Shalel

Photo of Shalel

Located in New York, New York

Address: 65 W 70th St, New York, NY 10023, United States

Phone: +1 212-873-2300

Rating: 4.5

Services

  • Identifies as women-owned
  • Kerbside pickup
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Fast service
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Healthy options
  • Late-night food
  • Organic dishes
  • Small plates
  • Spirits
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Bar on site
  • Toilets
  • Casual
  • Cosy
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Upmarket
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards

Categories

  • Bar
  • Mediterranean restaurant
  • Cocktail bar
  • Restaurant

Photos

Latest NYC Bar Directory

Comments

  • Review 1 (2024-09-23 - Rating: 5)

    Gorgeous restaurant! Feels like stepping into an old haunted house, in the best way possible! The decor is seriously top tier and makes a great atmosphere for a date. The food was fabulous and had good sized portions! A lot of the menu can be made gluten free & is safe for people with celiac! I got the chicken kebab sans the pita and they offered cucumber slices as a replacement. The chinotto soda was AMAZING! A must try for a non-alcoholic beverage! The server was so friendly and knowledgeable too! I will definitely return here! Prices are good— about $50 a person for dinner!

  • Review 2 (2024-11-26 - Rating: 5)

    Great date night spot. Been here twice - food is always great.Keep in mind, it is a bit dark inside.

  • Review 3 (2024-02-25 - Rating: 4)

    4 stars because of the highly decorated room. Great ambiance, although the music was a bit weird sometimes. The cauliflower was a bit bland and the cheese and bread it came with a bit stale. The croquetas were too salty. Spanakopita was on point. Good wine selection!

  • Review 4 (2024-08-11 - Rating: 5)

    Great atmosphere. Delicious food. Really good drinks. Cant complain. You can go for a romantic dinner or dinner with friends

  • Review 5 (2023-03-27 - Rating: 4)

    Overall rating: 4.4This is a very unique spot in UWS. It feels like a cave and I absolutely love it.I wish I gave it a 5 star, but the service was absolutely terrible.Also the “waterfall” people mention is barely a waterfall. It’s water going down a slope.The food was good, but it was impossible to get multiple drinks because of the slow service. We went towards the night and definitely overstayed past the closing time! But we didn’t even realize it was closing because we never saw staff.The food was gooood. I don’t know if I just didn’t like what I ordered. But I’m interested in coming back again to try other foods.It’s a very small-seated spot & intimate, so I don’t recommend for parties or groups of 3 or more.Def more date night vibe, vs catching up with a friend.

  • Review 6 (2023-10-10 - Rating: 5)

    Really cool atmosphere, inside a cave with a trickling waterfall! The food was all fantastic, with lots of great options from Greece, Italy, Spain... and yes the espresso martini was top notch. The service was friendly - Autumn was the best!

  • Review 7 (2019-01-14 - Rating: 5)

    My partner and I decided to try moroccan cuisine and spontaneously ran into this hidden gem. At first I was a bit skeptical, as the entrance was very dark and in a basement. However, the pedals running down the staircase made it very inviting. The moment we walked into the restaurant, I knew we were going to have a memorable experience. Every table and room had candles and pedals around it. The decor also had a hint of rustic and antique to it. We sat in a semi-private room for two, right behind the waterfall. It was a very intimate setting. Everything from the food, drinks and dessert were great! I highly recommend this place for a romantic date fellas!

  • Review 8 (2021-08-06 - Rating: 5)

    One of the best ‘underground’ hidden-gems of Upper West Side! This is an incredibly romantic and intimate restaurant that offers great food and adorably caring and attentive service with great food and nice atmosphere.This restaurant has been on our list to visit and we were glad we did. They take reservations over phone, and you can have Google Assistant reserve a table for you at the restaurant as well. I would highly recommend reserving before you go. Food was fantastic and I will visit here again in near future.

  • Review 9 (2024-12-19 - Rating: 5)

    Our server Beck was amazing, and was always attentive. Food arrived at a good pace, with each plate being delicious. The bartender provided excellent drinks, and with a cozy atmosphere, we will be sure to be back and recommend this place to all of our friends and family.

  • Review 10 (2022-08-20 - Rating: 5)

    Stumbled upon this beautiful and intimate Mediterranean restaurant in the Upper West Side. It is a small restaurant with limited seating but is done up tastefully.The food was great - we enjoyed the Babaganoush, Gambas Al Ajillo and the Moroccan Mint Tea. The Patatas Bravas are a tad bland and the Mushroom Saganaki may not be for everyone (uses a rather strong smelling kefalotyri cheese).The service was great and we really enjoyed our visit. Would recommend this place for a romantic dinner date!

  • Review 11 (2023-09-04 - Rating: 5)

    Been here 3 times and only have positive things to say. The ambiance is very calming and romantic, the food is delicious and the service is excellent. Highly recommend for your next date night.

  • Review 12 (2019-02-20 - Rating: 5)

    I’ve been coming here for about 9 years! It’s an underground restaurant and bar. The ambience is very romantic and dim. There are multiple areas to dine, like little caves. The food has never disappointed me. My latest visit we got the seafood pasta and the lamb with couscous. Both were absolutely delish. The service was a bit slow this time around, but the girl seemed new or maybe just had too many tables. I recommend coming here on a date!

  • Review 13 (2022-10-23 - Rating: 5)

    This place is special.Great date spot or just to hang out with friends.Lycheetini is good, and I recommend getting the mixed grill.Their valentines day meal was also really good with risotto.

  • Review 14 (2023-05-02 - Rating: 5)

    Shalel is a hidden gem of a restaurant and cocktail bar perfect for impressing that special someone. Tucked away down a flight of stairs and a short corridor, its practically a speakeasy - the place that makes you feel like youve stumbled upon a secret oasis in the city. Once inside, the warm and cozy ambiance transports you to a world of 1001 nights, making it an ideal spot for a romantic night out (just maybe not a first date unless youre already serious!). The staff is super friendly, and the Mediterranean food is delicious. If youre on a budget, go for the hummus - its a great value. And remember to try the drinks - the red sangria is a must-try.

