Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

New York

12 Chairs Cafe is praised for its authentic Israeli cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service. Popular dishes include hummus, shakshuka, falafel, and schnitzel. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and vibrant ambiance, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Discover the vibrant flavors of 12 Chairs Cafe in New York City, a beloved spot for authentic Israeli and Middle Eastern cuisine nestled in the heart of Manhattan's bustling Soho district.

At 56 MacDougal Street, 12 Chairs Cafe offers a laid-back yet trendy atmosphere where food lovers can indulge in a diverse menu full of flavorful Middle Eastern delights. This hotspot is especially renowned for its standout hummus — creamy, rich, and perfect for dipping alongside warm pita bread. Whether you choose to dine inside their rustic, casual setting or opt for the outdoor seating to soak up the NYC energy, the experience is always memorable.

 of authentic dishes like sabich, schnitzel, and falafel keep guests coming back for more. The shakshuka breakfast is a fan favorite, accompanied by fresh salads and traditional sides like halva and pickled peppers.

While some dishes, like the hummus, have a unique nutty tahini twist, and portions can be hearty and filling, the menu’s broad selection invites exploration. The cafe also serves lunch, brunch, dinner, and coffee, with a full bar offering beer, wine, and crafted cocktails to complement your meal.

12 Chairs Cafe blends a super clean and casual vibe with trendy touches, offering both indoor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for groups or cozy meals alike. While the space can get lively and a bit loud at times, the overall atmosphere buzzes with authenticity and warmth. Service tends to be laid-back, with some guests praising standout servers who go the extra mile.

Locals and visitors alike share a positive sentiment toward this spot, praising it for its authentic flavors, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service. Many recommend making a reservation and requesting outdoor seating to avoid the crowded indoor space. Portion sizes are hearty, so come hungry — but be mindful that dishes can be oily and filling.

 Yes, reservations are available for both the Soho and Williamsburg locations.

Is there outdoor seating at 12 Chairs Cafe

 Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating.

 Yes, delivery is available through Uber Eats.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

 Yes, the restaurant serves alcohol including beer, wine, and cocktails.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, at 56 MacDougal Street, the 12 Chairs Cafe offers a captivating escape into Middle Eastern culinary traditions. This cozy yet trendy spot is renowned for its authentic dishes, warm ambiance, and lively street-side atmosphere, making it a must-visit for food lovers and cultural explorers alike. From the moment you step inside, the inviting aroma of spices and freshly baked bread transports you to a bustling market in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Explore the menu and ambiance of 12 Chairs Cafe

Read reviews and see photos of 12 Chairs Cafe

Middle Eastern dishes (including standout hummus) featured in a laid-back, rustic setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQbHJ5Tmh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbZsGko1ZwokR_Q1lznmBuU8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQbHJ5Tmh3RRAB

Good brunch spot. Food was pretty good just felt very oily / made me super tired after. Really really filling. Don’t underestimate the sizes. The lamb hot dish was quite good. I liked the shakahula too. The Challah was a bit stale / dry and not warm. The pitas were 3.5/5.

It’s super clean, trendy, casual on the inside. Menu has an overwhelming amount of options with no clear winner.

Service was pretty hands off. It’s a bit loud inside. Indoor and outdoor seating.

Hummus is supposedly what they are famous for. I thought it tasted more like tahini than hummus. It was almost too nutty - needed the lime mixture to balance with acidity.

About $30 pp.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfb0pIRS1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbZsGko1ZwokR_Q1lznmBuU8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfb0pIRS1RRRAB

normally i don’t like reviewing places that i order takeout from because food usually suffers from not being eaten fresh however this was really good. i didn’t order much, just the arayes but they were insanely good. the meat had a nice flavor and there was plenty of it. the bread ended up getting a little soggy on the bottom but it was not bad and still had great flavor. i like taking this to go because i pair it with honey yogurt as a sauce and it’s the best combination. i definitely want to try some of their other offerings but i will say that prices are pretty high for the portion size. i think they give enough food but i don’t think the amount of food is worth the price you pay.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURid0xuQzZ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbZsGko1ZwokR_Q1lznmBuU8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURid0xuQzZ3RRAB

Had an amazing brunch at 12 Chairs Cafe. We had the sabich, schnitzel, & falafel appetizer. Everything was authentic and tasted amazing. Totally recommend!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURRbXJiWmFREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbZsGko1ZwokR_Q1lznmBuU8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURRbXJiWmFREAE

Food is delicious!!!  Eat here every time I come in to NYC even if I am visiting a different part of the city. One of my favorite Israeli/Mediterranean restaurants.

