Dagon on the Upper West Side is the Mediterranean escape you didn’t know you needed, bringing vibrant coastal flavors to a neighborhood better known for its reliable comfort food. Anchored at 2454 Broadway, this airy, light-filled space with its azure accents and hanging plants instantly transports you from the hustle of Broadway to somewhere along the Mediterranean shoreline.

Chef Ari Bokovza’s menu is a love letter to Israeli cuisine with influences from across North Africa and the Middle East. The salatim spread is where to begin – a rainbow of dips and small plates that might include velvety hummus topped with spiced lamb, smoky eggplant, and tangy labneh that will have you reaching for more of their impossibly fluffy, fresh-baked pita. The charcoal-grilled kebabs deserve special mention, particularly the harissa-marinated chicken that somehow remains juicy while developing a perfect exterior char.

What makes Dagon stand out is how it elevates what could be familiar dishes through impeccable technique and surprising flavor combinations. The cocktail program follows suit with inventive drinks featuring Mediterranean herbs, spices, and fruits that complement rather than overwhelm the food.

The energy here hits the sweet spot – buzzy and convivial without being deafening. Whether for date night, family dinner, or a friend catch-up, Dagon delivers that perfect combination of transporting flavors and neighborhood warmth that keeps locals coming back weekly.