Review #8: Motek- Flatiron, NYC
Welcome to review #8 for Comparative Eats!
Restaurant: Motek, Flatiron, NYC
Dishes ordered: Zaatar Labne, Spicy Feta Spread, Zucchini Latkes, Arayes, Chicken Schnitzel, Lamb Shank
Vibe: Miami personified, Instagram-centric
Beli Rating: 7.6
Comparative Advantage: Dips, apps, and arayes
TLDR (review): A very good Middle Eastern/Mediterranean option. It’s like if 12 Chairs went to Miami on spring break.
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Review:
I went into my meal at Motek skeptical, to say the least. If I had to guess which restaurant would be the most overhyped in this year’s NYC restaurant hype cycle (patent pending), this was going to be it. In fact, I wanted to hate Motek, mainly because it embodies what I see as the general vibe of Miami: flashy, but lacking substance. The writing on the walls under mirrors for IG pics definitely didn’t help my pessimism as we waited to order.
However, I was pleasantly surprised. The food was very good! I wouldn’t say everything was a knockout, but you get a few solid jabs in (the spicy feta dip and schnitzel) to set you up for the mean hook to the jaw (the Zaatar Labne, zucchini latkes, and arayes). In fact, I’m not sure I would order many mains here. I see it as a great place to get apps and dips before going out.
I ate here a couple of weeks ago now, and I still don’t know how I feel about the lamb shank. It was incredibly tender, but for whatever reason the seasoning felt off. It may have been too much salt and not enough of everything else.
In addition to getting people on board with my anti-Miami wave, I also wanted to make sure I gave arayes their flowers. I think we, as consumers, need to start demanding more of these. I’ve seen them from time to time, but they are the perfect sharing dish and are absolutely delicious.
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Closing remarks:
Motek was a reminder to leave preconceived notions at the door, or even after you’ve made it through the door. It’s a solid import from Miami, especially after we’ve exported half of our food scene there over the past five years, but I digress.
If you’re in the mood for dips and solid Israeli/Mediterranean food, or want to act like you’re heading to LIV later that night, give it a shot. Just don’t sprint.
Until the next one,
Let’s Eat