In a city defined by its street food, the term “Halal” is everywhere—but not all Halal Mediterranean Food NYC is created equal. At Zazu, we believe that transparency is the most important ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. From our 24-hour marination process to our strict “whole-muscle only” protein standards, we’ve reimagined what it means to eat clean in Chelsea. This is where traditional dietary laws meet modern nutritional science, providing high-performance fuel for the Manhattan South community.
The Zazu Standard: 100% Halal & Clean Mediterranean Dining in NYC
What is the Zazu Standard? It is our commitment to serving 100% Halal-certified, whole-muscle proteins—never processed “mystery meats” or fillers. By pairing these high-quality meats with 100% plant-based sides and heart-healthy olive oils, we offer a clean-label Mediterranean experience that is free from MSG, heavy seed oils, and artificial preservatives.
Halal Carts
Feature
The Zazu Standard
Standard Halal Carts
Protein Quality
100% Whole-Muscle (Hand-Stacked)
Minced or Processed Meat Blends
Marination
24-Hour Signature Spice Rub
Liquid Brines or Artificial Syrups
Oils & Cooking
Extra Virgin Olive Oil & High-Flash
Low-Grade Soy or Seed Oils
Additives
0% MSG or Artificial Fillers
Common use of MSG & Stabilizers
Cross-Contact
Strict Vegan/Meat Separation
High Risk on Shared Flat-Tops
The Science of 24-Hour Marination
True Mediterranean flavor cannot be rushed. Our chicken and beef shawarma are marinated for a full 24 hours in a proprietary blend of cumin, sumac, and allspice. This doesn’t just tenderize the meat—it ensures the spices penetrate to the core, eliminating the need for heavy, sodium-packed sauces. Whether you choose our authentic shawarma or our stuffed falafel, you are tasting real ingredients, not chemicals.
Safe for Every Lifestyle: Vegan, Gluten-Friendly, & Halal
We recognize that the modern New Yorker has diverse dietary needs.
For the Halal Community: Every protein we source is 100% Halal-certified.
For the Vegan Community: Our falafel and hummus are prepared with dedicated tools to prevent cross-contact.
For the Health-Conscious: We prioritize fiber-rich Mediterranean salads over heavy starches.
If you’re curious about the variety of signature bowls on offer (and what goes into each), here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
Chicken Shawarma Bowl Think fluffy basmati rice layered with juicy marinated chicken, turmeric cauliflower, homey hummus, crisp mixed greens, onions, and tangy pickles. A drizzle of lemon-garlic sauce ties it all together.
Falafel Bowl Perfect for vegetarians or those wanting something plant-powered: classic and stuffed falafel atop basmati rice, creamy hummus, ripe tomatoes, mixed greens, onions, and pickles. Served with a generous swish of tahini sauce.
Veggie Bowl A hearty vegetarian option: roasted eggplant, turmeric cauliflower, hummus, chickpeas, tomatoes, and fresh mixed greens over basmati rice. Finished with tahini sauce for extra richness.
Beef Shawarma Bowl Savory strips of beef shawarma join turmeric cauliflower, hummus, mixed greens, onions, and pickles atop basmati rice. Tahini sauce provides a nutty, smooth finish.
Chicken Souvlaki Bowl Grilled chicken breast, hummus, mixed greens, tomatoes, and onions, all sitting on a bed of basmati rice. Accompanied by classic tzatziki sauce for a cool, creamy bite.
No matter your craving—meaty, veggie, or somewhere in between—there’s a bowl designed to satisfy.
Conveniently located at 232 7th Ave (just off 24th Street), Zazu is a neighborhood staple for those in Chelsea, the Flatiron District, and Manhattan South. Whether you are exploring the High Line or commuting through Midtown, authentic Mediterranean fuel is just a short walk away.
Address: 232 7th Ave (at 24th St), New York, NY 10011
Does Zazu use MSG? No. We rely on traditional spices and fresh lemon juice for flavor.
Is your meat hand-slaughtered Halal? We source from certified Halal suppliers who adhere to strict ethical and traditional standards.
Do you have Gluten-Free Dips & Bread Options? We understand the importance of gluten-friendly choices—especially when it comes to sharing. Our Dips: All of our dips—including classic hummus, spicy hummus, and tzatziki—are naturally gluten-free, prepared in a dedicated area to avoid wheat contamination. Bread Choices: While our signature pita is wheat-based, gluten-free diners are welcome to skip the bread or substitute it with fresh veggies upon request. Bring your own gluten-free crackers if you’d like, or enjoy our dips straight with a spoon (we promise, no judgment here). Have a particular allergy or dietary need? Just let our staff know—our team is happy to walk you through all gluten-free options and alternatives for a worry-free, delicious experience.
Are there nut-free options? Yes, the majority of our menu is nut-free, though we advise those with severe allergies to inform our staff.
Can you create your own bowl? Yes, at Zazu you’re the chef. Our “Build Your Own” options let you customize a Mediterranean bowl, salad, or sandwich to suit your cravings—every time. Explore how to build th perfect bowl.
Can I mix and match menu items for catering? Absolutely! We offer a flexible “Build Your Own” setup that allows guests to personalize their meals. How does it work? You’ll receive an assortment of fresh bases—like grains or greens—paired with your choice of protein, a variety of toppings (up to five per person), and finishing sauces. What about salads and sandwiches? Salad lovers can dig into a create-your-own salad bar with mixed greens, proteins, toppings, and sauces. Prefer sandwiches? Choose between pita or wraps, fill with your favorites, and top it off your way. Is this suitable for groups? Yes—the build-your-own stations are designed for easy serving and maximum customization, making them perfect for groups with different tastes or dietary needs. Explore the Ultimate Office Catering Guide.
