When you Google “authentic Lebanese cuisine in NYC” you stumble upon a few options. The glitz and glam Ilili Restaurant NYC and the Lebanese-French bistro Au Za’atar are among the options. However, there is a hole in the wall right down the way from Au Za’atar and its name is Salma. When you walk in it’s as if you are stepping into a typical restaurant in Mar Mikhaël, Lebanon. Your attention is immediately lured with the light Lebanese music playing in the background and the ghandour biscuits on the shelfs.
It is traditional Lebanese style to order an array of mezze (appetizers) so that’s exactly what we did. We ordered the Mixed Appetizer Platter which comes with Hummus, Kebbeh, Fattouch, Warak Enab, Falafel, Msakaa. We immediately noticed that the items were in Arabic (which made us happy), but don’t freight there are descriptions underneath. Also, we were able to substitute items like the Warak Enab (grape leaves) for Batata Harra (spicy potato) and Falafel with Rakakat jibneh (cheese rolls). The mezzes are served in beautiful ceramic bowls which is a great touch.
Quite full from the mezzes we reluctantly but very excitedly order the Mixed Grill Platter which comes with one skewer of Grilled Veal Filet, one skewer of Taouk & two skewers of Kabab Halabi. We reaffirmed the Lebanese authenticity in two ways here – one we asked if the taouk comes with the infamous garlic sauce and two if they made the sauce with or without mayo. When we heard it was without mayo we were anxiously waiting to see if we were going to get a taste of home – and we were definitely not left disappointed!
By this point we had forgotten we were in the East Village, we genuinely slipped away to Lebanon in those hours. From the food and presentation to the hole in the wall vibe of the place; Salma is definitely not a misnomer when it says “authentic Lebanese cuisine in NYC”.
Reading about Salma’s authentic Lebanese cuisine experience in NYC felt like a mouthwatering journey to the heart of Lebanon itself! The vivid descriptions of the mezze platter, complete with traditional dishes like Hummus, Kebbeh, and Falafel, painted a picture of a culinary paradise right in the heart of the East Village. The attention to detail, from the Arabic signage to the ceramic bowls, added to the immersive experience, making me feel like I was right there, savoring every bite. This article not only tantalized my taste buds but also opened my eyes to the rich tapestry of Lebanese flavors available in the bustling streets of New York City.
We like Lebanese Cousine. We’re away for a few nights and has mezze and mixed grill platter the other night, it was yummy.
Salma offers a genuine taste of Lebanon right in the heart of NYC. With its authentic Lebanese cuisine, patrons can indulge in flavorful dishes that transport them to the vibrant streets of Beirut. From traditional mezze to mouthwatering kebabs and aromatic rice dishes, Salma captures the essence of Lebanese gastronomy. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or seeking to explore new flavors, Salma promises a culinary experience that celebrates the rich heritage of Lebanese cuisine.
The dip and the mix grill, actually all of it – yum! Lebanese – my #1 cuisine. Right now I’m in Cyprus – Lebanon is just across the way, I’ve been waiting two years to visit – but due to travel restrictions I have had to delay my long awaited trip. My mouth is watering right now.
I love Salma!!! So cozy and the owners are so kind 🙂
Lebanese cuisine is one of my absolute favorites! We have a local restaurant Nicola’s in Atlanta with a sweet little owner named Nick, that I have been dining at since I was two years old, it is a staple for our family!
Hummus, Falafel and salad is seriously the best meal ever! This looks so delicious