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★ The LegendThe dish the restaurant is most famous for.
◆ Fan FavoriteWhat regulars reorder every single visit without thinking twice.
● Chef's PickExplicitly endorsed by the chef or kitchen.
◇ Hidden GemWhat first-timers walk past. Often a side or starter regulars always order.
Results are AI-generated and may not always be accurate. Always verify dishes and hours before visiting.
This isn't just another Middle Eastern spot; Levant in Astoria made the New York Times' list of best new restaurants in 2024, a huge feat for a neighborhood gem. It's the kind of place that transports you with its ornately decorated interior, making you feel like you've stepped into a culinary journey through the Levant region. Regulars know to settle in and let the aromas from the brick oven guide their choices.
★ The Legend
Feteer
This Egyptian laminated bread is the absolute centerpiece here, made to order and stretched, tossed, and baked into gossamer, ghee-enriched layers right before your eyes. It's famous for its crisp-on-the-outside, flaky-on-the-inside texture, and you can get it stuffed with savory options like cheese and homemade sausage or sweet with Biscoff Cookie Butter and nuts.
◆ Fan Favorite
Hummus
The hummus at Levant is consistently praised for its creamy consistency and rich flavor, often described as being like 'whipped butter.' It's a popular appetizer, especially when topped with roasted pine nuts or shawarma.
● Chef's Pick
Falafel
Levant prides itself on serving some of the best falafel in New York, described as perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It's a signature item that embodies their commitment to authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern twist.
◇ Hidden Gem
Salade Niçoise
The Salade Niçoise at Levant on Smith is a surprisingly delightful dish, featuring mixed greens, seared yellowfin tuna, potatoes, eggs, tomatoes, anchovies, and Kalamata olives with a citrus-herb vinaigrette. One reviewer specifically mentioned still thinking about this salad after their visit.
Insider Tip
Don't just stick to the savory feteer, which is incredible. Many first-timers miss that Levant also excels at sweet feteer, like the Qushta Feteer. Order one for dessert; it's a thick cream-filled pastry topped with powdered sugar, pistachios, and honey, providing the perfect sweet ending to your meal.