaurant has a high ceiling, which gives a sense of spaciousness.The staff provides assistance at the right moments, rather than asking how the food is while you’re chewing.

  • Review 67 (2022-08-26 - Rating: 5)

    Incredible food and vibes. Felt like I was in new Cairo! It is definitely on the pricier end but the ambiance makes up for it. We got the mixed platter and hummus which were both amazing. Staff were also extremely friendly

  • Review 68 (2024-08-17 - Rating: 4)

    Exhorbitant pricingService goodTables interior oldFood okquality of food gone down

  • Review 69 (2023-07-23 - Rating: 5)

    I have only had Lebanese food a few times before, but this place is absolutely gorgeous. The service was extremely friendly and helpful, everything Alex suggested was delicious. The portions are generous and the food was so flavourful. I recommend this place to anyone who enjoys a flavourful meal.

  • Review 70 (2023-11-18 - Rating: 5)

    Such a great spot, the ambiance and the food was great and the service is really good.We ordered the Hummus (the standard of any Lebanese restaurant) and the fried kubbah (highly recommended). The main was the chicken shish tawook, the chicken was so tender and the taste was on point.Recommend to book in advance as it is always busy, although they have two floors.

  • Review 71 (2023-12-24 - Rating: 5)

    Wonderful dinner with same consistency we remember from 10 years ago. Our waitress was amazing along with the other staff. Highly recommend! Kid friendly too! Get the Harissa on the side..its life changing!!

  • Review 72 (2021-05-11 - Rating: 5)

    The lamb burger was phenomenal. My husband ordered it and I had to force myself to stop stealing bites. I had the lamb. It was good and roasted tomatoes with it were perfect.The drinks were great too. I liked my cocktails and my husband enjoyed his beers.

  • Review 73 (2023-09-23 - Rating: 5)

    One of my favorite spots in NYC. Havent been here in 7 years but its still great. Attentive service and great food. Mouhamara is my favorite starter. Ilili candy bar was rich and very tasty.

  • Review 74 (2023-02-13 - Rating: 5)

    SO good! Food was delicious- Our favorites were the brussel sprouts (one of the best) and duck shawarma!! Our server was so friendly as well. Cannot wait to be back to try other items on the menu!

  • Review 75 (2021-04-26 - Rating: 5)

    Had a wonderful experience here from start to finish. The food is amazing and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Its indoor space is beautiful and spacious - great atmosphere for dates or special occasions. There’s a good variety of options for its small plates/mezzas and it’s a great way to try different food for a reasonable price. We ordered four mezzas and it was plenty to share among two people. The Phoenician fries is a must-try! It’s thick-cut and has a perfectly seasoned and crispy surface. The kebab kerez is also highly-recommended. I especially love its slightly sweetened cherry sauce that pairs well with the meatballs.

  • Review 76 (2024-05-27 - Rating: 5)

    Been here 3 times and love this place! We always ask the waiter to order for us when in a big group and it’s such a fun, delicious dining experience!

  • Review 77 (2022-08-07 - Rating: 5)

    First time trying Lebanese food and it was so good. All meat in the mixed grill were superb.Friendly staff as well. Great experience overall.

  • Review 78 (2024-05-22 - Rating: 4)

    With its sleek, minimalist decor and atmosphere of casual chic, ilili brings a fresh, contemporary vibe to Lebanese cuisine. This stylish Flatiron spot has quickly become a hit with the areas trendsetters and food connoisseurs alike.The only disappointment is that they have a limited number of halal options since they marinade some of the meat in alcohol.The menu takes traditional Levantine dishes and reimagines them with innovative twists and globally-inspired flourishes. We started with the warak enab bil zeit ($14) - luscious grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and tomato cooked in a bright parsley oil dressing. The kebab kerez ($19) were a fancier mini version of Ikea’s swedish meatballs, flavorful lamb and beef meatballs with cherry sauce, kataifi and micro chives.For vegetarian options, the arnabeet mekle ($16) offered fried crispy cauliflower florets in a sweet-tart tahini and mint sauce that was utterly addictive. The mouhamara ($14) composed a rich umami dip from walnut, pomegranate molasses and sun dried peppers that we scooped up with fresh pitas. Each vibrant dish seemed to layer fantastic flavors upon flavors.The portions were not really meant for sharing in the traditional Lebanese style but we enjoyed them. For dessert, the kitchen kindly sent out a complimentary plate of assorted baklava and to help celebrate a birthday in our group.Our server was not only highly knowledgeable about the menu and halal options, but also deftly struck the perfect balance between attentiveness and giving us space to linger over our lengthy feast. He made the entire experience feel relaxed yet refined.With its lively vibe, creative spins on classic cuisine, and impeccable service, ilili is exactly the kind of upscale ethnic dining establishment that Flatiron has been missing. Its a tad pricey, but the flavors and overall experience are truly transportive. Ilili is a surefire hit for innovative Lebanese fare.

