Zaad - Amsterdam Ave: A Mediterranean Gem on the Upper West Side

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Introduce

In a city celebrated for its diverse and international food scene, finding a spot that offers authentic, high-quality Mediterranean cuisine is a true delight.

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave

, located at 963 Amsterdam Avenue, is a prime example of this. This casual and inviting restaurant has become a neighborhood staple on the Upper West Side, known for its extensive menu of flavorful and fresh dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs.

Zaad is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a destination that promises genuine hospitality and a commitment to serving delicious, healthy food. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, making it a perfect spot for a solo lunch, a casual dinner with friends, or a quick meal with the family. Customers often rave about the remarkable kindness and warmth of the staff, who go out of their way to ensure a great dining experience.

The menu is a vibrant tapestry of Mediterranean flavors, with a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic preparation. From crispy falafel and tender shawarma to healthy salad bowls and hearty platters, Zaad offers a variety of options that are both comforting and exciting. The restaurant's dedication to providing a wide range of choices, including Halal, vegan, and vegetarian options, makes it an inclusive and popular choice in the neighborhood.

Location and Accessibility

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave is conveniently situated at

963 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA

, placing it in a bustling and easily accessible part of Manhattan's Upper West Side. This location is ideal for residents, students, and tourists exploring the neighborhood. The restaurant is easily reachable by foot and public transportation, making it a hassle-free destination.

The restaurant is located near major public transit lines, including the 1, 2, and 3 subway trains at the 96th Street station, as well as the B and C lines. This proximity ensures that diners from all over the city can easily get to Zaad. For those with mobility needs, the restaurant provides a

wheelchair accessible entrance

, demonstrating its commitment to welcoming all guests.

The presence of

outdoor seating

is another great feature, allowing diners to enjoy their meal in the open air during pleasant weather. While parking can be limited in this busy area of the city, the convenience of the location and strong public transportation options make it a go-to spot for a delicious meal, whether you’re dining in, picking up, or having food delivered.

Services Offered

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the needs of every customer.

Dine-in & Seating
: The restaurant offers casual seating, providing a comfortable space to enjoy your meal on-site.
Outdoor Seating
: An option for diners who prefer to eat outside and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Amsterdam Avenue.
Takeout
: Perfect for a quick meal on the go, you can place your order and pick it up at your convenience.
Delivery & No-Contact Delivery
: Zaad offers reliable delivery services, including a no-contact option, ensuring your food arrives safely at your doorstep.
Catering
: With its wide variety of platters and family-style dishes, Zaad is an excellent choice for catering events, from business lunches to family gatherings.

Features / Highlights

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave is distinguished by several key features that contribute to its popularity and reputation as a neighborhood gem.

Extensive Menu Variety
: The menu is a major highlight, offering everything from classic Mediterranean platters and sandwiches to healthy salad bowls and vegan-friendly options. It’s perfect for both a quick bite and a full meal.
Healthy & Vegan Options
: The restaurant’s commitment to providing
healthy options
is evident in its menu. The
Vegan Plate / Bowl
and
Salad Bowls
are particularly popular choices for those seeking a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Halal Food
: Zaad offers authentic
Halal food
, ensuring that all its meat-based dishes are prepared according to Halal standards, a key feature for many diners.
High-Quality Falafel
: The falafel is a definite standout, frequently praised by customers for being "crispy and moist." It’s a must-try for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Great Value and Portions
: Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its
great prices for the portion size
, making it an excellent value for a satisfying and filling meal.

Contact Information

For more information, to place an order, or for any questions, you can contact Zaad - Amsterdam Ave using the information below.

Address:

963 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA

Phone:

(646) 861-2061

What is Worth Choosing?

For a local New Yorker, Zaad - Amsterdam Ave is an exceptional choice for a variety of reasons. The food is consistently praised for its quality and flavor. The falafel is a true highlight and arguably some of the best in the area. Dishes like the

Halal Chicken Over Rice

and the various shawarma platters are flavorful, tender, and perfectly seasoned, offering a delicious taste of the Mediterranean.

