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    Shaya

    4.5 (1.8k reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Shaya Photos

    Business Info

    SHAYA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Trendy
    Classy
    Happy hour specials

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    Recommended Reviews - Shaya

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    Reviews With Photos

    FATTOUSH SALAD
    Helen K.

    Came here Wednesday night around 7:30pm with a party of four and I am glad we made reservations. It seemed super busy with just a few bar seats open! We ordered: 3 Salatim: baba ganoush, smoked labneh, & muhammara Crispy halloumi Fattoush salad Lamb Kofta Kebab Gulf Shrimp Kebab Chicken Leg & Thigh Cinnamon-Date Babka King Cake I feel like this was the perfect amount of dishes to order for a group of four. I think we are were all in agreement that the smoked labneh was the best of the salatim we ordered so this is a must! As for the remaining dishes, everything was delicious but my favorite was definitely the lamb kofta kebab. It's only 2 skewers so keep in mind, it definitely on the smaller side but I think the lamb was cooked really well and all the flavors in the dish blended really well together. As for my drink, I always ask for tart and sweet and I was recommended Sunrise in Beirut which did just the trick! It was heavier on the orange juice side so similar-ish to a mimosa in that way. As for dessert, we got the cinnamon data babka king cake which came with a scoop of hazelnut gelato. The cake was warm and similar to a cinnamon roll and I loved the juxtaposition with the cold ice cream!

    WILD MUSHROOM
    Nicole D.

    This was my first time visiting Shaya and I will definitely be back! Me and friend went for happy hour (1/2 off hummus & wine) and really enjoyed sitting on the patio. The pita bread was hot and fresh! The mushroom hummus was to die for but I really wanna try the fried chicken hummus next time. Service was fantastic, and never found myself looking around for him. Also, they have parking! Not much but a few spots. Which is really nice considering parking on Magazine can be limited.

    house made pitas
    Bloss C.

    That house-made bread..... ooaf, I have been thinking about it! A local recommended this restaurant to us, and on an off night we ordered delivery, which made our night-in a very decadent treat! I had the smoked labne ($7, smoked labne, lima beans, charred chili vinaigrette) and the bakkafrost salmon ($32, caramelized harissa, couscous "risotto", saffron lemon butter). The salmon was great, and I was really looking forward to the couscous, but there was a sweet component to the couscous that I did not like and I would have ordered something different if I had known about that sweet note. The smoked labne was delicious and the house-made pita bread was out of this world! It really reminded me of a bialy, minus the onion jam. You won't regret ordering an extra piece!

    Mango Hibiscus Tea
    Claire H.

    Food: Yum!!! The hibiscus mango tea was so yummy hot, had such a beautifully fruity tasty flavor. ALSO loved the Arayes meal ~ very tasty and always am a big fan of tzatziki!!! Our server was super friendly, positive, and great (Jules J)!!! Ambiance: great vibes and clean bathrooms!

    FALAFEL
    Jenn C.

    Food The bread was so good and baked fresh in their stone oven constantly. You can get as many refills as you want and you will need it to soak up all of the different dips you can get. Falafel: so crispy and perfect, this was super flavorful and might have been some of the best we have had in quite some time. The tahini sauce was perfect and balanced. The eggplant dip was my favorite along with the brussel sprouts, they were a must get. The two salads were a pass, and okay, but did not stand out to us. Service: Server kept reminding us he was getting us wine, but seemed to forget a few times. Did not know what vegan meant despite us telling him, he didn't realize eggplant was vegan and gave us cheese on a salad when we told him to modify a salad without cheese for us. Took the menu back and did not seem to know the menu well or what could be modified for us or not despite us putting it on our reservation note and explaining at the beginning. Ambiance: Welcoming environment, the other staff was kind, there were plenty of tables and you felt warm during it. Good for dates, catching up, and we loved the chairs. They were comfortable and super stylish, please tell us where they are from!

    Glenn G.

    I certainly didn't travel all the way to New Orleans to get my fill on Middle Eastern cuisine... after all, this is New Orleans; I should be getting scarfing down Po' Boys, Gumbo, Beignets and grilled oysters. Oh, how I couldn't be anymore wrong... I met an Israeli in the lobby of our hotel and he recommended a few places; this being one of them. He added the infamous line, "TRUST ME"... so of course, I trusted a complete stranger. Clean and welcoming building facade (white with blue trim almost gelt like we were in Greece)... and stepping in is equally pleasing. White washed brick wall, nice accent walls with wood, nice looking bar with stone countertop, blue patterned wallpaper and a blue-tiled wood-fired oven. Since that first visit, we've returned 3 times and have always loved our food; and our service has always been spot-on (though we keep coming in for midday snacks and/or light bites). Some of our favorites bites have been ANY of their Hummus plates: The plain-jane TAHINI HUMMUS is unbelievably smooth... The CAULIFLOWER HUMMUS with caramelized onions was impressive... But it was the FRIED CHICKEN HUMMUS that blew my mind. I saw it on the menu and had Zero Interest but the waiter said it's very popular but I still wasn't interested but my wife and friends wanted to give it a try... oh wow, this was next level hummus. The spices and flavor and a hint a sweetness (maybe honey) was a game changer. We also tried some of their Salatim dishes (small plates of salads and spreads)... The one that stood out the most was the BABA GANOUSH; just like the Fried Chicken Hummus, the flavors were explosive. Last but not least... the pita that is used to dip all these heavenly tastes are constantly coming to the table fresh and hot from that wood-fired over... as fresh as can possibly be.

