For some aficionados of Middle Eastern cuisine short on money and time, the only option available to them is the nearest gyro cart. This is the equivalent of going to Taco Bell to enjoy Mexican food. Those who want a more authentic experience should go to Mamoun’s Falafel, an eatery located in the heart of St. Mark’s Place. Open since 1971, Mamoun’s has become popular by word of mouth among New York University (NYU) students due to its fast, friendly service and low prices.

“It’s my favorite place to eat around here,” says NYU student Derrick Walsh. “The guys here are very friendly, and it’s great to find something I’m always in the mood for.”

“It pretty much started as one guy,” says clerk Sean McLemore. “The original owner, Mamoun, came from Syria and established [the restaurant] in 1971. Now, his sons have taken over, but he still pops up every once in a while to check on things.”
Aesthetically, Mamoun’s is unimpressive. It is cramped and dimly lit, with only two tables and a counter to lean on. The fan wiggles drunkenly from the ceiling, and for decoration, there is a large picture of a fruit on the wall. However, Mamoun’s loyal customers pay no attention to the decor. It is the food that makes eating here an unforgettable experience.

Mamoun’s signature dish is the falafel sandwich ($2.50), which is made to order by the cook. The freshness of the sandwich is obvious from the first bite: the hot, crispy falafel is complemented by the tahini sauce and the warm, fluffy pita bread. “I’ve only ever [ordered] the falafel sandwich,” says Tara Maranucci, a resident of the Greenwich Village. “It’s great because I’m a vegetarian.” For those who wish to try something light and fulfilling, the menu also offers lentil soup ($2.50). Made with a generous amount of lentils and onions, the fragrant soup has a coarse structure and tastes slightly nutty. Some items required more of a waiting time, such as the chicken kebab sandwich ($4.50). While slightly dry, the dish’s silky sesame sauce and the exotic spices make it delicious.

The most impressive item on the menu is the side hummus ($1.50). Served with piping hot slices of pita bread and drizzled with olive oil, the dish is rustic, despite being served in a paper cup. With just the right amount of lemon juice and sesame paste, the result is a pleasing medley of tartness and smoothness that melts right in the mouth.

“I love ordering the falafel, and just dipping it in the hummus,” says Walsh. “It’s just incredible.”

The baba ghanouj ($1.50) is also excellent: the sesame paste and olive oil complement the smoky and bitter eggplant. For those who must have dessert, baklava ($1.50) is offered, but it is disappointing. In fact, most of the sweets are stale and soaked in syrup.

Mamoun’s true strength lies in its affordability and authenticity. It is a place where you can eat your fill for under five dollars. And it is so much more rewarding than any gyro cart experience.