  • Review 15 (2023-01-28 - Rating: 4)

    Came here last night with some friends for dinner. Ambiance is 5/5 for sure -it has a nice romantic, underground and cozy vibe and a nice bar. The night we came it was extremely busy so the service was a bit slow, though our server was very nice. I really enjoyed my chicken kebab - it was nice and moist and flavorful. Most of my other friends enjoyed their meal although my friend who got the shakshuka said it was bland and the eggs were clearly over cooked. I would definitely give it a second chance based on the quality of my dish and hopefully will come back on a night when it’s less crowded.

  • Review 16 (2017-06-24 - Rating: 4)

    It was a very good atmosphere and nice servers. We sat by a fountain on some rocks which was really nice. There were Lil hideaway areas and very romantic. Food was different. Lots of lamb on the menu, seabass, and risotto.

  • Review 17 (2024-11-30 - Rating: 5)

    Wow...if I could give 10 stars I would. Everything was exactly what I needed for my Mediterranean experience; from the food, to the service, to the atmosphere. Thank you for a wonderful dining experience and I hope to come again 😉

  • Review 18 (2024-07-14 - Rating: 5)

    I was nervous from the photos that the ambiance here would not be good, like it would feel dirty or dank something - but I was pleased to find that it was actually super beautiful and romantic. The atmosphere surpassed my expectations in person. I think the photos do a poor job of capturing the low light ambiance. Shalel was both romantic and cool - the perfect date spot. The food wasn’t the best I’ve ever had, but they had some solid dishes and plenty of variety on the menu. The cocktails were actually fantastic, and pleasantly the non-alcoholic cocktails were also interesting and well-done, which I find is rare. Several vegetarian options and a few vegan options.

  • Review 19 (2021-12-03 - Rating: 5)

    Wow!! Sucha rustic little place in the middle of upper west! Loved the whole brick wall and candle lit ambiance in here. Don’t come here if you are expecting a party music because it’s an intimate type of place.I recommend trying the mixed Mediterranean platter and chicken tagine (so flavorful!). Chicken kabab also had that marinated roasted flavor. Always appreciate when a place like this has a longer selection of options in the menu.Just fyi - They said that tagine was only big enough for one person but later we noticed that quantities here are pretty shareable sized so you can get away by trying a few things together.

  • Review 20 (2024-08-09 - Rating: 4)

    Great experience! My girlfriend took me for our anniversary month, and I loved everything. The server, Zoe, was super welcoming and very friendly. She knew almost everything on the menu and recommended great drinks and food! The atmosphere was unique, very dark and sexy. We got a table in the back that made me feel like we were in a cave! I want to come back and sit at the bar. I recommend it.

  • Review 21 (2023-07-30 - Rating: 5)

    Shalel was fantastic! Everything about this place is a 10/10. The ambiance was so cozy and romantic. Food was delicious and the service was great. I will be back and would recommend it!

  • Review 22 (2024-05-09 - Rating: 5)

    I was here on a warm Saturday evening for dinner. I got the steak kebab which tasted great and was full of flavor. I was so full I couldnt even finish my meal. I got a little bit of the pistachio baklava and that was stellar.The environment is cool too. I got a seat in the back of the restaurant, inside a small cave.Great food and great vibes.

  • Review 23 (2019-02-02 - Rating: 4)

    Warm interior design thats romantic. There is an interestingly placed waterfall. If you look closely,. Youll see that this is the basement of an apartment building. I would recommend couples to try that least once for date night.

  • Review 24 (2021-11-21 - Rating: 5)

    I enjoyed this restaurant. The interior is very cool and very intimate. The restaurant is down stairs and consists of different rooms. The couches/chairs are comfortable. I started off with Hummus di Tahina with grilled pita. It was very good. I had the Yogurt-Marinated Chicken Kebab with roasted vegetables, basmati pilaf, and.warm pita. It was delicious. Their beer selection was good but I wish they had Moroccan beer.

  • Review 25 (2023-12-18 - Rating: 4)

    Really lovely restaurant - cool atmosphere - tasty food and excellent service! Do not hesitate!

  • Review 26 (2023-07-13 - Rating: 5)

    I just LOVED this place!! What a dreamy atmosphere! Eating by candle lit. The food is really good. Everything tastes fresh. The cocktails are intriguing. Everything was reasonably priced and very good. We ate at the pantry table and I have to say, I loved it. It was like we had our own private room. It is a very intimate setting so great for special occasions.

  • Review 27 (2018-05-10 - Rating: 5)

    I was a bit worried when encountering the pitch blackness on the little staircase in, but the dim atmosphere proved to be cozy and delightful, the lycheetini was amazing, and the small plates unique and fresh. The server was friendly and prompt with taking our order, the music complemented the decor and wasn’t too loud. Definitely plan to return.

  • Review 28 (2019-08-15 - Rating: 5)

    My friend took me to this place for my birthday - the vibe was very welcoming for sitting in a quiet place with friends or even a date!The food was pretty amazing especially the croquettes and the octopus! The only dish that I don’t really recommend is the squid, it was very chewy and overcooked. At the end my friends ordered a dessert for me and the nice waitress gave us two more desserts on the house that was really nice of her!

  • Review 29 (2024-05-08 - Rating: 4)

    You’ll likely remember this place more for the unique rustic (and almost dungeon-like) interior than the food. The food was great though! But the true star of the experience was Andrew. He was the host, the server, AND the bartender (although it was not a particularly busy night). On top of all that, he had a very difficult customer to deal with but he did so graciously and somehow managed to keep his cool (I know I wouldn’t have)! If you see this, Andrew, you’re a freaking rockstar!!

  • Review 30 (2023-11-10 - Rating: 5)

    My partner and I had our anniversary dinner here and it was delightful. This is a restaurant that is lit by candles, mosaic lamps, etc and it’s great mood lighting. The food was wonderful! Everything we tried was great from the chocolate cake, to the sampler, to the entrees. I have an alpha gal allergy and there were more than enough options I could pick from!

  • Review 31 (2023-05-13 - Rating: 5)

    Lamb Cigars by far the star of the show! The pita is warm and fresh. Definitely check this spot out.

