"Hmm, that looks like Anda Paratha (flaky Indian bread, resembling a thick puff pastry pancake, with scrambled egg), but the name sounds foreign, possibly Middle Eastern", I mused early on a Saturday morning after reading reviews for Batata featured under New Businesses following mostly 5 star reviews. Suddenly craving home-style breakfast, I hopped on the F Train to make my way to Windsor Terrace and entered a cute, but sadly and unfortunately (for the neighborhood), completely empty, space at 10:15 am. As I placed my order for Scrambled Egg Malawach, with Sweet Potato Fries, I inquired as to what cuisine this was. The girl smiled and said: Israeli. I stared back blankly and blurted: "then why have I never seen this despite living in the city for 12 years, and having visited more than my share of Jewish delis and Israeli restaurants?" However, as I said that I wondered: maybe due to Selective Attention? The girl patiently elaborated that Malawach was a staple of Yemeni Jews and was becoming popular in Israel after recent migration of Jews from Yemen (sadly suffering the consequences of a deadly strain of Severus Intoleranus that has been sweeping the Middle East in recent years). As I sat down and waited for my order, I looked up Malawach on the web and realized that the Yemeni dish owed its origins to trade with India centuries back. Smugly satisfied with the familiarity to my own cuisine, I bit into the scrambled egg and cheese Malawach, so familiar to the taste buds that I even wondered whether the cheese used was Paneer (Indian Cottage cheese)! And, similar to the tribulations of chefs striving to get the balance right on the flaky bread, it was burnt in parts. That's not a consistent experience at Batata though, as the Malawach today was absolutely perfect... any master of his or her craft in India or Pakistan would proudly take credit for it. I thoroughly enjoyed the Malawach with the Schug made from hot peppers, coriander and garlic - very similar in both concept and color to the, even spicier, Coriander Chutney often paired with the Paratha at homes in the Indian subcontinent. However, for my money's worth, the truly outstanding experience at Batata wasn't the eponymous Sweet Potato Fries (very competently done), but the supremely delicious hot drink: Molasses Cinnamon Milk. It hinted at a familiar drink back home, but only due to the individual tastes and not the creation itself. For my money's worth ($3), it has to be the very best hot drink I've enjoyed this winter - fully living up to the praise "it's delicious" uttered shyly by the girl at the cash register, following my inquiry. There's a tip jar near the cash register that encourages contributions "for world peace". Even though, it's meant in good humor, I'll still raise the delicious Molasses Cinnamon Milk to a toast: Shalom. Salaam. Peace. read more

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Great local spot to grab some Mediterranean grub. They're falafel sandwich and sweet potatoe fries are yummy! Service is awesome, and the vibe is casual and relaxed very fitting for the neighborhood. Dog friendly +++++ read more

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Batata is getting a low rating due to poor customer service. I was there on a Saturday afternoon wanting to order a pita to go. It was busy but there were still some empty tables. I stood at the counter/register for a while and there were two women behind the counter. One working the register and one making pitas. The one working the register was supposed to take my order but she never even acknowledged my standing there. Good/great customer service would have been like, "Hello! I'll be right with you." (that is customer service 101) but I stood there until I had to literally ask to have my order taken (if I weren't so short on time, I would have gone some place else). The woman responded with an attitude (along the lines of..."Yes, I will take your order in a second") and didn't apologize for 1) not acknowledging me/the customer standing there and 2) for my waiting for so long. Food wise -I ordered the herb omelette pita. It was good, nothing amazing but good (I think the pickles make it). Nevertheless, there are so many great places with fantastic customer service AND food, and this isn't one of them. read more

Super quaint, casual and small yet inviting restaurant located along a street of other local businesses, Batata is a true neighborhood gem. The menu is Middle Eastern inspired, with options like falafel and hummus, but with also lesser known options. So far on my few visits, I've been genuinely pleased by the food. It is worth the trip for breakfast or lunch, and they are open for dinner, if you are in the area. They offer some beers and wine too. My go to order has been the Spinach, Egg and Halloumi Cheese sandwich. It's an incredible and incredibly cheap $7 sandwich that offers a lot. The amount of filling is substantial and delicious. If you can, ask for a side order of schug. It is a slightly spicy, herby green sauce, with obvious notes of cilantro. It tastes amazing with their breakfast sandwiches. If you want to try something a little different from standard pita, they offer malawach sandwiches. Malawich, a type of fried bread, has more flavor and the texture is considerably flaky. I personally think the Malawach is better than the pita, but just note it is on the slightly heavier side. Other menu items tried were the sweet potato fries, the herb omelette sandwich, and the nutella malawach. Comparatively, I still think the spinach, egg and halloumi sandwich is much better. The sweet potato fries were pretty great. Nutella malawach is a good option for dessert. All in all, Batata is a small spot with lots to offer when it comes to simple Middle Eastern cuisine. Open throughout the day, but I feel it's the best option for breakfast or lunch. I highly recommend trying one of their sandwiches on your first visit. I will have to venture and try one of their plates the next time. read more

