Motek Brings Miami’s Mediterranean Charm to Flatiron
When Miami calls itself New York’s “sixth borough,” it isn’t just about the snowbirds—it’s about culture, flavor, and now, food. On September 15, 2025, Motek, the Miami-born Mediterranean restaurant that’s built a cult following across South Florida, officially opens its first New York City outpost at 928 Broadway in Flatiron.
The expansion comes from Happy Corner Hospitality, whose founder Charlie Levy spent two decades in New York before bringing his Mediterranean vision to Miami. With seven locations already thriving in Florida, from Aventura to South Beach, Motek’s arrival in New York feels less like a debut and more like a long-awaited homecoming. “Miami is often called the sixth borough of New York, so expanding here feels like a natural next step,” Levy says.
Seed-Oil-Free Dining in Manhattan
What sets Motek apart is more than its sunny interiors or Hebrew name (meaning “sweetheart”). The restaurant is among the first hospitality groups in the U.S. to be Seed Oil Free Certified™ by the Seed Oil Free Alliance. Every dish is prepared with premium olive oil, avocado oil, or real butter—an intentional pivot from industrial seed oils that reflects Motek’s health-forward ethos. In a dining scene where wellness is increasingly intertwined with indulgence, Motek’s stance feels right on time.
A Menu Rooted in Flavor and Hospitality
Guests can expect signature Miami favorites:
Award-winning Arayes Burger (a Lebanese-inspired pita-stuffed delight)
Crispy Chicken Schnitzel with harissa aioli
Whole Mediterranean Branzino, grilled to perfection
A rainbow of hummus, labneh, and mezze served with warm, house-baked laffa from a pizza oven
Turkish lamb kebabs, Middle Eastern dumplings, and vibrant brunch dishes like shakshuka
Add to that an all-day brunch program and a playful $5 happy hour, and Motek slides neatly into New York’s dining rhythm while retaining its Miami ease.
A Space That Glows
Motek’s design DNA is instantly recognizable—bright, white-washed interiors accented with Mediterranean yellow, anchored by a central tree with branches that seem to grow through the room. It’s cozy but chic, a space that feels equally at home hosting brunch with friends or a late-night mezze spread with cocktails.
From Miami Darling to Manhattan Sweetheart
Since its launch in 2020, Motek has been more than a restaurant—it’s been a statement on the power of food rooted in family, culture, and community. By bringing its Miami charm to Manhattan, Motek isn’t just expanding its footprint; it’s creating a cultural bridge between two cities that already share a pulse.
Motek NYC opens to the public on September 15, 2025, at 928 Broadway in Flatiron. Reservations are now available via OpenTable.
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