  • Review 32 (2016-11-15 - Rating: 5)

    Warm & Cozy Upper West Side Gym. Great Ambiance nice, descend wine selection, and delicious food which is good quality relative to the price. Good for a group and the cave like private rooms are perfect for a romantic evening out!

  • Review 33 (2024-06-11 - Rating: 5)

    Using Grubhub through Amazon prime for the first time. There was a mistake with what was delivered. I could not get anyone at Grubhub to respond, despite two questionnaires that asked about my order and my satisfaction. I went to the restaurant and the team at the restaurant felt horrible about the mishap. They could not have been nicer and more apologetic!

  • Review 34 (2024-01-15 - Rating: 4)

    The food is great.Home made by the owners.The service is hands on, they cater to you.The atmosphere is true to their cuisine. Very unique.Can be very romantic spot.Im going again soon.

  • Review 35 (2023-09-09 - Rating: 4)

    Delicious menu. Very calm and chill. Best hummus Ive had anywhere. Great service. We loved that we had our own little corner and didnt have to block out any diners conversations around us.

  • Review 36 (2024-08-11 - Rating: 5)

    Vegan food Options very yummy.Atmosphere feels like a vacation and attentive staff!

  • Review 37 (2023-12-30 - Rating: 4)

    Great little basement restaurant in walking distance of Lincoln Center. The menu is varied and everything was absolutely delicious. The main words to describe the atmosphere are dark and cozy.

  • Review 38 (2023-12-03 - Rating: 5)

    Probably the most unique and beautiful restaurant in the UWS. Romantic and dim; perfect for a date night

  • Review 39 (2023-08-27 - Rating: 4)

    Unique architecture and very extraordinary experience the food was average

  • Review 40 (2024-11-10 - Rating: 5)

    Incredible restaurant. Great ambiance. Good cocktails.

  • Review 41 (2022-10-09 - Rating: 4)

    Cant beat the romantic, intimate atmosphere of Shalel. In this crazy, noisy city its a sweet spot of tranquility. Any time I take someone there, they feel like theyve stepped into someplace magical. Cocktails are great but expensive. Food is good and plentiful. Youve got to experience Shalel for yourself.

  • Review 42 (2022-07-18 - Rating: 5)

    This place is so adorable! Tucked under a bunch of plants at the entrance and into this maze like space that feels like you have the place to yourself.Wait staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. I ordered the gnocchi which was delicious.My friends ordered more food that they shared and it was all really great.

  • Review 43 (2023-03-19 - Rating: 4)

    Could not find the restaurant...because there is no sign on the railing hiding the steps that lead to the restaurant in the buildings basement. Please put a sign there!The food is very good and we enjoyed the unusual, calm and relaxed atmosphere. Service was willing and attentive. Certainly a place to return.Three quibbles: 1) the entryway (past the stairs, to the door) could use an upgrade, since you think youre going into a basement, not a romantic restaurant (too much stuff, door with duct tape, empty containers, etc.). 2) the eggs in the Shakshuka had hard yolks, instead of runny ones, and the benefit of having the runny yolk in the dish is lost (the dish otherwise was tasty). 3) the waterfall looks tired and too mossy...just looks and feels more like a leaking water issue.

  • Review 44 (2022-09-30 - Rating: 4)

    We had a great night at Shalel. The ambiance was cozy, rustic, and genuine. The hostess was kind to accommodate our tardiness to our reservation and Jamie was an excellent waitress who gave us great recommendations in navigating the menu.A party of 2, we ordered two appetizers, the cauliflower and the mushrooms, and two entrees—the chicken tagine and the chicken kebab. The appetizers were the star of the show for me, both bursting with flavor. The entrees were good, but left a little to be desired. They came out not very hot and the chicken on the kebab was a little overdone. The flavor of the tagine was great. The total came to ~$50 per person.Service was the perfect amount of slow for a date night.All in all, we had a great time. The space made for an incredible dining experience and the service made us feel welcome.

  • Review 45 (2023-04-11 - Rating: 5)

    This a a very unassuming from the outside, Middle Eastern restaurant. But when you step in youll be blown away. The decor is so wonderful you wouldnt expect this in a basement. Everything was done in a world class manner. The drinks were excellent. We really enjoyed the pomegranate margarita as well as their not sweet sangria. The moussaka was a vegan dish that even carnivores would enjoy. The mixed grill is a good sampler and the desserts with labneh are so good.

  • Review 46 (2025-01-01 - Rating: 5)

    Food is very fresh and all the staff is very friendly and professional.

  • Review 47 (2022-07-17 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely, unique, romantic Mediterranean restaurant with amazing food! My husband hat a lamb dish and I had a seafood item, both very delicious. The staff was also very helpful and friendly, recommending wonderful appetizers and dessert items which we loved! We went there for our anniversary after watching a show at the nearby Lincoln Center.

  • Review 48 (2024-12-03 - Rating: 5)

    I got just take out but loved it. I love their assortment of plant based dishes too with the focus on lentils and chickpeas.

  • Review 49 (2024-05-16 - Rating: 5)

    Pleasant restaurant with an unusual atmosphere. The food was served very quickly, and it was delicious!

  • Review 50 (2019-10-18 - Rating: 4)

    Ive only been here once on a date and it was really nice. The place is very moody and romantic. Food was delicious too. I love the lamb cigars.The only one thing was that the seating was not comfortable for me and my date. Other than that, it was great. I would come back again.

  • Review 51 (2024-11-19 - Rating: 5)

    Great NYC vibe in cozy, plush setting. Distinctive menu. Suggest sharing dishes to try different options

  • Review 52 (2022-12-10 - Rating: 4)

    Food was tasty. Seats in booth were basically benches that provided no lumbar door and were uncomfortable. Service was leisurely. Server brought out dishes in random order, not by the courses we wanted.

  • Review 53 (2022-08-15 - Rating: 4)

    This is a unique, cozy date spot on the upper west side. There is very little signage. Go down a flight of stairs and enter into this underground, candlelight dinner and drinks spot. Good food and lots of different small rooms with varying designs.

