Taim | The Dishelin Guide

Why Come Here? Have your opinion of falafel changed forever, one of NYC’s best sandwiches

Falafel Sandwich

Years ago, I was highly skeptical that falafel had any business in a carnivore’s pita pocket. Every time I had tried the ball of spiced, mashed and fried chickpeas, I found it either too soggy, too dry and just plain lacking in flavor. Why would anyone substitute this for juicy shwarma or chicken kebab I wondered. Then a friend introduced me to Taim, and my mind was blown.

Taim is a kosher, vegetarian Israeli restaurant focusing on the falafel. The name means “tasty” in Hebrew, although that’s an understatement for how good their falafel really is. It’s one of those game changing renditions that makes it feel unfair to refer to it by the same name.

Taim’s falafel comes in three types: green (cilantro, parsley & mint, my personal favorite), red (roasted red pepper) and harissa (Tunisian spiced). The balls are made fresh – which it’s now clear is the only way to eat falafel – leaving them crunchy on the outside and moist inside. You can get them as a platter with salad, but I must highly recommend the sandwich which is perfectly topped with their spectacular hummus, tahini sauce and Israeli salad. Not matter how much you think you don’t like falafel, you need to give it a try.

Taim currently has two locations, plus a truck. The original is in the West Village and justifiably received a 9/30 in decor from Zagat. It’s basically a food counter with seating for four so have another place to eat in mind when venturing over (the steps across the street are popular). The NoLiTa location is slightly larger seating maybe 15 and adds some wood paneling so you don’t feel like you’re eating in a commercial kitchen.

Falafel Sandwich All the ingredients from the falafel to the hummus, [tahini] to the pita itself are fantastic and in perfect portion. If you feel the need to add something, I recommend their pickles or housemade hot sauce.

Israeli Salad a fresh and refreshing mix of tomato, cucumber and parsley

Hummus Whenever I go here, I pick up a side of the hummus to bring home. It’s smooth and creamy with just a hint of spice.

Sabich The fried eggplant in an interesting change of pace and some people love it. I’m not a big fried food guy and I can’t justify ordering it over the falafel.