  • Review 79 (2022-12-18 - Rating: 5)

    Great food that is a treat in your in mouth with exciting flavors and lovely textures, along with amazing presentation making it a visual treat as well. Ambience was nice with a slightly hip music (not that loud), pretty good pita, friendly and knowledgeable staff and large selection of wines, cocktails and mocktails as well.Our favorites were the muhammara, sumac, labne (with salmon roe), moussaka, lamb kebabs, the homemade ice creams/ sorbets and the ilili candy bar. The duck shawarma (a bit dry) and other meat grill items were still good. I loved the spiced fig sorbet and the rose/Arabian milk ice cream.

  • Review 80 (2021-06-19 - Rating: 5)

    True Lebanese cuisine. The food is simply amazing, probably the best Lebanese food I’ve ever tried, in or outside of Lebanon. The service is great, they really make you feel like if you were in Lebanon. Everyone was amazing and super kind, and I can’t stop thinking about the food, from the meza to the deserts, everything was just perfect.

  • Review 81 (2023-03-22 - Rating: 5)

    Great evening, delicious food ,fun ambiance, lovely service, will defentially come back to try more dishes.Duck shawarma was very tasty, and so were the mousaka, hummus, and grilled chicken!

  • Review 82 (2024-08-09 - Rating: 5)

    Restaurant week menu is great. Food is fantastic. Great service!

  • Review 83 (2018-08-29 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely fantastic! The restaurant itself has a great decor - if I have one critique it’s that the dining area is a little loud so at a large round table, it can be a little difficult to hear each other. Stand out dishes were the falafel, duck shawarma, moussaka and mixed grill (garlic whip trio is out of this world). Would definitely recommend coming here!

  • Review 84 (2024-12-10 - Rating: 5)

    My favorite Lebanese place in town! the service was a bit of a miss, but the food made up for it.We came in as a large party of 30+ seated in the private second floor dining room. Food was phenomenal. My favorites include the rkaykat, beef kebab, branzino (yes!) and brussel sprouts. I have to give a shout out to the Lebanese rice. Amazing.The chicken kebab was bit overdone, the kibbeh/steak tartar was strangely oily, and the knafe dessert was a bit calorie dense. Service was slow, many in our party did not receive their sodas until halfway through the meal. water was refilled for some at the table, but not others quite strange.all in all, can recommend and would come again.

  • Review 85 (2023-03-21 - Rating: 5)

    Great recommendation from a solid food loving friend, this restaurant is beautiful inside. Its been in upper mid Town Manhattan for a while but does not disappoint. The hummus and puffy Pita was perfect with some delicious evoo over the top. Had a wonderful bourbon based cocktail and the falafel on pita with their world renowned Phoenician Fries, yes order them. It was my last day in NYC, Ill be honest I was sad, leaving my partner, my lover, my friend. I will miss you, but only for a few more nights. Then back together forever. Love you, ME

  • Review 86 (2024-04-13 - Rating: 5)

    Went here for a solo date night alone. The food portions were generous and delicious. I got the chicken touk, the kunafa. The kunafa is a must try (though I took more than half home).The drink I got, passion project, was incredible as well.

  • Review 87 (2024-09-28 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent food and great service--perfect for a relaxed, unhurried lunch, but you must be in the European lets enjoy our food with conversation mode. A huge interior! And the best restaurant bathrooms in all of New York City.

  • Review 88 (2024-09-16 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili Restaurant pleasantly surprised me. It was a very nice, upscale (but not stuffy) Lebanese restaurant with many great different foods to try. The shareables and appetizers were all great (various spreads with pitas, falafel, etc.), and the main dishes we pretty great too. There are some dishes that come prepared for two, so it could be an interesting date night opportunity. And the wine and cocktail lists are also very solid. I would definitely come back as well as tell friends about my great experience.

  • Review 89 (2023-03-02 - Rating: 4)

    Fantastic decor inside, especially the entrance before you get to the main dining area.The cocktail I got (Aurora Borealis) was really well balanced.The fries were a surprising standout. The mixed grill was also pretty tasty though a bit expensive for the value of food.

  • Review 90 (2019-07-14 - Rating: 5)

    Undeniably one of the best fusion-Lebanese restaurants in NYC. Coming from a true Lebanese foodie with lots of Hummus experience, iLili fulfills that need of good taste from the Cedar country in every way.Food Taste: 8/10Quality of Service: 7/10Restaurant Ambiance: 7/10Value for Money: 8/10Quick Tip: Dip your fried Cheese Rolls in some Hummus and enjoy the perfect explosion of taste and savors with a nice fresh mint Lemonade.