  • Review 54 (2022-02-26 - Rating: 5)

    The experience at this beautiful and mysterious little hidden gem was impeccable. The food at this Mediterranean restaurant was truly lick your plate worthy. The ambiance is sexy, moody, private and intimate. The staff was sweet. Definitely would visit again and recommend to friends. Everything was superb but my top recommendations of the night were both the pizza and Mediterranean spreads as appetizers, Branzino for entree and Ekmek Kataif for dessert.

  • Review 55 (2020-02-18 - Rating: 5)

    You will not regret getting down these stairs and find out more about this place... (if you don’t pay attention you might actually not even see this place as there is only their menu on the outside)... the decoration is nice and the vibe is cool - kinda romantic so wouldn’t come here with a bud - the different rooms make it very unique - the music is good - the food is also pretty good - we have been here two times now. Drinks are a bit expensive but I guess normal prices for NYC - although the wine price is pretty fair. Highly recommended.

  • Review 56 (2024-08-24 - Rating: 4)

    Overall very good. The food was outstanding, the atmosphere as expected and we enjoyed our dinner. The only thing that could have been better was the service. They were just ok and could have been a little warmer.

  • Review 57 (2019-02-12 - Rating: 4)

    When looking for a mid-range romantic dinner on the Upper West Side, the Shalel Lounge earns itself a respectable place in the conversation. The ambience is dark, candle-lit, with plastered walls and furniture reminiscent of a night in Morocco. The service was standard. The drinks were creative but on the sugary side. The appetizers were well done. For entrees, we had the chicken and lamb kebabs. The chicken was delicious, but the lamb was dry and ill-portioned.Overall this is a place I would return to in order to explore the menu further and take advantage of the deep, romantic vibes.

  • Review 58 (2013-04-07 - Rating: 5)

    I am a native New Yorker and will keep to the directness of how we are known to be :)Top Pick for Romantic NightFood: Excellent but limited to appetizers.Drinks: Excellent. Try the Rose water champagne drink!Space: This has to be NYs best kept secret! It is one of the most romantic places I have found. But, at first you would never even know that the place is there. Its right next to a school and the only identifier is a menu leading to the staircase that is rose petal laced! Once you walk down the stairs, it looks like you are in a random alley; but when you walk into Shalel you are greeted by more rose petals on tables and the bar. This place has open space to little nooks for a more intimate experience. There is a grotto near the bathroom, lots of intimate roped of sections, very cavernous, very romantic.Scene: Date night.Crowd: 30-40sService: Designed to make sure you have more intimacy, so the staff doesnt come by that often. Extremely courteous.

  • Review 59 (2022-03-06 - Rating: 4)

    Really loved the vibe of this cozy underground restaurant! Definitely recommend Morrocan lamb cigars and mushroom Saganaki! The mix grill portion was not good as it only came with two cubes of chicken, two cubes of lamb and two sausages, whereas you would expect a skewer of those in Mediterranean restaurants! Also, the minimum order was $30/person!

  • Review 60 (2023-05-09 - Rating: 5)

    This is a hidden gem for sure. Not many people seem to notice the restaurant because it’s underground, but this place is worth going to. The entrance doesn’t even look like an entrance, but once you are inside, you immediately feel transported to the Middle East.

  • Review 61 (2022-02-27 - Rating: 5)

    The vibes are immaculate. The restaurant is entirely underground, UWS hidden gem Reminded me of stepping into a Morocco.Service is very relaxed, laid back. Which I like.Tagine was great, hummus, lamb and beef meatballs, dessert was 10/10

  • Review 62 (2023-03-31 - Rating: 5)

    We came here last week for a date night, and we didn’t know that the restaurant is located in a basement, but just after came in the vibe was mysterious, bohemian, like a secret place, it was a really nice surprise, in other words, exclusive.We ordered some appetizers, including the Moroccan cigars, Ham Croquetas, and the meatballs. All of them were delicious, but the croquetas were absolute mouth watering.For main course we ordered the Grilled mix and a porcini risotto; they were not our favorite, but we enjoyed them.To finish, we ordered two desserts, but I really don’t remember their names, but they were so delish that we cleaned the plate.Highly recommended, not only because of the food but also for the ambiance, the nice vibe and good service.

  • Review 63 (2020-10-11 - Rating: 5)

    Had an amazing dinner with my boyfriend here tonight. The food was absolutely delicious and they had a really cute outdoor covered dining setup during COVID times. Would 10/10 recommend. Best pita bread I’ve ever had.

  • Review 64 (2023-12-19 - Rating: 5)

    Had a great time, food, service, and atmosphere were all on point. Our server was Gigi and she was fantastic! Got seated next to the larger waterfall which honestly was a very small trickle but cute nonetheless. For food, we split a lot of dishes -- mezze platter: hummus wasn’t good, baba ganoush was ok, everything else was good- spanakopita: had really high hopes for this but this was average (2 pieces)- cheese bourkas: these were good, but they are a bit heavy (2 pieces)- jamon croquettes: these were the best app, flavorful and the perfect portion (4 pieces)- lamb kofta tagine: absolutely delicious and i’m glad it was somewhat healthy too (at least it seemed like it), lamb was flavorful and the dish was 10/10, would definitely get again- chocolate cake: a bit like a lava cake, but also like a warm chocolate cake at the same time. Very small, perfect for when you’re stuffed and want dessert - as far as chocolate cakes go, it was ok. Ice cream that came with it was delicious- date tart: not what i expected, not very good (unless you LOVE dates)- pomegranate marg: delicious- shalel manhattan: pretty good

  • Review 65 (2021-11-14 - Rating: 5)

    Very romantic and chic. Extremely low key and off the beaten path. The main reason we stopped there was because we could smell the food cooking on the street we were walking down. So we impulsively went inside. We were not disappointed. Theres even a water fountain, not to mention that its all underground in a basement. With real exposed stone for walls, candle lit and very intimate. Great use of space. We absolutely recommend it for a first name or weekly eating.

  • Review 66 (2016-03-05 - Rating: 4)

    This a definite hidden gem. If you were to walk by you would not notice it was there which adds to the charm of the lounge. Lots of fabric and cushions to lay out on. The waitstaff was friendly and not over bearing. Great spot for a date or dinner.

