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Shalel Lounge
- Nearest Transit:
-
72 St (A, B, C)
72 St (1, 2, 3)
66 St - Lincoln Center (1, 2)
- Delivery:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Late Night
- Music:
- Juke Box
- Best Nights:
- Mon, Tue, Wed
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
174 reviews for Shalel Lounge
Review Highlights
"But the ambience, the rose petals, the candles, the sofas."
(in 36 reviews)
"Lamb meatballs & bacon wrapped dates were amazing."
(in 7 reviews)
"one of the coolest places I've been to in the UWS."
(in 33 reviews)
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174 reviews in English
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Review from John S.
Los Angeles, CA
1/12/2012
Rose petals beckoned our party down into the depths of Shalel... as my friends and I pushed the doors and entered the sultry lounge we were greeted by redolent candles, plush velvet couches and... the Korean pop group 2NE1's latest hit blaring on the house speakers? WTF?
Strangely enough, the Korean music with the Moroccan vibe kind of worked. 99% of the patrons didn't seem to notice, as I'm sure they just attributed the exotic language to whatever dialect is native in Morocco (Arabic or Berber, I assume?) I did however get "the look" when I leaned over and conspiratorially commented to the bartender, "Hey buddy, nice music you got playing here" *wink wink* -
Review from Gwin v.
New York, NY
1/16/2012
The atmosphere is very pleasant here and the drinks are delicious - as others have mentioned, it's nice to have an alternative to the Irish pubs and college hangouts that seem to dominate the UWS.
However, the place only gets three stars because the bathroom was DISGUSTING. No paper towels, wads of toilet paper and pee (!) on the floor... no hot water or soap. And this was at 9 PM, mind you. I shudder to think about what those bathrooms looked like at midnight. -
Review from Nikki S.
Manhattan, NY
12/28/2011
Went here just for drinks a while back...the entrance to this place (basement location) is really funky, I felt like I was entering a lounge in the East Village, not one in the UWS! There are a few tables/couch area to sit at outside, which I tried to figure out the logistics of it but I guess on a nice night it would be cool to sit outside (there is a roof I think...) but you're basically in a stairwell to a basement bar-nicely decorated though!
The inside is really cozy, all different tables to sit at and tables with couches and more loungey feel. We sat at the bar which was really comfortable, you could totally get a few apps or a meal and be perfectly fine (obviously not as cozy as the couches). There was a large cocktail list, good sangria and good vibe in general. I would definitely come here again, nice find in the UWS. -
Review from Thalia K.
New York, NY
12/28/2011
This would be an agressive move for a first or even second date, but if you are ready for the level of intimacy that a below grade Moroccan lounge with candlelit nooks and crannies promises to offer then you've come to the right place. Most of the tables will have you sitting on soft cushions right beside your date so you can hold hands and shamelessly caress one another. You'll be surrounded by other couples, but the dim halos of light create the illusion of isolation that just might be inviting enough for soft whispers and sneak previews of "sexy time" (as Andrea S. so aptly put it).
The food, drink, and service leave something to be desired, so for those smooth operators out there maybe the best course of action is to come here for inspiration and then recreate the ambiance in the comfort and privacy of home. There's a Trader Joe's just a couple blocks away, I bet you can get a decent bottle of wine and some tasty hummus and pita chips there.Listed in: Romancing the Tastebuds
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Review from Andrea S.
12/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
:Said in Borat voice:
Is time for sexy time... Yes?
This place is totally the sexy time spot. It has dark nooks, rose petals strewn about, candles and sexy Mediterranean food.
This was our second and final stop of the night. He and I came here on a Saturday night at around 11:30, it wasn't too crowded. We were able to settle into a spot that literally seemed to be in a cave, you had to walk by a waterfall to get to it.
Close your eyes, picture this...
You're surrounded by stone and illuminated by the glow of candles, sipping red wine, the gurgle of flowing water accented with the sighs of the sitar in the background. You're nibbling on apple slices dripping with halloumi and ouzo. I mean, jeez, is it getting hot in here or is it me?
