This review is for Chocolate Island located inside the restaurant. We came here strictly for the dessert and we were not disappointed. We decided to sit down and enjoy our coffee and dessert, the seating is in the restaurant, located in Charcoal Gardenia. The restaurant seems new because it is very clean with tasteful design choices. A very cozy Middle Eastern vibe. The cappuccino was very well made and the Dubai chocolate brownie was excellent! The restaurant seems family friendly as there were other patrons with kids that all seemed to be enjoying and having a great time. The service was great and there seemed to be enough people to be handling all the guests. read more

Charcoal Gardenia - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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Charcoal Gardenia was a good spot. The food was fresh, flavorful, and filling. I had the grilled chicken with rice, onions, pickled vegetables, and yogurt sauce. The chicken was seasoned well and had a nice grilled taste without being dry. The mint lemonade was amazing. Really refreshing and probably my favorite part of the meal. The service was good too. Everyone was nice and the food came out in a reasonable time. The ambiance was calm, clean, and comfortable, which made it a nice place to sit and eat. Overall, solid food, good portions, good service, and a nice variety. I would come back. read more

Charcoal Gardenia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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Very casual spot. I've had better mediterranean food in Staten Island, but this place is conveniently located so I could see myself ordering take out from here. The zataar fries, pita, and some of the meat were good and made the night worthwhile. I also really liked the garlic yogurt with the rice and meat. I found a piece of hair in one of the dips towards the end of the night, and the water was strangely unclear. Service was also pretty slow, it took quite some time for someone to come in the beginning with water and to take our order on a night where it wasn't too busy. The bill included an 18% service fee which wasn't mentioned on the menu when I went nor by the staff whenever we were served. It was the first time I saw the charge included on the bill for 2 people with no advanced notice. Thought that was strange, but maybe something I'm not aware of read more

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Hummus, muhmara, pita, shrimp, rib eye & salmon were all perfect. The chicken shawarma was also really great and the accompanying salads were both light & flavorful! The tres leches (strawberry & the biscoff) were wonderfully soaked. Lastly & most importantly, it was my dad's birthday & they were so festive and kind in celebration of it! Thank you Ibrahim! We will definitely be back-keep doing what you are doing! read more

What an amazing find! I've been wanting to try this restaurant for 4 months now. Charcoal Gardenia serves some of the best Middle Eastern food I've ever had. Every dish was bursting with flavor, beautifully presented, and the portions were huge -- definitely come hungry! The service was outstanding -- warm, attentive, and welcoming from start to finish. You can tell the staff really care about their guests and the quality of what they serve. And the desserts -- wow! The Dubai cheesecake and the lattes (you can get oatmilk, almond, regular milk) were absolutely delicious -- rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced. You'll want to save room for dessert (or just take some home!). Overall, an incredible dining experience with great food, great service, and great vibes. Highly recommend Charcoal Gardenia if you love authentic Middle Eastern flavors and generous portions and plenty of room to spread out. read more

Charcoal Gardenia - Drinks - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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I ordered takeout, and I was impressed - definitely will be coming back to try dining in. The ingredients are fresh, and the quality is top-notch. The hospitality was excellent from start to finish. Usually, takeout can be a mess, but here it was packed so beautifully that once opened it looked like how the food presentation would typically look while dining in. The portions were generous, and the service was impeccable. The space itself is lovely, clean, and inviting. I had the Maqluba, a traditional dish with stewed chicken and vegetables, cooked and flipped perfectly - good! The Mixed Mezze Platter featured 5 spreads of hummus and 4 stuffed grape leaves. The hummus was absolutely delicious, though the grape leaves are an acquired taste. The pita bread was fresh and fluffy. The Pistachio Cheesecake is a must-try for pistachio and cheesecake lovers, I loved it! I also had the Palestinian Crepe, which was unique and yummy. It reminded me of the viral Dubai chocolate-strawberry crepe, but with its own twist. If you've been curious about the viral Dubai crepe, definitely try the one sold here. It's fantastic! Overall, Charcoal Gardenia exceeded my expectations. If you're looking for quality, great service, and fantastic food, this place has it all. Will be back soon to try more menu items and drinks! read more