  • Review 67 (2022-04-05 - Rating: 4)

    The atmosphere in this mediterranean restaurant is very nice and melow. The place is designed as a maze which creates isolated tables throughout the place which is pretty cool. We had a light mezzas dinner. We had the Moroccan lamb cigars which were great. The halummi and cauliflower mezza is also nice but there were only 3 pieces of cheese in it. The cold mezza plate was just ok (other mediterranean restaurants in the neighborhood are doing a better job with these types of spreads). The chocolate caramel cake dessert was actually very very good and we enjoyed it a lot.

  • Review 68 (2022-04-02 - Rating: 5)

    The food and ambiance were amazing. The service was great. Greatly recommend making a reservation

  • Review 69 (2019-08-31 - Rating: 5)

    The atmosphere of the restaurant is amazing, each party can be in their own little nook having a wonderful, intimate experience. There were no bussers or backwaiters, so it was just you and your waiter/waitress and I think that added to this intimate experience—they’d appear with food, recommendations, or complimentary snacks/drinks from the chef. It definitely made my party feel cared for and special.The menu is a good size if you’re dining with a group, you can do a tapas style or traditional entrees—either way you are in for a treat. The menu is Moroccan style but includes dishes inspired by nearby countries’ cuisine. Definitely try a tagine—the flavors are quite the experience. I was a big fan of the spanikopites and the desert labne.Overall, you can tell that this restaurant is thoughtful with their menu and service. I don’t think you’d be disappointed. Look for a randomly lit staircase off of 70th and join them for a drink or meal!

  • Review 70 (2021-08-03 - Rating: 5)

    Had such a great experience here. Super intimate and romantic, just an overall unique vibe. We tried chicken kebabs and chicken tangine which were sooo good. But the whole menu sounded incredible so I def want to come back. Highly recommend :)

  • Review 71 (2020-10-31 - Rating: 5)

    My hubby and I came here last weekend. We went down the steps of the brick building, and were greeted by a friendly server. We sat in a narrow hallway, social distances from other tables, and were tucked by a shelf of supplies for sale. The food was incredibly, a “must try” is the middle eastern dessert- it has honey, whipped topping and filo dough. Yum!

  • Review 72 (2017-10-20 - Rating: 5)

    A great place for a romantic date. Theres lots of comfortable seating in this dimly lit oasis, with rose petals and pools of water decorating the scenery. We ordered the four dips as an appetizer. Highly recommend trying the plain hummus first, as the other flavors will soon overwhelm it. We also got the lamb tagine and the salmon, both of which were delicious.

  • Review 73 (2021-05-05 - Rating: 5)

    This is an UWS staple thats truly a one of a kind spot. Probably one of the most romantic spots in the city let alone in the UWS, it transforms you to a dimly lit, cozy restaurant filled with nooks and crannies, couches and waterfalls. The ownership is top match and the food is good. Support your local businesses by coming to this restaurant!

  • Review 74 (2015-09-12 - Rating: 5)

    Awesome vibe.. Very romantic place, difficult to notice, but incredibly cozy. In small groups you are given a private room. Food not the best, probably, but drinks are good and prices in line with the area

  • Review 75 (2024-10-12 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent hidden gem! We walked past two or three times until we found it - and still werent even sure we were in the right place. Once inside, however, we were transported to another world. Yes, its dark, but its also cozy and intimate and the music and ambient noise is at just the right level to enjoy the person you are dining with (I particularly enjoyed the use of drapes everywhere). All of this is before the food comes!The service was exceptional - a very friendly and personable waitress that made us feel very welcome (sorry we didnt get your name, but thank you for settling our debate on when its ok to call someone!). The coctails were delicious (the pommegranite margarita was like none Ive had before). On top of that the food was divine - I had keftekadia and my husband had the chicken basteeya. Both were absolutely delicious.I cannot recomend this place highly enough. My one word of caution is if you have somewhere to be afterwards, make sure you make plenty of time to enjoy yourself. Had we not had tickets it is very likely we would be sitting there enjoying the ambiance still.

  • Review 76 (2024-08-07 - Rating: 5)

    This restaurant in UWS was recommended to me by a friend, I was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere, the quality of the food but above all by the excellent service! Perfect place for a date, they have an interesting selection of wine, the bartender prepares amazing cocktails, I love that it is intimate to have a good conversation during dinner with friends

  • Review 77 (2011-10-31 - Rating: 5)

    Perfect spot for a first date - period! The atmosphere is perfect, the seclusion from everyone else is awesome. When you finally find the lounge, its located downstairs, youll be greeted by rose petals! The hummus is delicious, the chicken tagine a la fez is flavorful, and they serve Chimay. However, if its your first date, you are better off ordering finger foods because of the way the seats are setup. If you want your date to remember you, and your first date, then totally take them here!

  • Review 78 (2024-07-04 - Rating: 5)

    Megan and Andrew made our night SO special!! We celebrated our anniversary, and they gave us the most secluded, gorgeous table - and a treat to celebrate. The best NYC date night, and incredible service!! Also - incredible drinks, cocktails and food! Highly recommend the bacon wrapped dates!

  • Review 79 (2018-01-21 - Rating: 4)

    We came here after our day spent at the museum. It was hard to find as it’s in the basement. But alas, we found it and was pleasantly surprised to follow the steps and tables decorated with rose petals. We entered the dark room and felt so cosy in this underground rustic restaurant. The walls are bare rock which created an almost speakeasy vibe.We sat at the bar and had the cauliflower with haloumi cheese. The cheese was tough and not that warm but the lebne tahini sauce was delicious. The dish came with pita which didn’t say that on the menu and being gluten free didn’t want any part of it. And we ordered wine and beer.Overall the space is very beautiful, the bar tender seemed a little cold but perhaps he had things going on. The food has potential and we will be back again to give it a more realistic try.

  • Review 80 (2016-05-14 - Rating: 4)

    Shalel is such a romantic little place! Definitely a good date spot. ;)The appetizers are great, decent selection of drinks. Have been for dinner once long ago and thought the mains were all pretty good. Probably wont be the best tagine youve had but everythings decent.