  • Review 91 (2025-01-01 - Rating: 5)

    I loved having New Years celebration here! So beautiful and fun! The drinks and vibes were great 👍

  • Review 92 (2021-02-28 - Rating: 5)

    Exceeded all expectations.The interior space is absolutely stunning with sky high vaulted ceilings and vintage lighting that beautifully Illuminated the space. The Lebanese cuisine is a mix of modern and traditional. The food quality and freshness were notable. Our server Lubna (coincidentally my dining companions mothers name!) was very attentive, informative, pleasant and genuine! We much appreciated this.We ate:Lamb burgers - brioche bun, syrian air cured beef cooked perfectlyPhoenician Fries - crispy, sumac, parsley, garlic whipVeal bacon - mouth droolBrussel sprouts - their signature side, is authentically different with a sweet kick - fig jam, grapes, mint yogurt, and walnuts ( I dont even like walnuts and this was delicious)Drinks - Vert, From Beirtut with Passion, Salt & Smoke - mixologist was on pointWe dined inside. Covid rules were in effect and adhered to. Temperatures taken at the door as well as personal contact information. Masks were worn by all staff and they went the extra step to hand each person a small bag to keep your mask clean and safe - a really nice touch since I manage to drop mine on the floor while dining out! Great/Central location. Did not charge extra covid recoop taxes. Did ask for a $2 donation to Beirut fund with ordering the Beirut with Passion drink - we happily donated.Please support this wonderful place you will not be disappointed.

  • Review 93 (2019-10-25 - Rating: 4)

    Fresh and tender grape leaves in a hot bowl laying on a steaming bed of lamb in its gravy accompanied by a side of cool tahini were just part of a great dining experience. In this part of town it can be challenging to find great spots to eat due to the exchangeable aspect of the tourist traffic. Ilili definitely stands out in these crowded streets, taking pride in the freshness of its food and warmth of its crew. The table was kept clean throughout our sitting and our waiter made sure to stay around. Both the food and wine menus are well designed giving the guest a choice of pre fix. During our dinner, one of my my invitees accidentally dropped his wine. Our waiter and manager reacted quick and cleaned up, but to my surprise, his wine wasn’t replaced. Little flunks leaving me with the thought that other little flunks can be happening in this place, it’s this little detail why I didn’t give five stars to this fine establishment. I still recommend it. The food and ambiance was great. As a side note, the spacing/ amount of tables could be improved since this place is pretty closed and the current setup can make the guests a little claustophobic.

  • Review 94 (2022-03-27 - Rating: 4)

    Absolutely phenomenal upscale Mediterranean food. The wait for the food and dessert was a bit too long to justify a 5* review, but this place is definitely worth going out of your way for if you want a classy twist on some great Mediterranean food.

  • Review 95 (2024-12-02 - Rating: 4)

    Had a great experience. The Fattoush salad was fresh and flavorful, and the lamb chops were tender and perfectly cooked. The service was excellent—friendly and attentive.

  • Review 96 (2024-10-19 - Rating: 4)

    We dined at Ilili, and can say that the food and atmosphere definitely lived up to the hype. Unfortunately the service was less impressive. We made reservations, and arrived on time, but were made to wait in the lounge for about 10 minutes, despite the restaurant being nearly empty, as the dinner service was just starting. This was not an issue, in isolation. We were then seated, and there were a handful of other diners in our section, including atleast two we could see seated just after us. We were immediately given water, and a drink menu, but no food menu. We noticed another server quickly attend to the other tables nearby, offering recommendations, drink orders, etc. we waited another 10 minutes (20 minutes after our reservation started), and finally one of the runners inquired if we had been helped. We told him the situation, and he apologized and asked the nearby server if he could attend to us. At this point, we had looked at the menu on our phone and knew what we wanted, so we placed our order. The food arrived quickly, and was very good. Our water was quickly refilled throughout our dining by the attendant, but at no point were we ever approached by the waiter who took our order, or any other waiter. By the time we had finished, we asked the attendant who had been filling out glasses for the bill, and he went to alert our waiter. A different waiter arrived with a desert menu, and left before we could clarify we wanted the bill. He went to attend to the newly seated neighboring table. After all this we finally got his attention and he grabbed our bill. For the level of restaurant, we had much higher expectations for the service. Considering there was a 15 minute grace period for the reservation, it seemed odd we would be forced to wait for nearly 10 minutes in a mostly empty restaurant. The disorganization of the waiter situation also forced us to wait for atleast 15 minutes longer than other tables immediately next to us. I hope the service issues we had were an exception, as the food and space were exceptional, but the consistently poor service from the waiters left a bad impression on us.

  • Review 97 (2018-02-22 - Rating: 5)

    Firstly this is a nice upscale fine dining. Great ambience n The interiors are so good. We came here for restaurant week dinner. Its a pre fix menu$42 per head. Its a for course meal, it was just perfect reach item was so good

  • Review 98 (2023-05-25 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing food, all very fresh and seasoned beautifully! We were served family-style, as we were in a large group with a set menu. There were plenty of options, and variations available for vegetarians. I would definitely recommend the tabbouleh!Though we were seated outside, the doors to the pavilion closed and made it feel much more private. The indoor seating is elegant and cozy, and the bathrooms were very clean (though please, please remember there are doors on your stall... Ive seen too much 😔).