WhatSignature Salads are Available?Chicken Shawarma Salad For those craving protein, this salad features seasoned chicken atop a hearty bed of mixed greens, complemented by turmeric-roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, tangy onions, and crisp pickles. A zesty lemon garlic sauce ties it all together. Garden Salad for Vegetarians has plenty to cheer about, with a vibrant mix of greens, olives, feta cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, all brought to life by our signature lemon-garlic sauce. Both salads are crafted with fresh ingredients and designed to satisfy—whether you’re looking for a lighter option or something more filling.
Signature Sandwiches: What’s Inside? If you’re curious about our standout sandwiches, here’s what you’ll find tucked into each warm, pillowy wrap:
Beef Shawarma Pita: Savory beef shawarma layered with onions, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a drizzle of creamy tahini.
Falafel Pita: Herb-packed falafel meets smooth hummus, fresh tomatoes, crunchy pickles, crisp lettuce, and an extra swirl of tahini.
Chicken Shawarma Pita: Tender chicken shawarma, tangy pickles, crisp lettuce, and a generous slather of our house garlic sauce.
Chicken Souvlaki Wrap: Char-grilled souvlaki chicken breast paired with onions, juicy tomatoes, lettuce, and cool, tangy tzatziki.
Veggie Wrap: A colorful medley of roasted eggplant and turmeric cauliflower with hummus, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, and tahini sesame sauce.
All options are priced at $10.95, so you can mix and match your favorites without any mental math.
What Our Customers Are Saying Our reputation in Chelsea speaks for itself—not just in flavor, but in reliability and satisfaction. Here’s what large-group clients consistently tell us:
Exceptional Quality: Event planners and office managers alike rave about the vibrant, freshly prepared dishes. Whether serving 20 or 90, the flavors never falter, and guests always ask for seconds.
Always On Time: We understand the pace of New York, and we keep our promise of punctual delivery. Planners note our ability to deliver big orders right when expected—no cold food, no anxiety, just smooth service.
Thoughtful Portions: Our generous spreads fuel teams and gatherings, but we also listen—feedback helps us portion perfectly to match your guest count, so no one leaves hungry (and there’s often a little extra to enjoy later).
From high-profile meetings to family celebrations, Zazu is the trusted choice for Mediterranean catering in Manhattan. Satisfaction isn’t a slogan—it’s a standard you can taste.
Manhattan Catering Delivery Areas – Wondering if we deliver to your neighborhood? We’ve got Manhattan covered. Our catering service is available throughout: East Village, West Village & Greenwich Village, SoHo and Tribeca, Lower East Side, Financial District (FiDi), Midtown East, Midtown West. A 10% delivery fee applies to all orders, with a $225 minimum per delivery. If you’re not sure whether your office or event location is included, reach out to us—we’re happy to help clarify!
Individual Proteins, Sides, Dips & Sauces – Curious about what you can order à la carte? Here’s a rundown of popular options for customizing your meal or bulking up your plate.
Proteins Cauliflower (grilled or roasted) Eggplant (grilled or roasted) Chicken Shawarma Beef Shawarma Chicken Souvlaki All available as add-ons—mix and match as you please. Classic Sides Stuffed falafel (onions, sumac, sesame, with tahini—2 per order) Classic falafel (herby chickpea goodness, 4 per order) Pita chips (fried, crunchy, and perfect for dipping) Zazu spiced basmati rice Plain basmati rice Pita bread Vine leaves (rice, herbs, spices—all wrapped up) Loaded fries (your choice of protein, plus tomatoes, onions, pickles—expect big flavors) French fries Dips (served with pita) Classic hummus (creamy chickpea & tahini) Spicy hummus (with a kick of chili, paprika, sriracha) Homemade tzatziki (Greek yogurt & cucumber) Pita bread is included, though not gluten-free. Sauces Tahini Fiery red sauce Garlic sauce Lemon garlic sauce Mild sesame sauce Each one is available solo, so you can drizzle, dip, or double up to your heart’s content.
Ordering from Outside Our Delivery Area – If you’re outside our standard delivery zone but craving ZaZu’s Mediterranean flavors, don’t worry—we’d still love to serve you. Simply reach out to our team directly by phone or email, and we’ll be happy to discuss how we can accommodate your event. We often find creative solutions for catering requests just beyond our map, so let us know your location and event details, and we’ll get right back to you.
Group Catering Packages. Choosing the right package for your gathering is simple—each option is designed to make planning stress-free and delicious.
Small Pita Package: Perfect for smaller gatherings or as an add-on, this option includes 20 pita breads and is great for serving a group of around 10 people.
Group Package 1: Ideal for intimate get-togethers of about 10 guests. It features your choice of one dip, one salad, two entrées, one base, two sauces, plus ten freshly baked pita breads.
Group Package 2: Planning for a mid-sized crowd? This package serves approximately 20 guests. Enjoy a selection of two dips, two salads, four entrées, two bases, four sauces, and twenty pita breads.
Group Package 3: Hosting a larger event? This feast serves up to 30 people and offers three dips, three salads, six entrées, three bases, six sauces, and thirty generously portioned pita breads.
If you have special requests or want help selecting the right spread, just let the team know—they’re happy to tailor the menu to your needs.
Pita & Wrap Platters: What’s on the Table? Our pita and wrap platters feature an array of house favorites, all thoughtfully arranged for easy sharing and quick bites. You’ll find an assortment such as:
Classic falafel pitas, packed with crisp veggies and creamy tahini
Grilled chicken shawarma wraps, loaded with fresh herbs and pickled turnips
Spiced beef kofta in soft pita, paired with cool cucumber-yogurt sauce
Veggie wraps, bright with roasted red peppers, hummus, and greens
Each platter is designed for convenient, family-style enjoyment—just grab, go, and savor. Pricing starts at $10.95 per person.
