Falafel Gourmet

195 Hardy Street, Nelson 7010, New Zealand
+64 3 545 6220
$$$ Cafeteria
(178 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Falafel Gourmet is a cafeteria-style spot on Hardy Street in Nelson where Middle Eastern flavors are served with a straightforward, no-frills approach that locals appreciate for its freshness and portion size. It’s the kind of place you might drop by for a quick but satisfying lunch or an early dinner, especially if you’re looking for a meal that feels both hearty and health-conscious.

The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a friendly, family-run vibe that comes through in the personal attention and warm service. You won’t find formal dining here, but rather efficient, approachable hospitality that makes it easy to try something new or stick to a well-loved classic.

The menu focus is clearly on generous platters packed with fresh vegetables, quality proteins, and vibrant spices. The lamb platter is frequently praised and often shared between two hungry people, but there are also smaller meat lover options that still deliver on taste and portion. Everything feels carefully prepared on-site, from the rich, creamy hummus to the well-marinated vegetables and sauces that bring balanced textures and bold but controlled spices to every bite.

This place attracts those with a taste for authentic Middle Eastern food — whether locals who crave fresh, healthy meals or travelers passing through wanting a genuine, satisfying plate without the fuss. Lunchtime or early evening visits are ideal for catching the kitchen at its freshest. While it’s not a sit-down restaurant experience, Falafel Gourmet’s quality and care in preparation turn quick meals into something memorable without needing to linger.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

178 Reviews
Royal Reed

06 Jan 2026

The best middle eastern meals. I had a small chicken meatlover platter. It was so generous in portion but I still finished it mostly myself because it was so fresh and tasty. The hummus is the best I have ever tried and I would think I have eaten no less than fifty middle eastern eatery in life. Perfect for healthy conscious people also due to the portion of vegetables and protein.

William Longbottom

29 Dec 2025

Really Authentic Food. Prepared on the premises. Staff were really friendly and helped me order. Appears to be family owned business with genuine caring. Highly recommended.

Kathryn Lewis

24 Dec 2025

Always absolutely delicious. My favorite is the lamb, meat platter. Perfect for 2 hungry people. Friendly and efficient service, tasty, healthy and fast. Highly recommend!

Yeelun Lai

19 Dec 2025

The best middle eastern food! Bold spices yet well balanced flavors, temperature, and texture! Every single item on the plate is a star; grilled pepper, marinated carrots, the sauces etc!!! I'd say it's a Michelin star worthy restaurant. The boss man is really friendly holding the shop by himself yet he spent time decorating a $3.50 cake, can feel his passion about food. Must try if you pass through Nelson

Rachel Bewley

16 Dec 2025

Seriously this was soooooo GOOD, so fresh and the lamb so tender. Absolutely delicious, the platters are perfect for 2 hungry people - you wll not be disappointed.

robert knight

08 Oct 2025

The owners of this charming authentic middle eastern restaurant/takeout in Nelson central prepare amazingly authentic food. My hummus & falafel plate/platter came with 4-5 healthy salads, trad sauces (mild)pita bread with zatar seasoning, olives , etc..truly healthy filling meal. Best in the southern hemisphere for sure!

Joel Zuriel

24 Sep 2025

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Best tasting food iv had in a while and an exquisite and unique take on kebab style dishes. Owner is very friendly and service was excellent. Took my wife for her birthday and we had a lamb rump share plate. she was not disappointed. Thank you

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