  • Review 99 (2022-07-23 - Rating: 5)

    Great service, cool environment, and really delicious and authentic food! We got various dishes to share and gosh they were all just delicious!

  • Review 100 (2023-02-02 - Rating: 5)

    We went here for our 3rd anniversary. I owe it to this restaurant who made it special for us. When I booked through this app I simply mentioned that it was our anniversary. The food the service the ambience was top notch. Ilili even gave us a free dessert for our anniversary which I absolutely didn’t expect at all because this is in contrast to last year when I went for my birthday at Rothman’s stakehouse in East Norwich NY and they literally charged me for my birthday dessert in my bill. Thank you so much to the lady who was refilling our water, clearing our plates, to our waiter and everyone else involved. Thank you so much. Today was such a special day. My wife and myself will never ever forget our 3rd anniversary.

  • Review 101 (2023-12-27 - Rating: 5)

    Everything about this restaurant was spectacular. Service, food, atmosphere were all outstanding. Definitely go!

  • Review 102 (2023-03-03 - Rating: 4)

    Came here couple times while in NYC looking for some good middle eastern food. A buzzing spot with good service. Staff was efficient and friendly. Highlight of the night were the lamb ribs moghrabieh, kibbeh naye and the sumac margarita. Desserts were disappointing. Knafeh was dry, didn’t taste good and seemed like it was microwaved. Baklava was just ok.

  • Review 103 (2023-09-19 - Rating: 5)

    Omg what an incredible dinner we had here! From the Brussels sprouts to the pita bread to the duck shawarma, everything was amazing! The light garlic sauce was out of this world so fluffy!Loved the place and our waiter Alex!Just a fantastic visit on our last night in NYC. Would highly recommend that wants good Lebanese food

  • Review 104 (2023-05-13 - Rating: 5)

    I attended a private dinner event at ilili in March and the service was spectacular. The wine, food and desert were delicious, especially the made in house mango sorbet. Though the stand out highlight of my evening was my interactions with our server Chris, he was knowledgeable, helpful and accommodating. The food at the event was buffet style, seeing as this is a Lebanese restaurant and I have a severe nut allergy I was concerned. I pulled Chris aside and told him my problem. He walked me through all the foods, had me pick what I wanted and had the Chicken Taouk Dou and Riz made fresh free of nuts for me. He even made sure I got a special nut free desert which was chocolate and mango sorbet that was amazing while everyone else enjoyed their baklava. Chris made sure I didnt go hungry or have a horrible allergic reaction that night and I am deeply grateful for it. With exceptional servers such as Chris, I would definitely recommend ilili to anyone looking for lovely dinner out in NYC.

  • Review 105 (2023-10-22 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili will forever hold a special place in my heart!My fiancé brought me to Ilili after her proposed for a surprise engagement dinner. The restaurant printed beautiful personalized menus congratulating us, and seated us at the exact table where we had our first date. The service, food, and drinks, were all incredible. When he asked for bill they refused to let us pay and told us they wanted to have a memorable experience. We would have returned anyway because the food is amazing but now we will be coming back even more because it holds such a special place in our hearts. 10/10….PS our first date went so well because they make an amazing espresso martini :)

  • Review 106 (2020-01-19 - Rating: 5)

    What an absolute delight. Went here for a birthday dinner and while looking at the normal menu our waiter stopped by to offer us a tasting menu (not published online)Of course we had to try it - absolutely zero disappointment except that we couldn’t eat it all because there were so many dishes.I highly recommend ilili and will definitely return again.P.S. try the lemonade, you won’t be disappointed

  • Review 107 (2024-08-12 - Rating: 5)

    Best Mediterranean food I’ve ever had. The Muhammara was absolutely fantastic with their pitas. The pitas were freshly made and great with their small plates.

  • Review 108 (2023-09-22 - Rating: 5)

    The food here is phenomenal! I had dinner with my family and friends, and we all loved it!

  • Review 109 (2019-10-06 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent Lebanese food!Everything we had was solid.Service is very good for a place this busy.One thing we did not get a picture of was the mini pancake sandwiches. Probably the BEST THING WE ATE.Highly recommended.

  • Review 110 (2024-08-19 - Rating: 4)

    Large place, food is good, but very expensive for the small portions. Went with a group of 8 people.There are about 3 different seating areas, all of which have dim lighting. The first area (where you walk in) is seating on low couches with low tables for dinner, almost like a lounge. Did not look like it would be comfortable. The other two areas are typical seatings. Looks like small groups, probably couples, sit in the first area while groups get the tables.The waiter recommended the table order several plates that could be shared, several Mezza (appetizer) and 2-3 Mains. We each ordered an appetizer and 2 Mains and could have ordered more. All the food was good, just that the portions were exceptionally small for the price, for example the Kebab Kerez (Meatballs) was tasty but the size of pebbles and pretty much everyone got just one. Hummus is good, one spoon per person. Grilled Octopus, tasty, one piece per person. Even when it came to one of the main plates which was the mixed grill, everyone had to choose the single item they wanted to try, and that was after cutting things in half that already started out the size of a mini breakfast sausage. You do need to order alot of plates to have a full dinner.

