New York City, July 11, 2025 — Overthrow Hospitality, led by two-time James Beard Award nominee Ravi DeRossi, announces the opening of Al-Andalus, an Andalusian tapas bar in Manhattan’s East Village. Inspired by the Arabic proverb “there is salt and bread between us,” the restaurant reimagines Spanish tapas through the lens of Arab-Andalusian history.
Helmed by acclaimed Executive Chef Amira Gharib and designed by her sister Nora Gharib of Gharib Studio, Al-Andalus is a tribute to their Egyptian roots. Drawing from the time when the Arab world shaped Spanish cuisine, Chef Amira infuses MENA—Middle Eastern, North African—flavors to create dishes such as Harissa-spiced Spanish tortilla; Mahshy Koronb, stuffed cabbage with caraway and allspice; Ta’ameya, an Egyptian falafel; Pan con Tomate with Harissa Butter; and Baladi Bread Layered with Za’atar, Labneh, and Emmer Flour.
“Amira and I have been working together for a very long time, and it has been quite the honor to watch her develop a menu that comes from her roots, her motherland,” said Ravi DeRossi. “I have always thought she was a brilliant chef, and I believe this menu is by far the best she has ever created.”
“It’s a dream being able to work side-by-side with my sister on this incredible Overthrow Hospitality project, infusing our heritage into both the design and menu,” said Chef Amira Gharib. “I cannot wait to share the flavors of our background and extended family with guests.”
Beverage director Drew Brady curates natural wines from Turkey, Lebanon, Spain, and Italy, while lead bartender Joe Masse crafts MENA-inspired cocktails like the Cezve Martini with Lebanese coffee and cardamom, and Na’Na Iced Tea with Marrakech mint tea and tequila.
The intimate 40-seat space blends jewel tones, Moroccan zellige tiles, hand-hammered brass lanterns from Cairo, and Egyptian ceramics, creating a warm, family-home atmosphere. Al-Andalus invites New Yorkers to experience a vibrant fusion of cultures, where the warmth of hospitality meets the artistry of Arab-Andalusian cuisine.
Al-Andalus is located at 511 East 5th Street between Avenues A and B in New York City’s East Village. The restaurant is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Image credits: Al-Andalus
