Why Shukette Has Become Chelsea’s Most Buzzed-About Dining Destination
Shukette is a vibrant Middle Eastern restaurant located at 230 Ninth Avenue in Chelsea, NYC, helmed by James Beard Award finalist Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja. Since opening in July 2021, this 80-seat sister spot to Shuka has become famous for its live-fire cooking, playful menu sections, and energetic open-kitchen atmosphere.
Quick Shukette restaurant cheat sheet:
- Location: 230 Ninth Avenue & 24th Street, Chelsea, NYC
- Chef: Ayesha Nurdjaja (2022 James Beard Best Chef NY Finalist)
- Capacity: 80 seats total, including 23-seat kitchen counter
- Menu Style: Modern Middle Eastern small plates designed for sharing
- Price Range: $8-$32 per dish, expect $50-$75 per person
- Reservations: Essential via Resy – books up quickly
- Hours: Mon-Sat 5-11pm, Sun 4-10pm
- Signature: House-made breads (frena, laffa, gozleme) and live-fire grilled meats
The restaurant recreates the energy of a Levantine marketplace through its busy open kitchen and menu organized into cheeky sections like “When You Dip, I Dip” and “Rip This.” With consistent placement on the New York Times Top 100 restaurants list and a 4.5-star rating across reviews, Shukette has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking authentic flavors in a lively, communal setting.
“The acclaimed and much-buzzed-about Shukette has been open for three years in Chelsea, but I didn’t pull up a seat there until last month—here’s why it was worth the wait,” notes one food writer who finally experienced the restaurant’s magnetic pull.
Inside Shukette: Location, Space & Atmosphere
When you turn the corner onto Shukette’s block at 230 Ninth Avenue in Chelsea, you’ll immediately sense the energy radiating from this vibrant dining destination. The restaurant has claimed its spot as one of Manhattan’s most exciting Middle Eastern hotspots, and the moment you step inside, you understand why.
The space itself tells a story of community and connection. With 80 seats thoughtfully arranged throughout the restaurant, Shukette manages to feel both intimate and buzzing with activity. The real star of the show is the 23-seat counter that curves around the open kitchen like an amphitheater, giving lucky diners front-row access to the culinary magic happening just inches away.
This isn’t your typical quiet dinner spot – and that’s exactly the point. The open kitchen creates what regulars describe as a “bazaar energy” that makes every meal feel like a celebration. You’ll hear the satisfying sizzle of the live-fire grill, the rhythmic chopping of fresh herbs, and animated conversations flowing between tables. The noise level strikes that perfect balance between lively and comfortable – think energetic dinner party rather than chaotic cafeteria.
What makes the atmosphere truly special is how the design encourages communal dining. Whether you’re perched at the counter watching chefs plate your meal or sharing small plates at a table with friends, Shukette creates natural opportunities for connection and conversation.
What Is Shukette and Where Exactly Is It?
You’ll find Shukette perfectly positioned at the corner of Ninth Avenue and 24th Street, where it’s been drawing crowds since its July 2021 opening. The location couldn’t be more ideal – nestled in the heart of Chelsea with easy access to the High Line, Chelsea Market, and some of the city’s best galleries and shops.
The name “Shukette” comes from the Hebrew word “shuk,” meaning marketplace, and Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja chose this spot specifically to recreate that busy, communal feeling of a Middle Eastern bazaar. Walking past the restaurant’s windows, you can see exactly what she means – the energy is infectious, and the aromas drifting onto the sidewalk have a way of stopping passersby in their tracks.
This Chelsea location serves as the perfect complement to its sister restaurant Shuka in Soho, offering neighborhood locals and food-loving visitors alike a chance to experience modern Middle Eastern cuisine in a more relaxed, accessible setting.
The Chef & Concept Behind the Magic
The heart and soul of Shukette beats through Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja, whose remarkable journey from Brooklyn kid to James Beard Award finalist reads like a culinary fairy tale. Born to Italian-Indonesian parents, she finded her calling in an unexpected way – by watching Lidia Bastianich on television and having the audacity to call up the restaurant asking for a job.
