Zooba Nolita Bids Farewell: The Rise, Challenges, and What’s Next
By Islam Salah
Zooba, the Egyptian fast-casual restaurant that made a bold splash in New York City’s Nolita neighborhood, is closing its doors on December 5th. For fans of its authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere, this news hits hard.
But for founder Chris Khalifa, the closure is especially bittersweet—it marks the end of a chapter that began with his family’s leap of faith from Cairo to the Big Apple. Here’s a look at some of the triumphs, trials, and tribulations that he shared.
From Cairo to New York: A Dream Realized
Zooba’s journey to New York was nothing short of a bold venture. Bringing the spirit of Egyptian street food to Nolita, the restaurant quickly established itself as a cultural ambassador.
Its menu—featuring staples like koshari, taameya, and hawawshi—introduced countless New Yorkers to the rich, layered flavors of Egypt, many for the very first time.
The reception was nothing short of remarkable. Zooba’s Nolita location garnered glowing reviews from both food lovers and critics alike. Eater named it one of the best new openings of 2019, and Bon Appétit included it on their prestigious top 100 NYC restaurants list.
But Zooba was never just about the food. It was about creating a space where community thrived. From its playful branding to its lively decor, everything about Zooba exuded a sense of joy and authenticity.
The Pandemic Curveball
Just as Zooba was gaining momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic arrived and turned the restaurant industry upside down. For Zooba, the timing couldn’t have been worse—plans for a second location in Flatiron were shelved, and the Nolita restaurant temporarily closed.
But the Zooba team persevered. They built an outdoor dining shed that even caught the attention of The New York Times and pushed through two grueling years of recovery.
By 2022, things were looking up. Zooba had even made appearances on popular shows like And Just Like That and Ramy.
A Tough Goodbye
Unfortunately, in late 2023, sales began to decline—a trend that continued into 2024. Despite efforts to adapt, including a brief pivot to full-service dining, Zooba couldn’t regain its footing. The decision to close the Nolita location wasn’t made lightly but became inevitable.
Zooba’s last day of operation will be December 5th, marking the end of an era in Nolita. Reflecting on the journey, Chris expressed pride in what Zooba achieved. It wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a bridge between cultures, a slice of home for Egyptians, and a culinary revelation for others.
Looking Ahead
While the closure marks the end of an era for Nolita, it’s far from the end of Zooba’s story. Chris reassured fans that Zooba would return to the U.S. in a new location. Until then, the memories of its incredible presence and its role in popularizing Egyptian street food will live on.
We Also Said: Don’t Miss It…Zooba Raised USD 4 Million To Expand Into New York City