This is not the place to come with friends or to catch a drink after work. This is the place for gazing into one another's eyes, for carressing fingertips, for whispers and sighs.
Highly recommended for all you lovers out there. -
Review from Shiori I.
Manhattan, NY
12/27/2011
This place is a little hard to find- you have to find the dimly candle-lit staircase going down what looks like to a shady alley way, but then you find rose petals leading you to the restaurant...
The interior is romantic, but also... dusty and creepy. It's very dimly-lit, almost too much so, as you need to use the candles on the table to read anything on the menu. I am also guessing this is to disguise the kinda gross and worn materials on the sofas and the dust on all the *moroccan* objects on the shelves. The room to the left of the entrance has a chair that was suspended from the ceiling that looked like it was going to fall, taking a patron down with it at any moment...
The food was very good, though. My friend and I both got Moroccan themed cocktails (she had a rosewater champagne beverage, I had something with orange). We ordered the assortment of spreads (harissa, hummus and baba ghanoush, I think) and they were so delicious! As well was the lamb tagine that had very tendered and mild (not very gamey) pieces of lamb. It was a shame it was too dark for us to really see what we were eating but it was delicious!
All in all I think it's a good experience. They should really clean the place up a bit and still keep the ambiance while lighting it a little better. -
Review from Kilgore T.
Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY
1/18/2012
This place has a great atmosphere and I'll definitely be back. The bacon wrapped dates were phenom but the braised drunken calamari was legit disgusting...the colder it got, the more it tasted like spaghettios.
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Review from Tamara W.
Los Angeles, CA
11/7/2011
The ambience at Shalel is close to five stars. The place is amazing. The stairs leading down to the entrance are covered in rose petals and the interior is brick walls with little nooks for quiet conversations. Candles and rose petals abound as well as plently of velvet upolstered furniture.
The service however, leaves something to be desired. Granted we did walk in without a reservation on Saturday past midnight. We were asked to wait for 10 minutes by the very nice hostess, while a table was cleared (even though there were several empty tables already). Finally we got seated at our table, only to be asked to move, as a party had reserved the small room in the front where we were seated!
It took more than 25 minutes to get seated and order and we only had two glasses of wine and a hummus plate!
The place is so cozy that I'll go again. Hopefully the service is a bit more refined next time so I can give this place more stars! -
Review from Andy W.
Manhattan, NY
1/11/2012
While most of the reviews on this place focus on Shalel's ambience (which I admit is quite over the top) I was most impressed with my meal.
My husband and I ordered three plates: the hummus, lamb meatballs, and the butternut squash flambé. The generous portion of hummus was rich and tasted of expensive olive oil and subtle spices -- we paired it with the warm pita and slathered it on the ends of the phyllo dough from the flambé as well. The flambé had just enough mint, and was seasoned perfectly so that you could taste the individual ingredients as well as the rich butternut squash base. The lamb meatballs were absolutely delicious - spicy and sweet, finishing with refreshing mint (perhaps the best I've ever eaten).
The cocktails were uninspired, but were quite strong, large, and delicious.
As for the seating, I recommend that you take a table if you are eating. We sat on the sofa near the bar and weren't quite comfortable for eating. We weren't going to eat until we saw the glorious menu and decided we better give it a shot, so no points down for our mistake. If we had been in for just drinks the sofa would have been adequate - fun for a romantic date or something special.
Service was impressive. I dropped my knife and it was replaced immediately without my asking for a new one. Water glasses were never empty, and dirty plates were cleared almost as soon as we finished them. We savored our drinks and the interesting ambience for quite some time before asking for the check, which was QUITE reasonable given the location. (about $75 w/o tip for 3 plates and 4 drinks).
All told, Shalel is our new date night starter spot. It has a moody, sultry ambience complete with rose petals strewn about and candle light. Come hungry and ask for a table. Quite a find, don't miss it. -
Review from Tiiu L.
Brooklyn, NY
1/24/2012
Shalel lounge is seriously the best lounge you could ever go to.
So many candles.
Sexy ass rose petals.
The ambience feels like some sort of a sex cave. Good to bring a date.
