Seemor
The Hummus and Pita Co.B-Worth Trying
215 East 86th St, New York, NY 10028
· Mediterranean restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (255 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Reliable fast-casual Mediterranean with generous portions and standout hummus and falafel, though bread freshness and occasional consistency issues hold it back.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
The Hummus and Pita Co. delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality in hummus and falafel, backed by attentive staff who guide diners through customizable options. However, quality variability in bread and meat preparation prevents a higher grade, and the casual fast-casual format with modest setting appeal limits broader appeal—making it a worthwhile UES stop for Mediterranean comfort food rather than a destination.
Restaurant Summary
A neighborhood standby where counter staff guide you through bowls, pitas, and platters, the room feels casual and efficient rather than leisurely. Diners highlight friendly help and quick turnaround, with one noting, "They patiently walked us through the options." Expect generous portions and a steady lunch rush. The cooking leans traditional Mediterranean comfort—falafel, hummus, shawarma—with a build-your-own format that suits varied diets. Hummus and falafel earn the most love, while bread quality and shawarma consistency fluctuate. It is more practical than precious: hearty, customizable, and priced fairly for the area. Families do fine here thanks to familiar kid-pleasers like chicken, fries, and pita, and staff often help picky eaters land on safe choices. There is no kids menu per se, but portioning is flexible and sides are approachable; expect counter service pace rather than lingering table time.
At a Glance
- Standout hummus and solid falafel with generous portions
- Broad vegan and vegetarian options with helpful staff guidance
- Bread freshness and laffa texture can be inconsistent
- Occasional reports of salty/bland meats and pre-cut shawarma
- One isolated undercooked chicken incident noted; otherwise cleanliness praised
What Sets It Apart
- broad vegan and vegetarian options
- generous portion sizes
- chickpea-based desserts and drinks
What People Love
- Feeling full without overspending
- Customizing bowls with lots of toppings
- Friendly staff who explain the menu
- Reliable vegan shawarma and falafel options
Points of Concern
- Pita and laffa can be dry or tortilla-like on some visits
- Shawarma quality varies; a few reports of bland or overly salty meat
- One report of undercooked chicken; monitor food safety vigilance
- Menu complexity and upcharges can confuse first-timers
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$19-26 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Build a bowl with falafel or chicken ($13-16), add a side like spanakopita ($3.95), and finish with baklava ($3.95) for a full, sub-$25 meal.
Perfect For
- A fast, filling weekday lunch
- Mixed-diet groups needing vegan and meat options
- Solo bites with window seating
- Casual takeout or delivery nights
Location Insights
Area: Busy Upper East Side block serving residents and shoppers; suits quick lunches and casual dinners.
Safety: Well-trafficked, well-lit residential/commercial corridor; generally safe at most hours.
Nearby: Near 86th St retail, cinemas, and 4/5/6 and Q trains; heavy foot traffic from locals.
Upper East SideThe dining scene here is characterized by a blend of classic New York eateries, upscale restaurants, and casual cafes catering to well-heeled locals and visitors. The atmosphere is generally refined and quiet, with a focus on quality and tradition rather than trendiness.
YorkvilleYorkville offers a slightly more relaxed and residential feel within the Upper East Side, with a growing number of casual dining options and neighborhood-focused establishments. It balances a family-friendly environment with accessible dining and shopping.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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