Finger Lickin’ Falafel at Mamoun’s

This tiny little gift from God just happened to be placed in the heart of the East Village on St. Marks street, not too far from my job… And no, blogging isn’t my job. I stopped in on my lunch break with the hopes of grabbing a quick bite and being on my way. I had heard great things about this place and it surely lived up to the expectations. If you’re going here with the hope of sitting down to eat your meal, you better have an alternative plan. There are probably 4 seats and 2 tables in this joint (no exaggeration). Be prepared to stand or attempt cafeteria-style seating on somebody’s lap. You never know, you could make a few new friends while you eat.

Mamoun’s is traditionally known for their shwarma and falafel. I didn’t want to waste a trip and not give it a shot, so I got both. With the choice of chicken or lamb, I went with my favorite meat on planet earth – lamb. The shwarma sandwich was rich in flavor with the combination of the juicy lamb, the delicious tahini white sauce combined with their spicy hot sauce and the lettuce, tomato, and onions all packed into a warm pita for only $5.50. This would have definitely been enough food, but the inner fat-boy in me came out, causing me to get a side of falafel. For only $1 (yes, 1 little measly dollar), I got a side of falafel. Three (3) falafel balls (yes I said balls) in a scrumptious white sauce (yes, I said balls in a scrumptious white sauce… fuel to the fire baby!). On top of that, a bottle of water for a buck and I had a full meal for only $7.50 where I pretty much needed to roll myself out of there!

This place kicks ass and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for good, cheap, Middle Eastern food. Be prepared to have your order ready – there’s one guy manning the register and he doesn’t like to be slowed down – and to pay in cash (they don’t take credit, but there’s an ATM directly in front of the eatery which they will direct you to use). Things to note: tax is included in all their prices, the hot sauce is delicious (and very hot) which goes for $3.50/bottle if you want to bring some home, and their falafel is fried, just in case you’re seeking baked falafel.

I definitely recommend this place and will make it one of my regular spots.

John DeMartino III

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