The bartender is both talented and generous. His drinks are strong and delicious, his personality is charming, alluring and comforting to talk to, he never forgets a face. Sit at the bar and chat with him! The french waitress is really passionate about taking care of you and has incredible dedication to her job. She was helpful in recommending the perfect dish and i enjoyed each time she came over to my table. I give her alot of props for being so attentive while she was catering to the entire place, which was pretty packed. I definitely recommend shalel lounge for anyone seeking excellent service, delicious tapas and moroccan food, sexy ambience and a place which feels hidden and away from the hustle of nyc. Great place. Its a regular spot. Also, the waitress was hot :) -
Review from a k.
Clifton, NJ
11/21/2011
Very quaint. Would make a good date place.
The service leaves lots to be desired. The bar tender had
a huge attitude and did not talk at all when we were
sitting at the counter. It seemed he was really unhappy to
have us there. -
Review from Shanti H.
JAMAICA, NY
1/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
Came here after dinner with my boyfriend. For his birthday; this place is very seductive & romantic. Rose petals strewn all around. We found a nice little area to sit by a huge rock with water flowing down it and rose petals in the puddle of water. It was very romantic. We ordered drinks good drinks for a decent price $10(Amaretto sour & a mojito) $22 totaled. I did not order food so I can't give a review on that. But the drinks were good.& I love Amaretto sour it tasted like a juice drink but made me alittle tipsy after ii finished it. :) Love this place.
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Review from Diana K.
Brooklyn, NY
12/27/2011
Travel back in time to medieval Turkey with me! This is an equivalent of Brooklyn's Tabu lounge in the city so please read that review of mine because I'm not repeating myself. I will say that whoever comes up with the décor ideas for poorly lit seductive atmospheres gets props.
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Review from Hector B.
Manhattan, NY
12/27/2011
Go with a lover or a small group of friends and get drunk in Rabat.
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Review from Omar C.
Manhattan, NY
8/11/2011
I took a date here on a Friday night, and really glad I did. From the outside you'd think you were just walking down the stairs into your friendly neighborhood Moroccan laundry but as you approach the door and enter Shalel tells a much different story.
I felt like it was a completely different place than the upper west side Manhattan which was pretty cool. It was dark and cozy. The area for people without a res had a communal feel so no hanky panky (unless you're pretty confident). We were able to steal a table in the corner of the restaurant kind of behind the bar on the all the way right side.
Sangrias were a flowin' and so was the dirty talk. Ok no dirty talk but it was a very sexy feel. The food was super flavorful and correctly proportioned. I will definitely be back here with another date. This isn't a place that's pre-going out though. I would suggest you take them here, and then for an "after dinner drink" at your place.
Good luck. -
Review from Kevin C.
Updated - 7/12/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Would not be back. I've tried to come back a few times, but each time I've been greeted by the hostess who wouldn't care to give us the time of day.
I understand that it's not her fault that she is the only person who is waiting on the entire place, but that doesn't excuse her piss poor attitude. She doesn't even try to appear helpful or friendly. She acts like she hates her job and she probably does. This could be easily improved if there were 2-3 waitresses and 1 dedicated hostess. It's unfortunate that management doesn't recognize this and hasn't fixed it for months.
Such a shame that the utter lack of service would deter patrons from coming back to an otherwise pretty cool bar. Don't bother coming here.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/31/2011
Super cool basement level lounge. Shalel is heralded as a romantic hotspot. You'll notice rose… Read more »
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Review from Sascha M.
7/13/2011
Went on a date here a while back. I'm pretty sure it's a to go to date spot for any guy who lives on the UES or UWS. Dark and sexy complete with a waterfall in the back. However, some of those cushions look unsanitary and questionable. Lots of couples looking like they are practically heading to third base, I had to keep my date from trying anything fresh, as my mother would say.
The specialty cocktails were quite good, and the appetizers were solid. The lamb tagnine was my favorite thing on the menu. -
Review from Danielle Z.
Manhattan, NY
1/3/2012
I came here with a group of friends to celebrate a birthday. Overall, I was pretty happy. The ambiance, as mentioned by other reviewers, was pretty fun, with candles and drapes and couches. Felt very cozy. Drinks were good, if a bit expensive. Wait staff was great. I don't live in the area, but I might consider coming here on a date.
