TLDR
An intimate, home-style Egyptian gem where the charismatic owner improvises delicious, market-driven menus. A legendary one-man operation that feels more like a private living room than a typical restaurant.
Sonal Shah reviews Kabab Cafe, an unassuming Astoria restaurant where owner Ali El Sayed is as much a draw as the Egyptian-inspired food, offering a personal and quirky dining experience.
Details
This intimate, home-style establishment in Astoria is defined entirely by its charismatic owner and chef, Ali El Sayed, who has been curating a personal, market-driven dining experience since 1989 [1]. The menu is largely improvised based on daily market finds, offering an adventurous and deeply personal journey that many diners compare to eating in a friend's living room [1], [2], [3]. While the pricing can be higher than expected for such a simple setting, the experience is widely regarded as a unique cultural institution that defies typical restaurant standards [1], [4].
Food Overview
The cuisine features authentic, Alexandrian-influenced Egyptian dishes that vary based on the chef's daily inspiration [6]. Recommended dishes include the mixed platter with Egyptian-style falafel and various dips [1], as well as tender lamb chops coated in pomegranate molasses [1]. Adventurous eaters may appreciate the creamy, cumin-spiced calves' brains [1], though some preparations, such as the roasted cauliflower, can be inconsistent [1].
Highlights / Recommended
"The mixed platter featuring falafel, hummus, and fava puree is a highly recommended starter [1]. For mains, the charred lamb chops with pomegranate molasses are a standout choice [1]."
Customer Sentiment
Visitors consistently describe the experience as exceptional and deeply personal, often attributing the high quality of the visit to the owner's legendary personality [1], [3], [5]. While almost universally praised, some note that the eccentric, surprise-menu style may not suit every diner's personal preferences [2].
Caveats
Guests should be prepared for a cash-only policy [4] and understand that the menu is non-fixed and relies entirely on the owner's daily market availability [1], [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About KABAB CAFE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Restaurants That Focus On Nose To Tailfull Animal
"The commenter notes that they used to serve many parts of the animal, such as brains and lamb testicles."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Restaurants Under 100 In Manhattan
"Recommended for those willing to travel to Astoria via bus from Harlem."
PositiveFrom post: What Kinds Of Nonrestaurant Food Experiences In
"This comment mentions Kabab Cafe and highlights the owner, Ali, as being quite a personality."
PositiveFrom post: Mediterranean Diet Traveler
"The user recommended Kabab Cafe on Steinway St in Astoria, noting that the owner/chef is accommodating. The original poster found the menu appealing and plans to visit."
PositiveFrom post: Where Should I Take My Uncle Offbrand Anthony
"After looking up Kebab Cafe and Chef Ali, the user found it to be an absolutely incredible and appealing option."
PositiveFrom post: Where Should I Take My Uncle Offbrand Anthony
"Kebab Cafe is recommended for adventurous Alexandrian cuisine, with Chef Ali cooking a unique meal based on his inspiration. It's a one-man operation and Bourdain praised Ali as a legend."
PositiveFrom post: 30 Cuisines From Around The World In Nyc
"This user stated that it has been a long time since they visited Kabab Cafe but is certain there is no better dining experience in NY, regardless of Michelin stars, than having Ali cook for you."
PositiveFrom post: 30 Cuisines From Around The World In Nyc
"The author found a video of Anthony Bourdain's visit to Kabab Cafe, agreeing it was a fun watch."
PositiveFrom post: 30 Cuisines From Around The World In Nyc
"Recalling Anthony Bourdain visiting Kabab Cafe, the user plans to suggest it to friends who have moved to Astoria."
PositiveFrom post: 30 Cuisines From Around The World In Nyc
"The author confirmed that Ali at Kabab Cafe is incredible and shared a link to an Instagram feature about him. They also noted that the restaurant is cash only and the menu varies based on the owner's market finds."
PositiveFrom post: 30 Cuisines From Around The World In Nyc
"This user expressed that Kabab Cafe has been added to their list of must-try spots, appreciating the post for highlighting unique places outside of typical 'top 10' lists."
PositiveFrom post: 30 Cuisines From Around The World In Nyc
"The author described Kabab Cafe as a place where the owner makes you feel like you're in his living room eating a homemade meal. They recommended blocking off a few hours for a weekend lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Please Help
"A recent visit to Kabab Cafe with friends yielded a mixed experience, with the commenter noting that the restaurant might not be suitable for everyone and suggesting it depends on individual preferences. They also mentioned that the surrounding neighborhood is predominantly "Little Egypt" and offers many Egyptian food options."
NeutralFrom post: Please Help
"The commenter describes Kabab Cafe as an exceptional dining experience, comparing it to having dinner at a friend's grandparents' house. They found the atmosphere and food to be amazing."
PositiveFrom post: Please Help
"This commenter expresses fondness for Kabab Cafe, recalling positive experiences on Friday nights when the owner would prepare a surprise menu. They found the food to be consistently delicious."
PositiveFrom post: Please Help
"The user suggests trying Kabab Cafe on Steinway Street in Brooklyn. The restaurant is small and doesn't have a fixed menu, with the owner often cooking based on his preference. They recommend explaining the situation to the owner and making a reservation, as he might be willing to prepare tarb."
Positive