ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Upper West Side
Best Mediterranean in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Gazala's
8.0
Compact Druze-Israeli restaurant known for oversized laffa-style bread, burekas, and mezze-heavy platters. Locals treat it as a cozy alternative to larger spots when they want homestyle Middle Eastern flavors and big portions in a low-key setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gazala's Platter, Spinach Burekas, Hummus with Sujuk
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Druze-run kitchen turning out laffa breads, burekas, and mezze with generous portions.
Who should go: Middle Eastern fans prioritizing flavor and portions over polished decor.
When to visit: Casual dinners or early evenings to avoid tight peak seating.
What to order: Gazala's platter, spinach burekas, hummus topped with sujuk.
Insider tip: Share one of the huge platters and add a bureka instead of ordering separate mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be competitive in the evenings, especially on weekends
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sweaters, and everyday wear are completely fine
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is easy at most tables, but space is compact
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours depending on party size
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent selection — many mezze, salads, and burekas are vegetarian
Vegan options: Several options — hummus, salads, and some mezze can work well
Gluten-free options: Some dishes are naturally gluten-free, but bread-heavy items are not
Best For
Better for: Homestyle Middle Eastern flavors, fresh-baked laffa, and generous mezze platters in a small, personal setting
Skip if: You want a large dining room, polished décor, or highly formal service