Ayat is a Palestinian restaurant located in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. When you first step into the restaurant, you immediately feel the warmth and coziness of the atmosphere. The olive tree dominating the middle of the space and the massive Gaza mural taking up an entire wall both honor the decades-long Palestinian resistance to annexation. Abdul Elenani founded the restaurant in 2020 to share his family’s cuisine. His wife, Ayat Masoud, is a Palestinian lawyer who has a strong passion for cooking traditional Palestinian dishes. Not only is the restaurant named after her, but many of its dishes are inspired by her delicious preparations. Each bistro is rooted in Za’atar spices and olive oil– truly bringing Abdul’s kitchen to Bay Ridge. The couple offers a warm perspective to Palestinian culture–what better way to do that through food? Ayat sets out to create a special dining experience that reflects Palestinian hospitality, as customers partake in their vibrant, flavorful meals. If you are looking for authentic Palestinian cuisine, look no further and reserve a table at Ayat.

8504 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
By Ayesha Ilyas, Hannah Mejia, Saajed Yaseen
Looking for an authentic Palestinian food spot? Ayat is the place for you. Savor rich Middle Eastern flavors at this Michelin Guide-featured Palestinian restaurant.
Campus: City College
Professor: Susanna Yurick
Location: 8504 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
References: “About Ayat.” Ayat. Accessed May 21, 2025. https://www.ayatnyc.com/about/.

“About Olives and Olive Oil in Palestine.” Zatoun. Accessed May 21, 2025. https://zatoun.com/more-about-olives-and-olive-oil-in-palestine/.

Haddad, Mohammed, and Zena Al Tahhan. “Infographic: Palestine’s Olive Industry.” Al Jazeera, October 14, 2021. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/10/14/infographic-palestines-olive-industry.


References

“About Ayat.” Ayat. Accessed May 21, 2025. https://www.ayatnyc.com/about/.

“About Olives and Olive Oil in Palestine.” Zatoun. Accessed May 21, 2025. https://zatoun.com/more-about-olives-and-olive-oil-in-palestine/.

Haddad, Mohammed, and Zena Al Tahhan. “Infographic: Palestine’s Olive Industry.” Al Jazeera, October 14, 2021. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/10/14/infographic-palestines-olive-industry.

Tags: