![[Sneak Peek] New Israeli Fast Casual “Elisha” by Paprika is Coming to Long Island • YeahThatsKosher](https://www.vitaminrush.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Elisha-kosher-great-neck-israeli-cuisine-logo-1024x948.jpeg "[Sneak Peek] New Israeli Fast Casual “Elisha” by Paprika is Coming to Long Island • YeahThatsKosher"){kind=logo}
The team behind Paprika in Great Neck is preparing to launch a new fast casual concept called Elisha, bringing a streamlined, street-food-style menu to Great Neck. The new spot will operate under VHQ kosher certification and is targeting a soft opening shortly after Passover, assuming final preparations stay on track.
One of Paprika’s owners, David Zaken, is naming the new restaurant after his father, Elisha Zaken Z”L, who passed away ten years ago. David’s wife & chef at Paprika, Roni, is also the brains behind Elisha’s new menu.
A Focus on Shawarma and Fast Casual Favorites
Elisha is being built around a strong shawarma program, with two rotisserie spits planned, one dedicated to beef and one to chicken. This setup positions the restaurant to deliver classic Israeli-style shawarma with consistency and speed, a key component of the fast casual format.
Beyond shawarma, the menu is designed to offer a mix of handheld items and plated options, with an emphasis on bold flavors and efficient service.
Menu Highlights and Returning Concepts
The menu is expected to be finalized within the week, but several items have already been confirmed. These include:
Pressed paninis, including the return of the “Toastie”, a concept originally introduced in 2017 by Paprika during its Manhattan days
Juicy hamburgers
Thin-sliced rib steak served in a pita
Challa schnitzel sandwiches
Pulled asado served in frena bread
Merguez cigars
Hummus sambusak
Additional items and rotating specials are expected, developed by Chef Roni, the chef behind Paprika’s menu.
Expanding the Paprika Brand in Great Neck
This new opening represents a continued expansion for the Paprika team, bringing a different format to the same market. While Paprika is known for its broader menu and sit-down experience, Elisha is positioned as a quicker, more accessible option focused on high-quality, fast casual dining.
Location and Opening Timeline
Elisha is planned to open at 25 Cutter Mill Road, Great Neck, NY, next door to Bravo Kosher Pizza.
The restaurant will be kosher certified by VHQ.
A soft opening is currently targeted for shortly after Passover, with more details expected once the menu is finalized and operations are ready to begin.