  • Review 111 (2023-08-26 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing Lebanese restaurant with a great presentation and stunning decor. Located in the flat iron district, this restaurant was an excellent choice for some pre-MSG event dinner

  • Review 112 (2024-08-10 - Rating: 5)

    We visited during Restaurant Week and loved the decor and atmosphere. The food was great, and the staff was friendly. There were many choices for appetizers on the Restaurant Week Menu. Overall, we enjoyed the experience.

  • Review 113 (2024-11-27 - Rating: 5)

    Ililis was a delight. We were in the city to visit my nephew and chose ilili because were Lebanese. What a joy to share familiar dishes in such a beautiful setting. We ordered humus with jalapeños, labne, pita, kibbeh, falafel, and tabbouleh. The flavors brought me back to my Sittos kitchen. The service was good, ambiance lovely, and enjoyed a relaxing night sharing memories while enjoying very tasty Lebanese cuisine.

  • Review 114 (2023-05-16 - Rating: 5)

    Had an absolutely incredible experience thanks to the wonderful staff here! From the very moment we stepped in, our host Karl welcomed us warmly and showed us to our table where we were then treated like royalties.The food was 10/10 and everything that was recommended by our server hit the spot!The baba, bread, veal bacon, and every dessert we had was... ahhhhh SO good.Drinks are great too!Will definitely be back!

  • Review 115 (2023-07-04 - Rating: 5)

    A+ food, atmosphere and service. For lunch it was not crowded at all. One of the best places in town for pita.

  • Review 116 (2022-07-23 - Rating: 5)

    An upscale Mediterranean restaurant with an inclination towards Labenese tastes. The menu is always interesting and their collection of Labenese Wines is outstanding including some rare finds from Chateau Musar. Whether you are in the mood for some small plates tapas style or a full four course meal this restaurant caters to all. Tables are distanced and partitioned with options for outdoor seating. Reservations recommended.

  • Review 117 (2023-07-08 - Rating: 5)

    Food was delicious and flavorful, and service was good as expected in such a dining venue. I believe it is overpriced but everything in NY is.

  • Review 118 (2024-08-06 - Rating: 5)

    We ate here about 10 years ago, we made it back here to relive the experience. The vibe is fascinating, drinks were unique, presentation was so catching and the taste didn’t disappoint. Service was on point! We LOVED it!

  • Review 119 (2017-11-09 - Rating: 4)

    Nice romantic place for Lebanese/Mediterranean food. The food and drinks were good. I really enjoyed the Falafel, Phoenician fries & the Hummus. They were quite flavorful & fresh. I was not a fan of the Semolina Gnocchi. In my opinion, it was lacking flavor & spice. I did explain this to the waiter & they offered to replace it with another dish to my liking. We were very full & the dish was comped. Excellent service. The ambiance is excelled as well. Very romantic atmosphere. I definitely recommend ILILI for date night.

  • Review 120 (2024-09-24 - Rating: 5)

    They had a delicious prefix menu , those drinks are top class. The kibbeh with foie gras was something I’ve never tasted before along with the oysters with pomegranate funky combination but totally works. Also loved the small puffs with caviar . The scallop carpaccio was very well balanced a delicately cooked to perfection , for the entree I had filet mognon , with a unique mashed potatoes , the dessert was the showstopper , silky smooth , perfectly balanced with different textures all coming together harmoniously on a beautifully presented plate. I would highly recommend this place for an occasion they won’t fail to deliver !!!

  • Review 121 (2023-01-31 - Rating: 5)

    Great dècor. It has a unique classy wooden look. And the food is impeccably crafted, like the architecture.

  • Review 122 (2024-04-13 - Rating: 5)

    A bit pricey imo, but the food and service was great. Tried the duck shawarma, octopus, fries, and mixed grill.

  • Review 123 (2019-08-16 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing selection of beautifully prepared Lebanese dishes in a classy environment. We allowed our server to surprise us with dishes and were not disappointed. Dont forget their delicious Brussels sprouts and the Ashta for dessert.

  • Review 124 (2022-01-23 - Rating: 5)

    Really beautiful restaurant and great quality Lebanese cuisine. Lovely for birthday brunch! Staff is very attentive and friendly.

  • Review 125 (2019-10-04 - Rating: 4)

    This was my first time at a Lebanese restaurant. It’s Mediterranean cuisine and similar to Greek food. Hint of floral, herbal and spicy heat in every dish keeps each course interesting in a pleasantly surprising way. They have mezze (small plates) options or entree portions. Try the falafel, babaganoush, beef shawarma but I wouldn’t recommend the grilled octopus - it was under cooked and had an awful slimy texture. Service was attentive with appropriate timing in checking in with us. And I’ll be going back for the strawberry chocolate dessert!