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I have tried this place twice. I love the idea it - the look of it - the fact that the neighborhood needs it so I wanted it to be great. I ordered the falafel plate with 2 salad sides to go. I got home, ate it and was seriously sick most of the night. This was rough and not to mention the food was BLAND, very overdone and a bit of a one note. Everything tasted the same. The other time I went there was for a smoothie. Peanut butter, cinnamon and banana. It was over $7 dollars and they used JIF peanut butter - it was super sugary and gross. This place looks great but the product is not. They have this sign out front that says - "Don't feel awful, have a falafel" It reminds me of how sick I got after trying their falafel. I did feel awful :P read more

We have been here a few times, it's a great little neighborhood spot with fresh and delicious food. I always get the schnitzel plate because it so delicious. My husband has had a few different things and everything is always good. The people that work there are nice and friendly and the service is good. They also have homemade kambucha with us tasty also! read more

Batata - Schnitzel plate. Delicious! - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

2nd time here... friggin deeeeeeeeelicious salmon garlic broccoli batata... wow! Passion fruit mousse was also delicious extra silky and prominent passion fruit ... both perfect in every way... clean and friendly read more

Batata - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I ate here yesterday for lunch. Will I be back....ummm shit yeah!! The sweet potato falafel balls amazing. Food was excellent. Service was good - the girl w accent was great and the boys cooked up my plate were equally good. Place is solid. read more

Batata - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

This block is getting better with Batata! This is such a cute place. The food is really good. Their egg and cheese malawach is divine. I wish I ate it there, so it would be all crispy, but the flavor and texture was still so good. Falafels are flavored well but a little small. The platter has a lot of good little side dishes. Sweet potato fries were good but many of the pieces I got were burnt. The people that work here seem passionate about what they are doing. Will be coming back! read more

Ate there today with family. Despite being INCREDIBLY busy the staff was courteous and the food was delivered hot and in a timely fashion. Speaking of the food: OUTSTANDING. I'm no food critic, but the flavors were well-balanced and fantastic, portions were great...an altogether great place for a meal. read more

Decided to give this a try and was rather disappointed. I paid 14.50 for a chicken shawarma plate...14.50. I posted a picture from the meal. About 4 ounces of chicken, handful of rice and some salad. Still can't believe 14.50 for that. You can get an excellent filling meal for 14.50. Needless to say I will never focbac read more

Batata - How is this worth $15? It's about four ounces of chicken if that. - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

So good, first time here. Shared with my bf the Scramble egg and Cheese Malawach and the Spinach egg and Halloumi egg and cheese pita. Will definitely revisit. read more

Batata - On the left Malawach, on the right spinach egg and halloumi pita - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Love the chicken schnitzel here, and the scrambled egg and cheese malawach. Nice staff. There's inside and outside seating, I'll sometimes eat here alone with a book, or get my food to go. They close at 9 so if I can get off work early I'll stop by and treat myself to supper. Thanks, Batata! read more

It's been over a year since my first review and my love for Batata has just grown deeper. Still love the falafel sandwiches, they now have my beloved Tamerlaine Farm Animal Sanctuary's hot sauce in house, AND they have a new special grain bowl with roasted cauliflower that is blowing my mind! Ask for it without yogurt but with a side of tahini and the green hot sauce they have behind the counter and prepare to loose your mind with the flavor combo. So great! Here's hoping this dish makes it onto the menu for good! The staff is always fantastic and kind -- always a pleasure to stop into this fantastic place. If you're in the neighborhood, don't miss it! read more

This review, coming from a Middle-Eastern food snob: I only ever get the shawarma pita sandwich. It is absolutely outstanding and I am sure that everything else is as well. You'll also spot some of the loveliest ladies around, in here. These guys are great! read more

Batata is definitely a gem for this area of Windsor Terrace. The prices are reasonable, portions well-sized, and the menu is healthy and diverse. My favorites in order have been the falafel (delicious!), the chicken shwarma, and the chicken schnitzel. In the drinks department I am a fan of the molasses milk, which was essentially hot milk, a bit of molasses, and spice. Their smoothies are on the thick side, usually with banana blended in, and are okay while sweet for my taste. But the decor here is IMO its greatest attribute. It is a really nicely re-done space, and would be great for non-fussy date nights or dinners out. read more