    Cauliflower hummus
    Ken P.

    Authentic Mediterranean cuisine. It hit all spots. The best part, unlimited fresh out of the oven Pita bread!

    Sign out front
    Karol G.

    We tried this for the first time on a Tuesday night early in the evening. My husband tried one of the pomegranate juices which was very refreshing. The 3 of us split 2 appetizers, the brussel sprouts small plate, and each had another small plate. Along with the fresh from the oven pita bread that was pillowy and hot, we were stuffed. All of the food was flavorful and hot served. The restaurant has a modern vibe and an outdoor patio as well. Our waitress was the most delightful young woman and was able answer all our questions about the menu items and make suggestions. The only downside was that we were sat right away at our 6 pm reservation then ignored for 20 minutes. We asked for a wait staff from the water person but nothing. We were almost ready to leave when our waitress appeared. She had been given several large parties on the patio. That we were fine with IF we had been told on seating and maybe if a another waiter had taken a drink order. Lots of ways to handle this over just ignoring us. We did notice that the manager wasn't present for the first 20 minutes and things changed once she showed up. This was the only reason for 4 instead of 5 stars. Once we got served everything was spectacular.

    Jennifer R.

    Dinner at Shaya was a very happy accident, as the restaurant we had planned to eat at was closed. Best Plan B meal ever. The atmosphere of the restaurant is really stylish and casual at the same time. We loved sitting on the patio - it kind of feels like you are in coastal California. Service was fantastic and the food even better. We ordered a bunch of things off the menu and each one was outrageously delicious. If I had to play favorites, I would say do not miss the tahini hummus, crispy halloumi or israeli salad. They also make a proper cocktail and serve locally made gelato.

    Patio dining area
    Tonya C.

    A lovely restaurant with delicious food, excellent service and cozy atmosphere ! From the hostess to the server, everyone was warm, welcoming, and genuinely pleasant. I had the salmon, and it was seasoned and cooked to perfection, absolutely delicious. But the star of the meal? The pita bread. Freshly made in-house all day, it was soft, flavorful, and hands-down the best pita I've ever had. I could've eaten it nonstop. Truly unforgettable!

    Abby D.

    If you're looking for some 10/10 hummus, come here. Their lamb ragu hummus was easily some of the best I've ever had in my whole life. Their pitas are little pillows of heaven that I wish I could keep eating and never get full. Sat at the bar and our bartender was so attentive and friendly. Need to come back to try more entrees!

    Anne F.

    The food was incredibly fresh and delicious. We ordered the muhamara twice because we loved it so much. The pita is excellent. The service is attentive and quick, despite how incredibly busy they were when we went. It's a great place for food that doesn't make you feel overwhelmed after. And plenty of vegan/vegetarian options, which was important as the birthday girl was vegetarian. We've recommended this to so many people planning to visit NOLA so we will definitely return if ever in the area! Further--the restaurant is just PRETTY. Aesthetically pleasing without being overwhelming. Open, spacious, with a nice Mediterranean touch. Truly superb!!

    Camille F.

    I wanted to come here because Phil did on his show -- Somebody Feed Phil. Honestly, it did not live up to my expectations. The food was amazing and flavorful and unique. But, the service was so slow. I usually try not to bring this up when I can tell it's an understaffing issue -- but it was bad. We sat upstairs which was too loud for my taste. I will be back to try again! The pita was to die for. The warm clouds and oil they bring out to start make the whole trip worth it. Just holding out my 5th star on the basis of noise and care.

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    Shaya Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Shaya

    Are reservations needed for off hours-middle of afternoon-weekdays? I would like to know what to order that is fairly low sodium. For example, can I have the hummus?

    I've always gotten reservations but not sure needed at that time of day. The food is fairly salty. I would call ahead and ask if modification can be made but you will eat multiple dishes and I would imagine it would be hard to make those all low… Read more

    Where can I find a current happy hour menu?

    The Happy Hour Menu is the traditional drink menu and hummus choices discounted at half off (from what I recall)?

    What is the best way to come from the French Quarter? Is it safe for 2 women to take the street car and get off at Milan street and walk several blocks at 8pm in I have never been to the area? Or do we need Uber to drop us off in front of restaurant?

    Usually uptown is nicer part of town to walk. I think with a friend you should be fine.

    Is there still happy hour?

    Yes

    Is the olive oil you use available for purchase somewhere? It is so smooth and great!!

    Hi Kayla, We currently use California Olive Ranch 'Pacific Coast' olive oil, I am not sure if that product is sold in stores. However we have used the Partanna Extra Virgin… Read more

    What time is lunch menu for?

