Hello dear
Welcome To The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side
The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side is a vibrant culinary fusion that beautifully marries Middle Eastern and Latin American flavors. Nestled at 157 Columbus Ave, this cozy eatery welcomes guests with a casual atmosphere and a commitment to quality. Here, you'll find a delightful array of dishes, from the zesty Chicken Mole Burrito to the heavenly Crispy Cauliflower Shawarma. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients shines through in their salads and signature sauces. Customers rave about the crispy empanadas and sumptuous bowls, making it a go-to spot for a fast yet satisfying meal. With vegan options and outdoor seating, it’s a culinary haven for all!
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Lamb Torta
$19.001/2 Roasted Chicken Bowl
$18.00Chicken Mole Bowl
$16.00
Slow Roasted Smoked Pork Bowl
$16.00Carnitas Shawarma
$16.00Slow Roasted Pork Sandwich
$16.00
Harvest Bowl
$16.00Za'atar Salmon Bowl
$16.00Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
$15.00 About
The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side
Welcome to The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side, a culinary gem that beautifully marries flavors from the Middle East and Latin America. Nestled at 157 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, this cozy spot has quickly become a beloved destination for those in search of vibrant and satisfying meals. Whether you're on your lunch break or heading to catch a flick at the nearby AMC theatre, this fast-casual eatery has something for everyone.
The menu at The Migrant Kitchen is a delightful fusion of cultures, featuring enticing options ranging from scrumptious salads to hearty sandwiches. Customers rave about the Chicken Mole Burrito, brimming with chicken, rice, beans, and a touch of spice from pickled jalapeños—a must-try for those who appreciate robust flavors. For a comforting twist, the Mac & Cheese, sprinkled with za'atar breadcrumbs, is a creamy delight, though some feedback suggests it may not be the standout dish on the menu.
- Salads that invigorate the palate, like the Fattoush Salad with its sumac-pomegranate vinaigrette or the refreshing Southern Pali Salad, perfect for vegan patrons.
- The sandwiches, notably the Chicken Shawarma and Crispy Cauliflower Shawarma, can turn a simple lunch into an epicurean adventure, delivering ample flavor in every bite.
- Don't overlook the empanadas, particularly the lamb option, which is highlighted for its juiciness and perfectly crisp exterior—a crowd favorite.
Guests have expressed appreciation for the cozy atmosphere. With limited seating, it maintains a casual charm that encourages friendly exchanges among diners. The warm-hearted staff adds to the welcoming vibe, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Beyond the food, the essence of The Migrant Kitchen lies in its commitment to comfort and community. Diners have described feeling right at home, whether they're indulging in a hearty Crispy Chicken Wrap with a zesty garlic whip, or savoring the unique flavors of a Za'atar Salmon Bowl. Although the prices might lean on the higher side for some menu items, the generous portion sizes and quality ingredients often justify the cost.
In a city where culinary options abound, The Migrant Kitchen Upper West Side stands out as an essential stop for anyone eager to explore a fusion of tastes. So, next time you're wandering through the Upper West Side, make sure to treat yourself to a flavorful feast that celebrates the diverse tapestries of our world. Your taste buds will thank you!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ This place is my lunch rotation in my work neighborhood. They have a few tables inside and out. I recently got the chicken mole burrito and it was good just wish I asked for extra pickled jalapeños in there. In the past I've ordered the empanadas which are a hit or miss. The real hits of the show for me are the crispy chicken wrap with garlic whip, slow roasted smoked pork bowl, hummus, the smoked corn soup and the chili whip. Other good menu options are the lamb torta and crispy cauliflower shawarma. ”
“ I had The Migrant Kitchen for delivery at work - both the Chicken Tinga and Lamb Empanadas ($5 each) were generously filled with lots of meat and were crispy on the outside. They came with a choice of the Tomatillo Salsa or Diablo Hot Sauce as well - I got both. Their Za'atar Salmon Bowl ($6) with salad, turmeric rice and garlic whip was good, but I was still hungry afterwards that I had to get more food! Overall good lunch spot. ”
“ Well hello there delicious little place! Today was my vegetarian day so I had the turmeric rice and cauliflower. So good! I also love how small the place is. There is very little seating which promotes a cozy casual feel. ”
“ This is a great place to grab a quick bite before watching a movie at the nearby AMC theatre! It's a fast casual place, with some seating inside. The workers were very friendly and it wasn't too busy when we visited on a Tuesday night. It seems like the empanadas are the most popular option, and they were very good. I got the lamb one, and it was both juicy and crispy. Previous empanadas I've had have on a drier side, so this was a nice surprise. They were $5, which seems a bit pricey tho, because they weren't very large. I also got the side of Mac and cheese because I was craving it, but I would skip it here. I appreciated that there was a lot of bread crumbs on top, which helped diversify the texture, but otherwise it was very bland. For $5, it was also not worth it. It seems like the bowls range around $15, which is also on the pricier side for bowls in the city, but they seemed solid. Overall, it was great as a quick bite. I would recommend the empanadas! ”
“ Great fusion spot for a quick bite. I've had the lamb torta and chicken shawarma and both were really good. Sandwiches packed with flavor and great portion sizes. ”
“ Cute little place, good for a quick bite. Wandered by here one afternoon and had a late lunch. My husband order a Chicken Empanada and I ordered the Slow Roasted Smoked Pork Bowl. Both were good for a light meal. There is a small sitting area inside and another small area out front. ”
“ I love the Migrant Kitchen, namely because they have amazing, generously portioned bowls: we ordered the half roasted chicken bowl and the chorizo/halloumi bowl. Not only was it more than enough food, but the bowls come with perfect pairings. For example, the roasted chicken on came with sumac whip alongside potatos and just-sour-enough pickles. Despite how carb intensive it sounds, the pickles and sumac were just enough to cut through the decadent, brined chicken. Truly glorious. It doesn't feel stuffy in here as a food experience, and most of their containers are compostable via the NYC compost pickup (app-powered orange receptacles) outside. The staff was beyond friendly, and the self-service kiosks work like a dream. The only downside is probably that they don't have a restroom, but it's not a huge deal, especially if you decide to get your food to-go. There is both indoor and outdoor cafe-style seating. I would probably not want to go with a party larger than two if you're dining in (unless you're willing to push together some tables). Wonderful place, and I would dine again. ”
“ Food: 4/5 | Service: 5/5 | Experience: 4/5 Came here after a workout on the way home and enjoyed a chicken bowl. The service was quick, the veggies were good, but the chicken was a little dry on the inside. Overall, it was a good meal and well seasoned. I would go back because I also loved their outdoor seating when the weather is warm. The place is clean and efficient. ”
