Saba

The pita alone is a draw for some frequent Saba diners. It arrives fresh and hot, straight from the wood-burning oven that anchors the dining room. Whether you tear a piece to enjoy on its own or as a vehicle for impossibly smooth hummus, the pita sets the stage for a warm, comforting meal.

Chef Alon Shaya is behind this Magazine Street restaurant located Uptown. Saba serves contemporary Israeli food inspired by his family traditions. The menu leans heavily into salatim—lutenitsa, labneh, tershi and of course hummus—and an assortment can be a meal in itself. Bright, flavorful and built for sharing, these spreads are the perfect match for the pita. Hummus options include classic tahini, Tunisian tomato, blue crab and spicy lamb ragu.

Small plates range from duck matzoh ball soup and falafel to burrata toast and salmon tartare. Larger plates are heartier, like the harissa roasted chicken with charred onion and caramelized lemon, Gulf red snapper with tahini and Moroccan chraime sauce and lamb chops cherry-with pecan tabbouleh, pomegranate and labneh. Seasonal entries rotate throughout. Brunch offers the opportunity to try Chef Shaya’s famous latkes. And if you have a larger group you can go for the “Feed Me” option that features all the hits, eliminating the need to make a decision.

The drinks menu is equally fresh and creative. A selection of seasonal gazoz, like pomegranate sage with vodka or burnt orange with white rum and brûléed citrus make for a bubbly start. Cocktails are inventive but straightforward, and the wine list ventures into Slovenian and Israeli bottles that pair easily with the food. During holidays like Hanukkah and Passover, Saba rolls out special menus and playful, pop-culture-inspired cocktails that keep things festive.

The room itself is bright and welcoming. It encourages conversation and fun while you enjoy your meal. Saba’s lounge offers a more laid-back experience, a great spot for happy hour. An outdoor patio welcomes breezes with a view of bustling Magazine Street.

Saba offers a contemporary take on classic Middle Eastern cuisine, infused with family history and heritage. Just don’t fill up on the pita, even if you want to order another round.