Paterson, New Jersey, known for its vibrant Arab American community and especially its Palestinian enclave dubbed “Little Ramallah,” is a culinary hotspot for Middle Eastern food connoisseurs. While Brooklyn boasts its share of excellent Palestinian restaurants, those in the know understand that Paterson is the real deal. At the heart of this bustling food scene is Al-Basha, and for those on the go or preferring to savor these flavors at home, Al-basha Quick Serve is the perfect destination.
Established as the takeout arm of the renowned Al-Basha restaurant, Al-Basha Quick Serve caters to the constant demand for authentic Palestinian cuisine. Yaser Baker, the founder of Al-Basha, first introduced Paterson to specifically Palestinian flavors 25 years ago. His culinary journey, starting in Ramallah and Jericho kitchens before a stint cooking American and Italian food, culminated in creating a Paterson institution. What began as a single restaurant has expanded into a trio of establishments: the dine-in Al-Basha, Al-Basha Quick Serve, and Al-Basha Sweets. Al-Basha Quick Serve occupies the original dine-in location on what was once Main Street, now ceremoniously renamed Palestine Way. This transformation underscores the significance of Al-Basha and Palestinian culture in Paterson.
Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Palestinian food or a newcomer eager to explore, Al-Basha Quick Serve offers a straightforward menu of classic dishes, perfectly suited for takeout. Palestinian cuisine, while diverse, shares common ground with Levantine, Egyptian, and Maghrebi gastronomy. At Al-Basha Quick Serve, you’ll find the beloved staples: creamy hummus, flavorful muhammara, refreshing bakdunsiah, and satisfying kibbeh.
Speaking of hummus, the hummus from Al-Basha Quick Serve is not just good; it’s exceptional. It’s the kind of hummus that makes you question every other hummus you’ve ever tasted. Its texture is unbelievably smooth, almost airy, yet rich and buttery in flavor. Paired with Al-Basha’s pita bread – soft, pillowy, and freshly baked – it’s a simple yet unforgettable culinary experience. This incredible hummus alone is worth the trip to Al-Basha Quick Serve. Even chef Michael Solomonov, celebrated for his Middle Eastern restaurants, only comes close to this level of hummus perfection. Many first encounters with Al-Basha hummus, often enjoyed from a takeout container, result in a moment of delicious revelation: “Hummus can be this good?”
But don’t stop at just the hummus at Al-Basha Quick Serve. Explore the muhammara, a vibrant red pepper and walnut dip, with a delightful sweet and sour tang from pomegranate molasses and a warm cumin spice. For something lighter, try the bakdunsiah, a bright green parsley and tahini puree, enlivened with lemon. Drizzle this herbaceous sauce over kibbeh, those football-shaped fried bulgur wheat shells filled with spiced meat and almonds, for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
While the dine-in Al-Basha offers a full restaurant experience, Al-Basha Quick Serve excels in providing the same high-quality Palestinian cuisine for those preferring takeout. Imagine bringing home a selection of mezze, perhaps some arayes (pita bread filled with spiced beef and grilled), and crisp falafel. Add a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad or a parsley-packed tabouleh to complete your takeout feast.
The efficiency and focus of Al-Basha Quick Serve ensure that the quality of the food remains top-notch, even when enjoyed outside the restaurant. While you might miss the convivial atmosphere of the dine-in space, you gain the convenience of enjoying Al-Basha’s incredible flavors wherever you choose. And for dessert? A short walk to Al-Basha Sweets is highly recommended to pick up some basbousa, ma’amoul, or the must-try knafeh. This Nablus specialty, with its layers of sweet cheese and shredded phyllo dough soaked in syrup and sprinkled with pistachios, is the perfect sweet ending to your Al-Basha Quick Serve meal.
Al-Basha Quick Serve may be focused on takeout, but it doesn’t compromise on the essence of Al-Basha’s culinary excellence. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic Palestinian food and the Baker family’s commitment to quality. So, whether you’re a Paterson local or visiting from further afield, make Al-Basha Quick Serve your go-to for a taste of Palestine to enjoy at your own pace, in your own space. And yes, be sure to order extra hummus – you’ll thank yourself later.
