City Guide: New York

andrea strong bitesee contributor
By Andrea Strong

Balaboosta

In addition to the terrific “Mediterranean-meets-Middle East” fare, this Nolita spot is lovely, warm and intimate.

Balaboosta, a Yiddish term that roughly translates to “rockin housewife,” may be one of this city’s most wonderful restaurants. It’s certainly one of my longtime favorites. Aside from the terrific “Mediterranean-meets-Middle East” fare, this Nolita spot is lovely—its warm and intimate with low lighting and a sweetness that comes from wife-and-husband team, chef Einat Admony and Stefan Nafziger, who have poured love into its exposed brick walls.

So what to order? Every meal should start with Hummus “Mortar and Pestle” (tahini,​ roasted garlic, za’atar pita) and the crispy cauliflower that is lemony and toasty and sprinkled with currants and pine nuts. Move on to the Israeli Street Fair platter—chicken and merguez in a pita with amba yogurt, pickles, and sweet potato fries. And the Branzino, served with grilled lemon and Beluga lentils, and a roasted red pepper and almond muhammara. Beef lovers prepare to be converted to lamb lovers with Balaboosta’s burger—a goat cheese stuffed lamb patty, caramelized onions that’s served on a brioche bun. Finish with some Knafeh, Middle Eastern cheesecake with kataif, Persian cotton candy, rose water ice cream, and pistachio.

Must try:
Israeli Street Fair Platter
Israeli / Nolita / Intimate
$$
Reservations: Via Resy
Hours: Lunch: Fridays 11:30am-3pm; Dinner: Mon-Thu 5:30-10:30pm; Fri, Sat 5:30-11pm (Sundays until 10pm); Brunch: Sat, Sun 11:30am-3pm
Location: Nolita
Address: 214 Mulberry Street
Phone: (212) 966-7366
  • Subway: 6 to Spring Street
 
Ideal for:

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