Quick Bite

Al-Basha in Paterson Offers Middle Eastern Fare at Modest Prices

The Crooks Avenue offshoot of the downtown eatery serves fresh and flavorful Palestinian-inspired cuisine.

Eggplant salad at Al-Basha in Paterson
Try the garlicky fried eggplant salad at Paterson's Al-Basha on Crooks Ave. Photo courtesy of Jacqueline Mroz

STYLE

Sleek and modern, with large windows, high ceilings, dark wood furniture, hanging plants and a small olive tree in the center of the dining room (we were fooled, but the tree is not real).

THE SCOOP

Open just a little over a year, Al-Basha is an offshoot of the popular downtown eatery. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy Palestinian-inspired Middle Eastern selections in an upscale setting.

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THE MENU

Start with a surprisingly dark-green mint lemonade. The fare is typical of Middle Eastern food, with offerings such as hummus, baba ganoush and tabouleh. Everything tastes fresh and flavorful. Try the garlicky fried eggplant salad and the Arabic salad, or order the Al-Basha Messa, which comes with an array of delicious spreads. The cheese borek—crunchy filo-dough rolls stuffed with cheese and mint—are a delight. The Mix Mashawi, a selection of grilled meats, is a specialty. 

HEADS UP

It’s a great place to order family style and share, so that you get to try everything—come with an appetite! The restaurant also offers take-out meals and has a special room for parties and events.

What are Quick Bites? Short takes on casual, affordable dining.

Restaurant Details

  • Cuisine Type:
    Middle Eastern
  • Price Range:
    Inexpensive