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and my bro can here on a random Friday. We eas not looking for food just hookah but wanted to try a spot we never had on Staten Island. MAN when telling I am happy we made tjst decision to come here! This is probably my new favorite hookah spot on Staten Island . The atmosphere is beautiful lovely painted on the wall with flowers on the ceiling that drips down to the walls. They have two sides that separates the food from the Hookah. However, you can definitely have some food where they serve Hookah. honestly, I wasn't looking for food. I just came to smoke hookah but when I tell you, I am definitely coming back to eat some of their food because the platters looked amazing from what I seen. They also had this little dessert spot on the side of the walking that looks like they make delicious desserts. I can't wait to try it. However, I cannot speak on the food nor desserts because Im just judging them all buy the looks and I know you can't judge a book by its cover. But if their food is as good as their Hookah I'm keeping the five star rating. The owner I believe his name is Nick came up to us and showed us so much love as if we went to elementary school together. Nick and our waiter were constantly checking up on us just to make sure we're good . This is definitely a spot that I am gonna go to multiple times, he also told me that on Thursdays it's ladies night where ladies get one free Hookah on a walk-in .This doesn't benefit me, but I thought you guys would like to know that. read more

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Me and my sister did the lunch special for 20 dollars and it was a great deal, I got original hummus the beetroot salad, and the chicken sharma platters with rice (was awesome), so delicious. She got the baba ghanoush, the lentil soup was outstanding, and she got the chicken shish platter with fries (yum) . And the owner gave us the mints tea , so good! The owners are very pleasant ! read more

Had lunch there. A nice clean venue although traces of shesha smell The service is so friendly and extremely polite. The food in general is OK but the shawarmas and the BBQ is the best you can have in NY. Though out of my way but definitely a repeat. read more

Had a few things from here: my son ordered the rib eye steak medium (but it was cooked well done), halloumi fries, za'atar fries (a favorite of ours, really well seasoned), I had the chicken shawarma wrap, which was perfectly seasoned and crispy, my husband had the chicken shawarma platter. For dessert we ordered the Oreo cheesecake and knafa. Service was good, food was good, albeit a little pricey. Additionally, there's a service charge apparently for parties of 2 or more, which we should have double checked because we left an additional tip after that. read more

Charcoal Gardenia - Pretty large menu. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Staten Island, New York

This restaurant had really nice décor and a great ambiance if you're coming with a group of friends. However, it's not the most family-friendly spot since it also doubles as a hookah lounge. The music was incredibly loud, making it hard to hear the person next to you. Our waiter was nice but a bit cold--he didn't talk much. The menu offers a big variety of appetizers but not as many main dishes. The appetizers and dips were absolutely delicious, and I highly recommend the mixed appetizer plate--it was the star of the meal. The hummus was smooth and fluffy, the labneh was creamy like cream cheese, and the muhammara was packed with flavor. The roasted eggplant dip had a great smoky taste. They kept serving us fresh homemade bread, which was warm and seriously addicting. The cheese-filled rolls were also really tasty. The kibbeh was good but a bit dry, though I appreciated the big pieces of pine nuts and herbs inside. The fattoush was just okay--it leaned too sour and watery for my taste. Unfortunately, the mains were a bit of a letdown. The maqluba didn't seem fresh--it arrived at room temperature. The mixed grill was also just okay, not piping hot off the grill like it should be. The shawarma meat wasn't authentic at all; instead of being shaved off a spit, it was just pre-cooked chunks of meat. On the bright side, I really liked the variety of sauces they served with the food, especially the spicy one. The mint drink was also really refreshing. One issue was that sometimes the waiter would disappear, and we'd have to wait a while to get something, even though there were only a couple of other groups in the food area. One highlight was that they did a big birthday song and dance for my sister, with several servers coming over to wish her a happy birthday, which was a really nice touch. However, I was disappointed that they didn't have any authentic Palestinian desserts like kunefe--only Western-style, chocolate-based options. Other than a few critiques here and there, the people at the restaurant were lovely and super nice. I'd come back for the appetizers and ambiance but probably not for the main dishes. read more

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Only tried take out and will definitely dine in next time. Food was delicious-we had the kofta kebab, shawarma, hummus, crepes and the Dubai strawberry cup. The Palestinian crepe is such a unique idea! read more

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An incredible new Palestinian restaurant on Staten Island. The food is fresh, authentic, delicious, and don't even get me started on the portions! Staff is welcoming and truly showcased Palestinian hospitality. A must try all around! read more

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Messed up on uber order 3 times Forgot 3 orders of drinks Very slow service and overly priced read more

