Salem Hassan

a week ago

"Found out this place last week and plan be here whenever I have a chance. This has to be one of the most authentic and great quality Levantine restaurants I’ve been to. We were served by Sammy who I believe is the owner, waiter, and chef. Sammy is not only welcoming but treats you like family from beginning to end. You never see such care for service and food in today’s age. Some people over use the term “hidden gem” but this restaurant is in all intensive purposes a true hidden gem."

Denisse Martinez

2 weeks ago

"Owner was very sweet and welcoming,Food was amazing, meat was juicy and tender! This place is amazing! Definitely coming back here again."

daniel G

3 months ago

"El Toum in New York is truly a special place. From the moment you walk in, the décor and atmosphere immediately transport you to the Middle East, with an authentic and welcoming vibe that makes the experience even better. The restaurant is run and attended by its owner, who is very friendly and takes the time to give recommendations. That personal touch really makes a difference. I ordered a chicken shawarma with hummus, but they served me a lamb shawarma with hummus instead. Normally, I never eat lamb and in the past I’ve never really liked it. But I decided to try it, and it was a complete surprise — absolutely spectacular. The lamb was tender and full of flavor, the salad was fresh, and the hummus was outstanding, definitely some of the best I’ve had. This is without a doubt a great spot if you’re looking to enjoy an excellent hummus and a flavorful shawarma. A place worth visiting and repeating."

Melanie Mouzalas

3 months ago

"I’ve had good Lebanese/Mediterranean cuisine, and it is not at this place. I had tried El Toum a few times shortly after they opened and wasn’t impressed — the food wasn’t good and the interior felt a bit grimey. I never understood all the rave reviews this place seemed to get. Since I live down the block and the restaurant is always bustling (and constantly written up by sites like Gothamist and Eater), I decided to give it another try. We asked to sit outside and were told menus would be brought over. After about ten minutes of waiting, my husband had to go in and ask for them. The staff apologized, but it wasn’t a great start. We ordered the artichoke appetizer, hummus with cauliflower, and the chicken mushrooms. The artichoke dish was disappointing — it seemed like jarred artichoke hearts tossed with walnuts and golden raisins, microwaved, and served with a thin, over-toasted pita. The hummus was creamy and the roasted cauliflower and tomatoes on top were nicely seasoned, but again, served with that same unpleasant pita. Of the three dishes, this was the best, but not enough to make me want to return. The chicken mushrooms entrée was underwhelming. The chicken lacked seasoning, the balsamic tasted harsh rather than smooth, and the sweet potatoes were just dry, unseasoned chunks on the plate. The zucchini and carrots were fine, but nothing memorable. On top of that, the wine glass I was given had dried food crusted on it, the interior still feels skeevy, and even the table we sat at was sticky. Overall, I can’t understand the hype. While the hummus was solid, the rest of the food, atmosphere, and attention to detail fell short — again."

ReedH

9 months ago

"This was such an incredible find and just so perfect in every way that if I lived in the neighborhood, I’d probably be a regular. Walking in, you’re confronted with a cozy and warm space with just a few tables, perfect for a date night. And the host, a towering man, was so welcoming and friendly - treating us and other guests almost like family. The food was exceptional - I had the beef with hummus while my partner had the lamb, and both dishes were perfectly cooked and full of flavor, not to mention being reasonably priced. An outstanding meal in every way, I’ll definitely be returning."