#sofreh

This vibrant Golab Gimlet cocktail from Nasim Alikhani, the chef-owner of Sofreh in New York City, gets its name for the traditional Persian ingredient, rosewater (golab). Light and refreshing, it’s a subtly floral riff on a gimlet cocktail, and combines classic vodka, vermouth,  lime juice, a touch of rosewater, and fresh tarragon, which gives the drink a subtle anise-like flavor.

Rosewater is a common ingredient used in Persian cuisine that can be found in savory dishes, desserts, and has a rich history in Persian culture. Alikhani serves this cocktail as part of her menu for Nowruz, the Persian New Year, when rosewater holds a special significance of cleansing and healing. (Guests are traditionally sprinkled with rosewater which they rub on their hands and face.)

Though floral in nature, this drink is well balanced by the acidity of fresh squeezed lime juice and a light licorice-like taste from fresh tarragon leaves while keeping rosewater’s distinct fragrance. Choose one of the best vodkas to help the cocktail sing; Tito’s is a solid choice, or reach for your favorite brand. 

Sofreh serves kabobs and Persian/Mediterranean food in an area dominated by Mexican restaurants. They may have opened during the pandemic because the seating is all outdoors (and covered). Order at the walk-up window and get a buzzer. The buzzer will let you know when your order is ready for pickup.

The menu includes kabobs (lule, lamb chops, beef shish, chicken shish), shawarma, salads, pita wraps, and appetizers (hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki, fries, soups). Portions were generous though the takeout items could have been packaged better. The trays didn’t have compartments so the salad that was next to my sandwich made part of the pita soggy.

Chicken shawarma wrap combo ($15): wrap sandwich, salad (or fries), and a drink. There were only three options for drinks: Coke, Sprite or bottled water. The chicken shawarma was so tender, maybe the most tender chicken shawarma that I’ve ever had. I also really enjoyed the sharwarma spicing and the sauce. The shawarma was served in a warm pita of medium thickness with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. So good. The salad was good (romaine, tomato, cucumber, onion) but it had been dressed so it was wilted by the time I got home.

Veggie platter ($18) with hummus, basmati rice, dolma, falafel, grilled tomato, grilled pepper, and pita wedges. They were stingy with the hummus. Mr. Froyo said the dolma were firm and tangy but bland. The falafel was different – less crispy and a bit spicy.

Parking was difficult to find. If you call or order in advance, they do have a parking space for picking up food.

4 out of 5 stars