Al-Aqsa Bakery & Restaurant: Authentic Middle Eastern Delights in Brooklyn

Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish!!! 10 out of 10! Ayat is so kind and attentive and the food is mouth watering. My wife and I got the lamb platter and the lamb just melted in our mouth. The chef brought out complimentary falafel and hummus - no joke, it’s probably the best falafel I’ve ever had in my life Allah bless this establishment and the people who run it and work there. Ameen

Hands down the best shawerma in Bay Ridge. I don’t care what anyone else says, but when I’m craving shawerma, I want to enjoy the flavor and to actually feel full. So many places make their sandwiches tiny, almost like sushi rolls, but I love that Al-Aqsa stays authentic with big, flavorful portions. I always order the mixed shawerma with fries (for $15) and it never disappoints. Plus, they’ve added more seating and now offer more payment options, including Apple Pay, which is super convenient.

Peering into Al-Aqsa bakery from the cold and wind-battered streets, we glimpsed an outwardly-sterile corridor; nonetheless my housemate and I recognized the warmth beneath the fluorescent lighting. We made our way in, quickly awashed by the amiable team. Really I came in just looking to get a dip and dip; a hummus perhaps, some pita to accompany. The wafting smells, however, proved irrestible. The clash of metal to grill, seared flesh and juices sizzling, my tepid hunger grew more and more ravenous. I opted for the kofte platter, and was recommended to do halfa-kofte half-chicken skewer. My housemate went for the shawarma platter. Additionally, I picked up a plate of six falafel, some kibbeh, and laban to boot; all with a plate of pita on the side. It was on the pricier side, but I think the subsequent experience and free-flowing generosity made it a well-worth visit. And the food was delicious. The falafel, which we were offered some as we made our order, resembled soft pillows encased by a perfectly crisp shell. He brought out a plate of manakish, za'atar and cheese, which was a pleasant and authentic surprise. The people behind the counter were alive and vivacious, from the chef who ran back and forth to feed us wholly, to the woman and her demure smile that took delight in our delight, providing excellent care and attention to our dining. Food continued to spill out, a cornucopia of Levantine fare. The (chicken?) shawarma was adequate, solid in taste and bursting with juices. The grilled chicken I found more compelling with its alluring char and succulence. The kofte was perhaps my favorite though. In tandem with the fluffy toum, it was heaven in each bite. When I find myself in Bay Ridge again, surely, I will return.

I went here based off a recommendation that I saw on tiktok. I was absolutely blown away. This is as authentic as authentic can get in food and in people. The owner (i believe) was super friendly and had no problem handling my milk allergy. I felt very welcomed and surrounded by wonderful Palestinian tradition in the heart of Brooklyn. I had a few people join me at my table to chat which was very nice. The lamb was juicy, the veggies were amazing, and the fries were crisp. I will be coming back soon. Ramadan Mubarak

March 2026: Today was no different from my last visit. The Welcome was even better because we were remembered. The service was “par excellence” .. I would always recommend them especially when you are in the area or even if you are Not, just go visit them. The courteous owner and his staff, especially Ayat, hasn’t changed. We got samples of Falafels and hands down those were the best I HAVE EVER TASTED!!! Please just visit, then you would understand February 2026: Food was A-Class, Fresh and full of flavour. The quantity was phenomenal because I got dinner of of it. The service provided by Ayat was excellent! She made sure we were well taken care of and on top of that she was soooo friendly. Such lovely eyes. I tried a pomegranate soda called Laziza and that blew my taste buds away, it was so delicious.

An incredible lunch at an affordable price. We got the mixed lamb and chicken shawarma platter and while it runs pricier than a sandwich (around $24) it came piled high with lamb and chicken easily worth the price, and more than enough for both of us for a quick lunch. The chicken was the star—moist and well-seasoned, rich and fatty without feeling heavy or greasy. The lamb, while also good, was near the end of the spit and as a result came out a little dry and not nearly as rich. The shatta (hot sauce), toum (garlic sauce), and tahina all tasted homemade and more than compensated. The cucumber and tomato salad was light and simply seasoned, which perfectly complemented the rich meats and sauces. The pickled cucumbers and turnip had deep tang and traditionally fermented flavors that really rounded out the plate. Service was attentive and friendly, even offering a piece of bread free with our platter when we realized we were low on cash and were unaware bread was extra! The friendly man behind the counter even gave us a few rose candies on our way out! All in all, a delicious and authentic Palestinian meal from a business that deserves so much love.

Al Aqsa Restaurant is hands down one of the best places to get authentic shawerma. What I love most is that their shawerma sandwiches are traditional not modernized or overcomplicated like a lot of other restaurants try to do. They keep it classic, and it tastes exactly how it’s supposed to: perfectly seasoned, juicy, and absolutely impeccable. The service is just as impeccable as the food. The staff is welcoming, respectful, and always make you feel comfortable. The atmosphere truly makes you feel like you’re back home. It’s warm, simple, and authentic nothing fancy, just real food and real hospitality. Their pitta bread is amazing soft, fresh, and perfect for dipping into their incredibly creamy, smooth hummus. The hummus is rich, flavorful, and made just right. You also have to try their falafel. It’s perfect crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of flavor. The falafel sandwich is definitely a must try. On top of everything, their prices are very affordable compared to other restaurants, especially for the quality and portion sizes you get. If you want real, traditional food that tastes like home, Al Aqsa is the place to go. I HIGHLY recommend it, I drove from Yonkers and it was worth every single minute.

Without a doubt, one of the best Chicken Shawarmas, Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Falafel, and Chicken Kebab in Brooklyn. Everything was fresh with plentiful flavor. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves Palestinian cuisine. Last but not least, I want to extend my gratitude to the owner and their servers. They were all friendly and attentive. I will be back.