An ethnic gem

While scrolling through this blog the other day, a roommate stopped and asked me, “So what’s your favorite restaurant.”

Without hesitation, I replied, “Salaam.”

Tucked inconspicuously down an alley next to World’s Best Bagels on Court St., Salaam offers some of the most unique and delicious food in the city, while boasting the best ambiance to boot.

I first encountered this restaurant back when it was primarily marketed as a hookah bar. Because of legislation banning smoking in public settings, however, the owners had to pack away the pipes and rely solely on a fantastic menu inspired by foods of the Middle East, North Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.

And thank God they did.

Salaam’s cuisine is, simply put, out of this world. Their hummus is spot on—a perfect consistency and flavor—and their “sandwiches”—think wraps—are better than anything offered on uptown. My favorite is the Moroccan Lamb Wrap, which combines mildly spiced lamb and beef and fresh spinach with a titillating yogurt harissa sauce.

Just last week, I tried the Chicken B’ateeya for the first time. One of five “House Specialties,” this dish—a savory sweet crisp phyllo enveloped surrounding chicken, egg, toasted almonds and spices—was the best thing I’ve eaten this month. It was a fresh, juicy, steaming pocket so succulent that I was legitimately upset when the healthy portion was gone.

But as good as the food is, Salaam’s ambiance is even better. The space is a converted basement-type area, with exposed brick and an industrial ceiling painted black. Exquisite Oriental rugs line the floor from wall to wall while exotically woven silks hang from the wall. The lights are always dim—perfect for either a casual meal with friends or more romantic evenings spent sitting closely to a loved one on one of many cushy couches.

Go for the food. Go for the experience. But most importantly, just go.

Salaam:

33 N. Court St.

Lunch: Tuesday-Friday 11:30a.m.-2:30p.m.
Dinner: Wednesday-Saturday 5:30p.m.-9:30p.m.