Already love this new place in the neighborhood. My chicken shawarma dish was super delicious.. There were so many wonderful fresh flavors that were complimentary, accompanied by pickled cabbage and a delicious spicy side called Schug, all in all a very satisfying meal that didn't feel over heavy. It's served on a wood platter which is also beautiful and different. The decor is simple but they have nice corner tables and window seating if you want to take in the happenings of Ft. Hamilton pkwy. I am very interested to try one of their all day breakfast options next time or a fresh smoothie. Well done and good luck- I will certainly be back! read more

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I was so happy when Batata came to the area but I'm not sure I'm in love as much as I used to be. As others have said you are best off sitting down with a friend or getting delivery because the take out waits are super super long. Like so long you question why you didn't just cook or order delivery. For an order at the counter type of place you should not expect to pop in here if you're in a hurry. My experience today really soured me for Batata. I waited a pretty long time at the counter while the guy there bussed a bunch of tables. The restaurant is becoming more and more popular but extra weekend help especially for Sunday might needed. After waiting forever he didn't even apologize when he took my order and while today the take out order was ready uncharacteristically quick, the portion was crazy skimpy. I ordered he Schwarma plate which usually has a generous amount of Schwarma. Not so today and at $14.50 after have rather gotten the so-so Thai food next door. read more

The best chicken shwarma in Brooklyn hands down. I come here atleast 3 times a week for the shwarma. Tasty and with the right flavors served in a toasted whole wheat pita. What more can you ask for. Don't forget to order a side of sweet potatoe fries yum num. Staff always very professional unique local restaurant read more

Batata - Chicken shwarma in a toasted whole wheat pita - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Man I'm so disappointed.... Probably the most plain, boring falafel I've ever eaten. Zero seasoning, you couldn't even detect a spice if you tried. mushy inside, no acid in the pickles, dry, and for almost 8 bucks. I hope they consider revisiting this recipe.... Stick to the all day breakfast which is actually good. The herb omelette is pretty dope. read more

Chicken shawarma is really good. The Israel salad is fresh. Rice tastes great. Sweet potato fries are yummy. Portions are on the smaller side, but perfect size for one person. There were no leftovers lol Delivery is quick. Packaging is recyclable. Thumbs up. read more

I used to love this place (2-3 years ago), but I haven't ordered in a while. I just did and honestly it was like glorified hospital cafeteria food. I got a salad with tuna/egg and the salad was half wilted and half wet. The dressing was thick and didn't mix in. The tuna was over mayo'ed. The tomatoes were so cold but also mushy. Like they were put in the freezer while they were going bad. The labne was OK. I'm so confused on what happened to this place. I spent 35$ for a salad and a dip and i did not enjoy. read more

A delicious Chicken Shawarma (period). Love the decor. I am excited to go back and try their other menu items. What a relief we can finally get good Israeli style food nearby. Very happy... Edited on 12/31/14 - had the Breakfast egg sandwich, which was delicious. It's scrambled eggs with cheese se bed in a pastry made with phyllo dough, and served with a cilantro sauce and tomato salsa (both on the side). Really liked the sauces, which tasted super fresh. read more

Batata [chubby in Hebrew] is a nice new little eatery on Ft Hamilton Parkway between the south side of both Green-Wood Cemetery and Prospect Park in Windsor Terrace. The authentic food is really good, well seasoned, varied and yup, chubby. It's spotlessly clean, comfy and well designed with a happy and helpful staff. I'll be going back for more ... read more

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The most authentic Mediterranean food I have found in years in New York. The prices are incredible for the amount of food they offer, they fill your plate up with so much delicious food. I was completely amazed how kind and generous this restaurant was comparative to similar one in New York. There's such a friendly atmosphere throughout all experiences while being there. read more

I love the sweet potato falafels here, and I'm not even that big of a falafel fan. Also, the breakfast is so fresh and good, I go here every chance I get! read more

I was very excited to find some fresh tasting, flavorful falafel in this area of Brooklyn. It is a small place but enough seating to eat in. You order at the counter and food is brought out to you. Sandwich prices are under $10 and the classic falafel sandwich I had was tasty and filling. I also noticed they had some nice craft beer cans in the cooler as well as cold sides to go such as olives or labna. read more

