A New York–based, Michelin Guide–featured Palestinian restaurant is set to open in Philadelphia this fall.
Ayat, owned by Abdul Elenani, founder of Anani Group, and his wife, Ayat Masoud, honors Masoud and her passion for food. The restaurant will open at 2021-23 Sansom St., in the former Roxy Theater in Rittenhouse, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
The Anani Group also runs Al Badawi, a Palestinian restaurant with locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, and operates Boca Del Cielo, a cafe in Brooklyn.
“From the best of traditional Palestinian classics to fresh takes on Middle Eastern faves, we’re serving up the food that raised us, with a side of straight-up flavor. Our casual bistro vibe means you’ll feel at home whether you’re sharing a Mansaf or Maklouba feast with friends or grabbing Shawarma on the go,” the Ayat’s website reads.
Ayat’s menu is made with locally sourced ingredients.
Guest favorites showcase the Mixed Grill, a platter of fire-grilled chicken kebab, beef kebab, kefta and lamb chop served with rice, pickles, salad and warm pita. M’sakhan, a classic Palestinian dish, features roasted chicken seasoned with sumac, onions and spices over taboon bread. Mansaf, a traditional Palestinian dish, serves slow-cooked lamb in jameed sauce over almond rice and sajj bread, honoring guests through its ceremonial presentation.
The restaurant currently operates locations in New York, New Jersey and Allentown, Pennsylvania. The new Philadelphia location will join a growing list of upcoming sites, including another New York outpost on the Upper West Side, as well as locations in Washington, D.C., and Dallas.
The outlet reported the restaurant plans to debut in November, though it has not announced an official opening date. For updates, visit the restaurant’s website or follow its Instagram and Facebook pages.
What Now Philadelphia reached out to the Ayat team, however, they have not yet responded. This article may be updated.