Beyond the food, the hospitality is what truly sets Zaad apart. The staff’s kindness and attentiveness create a welcoming environment that makes you feel valued as a customer. This level of service, combined with the quick and efficient preparation of food, makes it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal, whether you're in a hurry or want to take your time.

The restaurant’s commitment to providing both healthy and hearty options, including a robust vegan menu, ensures that everyone in a group can find something they love. It’s an ideal spot for a quick and healthy lunch, a delicious late-night meal, or a catered event. In a city full of options, Zaad - Amsterdam Ave stands out as a genuine, high-quality neighborhood restaurant that consistently delivers on its promise of delicious food and remarkable service. It’s truly a gem in the Upper West Side.

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Vibe

Salad Bowls
Greek Salad Bowl $9.35
Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, finished with a sprinkle of oregano.
Fattoush Salad Bowl $11.44
A mix of fresh greens topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, garnished with crispy pita pieces and a sprinkle of sumac.
Beef Shawarma Salad Bowl $11.44
Tender beef slices, crisp lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and parsley, served with a side of hummus and tahini sauce.
Eggplant Salad Bowl $11.43
Grilled eggplant, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese, topped with a balsamic vinaigrette.
Cauliflower Salad Bowl $10.39
Fresh cauliflower, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and carrots, topped with sunflower seeds and feta cheese.
Chicken Shawarma Salad Bowl $10.40
Chicken pieces with seasoned spices, mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Falafel Salad Bowl $11.44
Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, feta cheese, red onion, falafel balls, and pomegranate seeds.

Sandwiches
Fish Sandwich $7.27
A tender fish fillet topped with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a soft bun.
Beef Shawarma $9.36
Tender beef slices with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, onions, and tangy tahini sauce in a wrap.
Chicken Shawarma Zaad $9.36
Pita bread filled with seasoned chicken, pickles, tomatoes, and a drizzle of garlic sauce. Comes with options for adding onions, turnips, or tahini.
Nashville Chicken Sandwich $7.27
Spicy chicken breast, pickles, Napa cabbage slaw.
Crispy Chicken Sandwich $7.27
Crispy chicken thigh, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayonnaise on a toasted bun.
Lamb Gyro Sandwich $7.27
Tender lamb slices with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce in a soft pita bread.
Spicy Chicken Sandwich $7.27
Tender chicken breast with spicy seasoning, crisp lettuce, and zesty pickles inside a soft bun.
Chicken Kofta $9.36
Spiced ground chicken patty with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions, served with a tangy yogurt sauce.
Halal Burrito $10.39
Packed with seasoned chicken, rice, black beans, fresh salsa, tangy sour cream, and shredded lettuce.
Kofta Kebab $9.36
Seasoned ground meat patties with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and choice of sauce in a sandwich.
Quesadillas $10.39
A soft tortilla filled with melted cheese and a choice of seasoned chicken, beef, or veggies.
Shrimp Sandwich $7.27
Plump shrimp with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mayonnaise on a fresh bun.

Vegan Sandwiches
Falafel Of Zaad $6.76
Crispy chickpea patties, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy tahini sauce on whole grain bread.
Falafel Cauliflower Sandwich $8.32
Crispy falafel patties, roasted cauliflower, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy tahini sauce on a toasted bun.
Foul Mudammas $6.76
Creamy fava beans, tahini sauce, chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, and onions, served with pita bread.
Eggplant Sandwich $8.32
Grilled eggplant slices, fresh spinach, roasted red pepper, and hummus on whole grain bread.
Cauliflower Sandwich $8.32
Roasted cauliflower with arugula, red onion, and vegan pesto on whole grain bread.

Dessert
Rice Pudding $4.16
Creamy rice pudding with a hint of vanilla, topped with golden raisins and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Basbousa $4.16
Sweet semolina cake with coconut, topped with almonds.
Baklava With Walnuts $4.16
Layers of thin pastry filled with chopped walnuts and sweetened with honey syrup.

