ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Greenpoint
Master Critic Review
Dar 525
8.1
Dar 525 is a neighborhood Middle Eastern and Mediterranean spot known for labne, falafel, shawarma, and a friendly, all-day dining room. It’s where Greenpoint regulars go for shareable plates, kebabs, and wine or beer without leaving the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Platter, Chicken Shawarma Wrap, Lamb Kebab with Couscous
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: A cozy Middle Eastern restaurant that balances mezze, kebabs, and drinks in one room.
Who should go: Neighbors wanting sit-down shawarma, mezze, and a casual drink.
When to visit: Evenings for relaxed dinners before the room gets busiest.
What to order: Labne and mezze to start, chicken shawarma wrap, lamb kebab.
Insider tip: Build your own mezze course with a couple of dips and warm pita before committing to mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally moderate early evenings but tougher after 7pm on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and sweaters are common, no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at small tables, busier groups can raise the volume later.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes at peak hours without a reservation, especially for groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; plenty of immediate seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—mezze, salads, falafel, and labne provide full meal coverage.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—falafel, hummus, baba ganouj, and some salads; confirm dressings.
Gluten-free options: Several GF-friendly plates like kebabs and salads; wraps/pita are not GF.
Best For
Better for: Casual sit-down Middle Eastern with full mezze spreads and drinks in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional regional cooking, a quiet white-tablecloth dinner, or a wide vegan menu.