    Shaya serves lunch everyday from 11am - 4pm, dinner service is Sunday - Thursday 4pm - 10pm and Friday and Saturday 4pm - 11pm.

    Is there a happy hour?

    Yes, we now have a happy hour! Monday - Friday from 3pm - 6pm, we offer 1/2 off hummus and wines by the glass.

    Is this restaurant good for a lone diner? I'm here on a business conference.

    Yes absolutely! There is bar seating as well as two tops available. Try it out, you won't be disappointed!

    Is the menu something for everyone?

    Yes! Whether you are a meat eater or vegetarian, there are so many delicious options! I eat meat and absolutely loved the chicken thigh. But the hummus with grilled cauliflower and onions on top was just as delicious!

    We have a 330 reservation on a Saturday (the only time available). Could we bleed into dinner with drinks and apps, and the order from the dinner menu or will they try to keep us on the lunch menu?

    They will serve you off either menu as we ended up in the same situation.

    Are reservations necessary for weekend lunch ? It would likely be 3 people

    Definitely recommend reservations.

    Does Shaya do anything special for Christmas Eve?

    I was there Christmas Day 2016; there was a fixed price Hanukkah menu and regular menu available

    View All 15 Questions

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    Cleo's - Red snapper and shrimp

    Cleo's

    4.2(884 reviews)
    2.8 miCentral Business District
    $$

    This is weird Mediterranean food take out/corner store. When you first get in you get overwhelmed…read morewith amount of stuff ( cookie pkgs, drinks, water packs who knows what else lol) that's laying piled up in the middle of the floor. Like nobody unpacked any items in a while, just left everything as it was delivered. All the shelves are overflowing with different grocery items mostly snacks, I wonder how they keep up with expiration dates. Probably don't! You check in with a very soft spoken guy at the counter again covered in boxes of candy, snacks and let him know you have on line order. Mine wasn't ready right away so I took a stroll through cramped space between makeshift isles. Saw few interesting items but was scared to purchase due to not knowing how old the stuff actually is. Chicken shawarma comes with two sides, it was decent but on a drier side though and rice was the star for sure - perfectly cooked not clumpy and tasty. Accompanied salad was nice and fresh. Portion are good size. Salmon platter comes with 2 sides - rice and salad, rice again was good but salmon was very dry, like it was cooked yesterday and then reheated multiple times. Could hardly eat it. Order of appetizer hummus - very creamy and nicely seasoned but comes with only two kinda smallish pita breads really barely enough for 2 people. As dessert I ordered pistachio cheesecake - such a disappointment! It tasted weird, not at all like pistachio and didn't really resemble cheesecake but more pistachio mousse or something. Do not order!

    Ok so boom.....I step into this overstocked corner store and I just knew I was in the wrong place…read morefor food. But the cashier greeted me immediately and gave me a menu!! Let's just say....feed me out the back of the corner store any day! I ordered lamb kababs with hummus and rice! Lamb was so well seasoned! I loved the added banana peppers and jalapeños! The hummus was so tasty and fresh and the rice was just as good. I'll definitely be back. Authentic food!

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    Staircase

    Cleo's - Lamb and Hummus

    Lamb and Hummus

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    Kabob House NOLA - Aarabic Salad

    Kabob House NOLA

    4.7(260 reviews)
    7.6 mi
    $$

    We are out-of-towners with dogs. Yelp marked this business as dog allowed. They placed us at the…read moreporch's table. It's all went well. Foods are delish and the owner was attentive and checking on us periodically. He welcomed us and our paws kids with a big smile!! Totally recommend when you are so full of NOLA cuisines and want to break out of the local palate.

    Stopped in for lunch around 1:30 the day after Christmas. Hate that this is where we part ways…read more.. Decent amount of business happening inside. Order taken quickly at the counter: gyro wrap w/side of yellow rice, an order of Dolmas (8) and a soda. With tax & tip $34.88. Sat at a booth type table for comfort, only to discover we had to tip toe around the messy floor and I kicked away a ball of something rather than squish it. Husband said wrap was tasty but didn't remember they use a wrap instead of a pita for the gyro sandwich. (I had the gyro on our last visit.) Rice was good. My dolmas, however, were gross. I don't dip them in tzatziki, I typically like the taste. However, today the rice inside them was very, very gooey, as if they sat over the holiday. I ate 2.5 and threw the rest out. Someone came out to ask how things were but apparently didn't notice they were standing on rice. I didn't say anything about the dolmas, because by this time they were in the trash. Took home the remaining portion of the gyro, rice & tzatziki. Asked for a to go box, then asked again for lids for the sauce. Both times I interrupted someone playing on their phone, and the rest of the staff was hanging out talking behind the counter. Really wished they had taken the time to check the dining area.

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    Kabob House NOLA - Interior

    Interior

    Kabob House NOLA - Pita

    Pita

    Kabob House NOLA - Counter

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    Counter

    Shaya - mideastern - Updated May 2026

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