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Review from Jess L.
6/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
Definitely a happening place. If I come back, I'd definitely make a reservation.
My friend's party of 10+ got the awkward table in the front, which was a long table with seating only along one side. This set up might work for a big group with more couples, I'd think. This space was cute but definitely a last thought. The seating inside seemed to have more open and more intimate seating options.
The menu was a bit pricey, though not necessarily any more pricey than other options in the neighborhood. Cocktails were $12, and the cheapest beer was $7.
Rose petals galore.
I'd definitely try this place again, but for now, it feels appropriate to give it just an a-ok. -
Review from Fiona M.
Manhattan, NY
1/11/2012
Hmm , visiting here from Australia - discovered Yelp - great - looking for nice place for drinks and light meal - read reviews - off to Shalel . How disappointing . If the cocktails had any more than the whiff of a bottle passed over them , I would be surprised . Best description I could give would be overly sweet cordial or fruit punch . Not impressed. Cant comment on the food as we didnt stay to eat after the disappointment of the cocktails. Other reviews were accurate as far as the ambience.
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Review from Laura R.
Manhattan, NY
Great place for a second date or one worth smooching at least! You'll walk down these stairs(usually sprinkled with rose petals) and will enter a dimly lit cave-like dwelling with a main bar and various little alcoves. The ambience is intimate and romantic with Moroccan-like decor. It's a great place to grab a drink and have hummus, or to come to after dinner and have drinks!
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Review from Andrea L.
7/24/2011
Easily missed from street level, keep your eyes peeled for this scantily marked lounge by seeking the descending string of lights. Descending into the cavernous lair, you discover that Shalel Lounge is full of hidden nooks and crannies that makes you want to fondle your date all over. And after a few delirious drinks, you might just succeed.
But my $12 Dessert Rose didn't taste, err, rosy at all and my husband's $8 Stella was too pricey. I learned that the spot has been around for over 10 years, so it shouldn't surprise me that the velvet couches were torn up and gross bits of foam were crumbling everywhere. And those pillows? Some seriously questionable stains. For all the effort they spent on the decor in the lounge, you'd think they'd jazz up the lavatories to look better than a trucker's depot too. I dunno, Shalel Lounge, despite your exotic sheen, after all this time, you're basically an overpriced, well-dressed dive. PS - Your air-conditioning on this 100 degree day sucked. -
Review from Dayna A.
6/20/2011
It's actually 65 1/2 W 70th St. A half address! I'm smitten.
We came here for my birthday dinner. As you walk down the stairs you feel an air of romance and mystery--- Casablanca style. Rose petals are everywhere, and the entry (just the entry) had a faint fragrance of rose water, a common ingredient in North African/Middle Eastern cuisine--- nice touch, I say. We were seated in a private nook to the left where we had effectively, our own island. We hadn't even noticed that the rest of the restaurant had filled in not long after we arrived. The lighting was a tad tricky when ordering, as it can be hard to read the menu-- nothing another votive from a neighboring empty table couldn't fix.
The wine and cocktails menu was not all that extensive, but it was suitable. I had a key lime drink which was sweet and tart as desired, though I'm not sure how much spirit was actually in it.
The food was phenomenal. From the humus to the goat cheese tartine to the chicken tajine to the lamb cigars to the lamb and rice entree--- all of the seasoning was spot on and authentic. The tajine had a ras el hanout that seemed to me to have quite a bit of nutmeg, not my thing personally, but was a hit otherwise.
Hidden. Smoldering. Sumptuous food.
We will surely be returning. -
Review from Moneek M.
New York, NY
11/14/2011
This is a great place to come for a cozy drink in the UWS. It's tucked away from the street and provides a really cool atmosphere for a relaxing evening. The drinks are great and they have some really interesting small bites like the bacon wrapped dates that are delicious. The candle lite rooms and rose petals really make for a romantic environment.
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Review from Alice I.
