Maoz

When Maoz came to Union Square last month, I couldn’t figure out what the big deal was. To me, it just seemed like another little falafel joint except with the gimmick of having a self-serve topping bar from which you could load up on spicy carrots, baby eggplant, and extra tahini sauce.

However, speak to anyone who has been to a Maoz in Europe, and there is an instant spark in their eyes. Maoz is dedicated to simplicity and freshness of ingredients. The menu is all vegetarian and consists of very few items, mainly because the point is for you to choose your own favorites from the bar of salads and spreads.

For traditionalists, Maoz might not cut it, but for those who like the accoutrements, stop into Maoz when you’ve got time to linger and refill your pita.