That bold move launched a two-decade trip through New York City’s most demanding kitchens. In 2022, her dedication paid off when she earned recognition as a James Beard Award Finalist for Best Chef NY – a testament to the magic she creates at Shukette.
The restaurant’s live-fire grill serves as the beating heart of the operation, where Nurdjaja and her team coax smoky flavors from charcoal into everything from delicate vegetables to whole fish. It’s not just about the technique though – it’s about the theater of it all, with flames dancing and aromas filling the air.
What makes Shukette instantly lovable are those playful menu names that turn dining into an trip. Sections like “When You Dip, I Dip” and “Al Ha’Esh” (meaning “on the fire”) show Nurdjaja’s approach of making Middle Eastern cuisine feel approachable rather than intimidating. This isn’t stuffy fine dining – it’s joyful food meant to be shared.
As the sister spot to Shuka, Shukette represents the evolution of a successful concept, bringing the same quality and creativity to Chelsea’s more casual dining scene. More info about Innovative Restaurant Concepts can help you understand how successful restaurant concepts expand and adapt to different neighborhoods and audiences.
Culinary Journey of Chef Nurdjaja
Nurdjaja’s path wasn’t the typical culinary school-to-kitchen trajectory. After earning a business degree, she found herself drawn back to food with an irresistible pull. Her Brooklyn upbringing exposed her to the city’s incredible food diversity – from corner bodegas to family-run restaurants representing dozens of cultures.
The mentorship under Lidia Bastianich proved transformative, teaching her not just knife skills and sauce techniques, but the deeper philosophy of hospitality. She learned that great restaurants don’t just feed people – they create emotional connections and lasting memories.
Her market travels through the Middle East deepened her understanding of Levantine flavors and techniques. She didn’t just taste the food – she watched grandmothers roll bread, learned about spice combinations passed down through generations, and absorbed the communal spirit that makes Middle Eastern dining so special.
Why Shukette Stands Out
In a city where new restaurants open weekly, Shukette has carved out something truly special by recreating authentic open-air market inspiration within a modern restaurant framework. Walk in, and you’re immediately transported from Chelsea’s busy streets to a busy Middle Eastern bazaar.
The share-plate format isn’t just a trendy concept here – the experience. Servers often recommend that groups order dishes in waves as they become ready, encouraging conversation and findy rather than rushed consumption.
But it’s the spice program where Nurdjaja’s expertise truly flourishes. She sources authentic Middle Eastern spices and uses them with the confidence of someone who understands their power. A simple roasted vegetable becomes something memorable when touched with the right combination of za’atar, sumac, and house-blended spice mixes.
The commitment to making everything in-house – from three different types of bread to the tahini soft-serve ice cream – demonstrates a level of craftsmanship that sets Shukette apart from restaurants that rely on shortcuts.
Shukette Menu Deep Dive & Dietary Notes
Walking into Shukette feels like stepping into a Middle Eastern marketplace, and the menu structure perfectly captures that experience. The playful section names aren’t just cute – they actually help you steer what could otherwise feel overwhelming.
“When You Dip, I Dip” kicks things off with spreads and dips that’ll have you fighting over the last piece of bread. The labneh at $12 comes topped with jewel-like pomegranate seeds, while the fried zucchini flowers add an unexpected twist that shows Chef Nurdjaja’s creative flair.
“Rip This” is where bread dreams come true. The frena bread at $8 has achieved legendary status among regulars, and you’ll understand why after your first bite. The laffa and gozleme varieties round out this section, each offering a different texture and flavor profile that pairs beautifully with those dips you just ordered.
“The Shuk” celebrates vegetables in ways that’ll make even the most devoted carnivores take notice. This section offers the largest selection of plant-forward dishes, showcasing seasonal produce with the same love and attention as the meat courses.
