Palestinian cuisine, with its rich tapestry of flavors and traditions, has found a cherished place in the global culinary scene. From the aromatic spices of musakhan to the sweet allure of knafeh, Palestinian dishes offer a journey through history and culture. Here, we explore some of the most renowned Palestinian restaurants around the world, each bringing a unique taste of Palestine to their locales.
1. Tanoreen – Brooklyn, New York, USA
Established in 1998 by Chef Rawia Bishara, Tanoreen has become a cornerstone of Palestinian dining in New York City. The restaurant offers a menu that blends traditional Palestinian recipes with contemporary flair. Signature dishes include musakhan (sumac-spiced chicken with onions on taboon bread) and fatteh (layers of bread, yogurt, and chickpeas). Tanoreen’s commitment to authentic flavors has earned it acclaim from both locals and international visitors.
2. Reem’s California – Oakland, California, USA
Founded by Reem Assil, Reem’s California is a bakery and restaurant that serves Arab street food with a focus on Palestinian flavors. Known for its freshly baked man’ousheh (a type of flatbread) topped with za’atar, cheese, or meats, Reem’s has garnered praise for its dedication to traditional baking methods and community-centric approach. The establishment aims to create a space reminiscent of Arab bakeries, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.
3. Akub – London, United Kingdom
Located in the heart of Notting Hill, Akub is the brainchild of Chef Fadi Kattan. The restaurant offers a modern take on Palestinian cuisine, presenting dishes like seabass cured in arak and red lentil moutabal. The ambiance is enhanced by muted tones and leafy décor, providing a relaxing backdrop for diners. Akub has been featured in various publications for its innovative approach to traditional dishes.
4. Bait Maryam – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Bait Maryam brings the essence of Palestinian home cooking to Dubai. Led by Chef Salam Dakkak, the restaurant captures the sentiment of home and tradition, offering dishes like mansaf (lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt) and stuffed vine leaves. Bait Maryam’s dedication to preserving and sharing Palestinian culinary heritage earned it the esteemed recognition of the MICHELIN Guide Welcome and Service Award and a Bib Gourmand.
5. The Palestinian Bakery – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Situated in Al Serkal Avenue, The Palestinian Bakery offers a variety of fatayer and manakish, bringing the warmth of Palestinian flavors to the artsy district. Their apricot jam and cheese fatayer provide an outstanding sweet and savory experience. The bakery also delivers to most locations in Dubai, making it accessible to a wide audience.
6. Ziatun – Beacon, New York, USA
Ziatun Restaurant offers a taste of the Middle East in Beacon, NY, serving authentic Palestinian cuisine. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere complements its menu, which includes traditional dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Ziatun has been praised for its ability to transport diners to a flavorful adventure across the Middle East.
7. L’As du Fallafel – Paris, France
Located in the Jewish quarter of Le Marais, L’As du Fallafel is renowned for its delectable falafel sandwich, featuring crispy, sesame-studded falafel, tahini, hummus, pickles, and fried aubergine in warm pita bread, topped with harissa sauce. Open since 1979, it has a reputation for quality and has been endorsed by celebrities like Natalie Portman.
8. Louf – Toronto, Canada
Opened by Chef Fadi Kattan, Louf presents a menu of modern Palestinian cuisine in Toronto. Combining local and Palestinian ingredients with traditional techniques, the restaurant aims to convey the beauty and diversity of Palestinian cooking to each guest. Louf reflects the growing presence and appreciation of Palestinian cuisine in North America.
9. Mama’esh – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Mama’esh is a neighborhood bakery specializing in freshly oven-baked delights such as mana’esh, fatayer, and Nabulsi kunafa. The bakery prides itself on using organic flour, olive oil, and other fresh ingredients, offering a warm ambiance and authentic Palestinian flavors at reasonable prices.
10. Teta’s Recipe – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
For those seeking authentic Palestinian cuisine made by a grandmother, Teta’s Recipe in Al Barsha South offers traditional pastries, appetizers, fatayer, and daily dishes like musakhan, kibbeh, and shish barak. The restaurant provides a homely atmosphere, reminiscent of family gatherings.
These establishments not only serve delicious food but also act as cultural ambassadors, preserving and promoting Palestinian heritage through culinary arts. Whether you’re in the Middle East, Europe, or North America, these restaurants offer an opportunity to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Palestine.