Really good and cute! I got a sweet potato falafel and it was huge and really generous prices for New York. I also got a smoothie that was really tasty! Though it was a little pricier, but so worth it. The people are so nice and it's such a unique place! read more

This place is such a treat! The falafel sandwich was delicious and the portion of falafel was generous. The goat cheese and honey malawach blew my mind! The pastry is perfectly flaky and the sweet/salty combination was done so well. I'm in grave danger as I live only two blocks away from this sweet treat. Word of warning - what looks like it might be house hot sauce is ketchup! I almost put it on my falafel which would have been a travesty. The service is friendly and the outdoor seating is really great. Oh! And there is a small bowl of cat food outside that made me love the place and staff even more. read more

In preparation to survey nearby Greenwood Cemetery we stopped at this inviting, hip place. The menu was an interesting mix of traditional Middle Eastern- felafel, hummus, chicken shawarma, etc - and earthy, healthy smoothies. Sweets are offered as well but we did not partake. The sweet potato felafel was one the best this writer has ever had, better than Mamoun's, better than the joints the line Felafel Street in Haifa. The felafel balls themselves were light, smooth, and wonderfully spiced. The salad was a unique mix of red cabbage, beets, etc The smoothies salad included the kale, banana, mango and peanut butter, banana, cinnamon. Both were the perfect consistency and bursting with flavor. read more

This place had amazing chicken and waffles! I highly recommend it. The waffles were crispy and soggy like some places. The avocado toast was delicious. There was a good amount of seasoning on it. The only problem was that the utensils were missing from my table. The waitress didn't bring more to our table. My friends had extra knives at their tables so that's what I had to use. No fork no problem, just use your hands! read more

6/23/2015 - 7:50PM. First time here. Nice and quiet relaxing atmosphere. Friendly staff. The food was made faster than expected. The salads (Hummus, Carrots, etc) were delicious! 5/5. The shawarma was okay. Not amazing, but not bad. 2.7 out of 5. But I will give them another chance ;-) Shawarma plate to go = $14+tax read more

Batata - Shawarma plate to go - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Batata has THE BEST hummus. You will never be able to eat grocery store hummus again. Ever. The falafel is great, and the shakes are imaginative. So good. The place is definitely cozy, but they manage to fit in a lot of seating. We usually call and order ahead, and then get our food to go. read more

What an amazing spot for breakfast, lunch, snack or just a smoothie! U have to try the kale-banana-mango smoothie, it's delicious! And their breakfasts as well! read more

Batata - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

Been going to this place since I move here...about 10 years now. At first the whole just cash thing was a pain but after a while it was well worth the money. The food is always fresh and I do love the bagels. They just started accepting credit cards and for some it's the best thing in the world but I've gotten so use to cash that it would not have matter if it was still just cash. Best place to go out here in Glendale for some of the best bagels plus extra. Thank you guys... MOS are always welcome. Check out the menu. read more

I would of left a better review if the woman making the food had her hair covered. Under NYC Food preparations regulations food workers must wear hair nets to keep hair from contaminating food. The food was okay, could of been a little more tasty. The French fries were amazing. read more

Batata - The lady in the grey top is the chef. Hair was not covered while preparing the food. - Middle Eastern Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

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This place is just great. Delicious not-unhealthy food at a reasonable price with friendly staff and a well designed and cozy interior. It's all done just right. They actually messed up my order the first time I came in but I won't hold it against them as they clearly had only been open for a few days and were right in the middle of training their cashiers and cooks. They may also want to fix their menu to reflect their plates options (ex: sweet potato/traditional falafel and chicken schnitzel/schwarma) are separate dishes because the layout makes it look like they are two and not four. This was actually a minor issue when ordering takeout. But who cares? This place is way cool and delicious and you should eat here. Hooray! read more

Located just a half block from Sean Casey Animal Rescue so we stopped in after walking a few dogs... It's a nice way to spend the day... The place is tiny but kept clean, hummus was good enough to bring home... A small menu be careful what you order can be a little pricey, neighborhood has definitely changed to accommodate hipsters! read more

Had take out, and it was delicious. Service was great, and the atmosphere was really nice.

Batata is a cute little cafe coffee shop on Ft Hamilton Parkway in Windsor Terrace. They serve classic Israeli dishes, coffee and smoothies. It's a nice spot to grab a quick bite. The Israeli breakfast aka Batata Breakfast was done nicely. It's 2 fried eggs topped with zaatar, Israeli salad (cucumber, tomato, onions) hummus, olives and haloumi cheese served with a pita. Try the halva smoothie! read more

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