NAYA - Union Square

"I came here for a quick to go lunch before the winter storm hit. The store was well lit, spacious and inviting. There were a few people sitting around eating their meal or just hanging out. I can see this being a nice comfy spot to enjoy lunch. There wasn't anyone ordering so I went right up to the cashier and told them I made a to go order. They didn't have it ready but it wasn't a big deal. The cashier made my order within 5 minutes. I got a chicken shawarma bowl with the standard ingredients. So far everything has tasted good and I tend to get overwhelmed with a lot of choices so I pick a "pre-made" bowls and usually those have not been disappointing. My bowl today was delicious but I felt like they added a lot more salad and it wasn't as filled to the top as it normally is. However, I would still come back."

"Located near NYU’s main drag, a new fast-casual Middle Eastern restaurant stands out with its high ceilings and bright space. The menu features unique Lebanese options, less common in the area. However, when visiting after the lunch rush at 2:45 PM, the food's freshness was notably lacking. Despite this, the restaurant shows potential, and I plan to revisit at a busier time for a hopefully improved dining experience."

"Music use to be better. Food taste great staff very friendly. Happy i finally have people who understand me. It's not a language difference me saying light dressing and they are putting heavy. I can say first time i felt comfortable letting them put dressing on my bowl and not asking for it on the side. Great for quick eats. Wish they where allowed to take tips."

"If you want real Lebanese food this is not the place. If you want overpriced, rebranded fast food then sure, this is the place for you. From the pre-cooked chicken to the bread (which does not resemble Lebanese bread at all). The place is very nice, which is to overcompensate for the poor quality of the food in order to deliver a sense of richness where there is none. Not bad, for American fast food. For Lebanese fast food? Hell no."

"This restaurant is amazing. The quality of their ingredients is excellent, fresh, and tasty. The kefte lamb kebab is moist, tasty meatballs, and the chicken shawarma is seasoned well and tender. All the various sauces are also really flavorful. I highly suggest their spicy mint sauce as it’s actually pretty spicy and adds a great contrast to the dish. Their desserts, specifically the baklava, is also fresh, flaky, and sweet. It’s the perfect end to a meal here."