Shaya

Shaya is a modern Israeli restaurant at 4213 Magazine Street in the Uptown neighbourhood of New Orleans, Louisiana. Created by chef Alon Shaya, who was born in Israel and raised in the United States, the restaurant brings the flavours of the eastern Mediterranean to a street better known for Creole and Southern cooking. It quickly won national attention for its approach and has become one of the best-known non-Creole dining rooms in the city, a deliberate contrast with traditional New Orleans fare.

The menu centres on hummus, wood-fired pita and a range of mezze. The hummus is served warm with toppings that change by season, and the pita comes straight from the oven. Lamb kebab, whole fish and creamy labneh with seasonal garnishes are other signature plates, and many dishes use Louisiana produce and seafood within an Israeli framework. Ordering several small plates for the table is the common approach, followed by a grilled main course and dessert. Vegetarians generally find the menu especially accommodating.

The dining room is airy and modern, with warm lighting, an open kitchen and a lively but conversational atmosphere. Noise rises at peak hours, and the dress code is casual to smart casual. The beverage programme includes cocktails, a wine list with Mediterranean influences, and non-alcoholic options. Lunch is a lighter, more economical way to sample the kitchen than dinner, and prices run about US$35-65 per person.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (504) 891-4213, with weekend dinners and holiday periods filling first. Visitors planning a larger group should book a week or more ahead. Uptown's Magazine Street shops and galleries are close, and the Magazine Street bus and a short ride from the St. Charles streetcar make the location reachable from the French Quarter.