You’re walking down Union Avenue in Williamsburg, and if you aren’t paying attention, you might breeze right past the weathered wood and the unassuming "REUNION" sign. It looks like just another neighborhood spot. But then the smell hits you—that unmistakable mix of roasting chicken, toasted cumin, and warm pita. Honestly, if you haven’t sat at their basement-level bar with a Rimonada in hand, have you even done Brooklyn brunch?
The Reunion Brooklyn New York menu isn't trying to be the next Michelin-starred experimental lab. It’s a love letter to Tel Aviv, written by people who clearly miss home. The owners, Eldad and Inna, have been running this place since 2014, and the staying power is real. In a neighborhood where restaurants vanish faster than a subway train, Reunion remains a staple. Basically, it’s where you go when you want food that feels like a hug but tastes like a Mediterranean vacation.
The Heavy Hitters: What’s Actually Worth the Hype?
Look, everyone talks about the Incredible Shawarma, and for good reason. It’s $23, which might feel steep for "chicken and potatoes" until you actually see it. We’re talking mounds of pulled chicken shawarma, those crispy-edged potatoes that have soaked up all the fat, red cabbage for crunch, and a heavy drizzle of amba and zhoug. It’s messy. It’s loud. It’s perfect.
Then there’s the Shakshuka. You’ve seen it on every Instagram feed in the tri-state area. At Reunion, it’s a bubbling skillet of tomato and red pepper sauce with two eggs nestled inside for $15 ($20 on the dinner menu). They serve it with a chunk of Challah that’s so fluffy you could probably use it as a pillow. Pro tip: don't be shy with the tahini.
- The Schnitzel Sandwich ($19): Fried chicken breast on challah with pickles and harissa aioli. It’s a massive hit, though some locals swear by the breakfast version.
- Labneh ($10-$13): Do not skip this. It’s thick, tangy yogurt cheese topped with olive oil, grated tomato, and sometimes pomegranate seeds or gooseberries. It comes with pita that’s usually still steaming.
- Malawach ($15): This is a fried dough pancake. It’s flaky, oily in the best way, and served with whipped feta and grated tomato. It’s basically the ultimate hangover cure.
Brunch vs. Dinner: The Vibe Shift
Brunch is the main event here. The Breakfast Pita ($15) is probably the most-ordered item on the morning menu—scrambled eggs, bacon, feta, and that harissa aioli stuffed into a pita. It’s handheld, which is great if you’re trying to look cool while walking toward McCarren Park, but honestly, just sit down. The vibe inside is cozy-chic, with lots of plants and a subterranean feel that makes you forget about the BQE nearby.
Dinner slows things down a bit. The menu expands to include things like Pistachio Lamb Kebabs ($20) served with Israeli fried rice. If you’re rolling with a group, the Classic Hummus ($14) is a non-negotiable. It’s dense and creamy, topped with chickpeas and more of that spicy zhoug.
Drinks and Sweets You’ll Actually Remember
The drink menu is surprisingly punchy. The Rimonada ($9-$11)—lemonade spiked with pomegranate and mint—is the signature move. It’s neon pink and incredibly refreshing. If you’re looking for something harder, the Arak Lemonade ($16) will definitely wake you up. Arak is an anise-flavored spirit that’s common in Israel, and it cuts through the richness of the fried halloumi perfectly.
For dessert, there is only one real answer: Tahini Cheesecake ($14). It sounds weird. It tastes incredible. It’s topped with halva, silan (date syrup), and fresh berries. It’s rich, nut-forward, and usually gone in about thirty seconds. If you want something smaller, they do Baklava for $5 a piece or three for $12. It’s the Turkish pistachio kind, dripping with honey.
Reality Check: What to Watch Out For
Is it perfect? Kinda, but there are quirks. Because the space is small, the wait times on weekends can be brutal. You’re definitely going to be rubbing elbows with your neighbor. Also, the prices have ticked up over the years—expect to spend about $30-$40 per person for a full meal with a drink. Some regulars have noted that the delivery experience doesn't always live up to the in-house vibe; the schnitzel can get a bit soggy in a cardboard box, so try to eat it on-site if you can.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Timing is everything: If you want the Reunion Breakfast ($15) without a 45-minute wait, get there before 10:30 AM on weekends.
- The Basement Secret: The seating is mostly downstairs. It’s darker and cooler, which is a lifesaver in July.
- Order the "Small" Sides: Things like the Jerusalem Bagel ($5) or a side of Israeli Pickles ($6) are cheap ways to round out a meal if you’re sharing a main.
- Dietary Stuff: They offer gluten-free bread for a $5 upcharge, and the **Market Bowl ($18-$20)** is a solid vegan-friendly option with mujadara and roasted veggies.
When you're ready to go, just look for the corner of Union and Frost. Check the hours before you head out, as they typically close around 4:00 PM for a mid-day break before reopening for dinner service at 5:00 PM. Grab a seat at the counter, order the shawarma, and don't forget the extra pita.