  • Review 126 (2023-05-12 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely the best meal we have had in NYC. Staff is very knowledgeable about wine pairings, and it is best to ask for recommendations if you aren’t familiar with the cuisine. Everything served was delicious.

  • Review 127 (2019-06-01 - Rating: 5)

    We went for brunch after church when I was visiting NYC. Delicious! This place helped to make the whole day a very special occasion, so much so that I would go out of my way to return - even when New York City has so many other restaurants to try! Now you now this Midwest grandma likes to squeeze her pennies, but this splurge was so worth it! I highly recommend it!

  • Review 128 (2024-11-01 - Rating: 4)

    The vegan options were incredible!

  • Review 129 (2024-09-21 - Rating: 5)

    This specific restaurant in NYC offers amazing Lebanese cuisine with a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance. The menu is full of delightful dishes like creamy hummus and spiced shawarma. The service is top-notch!! Definitely worth a visit!

  • Review 130 (2024-11-18 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent food and a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Review 131 (2018-01-29 - Rating: 4)

    Upscale Mediterranean restaurant with a lot of vegetarian appetizer options. we tried 4, and they were all just perfect. Batata harra and Arnabeet Mekle were our favorite. Their wine list is endless which is another amazing thing. I would really like them to add a few more vegetarian options in entree menu.Over all experience was great! The upstairs dining room is quite boring unlike their grand, high ceiling main dining room. We have dined in both the rooms and would like to go again and be seated downstairs.

  • Review 132 (2023-08-10 - Rating: 5)

    The best Lebanese restaurant in New York City.Amazing atmosphere with friendly staff and delicious food.

  • Review 133 (2021-10-09 - Rating: 5)

    Great place to try small and large plates to share as its more of an upscale family style experience. Everything was delicious, including the cocktails. Highly recommend!

  • Review 134 (2024-12-09 - Rating: 5)

    My favorite lebanese restaurant! I loved theur Kibbeh Bi Laban and for dessert the Knafe Bil Jibneh!! I went there many times and it never disappoints

  • Review 135 (2020-08-03 - Rating: 5)

    Nice place and service. Good setup for outdoor dining with most or all tables covered with shade. Hummus and pita were good, so was the veal bacon. Good brunch prix-fixe deal.

  • Review 136 (2024-07-14 - Rating: 5)

    I ate vegetarian here but this lamb dish was too delicious not to take a picture of. Lebanese Pickleback was awesome!

  • Review 137 (2022-03-19 - Rating: 4)

    I came here with my dance school to get a taste of some Lebanese food and culture and this place was a wonderful experience. We had a group of 8 so they couldnt sit us outside ( they can seat 6 there) but when I saw the gorgeous interior I was blown away! The high ceilings and beautiful bar and lounge is very nice atmosphere. The staff and waiters are so friendly and inviting, they truly care about their customers. I do recommend reservations for 6 or more people because this place is crowded and busy! The menu is authentic lebanese with family mezze concepts, a little bit of this and a little bit of that. We tried the fried feta cigars, stuffed grape leaves, feta fries along with hummus and babaganoush dips with fresh baked bread and everything was so flavorful, crispy, well seasoned and far from dull ( there is use of mint paprika parsley in all their dishes). I also got the falafel wrap with handcut fries and chopped cucumber / tomatoes with hummus on top, they looked more like tacos then wraps lol but it was extremely tasty and definitely made from scratch, you can tell nothing is frozen or deep fried. The country breakfast is an absolute hit, you get sausages eggs in a huge pan, amazing idea for brunch. They also have vegetarian vegan and seafood options which is a plus. The drink menu is extensive with arabic beers from lebanon, to italian bellinis, french wines and mimosas for brunch. Some wine bottles are as much as $200 while cocktails are $16 and beers are $13. I found a domestic staten island dry beer and it was very refreshing, kinda reminded me of a rose cider. The dessert menu just had ice cream, sorbet with 3 scoops of a different flavor along with 6 pieces of bakalava. We tried fig pistachio ice cream flavors and they blew my mind, i also admire their tea and coffee selections with fresh mint or turkish ground. What holds me back from giving 5 stars is how small the portions are considering the prices that you pay, mezze style could indeed accommodate 4 but one mezze alone is $14-18. They also can only take 5 cards at most for large parties which made paying the bill confusing. I would love to come back here to try their dinner though, just know that the brunch/ lunch kitchen closes at 4 until their next dinner service; seems like they have to close their kitchen between each meal.