If I could give you less than a star I would. My fiancé and I went here to eat last night. We spent 140 for nothing. The food was lacking flavor which is an extreme surprise for Middle Eastern food. They called my fiancé the Nigga in Arabic & we tried to play it off. The servers were extremely disrespectful. When the food finally came out, the salmon I got was extremely small, and it came with a salad. Everything was extremely small especially for 27, my fiancé got the Beef Shawarma Platter. The beef was overcooked, overly chewy, and wasn't worth any of my time or money. They are so racist, I wish I had just gone to a Hala truck. Horrible time, don't even waste your money on the hookah either. Shit was just overall so freaking disappointing. read more

Went there for the first time, it was excellent. Hummus very fresh. Service was top notch as well. Would definitely go back.

Everything we ate here was amazing! The service was great, our waiter Ibrahim was very attentive and kind. Definitely recommend! read more

We had our mothers surprise birthday party at Charcoal Gardenia and it was the best decision ever. Not only was the food amazing and the service perfect but the staff gave so much care into making the moment special for our family and guests. If you want good food or want to host an event, I highly recommend going to Charcoal Gardenia. read more

Stopped by this place randomly on the way home from JFK airport, and am so glad I did. Total gem of an eatery. They treated us like family. Beautiful indoor decor, clean, friendly service, with great music. And that was all before we tried the food. The food was out of this world. The bread alone was so soft and fresh and delicious. We had the sampler of all their dips, and each one had so much flavor and great texture. We also all had different pita sandwiches (one of us got chicken, the other shawarma, the other chicken shawarma, and I got spicy kufta kebab). They were all incredible. Really good portions and had the perfect mix of ingredients in addition to the meats. Incredible french fries, too (on the side). Quick note: You would be doing yourself a disservice by not getting the mint lemonade. So, so refreshing and delicious. I want one right now, again, at home. Can't say enough good things about this experience! We loved it and I think you will, too. read more

Great food, great service. Will be stopping by next time I'm in the area! Had the lamb shanks and shrimp skewers! And really the Best rice I've ever had read more

Exceeded all expectation. OMG! Worth the trek out to Staten Island to enjoy the food, staff and overall atmosphere. I'm a Manhattanite who will definitely return. Come hungry. The portions are huge and the options seem endless- even for a vegetarian! Go!!! read more

Dinner for one to try relatively new Charcoal Gardenia. (Replaced a similar Mediterranean "angels tavern" that did not last long after converting from a 60 year old dry cleaners at the same location.) Food: Potato app Batata Harra were excellent. A take off of Spanish patatas bravas but better. Kofta kebab platter also very good with excellent grilled meat, rice and pickled veggies. Service very good and friendly. Ambiance: nice decor, video fireplaces. Desert: I did not try the Dessert section, but it looked amazing with cheesecakes, crepes, waffle sticks, ice creams, sauces. BUT I'm surprised hookah is allowed within and adjacent to eating space. The door between table space and glass enclosed wing (hookah) was open. Only a few participating my evening. Appears very popular here when I drive by. I will return but will not bring family here unless an afternoon is not hookah popular. Maybe dessert/waffles to go. read more

Charcoal Gardenia - Interior - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Staten Island, New York

10/10 recommend this place! The food is phenomenal and the hookah is fresh and long lasting - the best on the island! Exceptional customer service, the staff is so welcoming and attentive! read more

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Went to Charcoal Gardenia several times since their opening, alone and with friends/family, in November and each person (including myself) has raved about this place. Everything is absolutely delicious and amazing - from the food, dessert, hookah, drinks, environment, staff, and service! I continuously return even if it's just for a pick me up such as a latte because of how delicious and welcoming this establishment is. Food is delicious, flavorful, and large portions for the cost. It's a win win situation overall especially in comparison to other restaurants where you are paying quite alot for small portions. Their crepes, in particular their knafa (Palestinian) crepe is AMAZING! Their house made mint Lemonade, WOW! So refreshing and packed with flavor in each sip. Their makluba, fries, appetizers, mixed grills, and bread are absolutely delicious and 10000% recommended. I can go on and on about how much I would recommend this place but I hope this review speaks for itself that it is a MUST TRY. I lost count how many times I have been there. The staff is so welcoming, respectful, kind, and generous. They even let my toddler create her own marshmallow stick for free. It was so sweet and i loved every bit of seeing her excited. Supporting family owned businesses is also the way to go! 10000% recommend this place! read more