New York, NY
5/15/2011
I was at an awful brunch yesterday and to distract ourselves, we discussed Shalel and how much we love it. I tried to find their website just now and couldn't...I wish it was online so I could write which cocktail I like--it has blue curacao and malibu, I think.
Anyway, sit by the waterfall if you're on a date--that's the best best best best best spot! -
Review from Jennifer S.
New York, NY
6/24/2011
I am so excited to have discovered this little hidden treasure. The stairs, and most everything else, are lined with rose petals and the exposed brick, low ceilings, and candle-light make this a fantastic date spot.
Unfortunately, I was there with a party of 12* without a reservation on a Saturday night (hence the three stars - I will go back and almost certainly increase my star-age). I truly enjoyed myself, but the seating wasn't ideal and we had to leave to find a larger spot after only one cocktail. That cocktail - white wine sangria - was delicious.
Looking forward to going back with a smaller group and a reservation :). -
Review from Julie J.
5/14/2011
This place reminded me of Bin Laden's love cave. Seriously, I don't get the romance hype about it. I personally found it to be a little bit creepy - like I was competing on Legends of the Hidden Temple on Nickelodeon (hey throw-back!).
Meh. -
Review from Janet M.
New York, NY
5/20/2011
What a find! I didn't know the UWS could be this cool. I'm giving it a perfect rating for its unusual and inviting ambiance as well as pretty decent food.
Unmarked at street level, this Moroccan-theme "speakeasy" is an exotic subterranean den of romance and decent food built around a tributary that flows eastward from the Columbus Avenue geologic ridge. Intimate seating areas have been created out of every nook and cranny, including one tiny room right by the pumped water from the tributary. We tried the hommos sampler platter, meat kebabs and the food was pretty good -- which is more than I had expected from a place that specializes in dark nooks for making out. You'll find it by the menu posted at street level and rose petals strewn down the staircase. -
Review from Eli C.
Astoria, NY
3/8/2011
1st time my bf and I went here we were blown away by how romantic this place was, candles, lighting was perfect, even rose pedals. (even though the at first where they sat us was a lil too close to two other couples, yet the good part was that they were both in their own worlds. The food wasnt amazing, but ok.. aswell as the drinks.) We thought we had found our new romantic spot, only to be completely turned off this weekend.
On our 2nd occasion we called and asked how long the wait for two would be, girl said 15-20min. (you can only make reservations for 6 or more, mind you the place is small at it is) so we finally get there 1. No one is there to greet you, ask you if you need help etc. so your just standing there like a ghost while they are walking around you. 2. My bf had to go all the way to the end of the restaurant to get the waitress attention to 3. Only to find out that she couldn't tell us how long the wait was.. her response "well everyone is eating" WTF! I was so turned off by the place that we walked out! We stood there like a ghost for almost 15mins..
Never again will I set foot in that place! it's a shame being that it's such a nice, quiet, romantic spot. Yet don't expect amazing food, good service or even worst.. a nice place to sit. -
Review from Jonathan L.
Manhattan, NY
6/19/2011
Nice little lounge in the UWS. Not a huge place, but there are these little nooks with seating available, both table height for eating or lower, lounge sofas and banquettes for just hanging out and drinking.
Server was extremely nice, and the food was decent. We got the meat and cheese plates, and they were great (despite the fact that our server didn't tell us what any of the meats or cheeses were).
All in all, makes for a pretty romantic date spot. I'd give it five stars, but we were seated RIGHT under the speaker where music was blasting, so talking was a bit rough. I would imagine just about any other seat in the house works out pretty well though. -
Review from Tony L.
1/19/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The atmosphere is a 5. No doubt about that.
Where they lost me was the price to quality ratio in the drink department.
I ordered a basic Mojito at the bar and was basically treated like I was the most annoying patron of the evening after he bothered to take my order. Get a grip, bar tender. You're working at a bar...on the upper west side...lose the tude.
He proceeded to muddle the mint with sugar and rum...and then he added SPRITE. Ya know...that sweet, syrupy beverage that has high fructose corn syrup as one of the main ingredients? It was honestly the worst mojito I've ever had. Next time, maybe try to do a simple syrup and soda mixture. Whatever you do, don't throw in some Sprite from a bottle to my drink for which I'm paying over $11!