Mixed grill Plate / Bowl
Beef & Lamb Shawarma $13.52
Served with Beef Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries ,Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Homemade Chicken Kofta $13.52
Served with Chicken Kofta Skewer, Basmati Rice or French Fries ,Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Salmon Bowl $14.56
Fresh salmon slices paired with steamed rice, mixed greens, avocado, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Shrimp Bowl $14.56
Succulent shrimp atop a bed of mixed greens, jasmine rice, and avocado with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a side of tangy citrus dressing.
Chicken Shawarma $13.52
Served with Chicken Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage, Lettuce, Pickles, Side of Garlic Sauce.
Homemade Lamb Kebab $13.52
Served with Lamb Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Zaad Mix Grill $26.00
Served with Kofta Kebab, Chicken Kebab Beef Shawarma, Chicken Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage, Lettuce, Pickles Side of Garlic Sauce, Tahini Sauce.
Homemade Kofta Kebab $13.52
Served with Ground Lamb and Beef Skewer, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Homemade Chicken Kebab $13.52
Served with Chicken Skewer, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickle ,Side of Garlic Sauce.
Mix Shawarma $14.56
Served with Chicken and Beef Shawarma, Basmati Rice or French Fries, Jerusalem Salad, Red Cabbage ,Lettuce ,Pickles ,Side of Garlic Sauce.

Drinks
Coffee $5.19
Rich brewed coffee.
Turkish Coffee $5.19
Strong, dark, and rich coffee, finely ground and mixed with sugar.
Ayran $3.64
Ayran is a yogurt-based drink mixed with water and a pinch of salt, delivering a tangy and savory taste.
Laziza $3.64
Non-alcoholic malt beverage available in various fruity flavors.
Water $1.75
Pure, refreshing water.
Homemade Lemonade $3.64
Fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water blend.
Guava Juice $3.75
Refreshing blend of ripe guava, creating a sweet and tangy tropical juice.
Soda $2.08
Classic carbonated beverage available in various flavors.
Lychee Juice $3.75
Lychee juice packed with the sweet, aromatic essence of lychee fruit.
Tea $5.19
A variety of aromatic tea blends. Choose from black, green, or herbal tea.
Latte $5.19
Smooth espresso blend with steamed milk.
Mango Juice $3.75
Fresh mango juice made from ripe mangoes.
Homemade Hibiscus $3.64
Velvety red drink made with hibiscus flowers and light natural sweetness.

Burgers
Halal Bacon Cheese Burger $0.00
Juicy beef patty topped with crispy beef bacon, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions.
Cheese Burger $7.27
Two beef patties with melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles, served with a side of ketchup.
Chicken Cheese Burger $7.27
Chicken breast, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, pickles, and tomatoes on a toasted bun.
Chicken Double Cheese Burger $9.35
Two chicken patties, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onions in a bun.
Beef Double Cheese Burger $9.35
Two beef patties, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a bun.

halal over rice
Loaded Fries $10.39
Topped with chicken, beef, and lamb over fried potatoes.
Halal Lamb Over Rice $11.43
Tender pieces of lamb, aromatic rice, crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a drizzle of white sauce.
Gyro Over Rice $12.47
Seasoned lamb, fragrant basmati rice, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a side of creamy white sauce.
Falafel Over Rice $10.39
Falafel served with seasoned rice and your choice of vegetables.
Halal Chicken Over Rice $10.39
Tender chicken pieces over seasoned rice, topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and herbs.
Halal Combo Over Rice $12.47
A mix of seasoned rice, grilled chicken, gyro meat, and kebab, served with salad, fries, and assorted sauces.
Fish Over Rice $10.39
Succulent fish, served with fragrant rice, topped with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of savory sauce.

