It’s New: Laila Restaurant introduces Middle Eastern Food to Tottenville

posted on: May 10, 2019

SOURCE: SILIVE. COM

BY: VICTORIA PRIOLA 

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.– Laila Restaurant, located at 45 Page Ave., claims it is the first Middle Eastern restaurant to come to Tottenville, a fact confirmed by SILive’s restaurant expert Pamela Silvestri.

The restaurant opened its doors on April 1, serving savory meats and creamy hummus plates ever since. So far, Laila proprietor Alan Dakhlallah and his wife, Amal, say they are overwhelmed by the support in the community.

“I couldn’t ask for anything more,” said Dakhlallah. “We’re so happy people are coming in and liking the food and we’re only getting better.”

Guests are greeted with an outdoor waiting area with flowers and plants surrounding. The interior of the restaurant features Middle East-styled medallions on walls of brick. On the menu, Chicken Shawarma, Kafta Kebab, Lamb Chops Kabab Banjan and other Syrian dishes are crowd favorites.

“We were looking at other places in this area and all we could find was Italian,” Dakhlallah said. “Now, I love pizza, but, after a while, you need a change in pace. That’s when we knew this was the area we were meant to be in.”

Appetizers range in price from $8 to $12, and entrees range from $19 to $30. Although Laila does offer unique soft drinks — like a cup of their house-made mint lemonade — they are in the process of getting their liquor license. Dakhallah said he hopes to start serving alcohol to those 21 and over by next month.

As the restaurant finds its footing in the neighborhood, Dakhlallah said live entertainment is the next step. Laila offers professional bellydancing performances on Sunday evenings starting at 6 p.m.

Want more food photos? We’ve got you covered. Keep scrolling for more dishes at Laila Restaurant.