This place rocks when it comes to atmosphere...but if you go beyond their basic wine list, I'd stick with the basics...unmixed top shelf liquor on the rocks or with a splash of soda. Don't attempt to try their cocktails. -
Review from Kevin L.
11/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
Yep. Shalel Lounge is, in fact, an amazing date place. As long as your date isn't an ultra cocktail snob and can appreciate Mediterranean food.
It's subterannean, which immediately lends well to the natural instinct to find the nearest warm mass and cuddle up with it. The rose petals strewn up and down the stairs, on the tables, and in the grotto fountain (because this place has a grotto... with a fountain in it) certainly add a touch to the romantic ambiance. And the dim lighting and multitude of candles serve to enhance the feel.
Given that I wasn't particularly feeling any of the sweet-sounding cocktails listed on the menu, I veered in the direction of single malts, which were unfailing. Friends had a variety of red, clear, and blue drinks... most of which were sweeter or more tart than fits my preferred flavor profile, but they appeared to enjoy themselves.
What really set off our brief interlude here was the food. Of all the mezze platters we ordered, everything was tastefully presented, came out rapidly, and delicious. Don't miss out on the gigantic duo of spanakopita or the lamb cigars (basically lamb spring rolls). The vegetarian dips medley was also thoroughly enjoyable and enough to share among a party of three or four.
I'm glad for the experience of finally visiting Shalel Lounge, a year later. I probably wouldn't make the trip back up to the UWS of my own volition, but I'd be more than happy to meet a friend or special someone here if invited.Listed in: Drinks in NYC, Upper West Side
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Review from Skye G.
Manhattan, NY
5/22/2011
As soon as you step through the door it feels as though you are transported right into the heart of the middle east. You walk down a narrow stair case (if you are able to locate the restaurant by the dimly lit menu) and follow the lights down the stairs.
The doors open to a dark and romantic den-like setting, the bar almost glows. When the hostess asks you to find a spot to sit its like exploring a deep cavern, fun to find your own spot. We picked a nice little niche that was very romantic and set away from the others. There are a few tables placed awkwardly in the center of the hallway which we were able to avoid.
Plan to stay for a long drink and enjoy your meal - the waitstaff, which I believe was a bit new, took a VERY long time to get our meals, but it was well worth the wait. We enjoyed spending time just talking and taking time away from the rush of things. It's a very european way of dining. -
Review from Kristina G.
New York, NY
1/22/2011
For my birthday this year, I decided to have an intimate dinner with close friends at Shalel Lounge on the Upper West Side.
A candlelit stair case covered in rose petals leads you down into this Moroccan inspired space where your ears will be filled with Arabic dance music and the sound of waterfalls.
Enjoy a glass of champagne and Moroccan nibbles like hummus and tagine. One of the perks was having the option of private seating behind curtains. It is perfect for a night out with dear friends or a date.
In my opinion, this is a hidden gem in the midst of a busy Manhattan. ;) -
Review from Sam P.
New York, NY
3/6/2011
I want to like this place more. I really do.
I've come here a couple of times. The first time I came in, it was jammed, left.
The second time, came with a group of 6 people and got an awesome private room in the back. Dimly lit, velvety curtains, and the volume of the music was at the perfect level where we could talk at an ordinary level but there were nice background vibes. The setting gets five stars.
After we were seated, 15 minutes went by. *crickets*
I went to get menus from the bartender and he would only give me one. We were a group of six. Fail. So I took another one I saw lying around.
Time continued to pass, so I told the waitress we were ready to order. She strolled in maybe 10 minutes later and we placed our drink orders. We mainly ordered beers...price was not ridiculous and they had an okay selection. Everyone was a bit ticked off at how long it took to be acknowledged.
We definitely enjoyed our company and the setting, but the service felt nonchalant and the staff was unpleasant . The ambiance here is about the most romantic you can find in the neighborhood, but the employees need an attitude adjustment, stat. -
Review from Roberto A.
Brooklyn, NY
3/29/2011
The book club I recently joined meets here.
