ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Financial District
Master Critic Review
taim mediterranean kitchen - Maiden Lane
7.7
The Maiden Lane location of taïm serves customizable Middle Eastern–leaning bowls and pitas built around falafel, chicken shawarma, and roasted vegetables. It functions as a fast, mostly takeout option for FiDi office workers who want something fresher and more vegetable-forward than standard street-cart fare.
Must-Try Dishes:
O.G. Falafel Pita, Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Cauliflower Shawarma Plate
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A well-known Mediterranean chain doing build-your-own bowls and pitas.
Who should go: Office regulars seeking quick, veggie-heavy Mediterranean lunches.
When to visit: Slightly off-peak weekday lunch to avoid the longest line.
What to order: O.G. Falafel Pita, Chicken Shawarma Bowl, Cauliflower Shawarma Plate.
Insider tip: Mix green and harissa falafel in one order for better flavor contrast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce on Maiden Lane; most diners rely on nearby paid garages or subway access.
Dress code: Completely casual—office attire, gym clothes, and jeans are all normal.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mainly counter chatter and takeout flow, easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: Light traffic; usually no wait since evenings and weekends are slower here.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes during peak office rush; nearly immediate outside the noon window.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—falafel, roasted veggie plates, and build-your-own bowls are easily meat-free.
Vegan options: Multiple options—falafel, salads, hummus, and toppings can form a full vegan meal.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free bowls available; skip pitas and double-check sauces for peace of mind.
Best For
Better for: Fast, healthier-feeling falafel and shawarma bowls built for office lunches and solo refuels.
Skip if: Skip if you want a sit-down meal with ambiance or broader Middle Eastern variety beyond bowls and pitas.