Aba's Falafel opens lunch spot in Rhinebeck

Geoffrey Wilson
Poughkeepsie Journal

RHINEBECK - Aba's Falafel may be familiar to farmers market regulars, but now fans of the food stand can try it at a new Rhinebeck restaurant.

After nine years serving up Middle Eastern fare, co-owners Cathy and Roy Naor opened Aba's Falafel on July 1.

Customers eating at Aba's Falafel in Rhinebeck.

"It was very spontaneous," said Cathy Naor. "In March, we were looking to find a big kitchen when we found this place on Market Street. We looked at the lease, and the location was perfect, so we went for it."

MORE FALAFEL: Falafel Town brings a taste of Middle East to Poughkeepsie

LOCAL ROASTS: 5 shops serving up locally roasted coffee

The casual lunch spot operates 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. every day except Mondays at 54 E. Market St, serving up falafel with or without pita, as well as a homemade hummus plate.

Despite a small menu and limited hours, customers tend to pack the shop during lunchtime, Cathy Naor said. Between indoor and outdoor tables, Aba's Falafel can seat about 24 people.

"It's been great," she said. "The reception the town has given us has been unbelievable. There are plenty of people who know us from the market, but there's still so much support.

While there are no immediate changes planned at Aba's Falafel, Cathy Naor joked that this first year will be a soft opening as she and Roy experiment with changes and additions to the menu.

"We will probably stick with this for now until winter," she said.

And Aba's Falafel will still serve up food at the Woodstock, Rhinebeck and Pleasantville farmers markets.

For more information, call the restaurant at 845-876-2324 or visit its Facebook page at facebook.com/abasfalafel.

Geoffrey Wilson: gwilson@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4882, Twitter: Geoff_LW