ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats in Upper West Side
Best Middle Eastern in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Sido Falafel & More
7.8
A counter‑service falafel and shawarma spot delivering crisp, well‑spiced falafel and grab‑and‑go sandwiches perfect for quick meals on the Upper West Side. Friendly service and good portions make it a local favorite for casual bites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Falafel Sandwich, Chicken Shawarma, Hummus Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Crisp falafel and shawarma in speedy counter service
Who should go: Solo diners and quick‑lunch seekers
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner
What to order: Falafel sandwich, chicken shawarma, hummus plate
Insider tip: Order extra pickles for added tang
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be challenging during peak hours; no valet service.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and a T-shirt are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate - enough to hear your own conversation but not overly quiet.
Weekend wait: No wait typically, but can get busy during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - falafel, hummus, and other vegetarian-friendly options available.
Vegan options: Limited - falafel and hummus are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes - falafel and shawarma are gluten-free, but cross-contamination may occur.
Best For
Better for: Quick, budget-friendly meals with solid falafel and shawarma.
Skip if: Looking for a sit-down, romantic dinner or a quieter dining experience.