Most reviews say that this place is romantic, and I partially agree. Rose petals greet you and lead you down the steps to the entrance. The front area has some seats available on warmer days. Once inside, it is dark. The hostess might greet you and escort you to a seat. There are some areas for larger groups, seats in the main area and at the bar, and many hidden seats. The nicest part of Shalel is that it has many nooks and crannies in which couples can hide. The dim lighting, privacy, and fragrance are all very nice.
But that darkness also hides many flaws. I am sure that if one saw this place with bright lights, it would look sloppily finished at best. The biggest give away is the terrible bathrooms. The paint job is pretty bad... remember learning how to color inside the lines? The painter here apparently never did. The light switch plate was painted/taped over. One of the faucets leaks. The hand dryers are a miniscule joke. But at least it smells nice.
Our club meets in the largest room. At our last meeting, I noticed the mess, I mean, collection of tchotckes at a window sill, complete with collection of hardened melted wax and a layer of dust. I wonder what else has gone without a cleaning...
The beer selection is pretty expensive, ranging from $7 for a Heineken or Amstel light, $8 for Stella, to $12 for a Duvel. I mean, I really like Duvel, but $12 is one hell of a price (get it?). The cocktails on their menu cost $12. The food is okay... I've only had the lamb meatball appetizer.
The music volume increases significantly over the course of the night, even if it is the middle of the week and if it is almost empty. Service has been okay. -
Review from Rachel H.
New York, NY
10/25/2010
I'm not a big fan of the Upper West Side, but there are a few places that make it worth the trip. I'm adding Shalel to that teeny tiny list.
The decor makes it a date-only spot- mostly candle-lit, rose petals scattered everywhere, tables hidden in little nooks. Very 'cute'. The food was beyond amazing. I had: dates wrapped in bacon, pitas with 4 different dippers, and lamb meatballs. Split a bottle of Reisling with the boy which was also very good. I'll be back........ even though it means a trip to the UWS. -
Review from Tobin T.
Very romantic, great date place. Get's very busy. Can't comment much on the drinks and food. Would definitely go again for ambiance alone.
Speakeasy points: 2.5 out of 5 in difficulty finding the place (extra 1.5 points if they would get rid of the stupid lighted menu placed in front of the "secret" entrance- your place is packed! people know where you are! where's the challenge! make it more speakeasy- esk!!!!) -
Review from Lauren W.
2/15/2011
Went here for V-day with the bf. My expectations were very high after reading all the cozy/romantic reviews.
We got there and yes, there were rose petals and stuff, but it wasn't over the top romantic at all. It was just really cute and cozy!
We got a table that was across from the bar, and it was a table with a big couch. I knew dinner was going to be good from that moment! We got a drink and settled in to peruse the menu.
Stress ensued because everything looked SO good and we couldnt decide what to get. We started with the dates with bacon, which were heavenly! I got the special ravioli with mushrooms and bf got the calimari pasta. Both were insanely good. And the baklava for dessert was so yummy!
Service was good. They let you have your space, and time to relax, but didnt ignore us either.
This is a seriously cute date spot on the upper west side! Its close to the subway, and will be adorable when you can sit outside in the summer! -
Review from Mina K.
Brooklyn, NY
1/19/2011
Ok so I was told by a guy that this place was super awesome. It was our second date and he led me down a flight of stairs that looked like it led to someone's basement. I laughed and said "oh your taking me into a dark alley?" but then I saw the rose petals and thought huh? All he said was "trust me your going to love this".
I walked in and holy crap I was NOT expecting the inside to look so damn awesome! It was amazing with little nooks and hide outs, drapes, couches, rose petals EVERYWHERE and candles.
We sat by the waterfall and gosh was it romantic- extremely dark but absolutely breath taking. After we settled in the very polite waitress asked us what we would like to order. We ordered red wine it was pretty good.
I would definitely go there again the ambiance is great the music was... lets face it does anyone actually listen to the music there? The drinks were good and reasonably priced.
Great date place and trust me your definitely getting some if you take her here. It is a bit intense for a first date though so definitely take someone you have hung out with.