  • Review 138 (2024-05-26 - Rating: 4)

    We enjoyed the variety of Lebanese dishes. The branding was perfectly roasted and the brussels sprout was delicious garnished with fresh grapes and walnuts.The hostess (Jana) was super friendly. The bus boys were attentive. In comparison, our server was aloof …

  • Review 139 (2020-09-29 - Rating: 5)

    Late brunch at this luxurious middle eastern spot was absolutely marvelous. The service, food, atmosphere, and dessert were all done very well. The fresh bread, feta dish, and baklava for dessert were highlights!ILILI has an expansive menu and gorgeous outdoor seating. Staff was adhering to CDC guidelines. We had a great experience eating there, and would probably go back!

  • Review 140 (2022-04-29 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili is a huge restaurant, the food is good, we appreciated babaganoush a lot. It’s on a pricey side, sharing a puc of the receipt that includes our orders and the total.

  • Review 141 (2024-11-03 - Rating: 4)

    The food was good but they are missing several esential lebanese dishesService was not very good it seemed like there where not enough waittersThe place is nicely decorated

  • Review 142 (2024-03-06 - Rating: 5)

    Great ambience with great food and great service. If you’re looking for a nice place to go with friends and enjoy great food, this is the place to go!

  • Review 143 (2023-09-02 - Rating: 5)

    Had a great experience here recently! Tons of delicious vegetarian options

  • Review 144 (2022-01-05 - Rating: 5)

    This is a staple of mine whenever I’m in Midtown. I’ve been coming to this place for over 7 years now. Their food, service, and drinks are as amazing as the first time I had them. Ilili is super consistent and their bar staff has always been top notch — never snooty. Highly recommend trying Ilili out; I dream about it both when I’m awake and when I’m asleep.You must try the hummus, it’s the best I’ve ever had!

  • Review 145 (2021-02-25 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent lebanese food. Highly recommend the salmon meal, great complex flavors of pomegranate and squash. Muhamarra was very tasty. Lamb sausage had great flavor. Great baklava with pistachio ice cream on the side

  • Review 146 (2024-06-09 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing food. Our waiter and other staff were vwry attentive. Definitely try the duck gyros. The hummus was some of the best I have had and the bread that came with it is also amazing.

  • Review 147 (2024-12-22 - Rating: 4)

    Order again: fattoush salad, brussels, labne,maybe: cheese in phyllonot again: beef dumplings

  • Review 148 (2024-01-14 - Rating: 5)

    Good Lebanese food and flavors. The duck shawarma, the sausage and meatballs with cherry sauce, and the delicate eggplant chips.

  • Review 149 (2024-10-03 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili, hands-down, is an exceptional Lebanese restaurant experience! They serve delicious kibbeh nayeh, and for those who know, that alone likely gives it 5 stars. The food is scrumptious, the service top-notch, and the vibe is lively, welcoming, and upscale. Ive been to the DC and NYC locations and recommend both! ❤️

  • Review 150 (2023-05-01 - Rating: 5)

    Stopped in here to avoid the rain and sat a the bar with a friend for a light bite. We didn’t order much—just the cauliflower/hummus and the falafel. The falafel had a delicious crust to them. The pita was incredibly divine and seemingly homemade and super fresh. But I was disappointed by the cauliflower/hummus dish mainly because we got 3 florets of cauliflower for the $16 dish. Felt a bit egregious in my mind, even if it did have hummus on it too. Still gave it a 5 since it’s not a huge deal… but maybe give us 5 pieces of cauliflower?

  • Review 151 (2017-01-22 - Rating: 5)

    Absolutely amazing place. Food was fantastic. Staff were supper attentive and always making sure we had water in our glasses as well as drinks. The venue itself is gorgeous, very inceptiony. Definitely coming back here on a regular bases.

  • Review 152 (2021-11-15 - Rating: 5)

    The service was great. Since we were kind off new to Lebanese food, Noah helped us to select food based on our preferences. It was a bit loud for fine dining. But nonetheless less a great experience. Their Mekanek (lamb sausage) was absolutely delicious. That with Riz (Lebanese Rice) and Mouhamara (Dip) was a delicious combo. Cocktails were refreshing as well.

  • Review 153 (2024-11-10 - Rating: 4)

    The atmosphere was great, service was sending. But the chicken was burned, they didn’t refund it. Hence 4/5 for food.

  • Review 154 (2022-08-11 - Rating: 5)

    Ilili will always have a special place in my heart. The one thing that always steals the show is their hummus, it’s to dead for!! I love coming here whenever I am in the area.

  • Review 155 (2024-12-07 - Rating: 4)

    Nice reaturant in NYC that offers middle eastern dishes.

  • Review 156 (2024-02-18 - Rating: 4)

    Service was great, attentive but not overbearing. Server was really friendly and recommended the correct amount of food for the table. Food was good. Eggplant dish was the best out of everything we had. Everything was fresh and came out fast.The big problem here is the noise. I’m assuming that the atmosphere is supposed to be lively and festive but wow is this place loud. It looks like there are two separate dining areas with the main one having absolutely horrible acoustics. You can hear everything but at the same time can’t hear anything at all. Would eat here again but only with a large party for some sort of special occasion.

