Falafel Tanami Made the NY Times Top 100 Twice But No Longer Ranks in 2025
In the ever-changing landscape of New York City dining, Falafel Tanami stands out as a true underdog success story. This modest kosher falafel joint in Midwood, Brooklyn, made history by appearing in the New York Times’ prestigious “100 Best Restaurants in New York City” list for two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024, both times under the watchful eye of renowned critic Pete Wells. However, as of the 2025 list, Falafel Tanami is notably absent from the ranking, marking a new chapter in its journey.
The Rise of a Kosher Star
Falafel Tanami’s ascent to culinary fame began long before the Times took notice. Opened by Israeli couple Galit and Ronen Tanami, the shop quickly became a neighborhood staple, known for its authentic Israeli fare and commitment to quality. At the time, each morning, the Tanamis arrived at 6 a.m. to hand-make falafel balls and prepare fresh salads, and their labor of love earned them a loyal following.
Despite its small size, with just a few chairs and an atmosphere of a typical small falafel spot in Israel, Falafel Tanami’s reputation for excellence spread far beyond Midwood. The shop’s dedication to freshness and authenticity made it a favorite among both kosher-keeping locals and food lovers seeking a taste of Israel in Brooklyn.
The Pete Wells Effect
The turning point came in 2023, when Pete Wells, then the New York Times’ restaurant critic, included Falafel Tanami in his annual list of the city’s top 100 restaurants. Wells praised the falafel as “extraordinary,” the pita as “better yet,” and the salads and vegetables as “fresh as if you were standing in a market in Tel Aviv.” The recognition was transformative, drawing lines out the door and media attention from across the city.
In 2024, Falafel Tanami repeated its achievement, remaining on the coveted list. This was a rare feat for any restaurant, especially a small, kosher establishment. The accolades brought a further surge of business, with customers from all backgrounds eager to taste the now-famous falafel.
Expansion, Closure, and Looking Ahead
Buoyed by its newfound fame, Falafel Tanami expanded beyond its Brooklyn roots in August 2024, opening a second location in Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood at 415 Greenwich Street. This location shared space with JuicePress, a juice bar, and was a partnership that allowed both brands to operate under the same roof. The Tribeca spot quickly became a neighborhood favorite, offering ample seating and the same celebrated menu as the Brooklyn original.
However, the Tribeca location closed just a few months after opening. According to reports, the closure was due to issues with kitchen venting and complaints from neighbors. Falafel Tanami’s representatives have stated that they plan to reopen at a new Manhattan location soon, but no details have been announced yet.
There was also a short-lived shawarma location on Coney Island in Brooklyn, which was not a success, though it signals the Tanamis’ ambition to keep growing.
A Changing of the Guard
The 2025 New York Times “100 Best Restaurants” list marked a significant shift. Pete Wells, the critic who championed Falafel Tanami, stepped down from his role in August 2024. He continues to write for The Times, but the new list, compiled by a different team, no longer includes Falafel Tanami. “Jew-ish style” but not kosher spots like Barney Greengrass and S&P Lunch are on the list.
It is important to note that while Barney Greengrass and S&P Lunch are celebrated for their Jewish-themed menus and classic deli fare, neither is kosher. Barney Greengrass, a beloved Upper West Side institution, is an appetizing store specializing in dairy and fish. S&P Lunch, which revives the spirit of old-school Jewish luncheonettes, is also not kosher, though it serves many Jewish classics such as pastrami, matzah brei, and chopped liver.
Legacy and Looking Ahead
While Falafel Tanami may no longer appear in the New York Times’ top 100, its legacy as the only kosher restaurant to make the list in both 2023 and 2024 remains a remarkable achievement. The shop’s story is a testament to the power of passion, authenticity, and a commitment to quality and is an inspiration to other kosher restaurants. For kosher food lovers and New Yorkers alike, Falafel Tanami remains a symbol of how a small, family-run eatery can capture the heart of a city.
