Bite Of The Day: Lebanese Shawarma In Bay Ridge

On a busy corner of 4th Avenue near 86th street sits an unassuming but critically acclaimed Lebanese gem.

Karam restaurant, at 8519 4th Avenue, is far from the only Middle Eastern restaurant in the neighborhood, but it stands out on a block that’s fluorescently lit by tacky, neon signs from fast food joints and chain retailers.

Karam proudly displays its reputation on the door, with praise from Brooklyn Magazine ’20 Best Sandwiches’, New York Magazine ‘Best in New York’, Trip Advisor, and more.

My dining partner and I wandered in late on a weekday evening, joining a cast of lively regulars shouting orders over the counter.

We were immediately enticed by the deli counter filled with teetering piles of Zataar pita, mini pizzas, spinach pies, colorful salads, and meat skewers ready to grill.

We both ordered mixed shawarma platters with slices of chicken and lamb meat towering atop a mound of rice ($14).

The platter came with two choose-your-own sides and between us, we sampled the grape leaves, yogurt sauce, eggplant salad, and tabbouleh — all cold to contrast the steaming hot meat-n-rice combo.

The meal tasted fresh and delicately spiced — a wonderfully balanced plate of comforting favorites.

Open until 12:30am every day, Karam makes a great spot for a filling and flavorful meal or late night snack. Check out their full menu here, and if you live within five miles you can call for delivery at 718-745-5227.

Need more ordering ideas? Check out the tempting array of photos on Karam’s Facebook page.

If you’re making a trek to Bay Ridge, take the R to 86th Street or the B16 to 86th Street/4th Avenue. Check out more public transit options here.