RAKKA — Restaurant in New York

Walked in, up to the counter, wasn't greeted, just looked at. I asked for the Falafel. The young man, very stoic, asked, "Sandwich or platter?" I paid, and some small, plastic take-out bowl was placed on the counter. A little bit bigger than the size of a condiment container. No explanation. Nothing. I had no idea of it was for me, or what it was. At some point he said, "It's Lentil soup." I sat down. Waited a few minutes, then heard, "FALAFEL." An older man, presumably the owner, asked, "Hot sauce?" I said yes. The Lentil soup was bland and tepid. The Falafel was good. NOT the best. Just good. The lettuce and tomatoes were fresh. The Falafel (balls) were mashed and also tepid. I also prefer my Falafel with onions, which were not included. The pita was soft, fresh and thin, the type that I like. Would I recommend the place? Meh. Mamoun's is the best, (less expensive) hands down, and they make and sell their hot sauce. Although Jerusalem 2 in midtown is excellent! Not really sure if I'd return. Although, people were steadily coming in and out. There are two small tables inside, one directly next to an industrial garbage tub, and they place one or two folding chairs and a tiny table in the front of the shoppe. It's quaint and MINISCULE interior is cute with exposed brick walls. But, I don't dine in restaurants to eat the bricks from whatever remnants were left behind from an old, adjoining building. But, A-...

Even if the food was mediocre (it wasn't!) I would give them 5 stars for their staff. Such friendly, giving people! On to the food... everything was flavored to perfection! We had chicken shawarma, lamb gyro, Greek salad, hummus, and lentil soup. I am not usually a fan of lamb gyro, it can be too greasy for me. This was not the case at RAKKA. It was so yummy that I actually regretted not ordering it! The hummus is super good. We ran out of pita bread but it was so good we found ourselves eating it with all different things (even just scooping it out with a spoon!). Beautiful food, beautiful people. You can't...

Great options for vegetarians! I had the falafel with tahini and the lentil soup. One of the best falafels I’ve had - flavorful, fresh and big handmade pieces, not the typical little overfried balls. The lentil soup was also very tasty, perfect balance of well spiced but not salty. Barely had room for baklava but had to try it with the house made mint tea!! The owner who served the food was so kind, this place is the real deal. The prices are incredible for what you get. A nice discovery. I...