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sooo my lady and i wanted to try a hookah spot that also serves food for a little date night, (not a lot on si). We came across this little gem, and when i tell you this place is underrated, ITS UNDERRATED. we got 1 app, 2 entrees, we couldn't even order desert cause we didn't have room for it lol and 4 of the best mf lemonades ive ever had AND we got a strawberry hookah..... price? $100 including tipping the waiter and bro who set up the hookah. how the f**k can you go wrong place was super nice and had a cozy feeling, the owner (im assuming, big guy lol) was the most respectful owner i ever met. Greeted us like he knew us for 10+ years and shook my hand on the way out. where do you see that nowadays? we will absolutely without a doubt, be back. read more

Great new place on the island. Very friendly owner (one of 5 brothers) who kept checking in to make sure things were all good, was food with fresh ingredients. Welcome and best of luck! read more

Charcoal Gardenia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Staten Island, New York

The food was delicious and the service was excellent. We had the maze platter which was very fresh tasting and beautifully presented. I had the Maqluba which was a very large and tasty portion. We also had a mix grilled platter which again was a very nice portion and it was perfectly cooked. Can't wait to go back and try other dishes. read more

Food was amazing and everything was fresh! Staff is super attentive and polite. Their mint lemonade is something I didn't expect to like but I loved it . The overall experience was a very pleasant surprise. Highly recommend! read more

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The food is good service great keep it up with the good food and good work catering for you're family

I had hoped that this would be a neighborhood eatery serving Middle Eastern food that I could enjoy regularly but unfortunately that's not the case. In my opinion the negatives outweigh the positives: First and foremost, this is a restaurant that's doubling as hookah lounge. I value my health too much to be inhaling second-hand hookah tobacco smoke that's entering the main dining room. There's really no barrier or exhaust system to prevent it. Secondly, the decor and ambiance are skewed towards a specific religious and political motif that might appeal to some guests but not everyone. I realize that this place is Palestinian-owned but it's not necessary to promote your beliefs as part of serving food. We did enjoy the food which was well-prepared and presented; however, there are several restaurants on Staten Island to choose from that are more appealing and family-oriented than Gardenia. read more

The only nice thing was the drinks, the mixed grill was ok but the Adana kebab was poorly cooked. Make sure to check your bill, they tax the items on the bill TWICE!! First they put the taxed price then on the bottom they add more tax. We didn't realize this until after we left. They also charged us service fee , which is ridiculous . You only charge service fee to big parties, we asked him if that was considered tip and he said yes. Luckily we are not stupid and we tipped anyway bc we wanted to make sure our nice waiter got money, but that's so sad he lied and said the service fee is tip. No wonder the place was empty , we won't be coming back and I'm sure everyone else who dealt with the same thing didn't come back either. read more

love this place feels like home all the owner and very nice and welcoming cant wait to be back

We ordered falafel, hummus and zaatar fries as appetizers. All of them were outstanding, best in class. For entrees, the chicken shawarma and maqluba for one. Both were delicious and the portions were very generous - we ended up taking some home. The service was excellent, very attentive and welcoming / friendly staff. We would definitely recommend trying this new restaurant on Manor Rd. Better than Zara for Mediterranean style food. read more

Waffles were great. Enjoyed it and will likely come in for the mixed grill or other option another time.

I went there with my friend for some hookah. 10/10 on the hookah. They got a dessert bar pr something looks really cool. We got lemonade drinks and the owner gave us some dessert on him that was really good also. Place seemed really busy owners are cool ! read more

I really wanted to like this place and I go out of my way to support Palestinian businesses, but the food was just not good at all. I ordered a shawarma wrap that tasted overly minty, the fries were bland and soggy, and the hummus tasted like it was sitting in the fridge/freezer. I thought it would be an authentic restaurant but it was more of a hookah lounge. read more

Probably the worst service the girls and I have experienced lol. For starters we didn't get our food or drinks for an hour which is understandable but 45mins after ordering we were encouraged to try and speed it up for a big party that was arriving, mind you we had a reservation. Now in what world do you tell a customer that?! We haven't even got our food yet so it was frustrating. By the time we got the food it was mid and dry, we wanted more but it seems like they forgot and didn't care and just wanted us out. I don't feel anyone should be treated like that. At that point I just wanted to leave and when we got the check we were overcharged for items that weren't for our table it was just a mess. Terrible way to run a restaurant and more importantly treat paying customers like that. read more