TLDR
A pretty, hip Turkish spot on the UWS housed in a cozy townhouse; perfect for a romantic date or a relaxed brunch.
Details
Located in a cozy, townhouse-style setting on the Upper West Side, this Turkish destination is a popular choice for romantic date nights and casual outings [3], [10], [11]. While many diners laud the serene patio and balanced brunch menu [8], others have noted that the experience can feel hectic or club-like in the evenings due to a resident DJ [12]. Despite varying opinions on the food's intensity, it remains a frequently recommended neighborhood staple for those seeking a hip, accessible Mediterranean atmosphere [4], [6], [14].
Food Overview
This establishment specializes in Turkish cuisine, offering a balanced selection of sweet and savory brunch items [8]. While some patrons find the food very good [13], others have characterized the flavors as somewhat bland [9]. Mihlama is a notable breakfast dish associated with the menu [15].
Highlights / Recommended
"The restaurant is specifically suggested as a location to find Mihlama, a hot Turkish breakfast dish [15]."
Caveats
Some diners have noted that the restaurant can become hectic or experience a shift to a club-like atmosphere when a DJ is present in the evenings [12]. Additionally, opinions on the flavor profile of the dishes are inconsistent, with some finding the food to be bland [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About LEYLA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Favorite Middle Eastern Restaurant In New York
"Mentioned as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Dinner Spots For Taking Out Visiting Parents In
"Leyla is suggested as a good choice for dining."
PositiveFrom post: Dinner Spots For Taking Out Visiting Parents In
"Leyla is described as a nice spot for dining."
PositiveFrom post: Where To Eat Turkish Breakfast In Nyc Must Have
"The user suggested Leyla on the Upper West Side for Turkish breakfast, noting that their homepage features a picture of Mihlama."
NeutralFrom post: Recommendations For Out Of Town Guest Uws Or West
"Leyla was listed as a nice option on the UWS."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Date Night Options Around Central Park
"Leyla is one of the recommended restaurants for a date night."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Date Night Options Around Central Park
"This is a cozy and romantic spot that fits the criteria for a casual date night."
PositiveFrom post: Might Be An Unpopular Take But I Had A Truly
"Despite finding the atmosphere hectic, the commenter felt the food at Laila was very good."
PositiveFrom post: Might Be An Unpopular Take But I Had A Truly
"The commenter found the food at Laila to be average, preferring Tanoreen. They also noted that the DJ at night created a club-like atmosphere, which detracted from the dining experience."
NegativeFrom post: Solo Brunch In Midtownuws
"This user commented that while Leyla is conveniently located, they found the food to be somewhat bland."
NegativeFrom post: Solo Brunch In Midtownuws
"This user recommended Leyla as a lovely Turkish spot on the UWS for brunch, noting it has a good balance of savory and sweet dishes and a serene patio."
PositiveFrom post: Best Turkish Food In Manhattan
"This user agrees with the recommendation of Leyla as a great Turkish restaurant in Manhattan."
PositiveFrom post: Best Turkish Food In Manhattan
"This user recommends Leyla as a terrific Turkish restaurant in Manhattan, in response to a recommendation for Bodrum."
PositiveFrom post: Greek Food Near Or Around Midtown
"The user found Leyla to look amazing after it was recommended as a hip small Turkish place."
PositiveFrom post: Greek Food Near Or Around Midtown
"Leyla is a very pretty, hip, and small Turkish place on the Upper West Side, considered a good option with easy subway or Uber access to the theater."
PositiveFrom post: Restaurants Built Into Townhouses
"This restaurant was suggested as an option with cozy vibes, fitting the criteria of being built into a townhouse."
NeutralFrom post: Tiny Restaurants In Nyc On The Upper West Side
"Recommended Leyla and also Osteria 106, noting that Osteria 106 is cozy but not between brownstones."
NeutralFrom post: Tiny Restaurants In Nyc On The Upper West Side
"Recommended Leyla."
Neutral