“Al Ha’Esh” translates to “on the fire,” and this is where the live-fire grill really shows off. The signature Fish in a Cage costs $32 and features a whole porgy grilled between wire racks – it’s equal parts theater and deliciousness. The presentation alone makes it Instagram-worthy, but the smoky flavors will keep you coming back.
The meal wraps up with “Soft Serve,” featuring tahini-based ice cream that’s surprisingly sophisticated. It’s both vegan-friendly and absolutely addictive – so much so that regulars joke the restaurant could open an ice cream shop tomorrow.
For those with dietary restrictions, Shukette shows genuine flexibility. The staff happily accommodates special requests, and many dishes can be modified to suit different needs. When it comes to halal options though, you’ll want to ask directly about meat sourcing, as the restaurant may not offer certified halal choices.
Understanding the cultural background of these dishes can make your Shukette restaurant cheat sheet experience even richer. Middle Eastern Food offers deeper insights into the traditions behind what you’re tasting.
Signature Dishes & Crowd Favorites
The frena bread has reached cult status, and for good reason. One food writer perfectly captured the obsession: order “at least two – one for snacking and one to dip.” This pillowy creation emerges from the wood-fired oven with a crispy exterior that gives way to an impossibly soft interior.
The Fish in a Cage represents everything Shukette does well – it’s theatrical, delicious, and perfectly shareable. The whole porgy grilled between wire racks arrives as both conversation starter and centerpiece. Watching it come out of the open kitchen adds to the excitement.
Don’t sleep on the joojeh chicken either. Served as a small half-bird portion, it showcases how the kitchen lifts familiar proteins with Middle Eastern spices and that signature live-fire cooking technique.
The tahini soft serve deserves its own fan club. It perfectly captures Shukette’s philosophy of taking traditional Middle Eastern ingredients and presenting them in delightfully unexpected ways. Sweet, nutty, and creamy – it’s the perfect ending to a flavor-packed meal.
Vegan, Vegetarian & Halal Options at Shukette
Vegetarians will feel right at home at Shukette. The entire “When You Dip, I Dip” section offers plant-based options, and much of “The Shuk” celebrates vegetables in creative ways. The labneh can be swapped for hummus or other vegan spreads without missing a beat.
The restaurant’s vegetable mezze selections showcase seasonal produce prepared with the same care and attention as the meat dishes. This isn’t an afterthought vegetarian menu – it’s integral to the Shukette experience.
Staff flexibility really shines when it comes to dietary accommodations. Multiple diners have praised the servers’ willingness to modify dishes, with one noting that “the staff was willing to veganize dishes in the menu.” This adaptability, combined with the share-plate format, makes group dining easy even when everyone has different dietary needs.
Halal diners should have a direct conversation with staff about meat sourcing, as reviews suggest the restaurant may not offer certified halal options. The abundance of vegetarian choices means you can still enjoy a fantastic meal, but those specifically seeking halal meat dishes might need to explore other options.
Dining at Shukette: Reservations, Pricing & Experience
Planning a visit to Shukette means preparing for both an investment and an trip. You’ll typically spend $50-$75 per person for a proper feast, with individual plates ranging from $8 for their famous breads to $32 for show-stopping mains like the Fish in a Cage. The pricing reflects the quality you’re getting – house-made everything, premium ingredients, and that coveted Chelsea location.
The moment you step inside, you’re hit with an energetic soundtrack that perfectly captures the marketplace vibe Chef Nurdjaja was going for. Some diners describe the noise level as “lively” and “busy” – think dinner party energy rather than quiet romantic evening. If you’re hoping for intimate whispered conversations, this might not be your spot. But if you want to feel the pulse of a busy Middle Eastern bazaar while staying in Manhattan, Shukette delivers exactly that atmosphere.
The restaurant truly shines with groups of 3-4 people. This sweet spot lets you sample across all those playfully named menu sections without ending up with a table full of leftovers. The share-plate format encourages everyone to try a little of everything, which is really how Middle Eastern dining is meant to be experienced.
