Went in for a quick takeaway but ended up really impressed. From the moment you enter, the place is spotless and well-organized. The menu is clear, there’s a great variety, plenty of seating, and the staff is very polite. Loved the overall experience—definitely a must-try. 200 times better than the nearby Chipotle.
Vegan Restaurant
NAYA
· $$$$ · jerseyCity · Strict-vegan verified
Fully vegan
Editor synopsis · 0 reviews
Diners overwhelmingly call out the signature dish as the must-order. The vibe reads as vegan restaurant — service is consistently described as warm and unhurried. Common gotcha: queues form at peak times — go early or late.
Excerpts
Went in for a quick takeaway but ended up really impressed. From the moment you enter, the place is spotless and well-organized. The menu is clear, there’s a great variety, plenty of seating, and the staff is very polite. Loved the overall experience—definitely a must-try. 200 times better than the nearby Chipotle.
I’d been wanting to try Naya for quite some time and finally got the chance just before closing, around 8:45 PM. We ordered two bowls and decided to try the seasonal rice. For protein, we went with both chicken options - the chicken shawarma and chicken kebab - and added all the available toppings. One great thing is that there’s no limit on toppings. The chicken shawarma was good, but the chicken kebab was disappointing. The pieces were very large, not cooked well and not so well flavored too, so I wouldn’t recommend it. Overall, the bowls were filling and flavorful, and they did satisfy our taste buds. Another good protein option worth trying is the roasted cauliflower. Since it was late, the staff discouraged dining in. However, we had to, as we were with a toddler who couldn’t wait until we got home to eat. Right at 9:00 PM, a staff member stood beside our table to prompt us to leave. While the timing was understandable, the approach felt a bit rude.
I’d been wanting to try Naya for quite some time and finally got the chance just before closing, around 8:45 PM. We ordered two bowls and decided to try the seasonal rice. For protein, we went with both chicken options - the chicken shawarma and chicken kebab - and added all the available toppings. One great thing is that there’s no limit on toppings. The chicken shawarma was good, but the chicken kebab was disappointing. The pieces were very large, not cooked well and not so well flavored too, so I wouldn’t recommend it. Overall, the bowls were filling and flavorful, and they did satisfy our taste buds. Another good protein option worth trying is the roasted cauliflower. Since it was late, the staff discouraged dining in. However, we had to, as we were with a toddler who couldn’t wait until we got home to eat. Right at 9:00 PM, a staff member stood beside our table to prompt us to leave. While the timing was understandable, the approach felt a bit rude.
I am currently visiting from Los Angeles and NAYA Exchange Place has been my favorite spot for the past 4 months. The food here is consistently delicious; always fresh, authentically flavorful, and the gold standard for Lebanese fare in the fast food chain. (Sometimes, the rice is al-dente and the chicken is not as moist as other times, but delicious regardless) While the menu is excellent, it is the exceptional service that truly sets this location apart. The team is consistently efficient and welcoming ensuring every visit is a seamless pleasure. Very special shoutout to the hardworking ladies behind the counter, particularly, Fatima, Monique, Nareda, and Samaya, who lead with such kindness, ensuring every customer leaves satisfied. Keep up the good job and make us (the Lebanese) proud. We appreciate you all xoxo