  • Review 81 (2022-11-20 - Rating: 4)

    Beautifully lit and decorated, wonderful place for a date night. Tapas were delicious but quite expensive for the size. Recommend for the experience alone.

  • Review 82 (2018-07-15 - Rating: 4)

    Open on Saturdays (contrary to Google) and at 5:00 we had the place to ourselves. Good service. Enjoyed the Mediterranean platter appetizer, the Lebanese Fattoush salad, and lamb kebabs. Vegetarian tagine was ok - veggies cooked more than we like. Entrance is not obvious. Ambience is as others have described.

  • Review 83 (2017-06-06 - Rating: 5)

    The food was fantastic. I had the Scottish Salmon and it was so perfectly cooked, it was the best fish I have ever had at any restaurant. The risotto that came with it was creamy and delicious as well.

  • Review 84 (2019-03-02 - Rating: 5)

    Lovely environment, beautiful lighting, sweet staff, except the bartender, he would rather not be bothered. Everything else at this place was great. An excellent hideaway to eat at.

  • Review 85 (2018-07-27 - Rating: 5)

    Lots of delicious Mediterranean eats. Pizza is so-so and a few other oddities that are less inspiring. One of the most intriguing vibes on UWS. Love the space. Staff is wonderful. Surprised this is the only location.

  • Review 86 (2014-05-08 - Rating: 5)

    Great service, great ambiance, great wine list, the waitresses leave you alone so you can be with your date. It was our second date, even though I dont think of coffee as a first date - more like a preliminary date. LOL... So, I had to make a great real first date. Where else to be but here to start it off with a bang? If you read Yelp reviews, take them with a grain of salt if theyre bad. Some idiots on there dont get it that this isnt Cheers, or some homestyle bar, where you bring a 3rd wheel. This is the place that you bring a date to by yourselves the first time (actually many times afterwards) and then again when you want her to meet your best friend and his girlfriend if things are going well.

  • Review 87 (2018-08-10 - Rating: 5)

    What a gem of a restaurant! (I almost dont want to write a review to help keep this place a secret...) Shalel is tucked away in the basement of a building, so its not the easiest to spot. Take the stairs down a flight and the door is just down and round to the left. You can sit inside or there are a few tables outside. Both the Saffron Chicken Brieues and Greek Salad were fantastic. For dessert, the Labneh with cherries and almonds hit the spot. Highly recommend!

  • Review 88 (2023-12-12 - Rating: 5)

    This restaurant it is fabulous and the food so delicious. The drinks 🍸 🤪 😍The waitress and owners are so kind and helpful amazing people and location

  • Review 89 (2022-10-04 - Rating: 5)

    I was celebrating my Birthday. Everything was beautiful and my food was delicious 😋

  • Review 90 (2018-05-07 - Rating: 5)

    Beautiful place with great ambiance, food, and drinks. Good for romantic dinners OR for meeting friends. I love it here and it’s never over crowded or too loud. Highly recommend.

  • Review 91 (2017-05-21 - Rating: 5)

    Really nice bar with a great atmosphere. Theres a more open area where you can sit at the bar and get a drink or smaller enclosed nooks for a more intimate experience. The drinks were nice and not too overpriced.

  • Review 92 (2020-10-15 - Rating: 5)

    IYKYK... The Taco Bar beats anything on the UWS. When ordering don’t be afraid to ask for off menu recommendations. Alway fresh and unique ingredients. Tonight we had octopus and mushroom tacos, they were phenomenal.

  • Review 93 (2019-11-14 - Rating: 5)

    Food was amazing! Will definitely be back! Nice vibe n decor excellent for a date night

  • Review 94 (2018-06-18 - Rating: 5)

    I had an amazing first date here. The Chilean sea bass was incredible. Great spot for a romantic dinner.

  • Review 95 (2016-10-16 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing underground experience. I wont spoil it. The couscous lamb and chicken tangine plates are delicious. The food is 9/10. Experience is 10/10. With all that said, pretty pricy.

  • Review 96 (2023-05-16 - Rating: 5)

    Nothing but love for this restaurant. In a sea of basic suburban feeling UWS restaurants, this place is a trrruuee gem. I’ve always made a reservation and have been treated like a 👸🏻. I hope to become a regular. 😘

  • Review 97 (2020-10-21 - Rating: 5)

    Cozy little hidden spot, will definitely be going back for a couple drinks. I had the lamb burgers last time and they were really well cooked and seasoned.

  • Review 98 (2024-04-01 - Rating: 5)

    Always amazing great food drinks and location. Great date spot

  • Review 99 (2023-12-18 - Rating: 4)

    UPDATE: they came back and replaced it with real couscous, so giving it 5 stars for serviceThis is not real couscous. Very disappointed. They used Ptitim instead of actual couscous.

  • Review 100 (2022-11-19 - Rating: 5)

    Fantastic meal and keep space for dessert!

  • Review 101 (2016-10-16 - Rating: 5)

    Suuuper dark - to the point where I wouldnt recommend it to anyone visually impaired. Super romantic vibe though, with many private nooks. Follow the flower petals down the stairs from street level and then through an alley to enter.

  • Review 102 (2019-11-07 - Rating: 4)

    Good food. Beautiful ambiance.

  • Review 103 (2023-09-26 - Rating: 5)

    Wow -- Shalel transports you to a wine cellar in the Mediterranean. The food, service and atmosphere are spectacular.

  • Review 104 (2022-03-23 - Rating: 5)

    Dinner and service with Rebecca was fantastic. The shrimp risotto and frittata were both and filling and fresh.

  • Review 105 (2018-07-15 - Rating: 5)

    Perfect for a date! So intimate. Also for once the tables are not right next to each other. Candles are all over, as well as rose pedals. The menu has many options for appetizer and main dishes. The price is very decent for plate size. We both splits the Chilean sea bass on Isreali salad and shakshuka. The lamb was sooo flavorful, I loved it!

