Seemor
TaboonetteBWorth Trying
30 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003
· Mediterranean restaurant, Israeli restaurant, Middle Eastern restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1153 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Flavor-forward Israeli street food in a tight Union Square counter-service space; great veggie options and quick service, but portions and consistency vary and seating is cramped.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Taboonette delivers reliable fast-casual Mediterranean dining with bold, fresh flavors and friendly, efficient counter service that make it a solid neighborhood choice near Union Square. However, portion and temperature inconsistencies prevent a higher grade, and isolated food safety concerns warrant caution despite overall positive reception. Best suited for quick, casual meals rather than special occasions.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from Union Square, Taboonette runs on fast-casual energy: counter ordering, trays, and shared tables that fill at lunch. Service skews friendly and swift—one diner put it simply: "food came out fast and tasted fresh"—but the room can feel cozy and cramped when busy. The cooking leans Israeli street food with veg-forward comfort rather than chefly theatrics. Falafel, sabich, and shawarma anchor the menu, while sweet potato falafel and braised lamb shawarma earn the loudest praise. Most find flavors bright and satisfying; a smaller chorus notes inconsistent portions or lukewarm bites, especially on to-go orders. Families will find several kid-approachable options like chicken shawarma in pita, hummus with extra pita, and simple eggs at breakfast. Seating is tight and there is no clear baby chair option mentioned, so peak times may be tricky. Portions generally suit hungry teens, though picky eaters may prefer basic pitas over amba or tahini-heavy builds.
At a Glance
- Fast, friendly counter service with quick ticket times
- Strong vegetarian and vegan options (falafel, sabich, cauliflower)
- Convenient Union Square location for quick lunch
- Portion and temperature inconsistency on some visits
- Tight, communal seating not ideal for large groups
What Sets It Apart
- Veg-forward Israeli street food
- Fast service near Union Square
- Customizable hummus bowls
What People Love
- Tender braised lamb shawarma with aromatic spices
- Crispy sweet potato falafel in fluffy pita
- Silky hummus with bright toppings
- Friendly staff and speedy service
Points of Concern
- Occasional skimpy portions reported on to-go orders
- A few reports of lukewarm food or bland seasoning
- Cramped seating and louder music during rush hours
- Isolated safety issues reported (staple in salad; a few illness claims) warrant caution
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-35 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose plate or pan formats ($13.50-$18) for better portion security versus to-go pitas
- Vegetarians: Sweet Potato Falafel or Kruveet Cauliflower with arugula-herb salad
- Ask for extra pita with hummus bowls to avoid mid-meal add-ons
Perfect For
- A quick flavorful lunch near Union Square
- Veg-forward casual dinner on a budget
- Solo bite between classes or meetings
- Takeout when you want shawarma or falafel
Location Insights
Area: Busy, student-and-office-heavy block near Union Square; fast-casual and grab-and-go spots dominate.
Safety: High foot traffic and generally safe; crowded at peak hours, occasional street noise.
Nearby: Near Union Square Park, NYU buildings, retail corridors, subway hub; heavy lunchtime rush.
East VillageEast Village is known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining scene featuring everything from casual eateries to trendy restaurants, and a bohemian, artistic atmosphere. The area attracts a youthful crowd interested in innovative cuisine, live music, and cultural experiences.
St. Mark's PlaceSt. Mark's Place is a lively stretch within East Village famous for its quirky shops, casual dining spots, and a youthful, energetic vibe. It is a hotspot for affordable and diverse food options, often with a countercultural or alternative edge.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–22:00
Tuesday10:00–22:00
Wednesday10:00–22:00
Thursday10:00–22:00
Friday10:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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