Our Story

The Voice of Peace

Brought to you by restaurateur Simon Oren, and partner David Sasson, Dagon is a modern Israeli restaurant on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, serving food from across the Mediterranean. Inspiration for Dagon came from former Dutch cargo vessel MV Peace, which acted as an offshore radio station and broadcast from the Middle East for 20 years. Their motto — "from somewhere in the Mediterranean, we are the Voice of Peace."

Oren and Sasson both remember listening to the radio station while growing up, and wanted to bring that 70s warmth and optimism to their new home in New York. The restaurant's vintage wallpapers, light wood tables and chairs, and banquettes with ivory and chocolate colored cushions evoke la dolce vita — Tel Aviv style. 

In the kitchen, Executive Chef Ari Bokovza draws on his Tunisian and Israeli heritage to create a menu inspired by the many cultures and cuisines of the Levant. Playing on flavors from across the Middle East and North Africa, highlights from Dagon's menu include Sasso Chicken Liver with mustard seeds, date syrup, crispy shallot and baharat; Shishbarak: Lebanese mushroom filled dumplings, with warm yogurt, pine nuts, and spicy herb sauce; Harissa BBQ Chicken and Whole Roasted Branzino cooked over charcoal, with preserved lemon butter, and celery root. 

Beverage Director, Aviram Turgeman, oversees a creative cocktail list, using Mediterranean fruit, herbs and spices. A Wine Spectator Award of Excellence-rated wine list is also available, including a selection of kosher wines.