  • Review 157 (2018-04-16 - Rating: 5)

    Food is really good, I loved the steak tartar, baklavas and turkish coffee. The place is nice and spacious and service is really good. I will come back.

  • Review 158 (2022-04-03 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent place! Would love to come back. Very cool atmosphere. Gluten free is no problem here

  • Review 159 (2024-06-02 - Rating: 5)

    Reservations are a must at this place. However, I was able to find a seat at the bar/ lounge. The food here is great and the staff is very knowledgeable. The cocktail selection is also worth a try. For a more formal dining experience or a special event, this is a great option.

  • Review 160 (2024-10-22 - Rating: 5)

    Cavernous but chic Lebanese style restaurant in Chelsea area. Can get noisy, but large tables and good spacing make conversation easier.Food is a mix of Middle Eastern favorites, some with twists. A savory walnut paste was delicious as was hummus and fatoushAll fresh, with friendly servers.

  • Review 161 (2022-02-20 - Rating: 5)

    The food was awesome! Ambience was good. They had individual toilets and small towels to dry hands. I personally had beef and lamb shawarma. We also ordered hummus, baba ghanouj, falafel and some egg plant dishes. All of them were fantastic. We also tried Arak and it was fire! The staff were very courteous. Definitely recommend!

  • Review 162 (2022-10-25 - Rating: 5)

    Had the hummus with lamb and beef kebab, incredible! But the best part was ordering an affogato off menu, a must try combination of Lebanese espresso and their Arabian milk ice cream.

  • Review 163 (2024-10-28 - Rating: 4)

    Went for a some veggie appetizers, food was good but really expensive. Sat on the bar and the service was terrible.Would return to give a try to some meat entrees on a table, seemed that thats a better option

  • Review 164 (2022-09-20 - Rating: 5)

    One of the best restaurants we have been to in NY, clean place, yummy food and very nice staff. Highly recommended 👍👍👍👍👍

  • Review 165 (2021-08-03 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely atmosphere and good food, impeccable service. overall pleasant dining experience.

  • Review 166 (2022-08-07 - Rating: 5)

    Visited during restaurant week. We had the meatballs and labneh. Overall was quite tasty if expensive for what you get. We loved the bread that came with the dip. Excellent service and beautiful interior design

  • Review 167 (2020-10-25 - Rating: 5)

    Above and beyond dining experience. We ate outside during COVID and the staff was super hospitable and attentive. Pricing is very fair for quality of service and dishes!! Cleanliness and hygiene was also very thorough (temp checks, masks, contact tracing). Overall amazing experience and will definitely be returning!

  • Review 168 (2023-03-22 - Rating: 5)

    Good food and good vibes! Service was lovely.Instead of ordering separately we ordered multiple mezz and sharing plates! Was a great decision!

  • Review 169 (2024-09-02 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing food 10/10 would recommend. Some of the best food I’ve had. Get the veal pancake thing

  • Review 170 (2018-12-06 - Rating: 4)

    Nice brunch with friends! Brunch deal for ~$32 included entree, shared plate, and drink. Food was ok, entrees were on the smaller side, service was great. Wasn’t too crowded on a Saturday at 12.30pm which was a plus.

  • Review 171 (2024-01-26 - Rating: 5)

    For Lebanese food with great vibes this is the spot. For date night, or catch-up with friends who want a nice place to relax and catch-up over food!The food was really delicious. The octopus and duck were the highlights with tons of flavor but both a bit sweet savory and saltiness combines that kept me wanting more. The pita bread also was nice and warm every time it came out.Staff was great and friendly. The space is huge and bathrooms were clean. Definitely recommend coming in a larger party just to try more things vs date night with that special person.

  • Review 172 (2024-12-28 - Rating: 5)

    The food is amazing, pricey but very good.

  • Review 173 (2019-12-06 - Rating: 5)

    We celebrated Thanksgiving dinner here and we couldn’t have asked for a better dining experience. From the food to the staff, everything was perfect. We look forward to visiting again to try out their regular menu.

  • Review 174 (2024-09-25 - Rating: 5)

    Loved it atmosphere and vibes. Food was good too. Cocktails were fun as well.

  • Review 175 (2024-07-15 - Rating: 5)

    The food was amazing; everything was absolutely delicious. You have to try the Brussels sprouts - theyre exceptional.

  • Review 176 (2024-10-28 - Rating: 5)

    The food was great so tastyThe best Arabic food in NYCThe service was very good and very fastI was so hungry I didn’t have time to take photoDon’t forget to order ( white coffee ) after eating ur mealSpecial thanks to (Amadou G)I’ll come back to it again .. 💕🇺🇸

  • Review 177 (2023-09-10 - Rating: 5)

    My favorite Lebanese restaurant in the city! The food, service, everything it’s 5⭐️ love it

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