  • Review 106 (2022-08-13 - Rating: 5)

    A delight. The ambiance, the cool air, the food. The food. I’ll be returning. And as much as I want the place all to myself, you should give it a try :)

  • Review 107 (2023-03-22 - Rating: 5)

    Extraordinary food and vibe! I can easily see this restaurant to be my go-to. Lovely service, unique atmosphere (you would forget you are in the city) and delicious food. We ordered octopus, branzino, gambas and shrimp pasta. Every single dish is great which is hard to come by.

  • Review 108 (2021-08-11 - Rating: 5)

    Very cute spot for a comfortable, candlelit dinner! The lamb tagine and chicken kebab were both delicious with good portions, and the wine selection is notable too. Note that there is a $30 per person minimum order - an entree and a drink will get you there fine. Would come back if I wanted a cosy, intimate setting!

  • Review 109 (2012-06-05 - Rating: 4)

    This is one of our most favorite (and hidden) and exotic lounges in Manhattan. It’s a great place for a romantic interlude over wine and hummus.

  • Review 110 (2024-04-18 - Rating: 5)

    Stepping into this cozy underground Mediterranean gem felt like entering another world. The intimate setting exuded charm, perfect for a romantic evening. With an innovative and exciting menu and delicious cocktails I cant wait to go back.

  • Review 111 (2021-01-23 - Rating: 5)

    Such a great little place. The owners are incredibly friendly and really go out of their way to make sure that you enjoy yourself. Can’t recommend highly enough.

  • Review 112 (2019-07-29 - Rating: 5)

    Enjoyed the shakshuka. Unique rabbit-warren-like layout felt as if something secret and exciting could be around any corner, in any nook. Romantic.

  • Review 113 (2018-09-15 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing Mediterranean spot, very romantic and date-nighty with the ambient lighting and cavernous feel. Food is delicious too!

  • Review 114 (2024-04-06 - Rating: 5)

    Beck was the best server—the icing and cherry on top of a scrumptious pan-Mediterranean cake. The ambiance was also unmatched, with just enough lighting to perform a seance. More to the point—this is a cool, special place with tasty everything. We all left super happy!

  • Review 115 (2022-05-07 - Rating: 5)

    Unique space and entryway, dim candlelight. Very accommodating staff. Delicious food and good portions.

  • Review 116 (2023-04-02 - Rating: 4)

    Food was great. Service was the great. Did not like eating underground in a crampy room. Almost left

  • Review 117 (2022-02-03 - Rating: 5)

    Still a wonderful place with amazing atmosphere. The Kafta is delicious and order the chocolate covered dates when they have them.

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

    Loved this little spot. Service was great and friendly, loved the atmosphere and the food came out so fresh and hot!

  • Review 119 (2019-03-15 - Rating: 4)

    Great ambiance. Great food. Service was good. Flower petals everywhere. Darker than your typical restaurant.

  • Review 120 (2019-04-15 - Rating: 5)

    The food is excellent, the drinks are tasty, and the atmosphere is dark and cozy. Great place to take people for big events.

  • Review 121 (2019-01-20 - Rating: 4)

    Unusual Moroccan restaurant, located in a basement, nicely furnished, but a bit dark. The food was authentic and tasty.

  • Review 122 (2024-05-26 - Rating: 5)

    Literally amazing food fantastic menu where you can’t go wrong. Immaculate vibes!

  • Review 123 (2017-08-26 - Rating: 5)

    Most hidden-romantic restaurant in NYC. You have to take your date here. Youll seem amazing for finding a romantic gem in NYC.

  • Review 124 (2023-12-03 - Rating: 5)

    Wonderful food, great cocktails, and friendly service

  • Review 125 (2019-08-16 - Rating: 5)

    This is the best authentic place in NYC. A must go. Its in a cellar with cosy little rooms, great ambiance and a (real!) waterfall. The owner is fantastic as is the bartender: great stories about the history and tasty drinks. The food is Mediterranean and loved the baba ganoush. Will come back!!

  • Review 126 (2018-11-07 - Rating: 5)

    Great hidden place with proper Mediterranean food! Good choice if youre looking for something different.

  • Review 127 (2021-08-08 - Rating: 4)

    Great place in a hidden location. The service is excellent and they really take care of you. The food is very, very good.

  • Review 128 (2023-08-03 - Rating: 5)

    I absolutely adore this place! Its my first time back since the pandemic, and its just as wonderful as I remembered. The staff is great and very accommodating and there are many great options for meditation cuisine on the menu. The food is exquisite, and the ambiance is charming and cozy. Its a perfect spot for a lovely date night.

  • Review 129 (2024-05-23 - Rating: 5)

    Best place for date nights in UWS!

  • Review 130 (2019-08-01 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent food, great service and the ambiance was very unique. We would definitely go back.

  • Review 131 (2024-05-13 - Rating: 5)

    Wonderful place. Delicious food, cozy atmosphere.

  • Review 132 (2023-12-25 - Rating: 4)

    Incredible ambience. Wait staff was impeccable and friendly. The prices are a little steep but the quality of the food is high.

  • Review 133 (2017-04-25 - Rating: 4)

    Underground.. Nice cocktails and good prices. The tables are so romantic!

  • Review 134 (2018-01-24 - Rating: 5)

    Perfect for a romantic date, this place offers good food, good drinks, and little corners to hide away in.

  • Review 135 (2016-11-14 - Rating: 5)

    Charming low key and slightly hidden residential cellar location and delicious tapas and cocktails transport you to Morocco.

  • Review 136 (2021-12-04 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing beautiful atmosphere and surprised decorations Fountain and the food it is super delicious

  • Review 137 (2022-12-09 - Rating: 4)

    A hidden gem in upper west side, the ambience is one of a kind and the food is good too

  • Review 138 (2018-12-03 - Rating: 4)

    Cute lounge, great for a date and good food.

  • Review 139 (2015-11-09 - Rating: 5)

    Really good place for a date or hanging out with friends. Food is excellent. Must try.

  • Review 140 (2017-09-14 - Rating: 5)

    Excellent drink menu, quiet ambience.

  • Review 141 (2020-11-12 - Rating: 5)

    Just so good on every point! food, service, ambiance. Cant wait to go back.

  • Review 142 (2024-02-04 - Rating: 5)

    One of my favorite spots in the UWS. A true hidden gem.

