Seemor
Lava Shawarma NYCBWorth Trying
226 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012
· Middle Eastern restaurant, Halal restaurant, Lebanese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (811 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Solid shawarma-focused spot near Washington Square with generous vegan options and late hours; food is often flavorful but service and atmosphere can be polarizing.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Lava Shawarma delivers solid neighborhood appeal with strong food quality—particularly praised shawarma and extensive vegan options—and a welcoming location near Washington Square. However, inconsistent meat preparation and service reliability prevent a higher grade, while isolated safety concerns add caution. Best suited for casual locals and students seeking flavorful Middle Eastern fare without expecting premium consistency.
Restaurant Summary
A cozy Middle Eastern spot just off Washington Square, Lava leans casual with warm student energy and walls that spark conversation. Expect pressed shawarma wraps, sesame-crusted falafel, and complimentary tea. One diner put it simply: "No frills, all flavor". Note that decor and messaging can feel political to some, which a few found off-putting. The cooking stays mostly traditional—garlicky chicken shawarma, lamb and beef platters, and a big vegan lineup—so think elevated comfort more than wild fusion. When they hit, the meats are tender and well-seasoned; misses tend to be dry cuts or slow tickets. Prices are normal for the Village on shawarma sets, with premium mains like lamb chops and branzino reaching splurge territory. For families, this is kid-manageable thanks to fries, rice, chicken strips, samosas, and simple salads; a reviewer even called it kid-friendly. There is no formal kids menu, but the straightforward wraps and plates work well. If your crew is sensitive to strong garlic or political decor, consider takeout.
At a Glance
- Flavorful shawarma and abundant vegan options
- Casual, walkable location near Washington Square
- Service inconsistency from warm and quick to inattentive
- Polarizing political decor may affect comfort
- Premium dishes priced high relative to casual vibe
What Sets It Apart
- extensive_vegan_menu
- late_hours_near_washington_square
- complimentary_spiced_tea
What People Love
- Pressed chicken shawarma with garlicky toum
- Sesame-crusted falafel and creamy dips
- Complimentary spiced tea ritual
- Vegan grilled plate with fresh salads
Points of Concern
- Service variability: reports of rudeness, delays, and missed items alongside friendly, fast experiences
- Food consistency swings: occasional dry meats or cold patties amid many raves
- Atmosphere is political; some diners felt uncomfortable
- Pricing surprises on premium mains and family platters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$34-46 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Value path: Falafel Lava Wrap ($12) + small appetizer ($6-7)
- Protein-forward: Chicken Shawarma Plate ($16) or Lamb & Beef Plate ($17)
- Plant-based feast: Vegan Mix Grilled Plate ($17) plus Tabbouleh ($13)
Perfect For
- Quick shawarma before/after Washington Square
- Vegan-friendly group with mixed diets
- Casual late-night bite
- Budget-conscious lunch with Middle Eastern flavors
Location Insights
Area: Student-heavy, lively blocks off Washington Square; casual eateries and late-night options dominate.
Safety: Busy, well-trafficked area that feels generally safe; occasional late-night rowdiness typical of student zones.
Nearby: Steps from NYU buildings and Washington Square Park; foot traffic of students, tourists, and locals.
SoHoSoHo is renowned for its cast-iron architecture, upscale boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. The dining scene is eclectic, ranging from high-end eateries to casual cafes, attracting a fashionable and diverse crowd. The neighborhood maintains a lively social atmosphere with a blend of locals and visitors enjoying its vibrant nightlife and shopping.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–23:00
Tuesday11:00–23:00
Wednesday11:00–23:00
Thursday11:00–23:00
Friday11:00–02:00
Saturday11:00–02:00
Sunday11:00–23:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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