Welcome to Ya hala
At Ya Hala, our story is steeped in the rich traditions of Mediterranean cuisine, featuring flavor-packed dishes crafted with the finest ingredients. Located in Albany, NY, our restaurant invites you to explore vibrant menu offerings, from sumptuous lamb gyros to fresh salads, all expertly prepared to tantalize your taste buds. Customers rave about the exceptional quality, generous portions, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by our friendly staff. With each visit, we aim to deliver a memorable dining experience that celebrates the essence of Mediterranean flavors. At Ya Hala, every meal is a heartfelt invitation to savor the joy of sharing great food with family and friends.
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577 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States Hotline: +1 518-977-3044
Welcome to Ya Hala, a delightful culinary oasis nestled at 577 New Scotland Ave in Albany, NY. This charming establishment is becoming a local favorite, earning rave reviews for its authentic Mediterranean flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional service. With a phone line open at +1 518-977-3044, Ya Hala is poised to become your next go-to destination for a satisfying meal.
Stepping into Ya Hala, you are greeted by a cozy space adorned with subtle décor that sets the tone for an inviting dining experience. The menu offers a rich variety, from tantalizing appetizers to vibrant salads and flavorful main dishes. Each dish showcases the quality of ingredients paired with authentic Mediterranean recipes that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the region.
- Appetizers: Start your meal with crispy Onion Rings ($6.50), seasonal Fries ($5.25), or indulge in the cheesy goodness of Mozzarella Sticks ($9.25). For something heartier, the Wings ($9.75) or Chicken Tenders ($8.00) offer a satisfying crunch.
- Salads: Choose from refreshing options like the Middle Eastern Salad ($10.50) or the classic Caesar Salad ($10.50). The ability to "Create Your Own Salad" for just $5.25 allows for a personalized touch that every health-conscious patron will appreciate.
One dish that has become a signature at Ya Hala is the Lamb Gyro. Customers like Mohammad Atikur Rahman Bhuyan have praised its beautifully plated presentation, tender meat, and vibrant flavors that come together in an unforgettable culinary experience. The smoky aroma of perfectly grilled lamb, balanced by fresh toppings and a luscious tzatziki sauce, makes every bite a cherished moment.
Another highlight is the engaging and friendly service. Customers frequently commend the staff for their energetic approach and the personal touch they bring to each visit. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner, the warm atmosphere and attentive service make you feel right at home, as reflected in reviews from satisfied patrons like Omar Khan and Rachel Kreher.
For those who love variety, Ya Hala does not disappoint. With dishes that span from beef shawarma to falafel gyros, there is always something to try. The generous portion sizes mean you’ll leave satisfied, making it perfect for fulfilling meals shared with family and friends.
With its stellar reputation, it’s easy to see why Ya Hala has garnered a remarkable 4.9-star rating on Google. As you contemplate your next meal, consider stopping by Ya Hala for a culinary experience that promises not only satisfaction but memories worth sharing. You won’t just be a diner here; you’ll feel part of a community united by a love for flavorful Mediterranean cuisine.
In conclusion, if you're in Albany or just passing through, make it a point to visit Ya Hala. The blend of quality food, friendly service, and inviting ambiance ensures a dining experience that will keep you coming back for more.
The food is very good. Some of the best quality around. Service is excellent. A variety of great options on the menu. Just had a mango habanero chicken and steak gyro with fries. Will be back soon. Appreciate the food Sal!!
I tried the Lamb Gyro It was 9 out of 10 I recently had the pleasure of trying the lamb gyro at a local Ya Hala restaurant, and it was truly a delightful experience from start to finish. Here's my detailed review: **Appearance and Presentation:** The lamb gyro arrived beautifully plated, wrapped in warm, soft pita bread and neatly tucked with fresh vegetables. The meat was thinly sliced and perfectly grilled, giving it a tempting golden-brown color. The presentation was simple yet inviting, promising a satisfying meal. **Taste and Flavor:** Upon the first bite, the flavors burst in my mouth. The lamb was exceptionally tender and juicy, with a distinct smoky flavor from the grill. It was seasoned just right with a blend of Mediterranean spices that enhanced rather than overwhelmed the natural taste of the meat. The combination of tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce provided a refreshing contrast, adding layers of texture and taste to every bite. **Texture and Consistency:** The pita bread was soft yet sturdy enough to hold the generous portion of lamb and veggies without falling apart. Each bite offered a satisfying mix of textures—crisp vegetables, creamy tzatziki, and succulent lamb—which made every mouthful enjoyable and balanced. **Overall Experience:** Eating the lamb gyro was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The quality of the ingredients was evident, and each component complemented the others perfectly. The portion size was generous, ensuring that I left feeling fully satisfied. The service was prompt and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. **Final Thoughts:** In conclusion, the lamb gyro at this restaurant exceeded my expectations in every way. It's a dish I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a delicious and fulfilling Mediterranean meal. Whether you're a fan of lamb or simply looking to try something new, this gyro is definitely worth a try. I'll certainly be returning to indulge in this delightful dish again soon.
Ya Hala is super delicious The staff are friendly, energetic and pleasant! If you are in Albany or passing through, stop here for a bite to eat.... you will not be disappointed!!
I had a fantastic experience here during my first visit. My mother works nearby and we stopped by for lunch afterwards. I tried the Falafel Gyro and it was delicious! Generous portions and very flavorful. Everything was fresh and tasty, falafel, lettuce, tomato and white and red sauces were all perfect. The prices were very reasonable too. My mother enjoyed her order too, she had a plate with meat, rice, fries and salad and she said it was all delicious. Very friendly service as well, the staff was very kind. I highly recommend stopping by or ordering takeout as well. The parking is street parking but I was able to find a free spot nearby very easily. The dining area is small and informal but there were tables available when we stopped by on a Tuesday afternoon. I noticed a steady stream of customers but the food was prepared fresh on the griddle and served quickly. Check them out! We will be back!
This place serves incredible food—truly the best I’ve ever had! If you love lamb, you're in for a treat. The lamb gyros, lamb chops, and lamb tacos are all absolutely phenomenal—tender, perfectly cooked, and paired with the most delicious sauces. The flavor is just out of this world. On top of that, the staff is exceptionally friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience even better. Outstanding service and mind-blowingly good food!
We stopped by here on the way back to NYC from Vermont. The food definitely exceeded our expectations, but the service is what stood out. The owners were so nice and appreciative to have us at their restaurant. We ordered many different dishes and everyone loved their food. We left so stuffed and happy with the experience. Highly recommend!
I had to try the place that has 4.9 stars on Google. The owner is super nice — very charismatic! He’s confident in his creations — so confident that once he found out I went to culinary school and work in the industry, he had to show me his stuff. And man, was it good. Everything was well-seasoned and balanced, paired with a delicious salad. I’ll definitely be coming back again.
Tonight was our first time going to Ya hala for dinner. It was fantastic! We had a beef shawarma platter and a lamb & beef shawarma platter. Everything tasted delicious! I told my dining companion I was fighting to keep my eyes from rolling back into my head from happiness. Everything was fresh, hot, and full of flavor! Sal & his team were so friendly. They were cracking jokes with us and taking about the different menu items, all while hustling to get us fed. And, we tried their tacos! OH MY GOD THE TACOS! So freaking good! 10/10 recommendation! Please, for the love of god, go and try Ya hala! You won't regret it.