  • Review 143 (2023-12-09 - Rating: 5)

    Intimate, romantic vibes, chill and laid back.Food was great and the service was top notch. An UWS fav. Happy to have found this spot.

  • Review 144 (2020-01-17 - Rating: 5)

    Dark corners candle lit go for Valentines day eat healthy, live romantically.

  • Review 145 (2023-10-28 - Rating: 5)

    It’s just the end of our block we never knew about this hidden Jem. The pictures don’t do any justice, it’s 100% will be a new experience. There are cute private kinda tables insides, the outer room you seen with the bar is not the only room, so that was cool. We got 2 entrees and one of them was good. Other one was average. The food did take a lot of time may be not fully staffed or something but the place n hospitality n food drinks were good. It’s bit pricy of course but yeah go for the experience u will love it

  • Review 146 (2020-10-09 - Rating: 5)

    What a lovely gem on the UWS! The food was incredible, and the staff was so lovely and friendly.

  • Review 147 (2022-07-19 - Rating: 5)

    Amazing atmosphere, chill, unique

  • Review 148 (2020-11-10 - Rating: 5)

    Great Food, Really Cute Place, Service Was Amazing, Very Nice People. Highly Recommended

  • Review 149 (2023-11-24 - Rating: 4)

    Really fun and cozy spot. Great wine and good shared food

  • Review 150 (2019-08-13 - Rating: 5)

    The most beautiful and romantic spot in Manhattan

  • Review 151 (2014-07-26 - Rating: 5)

    Really great night. Best waitress Im town. Beautiful x x

  • Review 152 (2019-02-17 - Rating: 4)

    Excellent ambiance, the food is ok, drinks are a bit overpriced and the service was ok.

  • Review 153 (2023-10-03 - Rating: 4)

    I like the peculiar setup: located underground, exotic interior. We were seated by a inclined tree trunk decoration with water flowing on it. Waiter was quite friendly and talkative. Octopus appetizer was mediocre. Chicken tagine was good, especially the chicken, very juicy. But the date tart was burnes and way too sour.

  • Review 154 (2020-10-29 - Rating: 5)

    Best kept secret of the UWS. It’s very intimate with delicious cocktails.

  • Review 155 (2023-06-04 - Rating: 4)

    Food was well delivered, very flavorful and a great selection of menu options. Ambience is very unique. Feels like you’re in an underground cellar. Service was also great. Very welcoming staff.

  • Review 156 (2023-04-19 - Rating: 5)

    What a hidden gem! Stoped in for dinner before a show at nearby Lincoln Center. The food and drinks were delicious, and the ambiance was amazing. Once inside it turns into a very beautiful and romantic atmosphere that will not disappoint. Wait staff was friendly and attentive. Will definitely return!

  • Review 157 (2019-12-18 - Rating: 4)

    A little too dark inside, but the drinks were very tasty.

  • Review 158 (2022-12-20 - Rating: 5)

    I absolutely loved this place. The staff was amazing, the location was terrific. Perfect date night spot if you want to really impress someone. Low lighting, quieted ambience, perfect for an intimate night.PS - order the squid. Our waitress told us it was so good that it would make us cry. I honestly haven’t stopped thinking about it since.

  • Review 159 (2023-09-10 - Rating: 5)

    My friends and I went to dinner for a birthday. The food and drinks were excellent and our server was wonderful. We are already planning our next visit.

  • Review 160 (2014-03-06 - Rating: 5)

    Very Romantic, the lighting is great. Each section is unique.

  • Review 161 (2023-10-30 - Rating: 5)

    Ok this place was such a surprise! loved the cozy, underground lounge vibes with all the different little nooks—excellent for a romantic but unexpected date night and every dish we had was *chef’s kiss*. we had the housemade flatbread with oregano, sicilian cauliflower and halloumi, another app that i can’t remember, and lamb kofta tagine. every dish was well seasoned and flavorful. the desserts were equally tasty— we had the baklava and ekmek kataif. honestly, everything on the menu looks good and i can’t wait to go back and try some other dishes. a tucked away little gem that i highly recommend!

  • Review 162 (2017-10-20 - Rating: 5)

    Always a great time here. The atmosphere is great: relaxing / romantic.

  • Review 163 (2018-02-01 - Rating: 4)

    Sexy, dark, fun atmosphere great for a date or late night.

  • Review 164 (2023-04-02 - Rating: 5)

    Small and unique. Plates are kind of small for the price but it’s pretty yummy. A place to bring someone to impress them with a “New York city gem”

  • Review 165 (2024-01-31 - Rating: 4)

    Great food, but a bit expensive

  • Review 166 (2023-05-25 - Rating: 5)

    One of my favorite dining experiences since moving to New York. The décor and ambience are unique and lovely: you feel like youve been invited into a secret place that no one else knows about. Service was a bit slow (as others have noted), but friendly, and the food was outstanding.

  • Review 167 (2022-09-23 - Rating: 4)

    We met here with friends. It feels like you’re walking into a cave. There’s a cozy corner perfect for 4-6 people. We shared meals over candle light. Romantic, sexy vibes. Staff are the most authentic people you’ll ever meet.

  • Review 168 (2023-04-01 - Rating: 5)

    Wow! As a resident of the UWS I was floored that this place existed just 2 blocks from me. The food was excellent, the service wonderfully attentive and patient, and the romantic atmosphere stole a bit of Paris for my NYC evening. One caveat...got to go with people you want to be with!!

  • Review 169 (2022-01-15 - Rating: 5)

    This place is a real hidden jam in Upper West Side. I didn’t know it existed, but I was invited here for dinner, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for something authentic and unusual. They serve Moroccan and Mediterranean food and have a good wine list. We took a couple of different dishes because the menu looked great, and we wanted to try them all. The food and service were great. Employees are very kind and will ensure that you have a good experience there. Anyway, if you want something unique and different, this is the place.

  • Review 170 (2017-01-08 - Rating: 5)

    An intimate evening with a romantic ambience transporting you away from the Upper West to the Middle East.

  • Review 171 (2020-10-25 - Rating: 5)

    Food is absolutely delicious and the service is amazing!A hidden Treasure!

Similar Organizations