Gazala’s, the Druze restaurant that closed its doors on 78th street and Columbus in 2015, is planning to reopen at 447 Amsterdam Avenue between 81st and 82nd streets, which appears to be the former home of The Meatball Shop.
Druze is a religion and culture based in the Middle East. “Their tradition dates back to the 11th century and incorporates elements of Islam, Hinduism and even classical Greek philosophy,” according to the Pew Research Center. Druze specialties include sagg pitas, which are large and crepe-like, and all sorts of meats, kebabs and bean stew. There are familiar spread like hummus and yogurts.
Chef Gazala Halabi, who is from Israel, opened a small restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen about a decade ago and she now lives on the Upper West Side. She told Food and Wine magazine in mid-March that she planned to open the new Gazala’s in about two months.
A liquor license hearing for the new space is scheduled for Wednesdsay, April 11 at 7 p.m. at 250 West 87th Street.
Thanks to Terry for the photo and tip.
Great! The food was delicious 😋
Love this place. So happy it’s returning to the UWS.
I loved Gazala. The restaurant was lovely and their food wonderful. I especially loved the whole fish encrusted with delicious and crunchy seasonings. I am looking forward to the new restaurant opening.
Carla
Good news, glad they’re reopening soon. Loved their food.
Two thumbs up for Gazala’s return!
Very good news! Loved that restaurant and was so sorry to see it go. WELCOME BACK.
Great news, I loved this place too
Wikipedia: “As a religious minority in every country they live in, they have frequently experienced persecution, except in Lebanon and Israel where Druze judges, parliamentarians, diplomats, and doctors occupy the highest echelons of society.”
I love Gazala’s. The one in Hell’s Kitchen has great food but it’s small and cramped and there’s usually a long wait on weekends.
I’m glad it’s reopening on the UWS.
Incidentally, Gazala’s is Israeli Druze food. There’s a big Israeli influence on the menu.
Great news.
This promises to be an interesting new spot. If they’re denied their liquor license maybe we’ll get to BYOB!
Planning to lobby the liquor license hearing for the new space?
This is really great news! Can’t wait for it to open!
Welcome back, we missed you and look forward to dining with you soon.
I love this restaurant in HK! I hope it re-opens closer to me soon.
They’re located in Hong Kong too?
Wow! I can’t wait till you open! This is great news!
I am in New York often and make it a point to go Gazala’s Restaurant every time I visit. I absolutely love the food and great service. Can’t wait to go to the new one!
Great news!
Now if only Westside Market and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas would come back.
Come to the WSM uptown, you’re welcome!
I am so happy!!!!