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For hummus and falafel cravings, New York has its fair share of Israeli/ Mediterranean/ Hallal joints. But if you’re looking for Middle Eastern cuisine taken to a whole new level, there’s no place like Nur.
Nur is a modern Middle Eastern restaurant by Israeli celebrity chef Meir Adoni, who partnered up with Gadi Peleg, owner of Breads Bakery, to open his first NYC restaurant in the Flatiron district. Chef Adoni is a big deal in Israel and probably the most renown chef (and TV food celebrity) in all of the Middle East. So welcoming Nur York City to the restaurant row of East 20th street was highly anticipated. Adoni is known for his distinctive interpretation of contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine and his love for innovative gastronomy. At Nur, the Israeli-Moroccan chef ingeniously showcases the melting pot that is the Middle East, where a wide array of different flavors graciously unite to find peace and harmony, or at least that’s how I like to see it 🙂 . In fact, Nur means “light” in both Hebrew and Arabic, and the food brings both Jewish and Arab traditions together. But definitely not in a conventional way – everything about Nur calls for a unique explosion of senses.
Jerusalem Sesame Bagel, za’atar & lima bean messabaha ($12) – The breads are made at Breads Bakery daily exclusively for Nur and are must orders!
Date dougnuts appetizer, smoked trout, almonds, curry citrus vinaigrette
Adoni’s passion for new cuisine is apparent at Nur as he “lets loose” in a surprising, playful and bold menu. Dinner at Nur is a true feast for your eyes and taste buds. The stunning colorful plating is a work of art, and the flavor combinations and textures are nothing short of exciting, with amazing spice profiles. The wow factor is definitely there, as every bite makes you travel to a “whole new world” (see what I just did there?). Nur‘s main concept is to take Middle Eastern staples and elevate them to fine dining. From the small bites, to the fish, meat, and the incredible bread of course – every dish is creatively executed with an extravagant sophistication and an unusual choice of ingredients. Even their rendition of street food like the Jerusalem sesame bagel or the Yemenite kubaneh is beyond any expectation. Nur is definitely more for the modern, adventurous palate though, and may be overwhelming for purists (just have a glimpse at the menu and you’ll have an idea). I love the excitement and discovery that comes with each plate, but I can understand how the execution may not always work for those looking for traditional Mediterranean flavors. Not to mention how decadently rich most dishes are… At Nur, the motto seems to be “more is more”.
They can substitute many dishes with haloumi cheese for vegetarians
Kubaneh bread, Yemenite schug & grated tomato ($12) – incredibly flaky brioche-type and another must order!
Smoked Eggplant Carpaccio, fire roasted with feta, raw tahini, dates, pistachios, rose water ($22)
Signature dish: Palestinian Tartare, hand cut beef, smoked eggplant cream, sheep’s yogurt, raw tahini ($26) (this dish is served at one of Adoni’s Tel Aviv restaurants)
Turkish Delight on the Hudson – Seared foie gras, pistachio tahini, smoked buttermilk honey cream, licorice sponge cake, poached quince ($39) – INCREDIBLY decadent dish!
Kubaheh bread ($12) is amazing with the Smoked Eggplant Carpaccio, ($22)
Lamb duo: seared chops & grilled loin, Jerusalem artichoke, smoked eggplant & parsley creams, yogurt, freekeh & lentil lamb mejadara (phew) – $39
The drinks menu is just as intriguing, with exotic in-house cocktails and an interesting wine list, serving bottles from around the globe, including an unconventional selection of Middle Eastern grapes of course (who knew there was such as thing as Moroccan Syrah!?).
All dishes are designed for sharing
The dining space is relatively small and simply designed (in comparison to the menu!), with modern furnishings and a neutral color scheme. The only real Israeli touch is in the matte tile floors. The acoustics however will make you feel like you’re in vibrant Tel Aviv (i.e. it gets LOUD)! The atmosphere is hip and lively, and the service warm and friendly.
Bar area at entrance
Vibrant dining room
Simple modern setting
Ever since its April 2017 opening, Nur has become one of the hottest tables to score (despite the block’s high competition, with innumerable hot-spot next-door neighbors). Book in advance, or come early if you’re hoping for last-minute luck (they keep the bar and a few seats by the window for walk-ins).
Nur is like no other restaurant in New York City. Come with a small group of adventurous eaters for a feast for the senses!
Signature dessert: Hills of Jerusalem, rocks of cardamom chocolate & halva, crispy Jerusalem artichokes (!), pistachio cream, almond sable & smoked yogurt ice cream ($16)
Smoked Chocolate Custard dessert, puffed grain granola, cherries, figs, sambuca flowers, salted pretzel ice cream ($16)
Never ending treats! Complimentary mignardises
