4.5 Stars for this visit but rounding up to 5 Stars!
For my 1st review of 2025, I'd like to highlight Levant; a new Egyptian/Middle Eastern restaurant in Astoria, Queens! They opened in July 2024.
I had heard some buzz about Levant, and recently read a great review in the NY Times. This is what prompted me to checkout Levant, but what will keep me coming back is their food!
First, let me mention that Levant has two restaurants next to each other. We didn't know this when we visited. 7 of us sat in the more casual/smaller section; not ideal for my party of 7, since the space and tables are TINY! When we were seated, they did mention the larger dining room next door, but that space was not open on the evening we went, so it wasn't an option for us. Bummer!! For my larger parties, definitely go next door.
Levant is fantastic! They have a huge menu; something for everyone. But what Levant is know for, are their many varieties of FETEER; an Egyptian pasty like"pizza" made fresh in their oven! They have many types of savory Feteer but do NOT sleep on their Lotus Feteer; this dessert Feteer is perfection. Not overly sweet, and a perfect way to end your meal at Levant!
Ok, onto our picks for tonight! Here is the menu shared by 7 ppl:
~ Hummus ($11): comes with sesame seed pita. This was a pretty large portion. Very good but the pita bread was barely warm. A little more time in the oven would have made a big difference. Good, nonetheless.
~ Falafel ($7): these were great. There were supposed to be 4 falafels to an order but we ordered two orders, and somehow got 13 falafels! Thank you! :-)
~ Levant Sausage Feteer ($21): there are so many varieties of Feteer that we had a hard time deciding which one to order. We picked their sausage Feteer and it was wonderful. Next time, I'd like to try their mixed Feteer! But really, you can't go wrong with whichever one you order.
~ Lamb Shish Kebab Platter ($21): this platter comes with flat pita wrap on th side, and 2 sides of your choice. We picked rice & salad. So tasty! My only complaint is that the lamb was too well-done for my tastes. Some pieces were almost burnt, and very well-done. But the pieces that weren't as well-done, were delicious! I would order this again; requesting the lamb prepared medium-rare or medium.
~ Kofta Platter ($20): this platter comes with flat pita wrap on th side, and 2 sides of your choice. We chose Hummus & French Fries. This was a great combo! The Kofta was well seasoned and delicious. Ask for their green hot sauce! Sooooo good!
~ Lotus Feteer ($23): I usually don't order dessert but this really is a MUST HAVE, and highly recommended. I appreciated that this was not overly sweet, and served hot & fresh from the oven. This is a pastry dough with Nutella, custard, nuts & powdered sugar. This would go perfectly with a cup of hot tea! A great way to end your meal.
~ Baklava and Knefe: the Chef gifted us complimentary orders of these two desserts, and they were fantastic! I can't believe we had 3 desserts...we ate them ALL!! No shame! Haha. Thanks so much!
Needless to say, this was such a wonderful, indulgent meal! We can't wait to go back to try their other menu items!
Big thanks to Levant for your hospitality and great customer service! We shall see you again SOON!
Note: no tap water; must buy bottled water. read more