Vegan Plate / Bowl
Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ghanoush And Salad $11.44
Crispy falafel, smooth hummus, creamy baba ghanoush, and a mix of fresh greens.
Cauliflower $11.44
Roasted cauliflower with chickpeas, quinoa, spinach, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
Hummus, Baba Ghanoush ,Tabouli And Salad $11.44
Creamy hummus, roasted eggplant dip, fresh parsley and bulgur salad, and a mixed greens salad.
Eggplant $11.44
Tender eggplant slices paired with a medley of fresh vegetables. Choose additional toppings to customize to your liking.
Falafel Of Zaad $11.44
Crispy chickpea patties served with fresh vegetables, pickles, and tahini sauce.

Appetizers
Chicken Wings & Fries (4pcs) $13.52
Crispy chicken wings and golden fries, served in a portion of four wings.
Beef Samosa (3pcs) $7.28
Triangular pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and peas.
Baba Ghanoush $5.20
Freshly mashed eggplant mixed with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, garnished with olive oil and parsley.
Mozzarella Stick $5.20
Mozzarella sticks coated in breadcrumbs, served with marinara sauce.
Mac Cheese $5.19
Creamy pasta with melted cheddar cheese, sprinkled with a breadcrumb topping.
Labaneh $7.28
Creamy strained yogurt topped with za’atar seasoning and olive oil.
Chicken Samosa (3pcs) $7.28
A crispy pastry filled with spiced chicken and peas. Comes with three pieces.
Hummus $5.20
Creamy chickpea dip with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkled with paprika.
Falafel (6pcs) $6.24
Six pieces of crispy chickpea patties served with tahini sauce.
Veg Samosa (2pcs) $7.28
Crispy pastry pockets filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
Foul Mudammas $6.24
Fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil garnished with parsley.
Spinach Pie $4.16
Flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese.
Chicken Strips & Fries (4pcs) $13.52
Crispy chicken strips served with golden fries.
Cheese Fries $6.23
Crisp fries topped with melted cheese and bacon bits, served with a side of ranch dressing.
Basmati Rice $5.20
Fragrant long-grain basmati rice.
French Fries $5.20
Golden potato sticks, lightly salted.

Specials
Hawawshi $8.32
Stuffed pita bread filled with minced meat, onions, bell peppers, and spices.

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Comfort food
Halal food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Atmosphere
Casual

Crowd
Tourists

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Photos

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Location

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave

New York New York County New York Amsterdam Avenue

963 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, USA

Zaad - Amsterdam Ave Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 486 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Neighborhood staple! The menu is extensive and has great veggie options. The falafel is crispy and moist, the salads are fresh, and the chicken is tender and flavorful.Great prices for the portion size and the hospitality is remarkable. Truly kind people who want you to eat well. Coming back soon!
July 18 · Devika Goyal
We picked this place to eat quickly and simply because it looked like it had enough good ratings. I wish I could give Zaad a 6 STAR review!!! The vegan plate was superb! I am a harsh critic of falafel but this was by far the best I’ve had. The plating was also gorgeous for such a hole in the wall restaurant. They gave us free pita bread and were so humble originally declining tips for 3 members of my party. Would highly recommend.
June 09 · Maggie Buckhannon
The chicken shawarma shouldn’t be called that, it’s no where near a shawarma. Chicken has a smell, fishy smell almost or bad chicken smell, ordered take out and wouldn’t recommend.We didn’t even eat the second plate and just had to toss it, as something was off.Found a lot of cartilage from chicken, shows you that it’s not traditional shawarma from a rotating spit, more like chopped chicken with some salt …Please do a better job at Quality Control, I would try again if it improves.
July 12 · Monte Al-Muhandis'
Good place. It is unique. Good atmosphere! The service is good. I enjoyed the double cheeseburger and fries meal.
April 14 · Zachary Zibits
This place usually has great food however they sold me a raw fried chicken pattie. I have also not heard anything from the establishment regarding my experience. I got food poisoning
August 02 · Derrick Bristow