Tanoreen has been holding it down in Bay Ridge long before Middle Eastern cuisine became trendy in other parts of Brooklyn. This family-run gem on Third Avenue has earned its reputation as one of the city’s most authentic Palestinian-Middle Eastern restaurants through decades of consistency and genuine hospitality.

The space is unpretentious and welcoming, with colorful walls adorned with art and photographs that transport you straight to the Levant. It’s the kind of place where you’ll spot multi-generational families celebrating special occasions alongside first-timers who’ve made the pilgrimage based on word-of-mouth recommendations.

Chef Rawia Bishara’s cooking is the definition of soulful – her stuffed grape leaves are rolled by hand with perfect tension, the hummus is velvety smooth with just the right amount of lemon and tahini, and the lamb is cooked to fall-apart tenderness. Don’t miss the knafeh for dessert – their version of this sweet cheese pastry soaked in orange blossom syrup will have you plotting your return visit before you’ve even paid the bill.

What makes Tanoreen special is how it feels both timeless and relevant – the flavors are deeply rooted in tradition, but the execution feels fresh and vibrant. The portions are generous without being overwhelming, and the staff treats you like family whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. This is comfort food in the truest sense – dishes made with care that feed both body and soul.