Lev Kitchen is a Middle Eastern fast-casual restaurant in Ithaca, New York, specializing in Malawach, a Yemeni crispy flatbread that blends the flakiness of a croissant with the softness of pita. The restaurant offers a vegetable-forward menu inspired by Levantine cuisine, with dishes like Malawach wraps, Shakshuka Malawach, and seasonal breakfast options including egg and cheese variations, pastries, and lattes. Dine-in and takeout services are available, and the menu changes regularly based on seasonal, local produce. With a 4.50 rating and a strong following of over 100 reviews, Lev Kitchen is known for its fresh, sustainable approach to food.
The restaurant is guided by the Eat Lancet Commission’s Planetary Health Diet, aiming to align its menu with scientific recommendations for sustainable food production. This means prioritizing plant-based ingredients, reducing meat consumption, and sourcing directly from local farms such as Plowbreak Farm and Stick & Stone Farm. Lev Kitchen uses only seasonal, locally grown vegetables and partners with producers like Lively Run Dairy for artisanal cheeses. The menu is updated regularly to reflect what’s in season, and the restaurant tracks its progress quarterly to ensure alignment with sustainability goals.
Located at 222 E State St in the heart of Ithaca Commons, Lev Kitchen sits just a short walk from the Tompkins Workforce New York Career office, the Center Ithaca shopping mall, and the Tompkins Center for History & Culture museum. It is also near East Seneca Street and East Green Street, both major local thoroughfares, and within easy reach of Tompkins County Mental Health Services.
Known for its commitment to sustainability and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Lev Kitchen stands out in Ithaca’s dining scene as a restaurant that combines bold Levantine flavors with responsible food practices. Its consistent focus on seasonal produce and ethical sourcing has earned it a reputation as a trusted, innovative choice for health-conscious and environmentally aware diners.
Lev Kitchen brings the vibrant tastes of the Levant to Ithaca with a conscience, where every bite supports local farmers and planetary health.