Booking through Resy is essential – and we mean essential. Shukette‘s popularity means walking in without a reservation is usually a recipe for disappointment, especially on weekends.
Shukette represents a perfect example of how modern restaurants create experiences that go far beyond just serving food. The Rise of Experiential Dining explores this trend of restaurants becoming destinations for memorable moments.
How to Book, Best Times & Seating Tips
Getting a table at Shukette requires some planning and a bit of luck. The restaurant releases reservations on Resy, but those coveted weekend evening slots vanish faster than their frena bread. Your best strategy? Set up Resy alerts for your preferred dates and times. This way, you’ll get notified when cancellations pop up.
Here’s an insider tip: the 23-seat counter offers the absolute best experience in the house. You get front-row seats to watch the live-fire cooking magic happen, plus chances to chat with the chefs as they put finishing touches on dishes right in front of you. These counter spots often have better availability than regular tables, making them perfect for couples or adventurous solo diners.
One reviewer noted that counter service feels “machine-like efficient” while somehow maintaining genuine warmth – that’s the Shukette team working their magic. You’ll watch your meal come together while learning about the ingredients and techniques from the people actually cooking your food.
If you’re feeling spontaneous, your walk-in strategy should focus on opening time. Arrive right at 5pm on weekdays or 4pm on Sundays for your best shot at snagging a seat. Weekend lines can form quickly, so having a backup plan (maybe exploring Chelsea Market nearby) is always smart.
Shukette vs Shuka
While Shukette and its older sibling Shuka share the same culinary DNA, they offer completely different dining personalities. Shuka, which opened in Soho back in 2015, maintains a more refined, restaurant-like atmosphere. Shukette, on the other hand, fully accepts the chaotic energy of a Middle Eastern marketplace.
The menu overlap includes some signature dishes, but Shukette takes the playful approach much further. Those whimsical section names like “When You Dip, I Dip” and “Rip This” perfectly capture the restaurant’s personality – it’s serious about food but doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The atmosphere contrast tells the whole story. Shuka feels like a sophisticated restaurant that happens to serve Middle Eastern cuisine. Shukette feels like you’ve been transported to a busy bazaar that happens to be located in Chelsea. The open kitchen and wraparound counter create an immersive experience that puts you right in the middle of the action.
Both restaurants showcase Chef Nurdjaja’s incredible talents, but Shukette represents her vision fully releaseed – a place where the infectious energy of Middle Eastern markets comes alive in modern Manhattan.
Reviews, Accolades & Community Buzz
The buzz around Shukette isn’t just hype – it’s backed by serious recognition from both critics and everyday diners. The restaurant has earned its place on the New York Times Top 100 restaurants list year after year, a testament to its staying power in a city where restaurants come and go faster than subway trains.
The numbers tell part of the story: 4.5 stars across TripAdvisor reviews and consistently glowing feedback from online review platforms. But what’s really impressive is how customer feedback consistently mentions the same things that caught critics’ attention from day one – mainly, an obsession with those incredible house-made breads and genuine warmth from the service team.
Chef Nurdjaja’s 2022 James Beard Award nomination for Best Chef NY put Shukette on the national culinary map, while her recent selection as a judge for the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024-25 shows her growing influence beyond just running a great restaurant. These accolades cement the restaurant’s position in New York’s competitive dining scene.
What Diners & Critics Say About Shukette
If there’s one thing that unites every review of Shukette, it’s the bread obsession. Seriously – try to find a review that doesn’t mention those house-made varieties with near-religious devotion. One food writer summed it up perfectly: “Bread is one of the most powerful tools in a restaurant’s arsenal, and Shukette wields it masterfully.”
The service warmth gets just as much love in reviews. Diners consistently praise servers who don’t just take orders but actually guide you through the menu, explaining dishes and sharing the stories behind them. The open kitchen setup means you might even chat directly with the chefs – several reviewers mention getting insider tips on the best dishes or hearing personal stories that made their meal feel special.
