With its bright blue exterior and colorful tiles and wallpaper, Shuka has THE brunch aesthetic! Not only is the atmosphere on point, but everything on the menu is SO good. Chef Ayehsa draws inspiration from Italy, Morocco, and Tunisia to create light, yet flavorful dishes that will take your tastebuds on a journey - and who doesn’t love a good trip?

If you don’t know where to start, start with a drink! The Spiked Turkish Coffee is everything you need and want in a brunch cocktail: booze AND caffeine. Turkish coffee is not filtered, therefore making it extra strong, pungent, and delicious - now that’s a good way to start the day! If you’re looking for something a little less intense, try their Haifa cocktail. This cocktail has notes of black pepper, lemon, pine, and tartness from the hibiscus for a truly refreshing sip!

Now, let’s focus on what to eat. If some of the menu options feel a little out of your comfort zone, my recommendation is to be adventurous (thank me later)! My top picks for the brunch plates are: the Mediterranean Plate, the Shakshuka, and the Malawach. Interestingly enough, all of these plates are vegetarian and trust me, you won’t miss the meat at all!

If you want to sample the best of the best, the Mediterranean Plate is the way to go! It’s loaded with their house made beet hummus - which is not only beautiful in color but earthy and rich in flavor - fresh, crunchy veg, crispy falafel, a super creamy and spicy tahini, turmeric-dyed hard boiled eggs, za’atar, turmeric pickles, and warm pita. Now THIS is what brunch dreams are made of! Shakshuka is the namesake of the restaurant and for good reason. This warm and comforting dish has a base of eggs that have been poached in a spicy tomato sauce, studded with sweet and juicy romano beans for the perfect balance of flavors, while warm pita bread is served as a side to sop up all of that goodness!

Last but not least, let’s talk about the Malawach! Malawach is a flaky, yet chewy flatbread that has hints of salty sweetness. It’s the ultimate partner in crime for the poached eggs and beet hummus it’s served with. Zhoug and tumaca are beautiful accompaniments to the dish adding notes of heat and acidity. And if you’re looking for a little something sweet, order their Baklava Cinnamon Rolls...need I say more?  

Shuka is the best place for a girl's brunch, an intimate hang with that special someone (we love those day dates!), or a solo treat yourself meal. Head on down to SoHo for Mediterranean vibes and good times!