2023 update. Adding some recent breakfast photos.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqNkxuWm5BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJbZsGko1ZwokR_Q1lznmBuU8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqNkxuWm5BRRAB

Recommendation: get a reservation and ask to seat outside. Inside can be super crowded and tight.

The food is pretty good. We had the israelí breakfast egg shakshouka (it came with a side of salad, small dishes with halva, harissa butter, bread, pickled pepper, chickpeas and tzatziki plus a glass of juice and coffee we upgraded the coffee to capuchino) plus serving of hummus with side pita and side olives. I will get the hummus again but probably skip the shakshouka since it was salty for my taste and the eggs were too cooked.

We had multiple servers. One of them went above and beyond and the rest were not as nice.

Regardless I will probably be back.

12 Chairs Cafe: Trendy Israeli Brunch in NYC's Manhattan

12 Chairs Cafe, established over 20 years ago, began as a small cafe in Soho and has since expanded to include a second location in Williamsburg. It has become a beloved neighborhood spot, known for its authentic Israeli cuisine and warm hospitality.

Located in the heart of New York City's vibrant neighborhoods, 12 Chairs Cafe has cultivated a rich history since its inception. Founded in the year 2000 in the trendy Soho district, this charming cafe quickly became known for its authentic Israeli cuisine and inviting atmosphere. Over the years, it has grown from a modest spot into a beloved culinary destination that resonates with locals and visitors alike.

In 2010, 12 Chairs Cafe expanded its footprint by opening a second location in Williamsburg, another thriving cultural hub of New York City. This move marked a new chapter in the cafe's journey, allowing it to bring its distinctive Middle Eastern flavors and warm hospitality to a broader audience. Both locations have maintained a laid-back, rustic setting that perfectly complements their flavorful menu offerings.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2020, 12 Chairs Cafe solidified its status as a neighborhood staple. Throughout two decades, it has earned a reputation not only for its delicious dishes—especially the renowned hummus—but also for its welcoming vibe that invites guests to relax and savor the authentic tastes of Israeli and broader Middle Eastern cuisine.

 - 12 Chairs Cafe established in Soho, New York City.

 - Second location opened in Williamsburg, New York City.

 - Celebrated 20th anniversary as a neighborhood staple.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Breakfast

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Groups

12 Chairs Cafe is a cozy dining spot in Manhattan, New York, offering a delightful array of Middle Eastern dishes in a rustic setting. Known for its standout hummus and Mediterranean flavors, it provides a warm atmosphere perfect for brunch or dinner.

12 Chairs Cafe

A diverse selection of Middle Eastern and American dishes, including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner options.

Israeli Breakfast

Shakshuka

Western Omelette

Greek Omelette

Spinach & Goat Cheese Omelette

Mushroom & Onion Omelette

Salmon Omelette

Two Eggs Any Style

French Toast

Pancakes

Blueberry Pancakes

Oatmeal

Granola with Fresh Fruit & Yogurt

12 Chairs Burger (8 oz.)

Lamburger (8 oz.)

Chicken Livers

Chicken Pocket

Grilled Chicken

Moroccan Fish

Pelmeni

Pierogi

Schnitzel

Stuffed Cabbage

Vegetarian Couscous

Blintzes

Quiche of the Day

Hot Borscht Soup

Soup of the Day

12 Chairs Salad

Arugula Salad

Chef Salad

Goat Cheese Salad

Greek Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad

Israeli Salad

Schnitzel Salad

Brie Sandwich

Fresh Mozzarella Sandwich

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Grilled Vegetable Sandwich

Smoked Salmon Sandwich

Sabich Sandwich

Tunisian Sandwich

Grape Leaves

Roasted Beets

Mini Lamb Kebabs

Israeli Guacamole

Baladi Eggplant

Labneh

Hummus

Hummus Falafel

Hummus Mushrooms & Onions

Hummus Meat

Babaganoush

Falafel

Israeli Pickles

Brewed Iced Tea

Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite

Freshly Squeezed Orange or Grapefruit Juice

Freshly Squeezed Lemonade

Freshly Squeezed Mint Lemonade

Fruit Shake

Milkshake

Orangina

Sparkling Water

Large Sparkling Water

Spring Water

Corona

Goldstar

Heineken

Samuel Adams

Blue Moon

Coffee

Cafe Americano

Cafe au Lait

Cafe Latte

Cappuccino

Espresso

Mochaccino

Hot Chocolate

Tea with Fresh Mint

Herbal Tea

12 Chairs Cafe Menu

Savor gourmet delights at 12 Chairs Cafe on MacDougal St in NYC! Experience unique flavors and cozy vibes. Visit today for an unforgettable dining experience!

12 Chairs Cafe: Trendy Israeli Brunch in NYC's Manhattan

Arturo's Coal Oven Pizza

Lupa

Bar Pitti