The value debate does surface in some reviews, and honestly, it’s pretty split. Some diners find the portions generous for Chelsea prices, while others feel certain dishes don’t quite justify their cost. The tuna meatballs seem to be the most divisive – some call them “overcooked” while others rave about the unique preparation.
The noise level critique appears in a fair number of reviews, though most frame it as part of the authentic market atmosphere rather than a real complaint. As one regular put it: “It’s loud, but it’s the good kind of loud – like being in the middle of something exciting.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Shukette
Is Shukette suitable for vegans or vegetarians?
Shukette is surprisingly accommodating for plant-based diners, especially considering it’s known for its live-fire grilled meats. Vegetarians will feel right at home with the extensive options in “When You Dip, I Dip” and “The Shuk” sections, where dishes like labneh with pomegranate seeds and various vegetable mezze shine.
What makes Shukette special for vegans is the staff’s willingness to adapt. Multiple diners have reported that servers happily “veganize” dishes by swapping dairy-based spreads for hummus or other plant-based alternatives. The tahini soft serve deserves special mention – it’s both vegan and absolutely delicious, proving that plant-based desserts can be just as indulgent.
The share-plate format actually works in favor of mixed groups, allowing vegetarians and meat-eaters to order together without anyone feeling left out. Just remember that while the kitchen is flexible, it’s always worth mentioning your dietary preferences when you arrive.
What is the average price per person at Shukette?
Most diners should budget $50-$75 per person at Shukette, though your final bill depends heavily on how adventurous you’re feeling. The menu spans from $8 breads (which you absolutely must try) to $32 premium dishes like the famous Fish in a Cage.
The share-plate concept can actually work in your favor cost-wise. Groups of three or four can sample widely across the menu without breaking the bank, while couples might find themselves spending closer to the higher end if they want to experience multiple sections.
Don’t forget to factor in drinks – Shukette’s wine and cocktail program adds to the experience but also to your tab. Most diners find the pricing fair for the quality and the Chelsea location, though portion sizes spark occasional debate in reviews.
Does Shukette host private events or offer takeout?
Shukette does accommodate private events, though you’ll need to reach out directly through their website to discuss options with their event coordinator. The restaurant’s energetic atmosphere and open kitchen make it an interesting choice for group celebrations.
For those nights when you’re craving Shukette’s flavors but want to stay home, both takeout and delivery are available. While you’ll miss the theatrical open-kitchen experience and the communal energy that makes dining at Shukette so special, the food travels well enough to satisfy your cravings.
The restaurant’s official website has all the ordering details for off-premise dining. Just don’t expect the same magic – part of Shukette’s charm is watching Chef Nurdjaja’s team work their live-fire magic while you’re seated at that coveted counter.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dining experience that captures the soul of a Middle Eastern marketplace right in the heart of Manhattan, Shukette should be at the top of your list. Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja has created something truly special here – a vibrant Chelsea hotspot where exceptional food meets infectious energy.
What makes Shukette unforgettable isn’t just one thing. It’s the way the frena bread emerges from the wood-fired oven with that perfect char. It’s watching the chefs work their magic at the live-fire grill while you sit at the counter. It’s the genuine warmth of servers who guide you through the playful menu sections with enthusiasm and knowledge.
The restaurant succeeds because it doesn’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, Shukette commits fully to its vision of recreating bazaar energy through chef-driven flavors and communal dining. Whether you’re sharing the theatrical Fish in a Cage with friends or savoring that legendary tahini soft serve, every bite reinforces why this place has earned its spot on the New York Times Top 100 list.
Yes, you’ll need to book early – sometimes weeks in advance for prime slots. Yes, it gets loud and energetic. But that’s all part of the charm. Shukette delivers an experience that stays with you long after the last bite, embodying everything that makes New York’s dining scene so dynamic and exciting.
Ready to find more exceptional dining trips? Explore our comprehensive guide to Best Culinary Experiences for more curated recommendations from The Dining Destination.
