Port Sa’id: Where Music and Gastronomy Unite

In New York City, a unique dining experience can be found at Port Sa’id, where custom-built wooden speakers set the scene with vinyl tunes. Contrary to the stereotype that great food and DJs do not mix, this venue defies expectations by offering quality cuisine alongside a carefully curated musical atmosphere.

Reimagining the Culinary Soundscape

The dining room at Port Sa’id comes alive with a variety of genres swirling from night to night, thanks to precise sound systems and a rich collection of records. The collaboration between Israeli chef Eyal Shani and the audio collective Teder.FM results in a space that balances lively music with the ability to enjoy conversation and savor the menu’s Middle Eastern flavors. The concept draws inspiration from Japanese listening bars, providing a backdrop of global sounds for the culinary offerings.

A Menu That Harmonizes With the Beat

Dishes are as dynamic as the music, with a playful yet straightforward approach to cuisine. One can indulge in a whole roasted lubina, generously dressed with tahini and zhug, or explore the mezze plate featuring a fresh array of vegetables and zesty olives. Prices remain approachable, aligning with Shani’s reputation for casual, high-energy dining experiences. However, the perfectly seasoned dishes truly bring his culinary expertise to the forefront, with flavorful lamb kebabs and standout 'minute steaks' proving that simplicity can be bold and expressive.

Atmosphere Echoing History and Culture

The interior evokes a vibrant street cafe in Tel Aviv blended with a nod to the legendary Paradise Garage, once located on the very site of Port Sa’id. The walls are adorned with Levantine tiles and a striking mural of musician Samy Elmaghribi, who overlooks the space, reinforcing the fusion of food, culture, and music. The restaurant’s atmosphere captures a past essence while forging a new path, where diners can enjoy exceptional flavors to the rhythm of global beats and, perhaps, half-listen to the history being spun on the turntables.

gastronomy, music, ambiance