TLDR
Iconic, oval-shaped falafel and authentic, halal-certified Mediterranean eats with a long-standing reputation in Astoria.
Reddit Sentiment for KING OF FALAFEL & SHAWARMA(based on 39 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
King of Falafel and Shawarma was the first stop on the Astoria food crawl, highly praised for its chicken shawarma pita. The reviewer noted the chicken's excellent quality and the perfectly balanced sauce ratios. Additionally, customers receive a complimentary falafel while waiting, which the reviewer considers arguably the best in Astoria, making it a standout stop for Middle Eastern street food.
Details
Renowned for its iconic oval-shaped falafel and authentic Mediterranean flavors, this institution has evolved from a beloved street cart into a fixture of the Astoria food scene [1]. While many long-time patrons remain fiercely loyal, citing the high-quality marinated chicken and signature hot sauce, others debate whether the transition to a storefront has impacted its former consistency [2]. The establishment remains a staple for those seeking traditional, halal-certified Middle Eastern fare [3].
Food Overview
The menu is anchored by highly-praised falafel that features a solid crunch [1], often served alongside tender marinated chicken thighs [2]. Customers frequently recommend the 'Ashley platter' [3] and the chicken over rice [4], while also highlighting the quality of the fresh pita and pickled vegetables [1][2].
Highlights / Recommended
"The 'Ashley platter' and the chicken over rice are frequently recommended menu highlights [3][4]. The falafel is also noted for its superior texture when fried to order [1]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •falafel(6)
Customer Sentiment
Sentiment remains largely positive due to the restaurant's nostalgic value and consistent quality, though a segment of the customer base suggests that the transition from a street cart to a permanent location has led to occasional inconsistencies [2].
Caveats
Some long-time patrons feel the quality has declined compared to the original food cart experience, with occasional reports of dry meat [2]. Additionally, the interior decor of the brick-and-mortar location is described by some as uniquely intense or political [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About KING OF FALAFEL & SHAWARMA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where Can I Find The Best Falafel Any
"Excellent quality available at the Bayside location as well."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Falafel Any
"Long-time customer of over 15 years."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Falafel Any
"Outstanding falafel with elite hot sauce."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Falafel Any
"The cart at Park & 53 offers fresh falafel while waiting."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Falafel Any
"Highly recommended for their oval-shaped falafel which offers a solid crisp and their use of fresh pita from Angel's Bakery."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find The Best Falafel Any
"Considers it the best, but warns that the brick-and-mortar location's interior decor is uniquely intense/political."
PositiveFrom post: Best Syrian Shawarma In Nyc Ive Been Looking For
"This user mentioned King of Falafel on 31st Ave in Astoria as a good spot, while noting most places in Astoria are likely Lebanese or Palestinian."
PositiveFrom post: Ferry Rides Abd Restaurants Recs Ideas
"King of Falafel was listed as a potential food discovery in Astoria for ferry rides."
NeutralFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"Suggests getting chicken over rice from King of Falafel in Astoria."
PositiveFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"Suggests getting chicken over rice from King of Falafel in Astoria."
PositiveFrom post: Falafel Fried To Order
"The commenter recommends the brick and mortar location of King of Falafel, stating the falafel is always hot and fresh. They also mention that the staff often provides a sample while you wait."
PositiveFrom post: Falafel Fried To Order
"King of Falafel and Schwarma in Queens is suggested as a potential place that fries falafel to order, noting that the items are always hot and seem fresh from the fryer."
PositiveFrom post: Halal Carts Astoria
"This user mentions King of Falafel is a short walk away and has transitioned from a cart to a storefront. They also recommend exploring Steinway Street for other highly-rated halal food options like Duzan or Zyara."
PositiveFrom post: Halal Carts Astoria
"This comment suggests King of Falafel as a good alternative to The Halal Guys and Adel's in Astoria, noting it has fewer wait times. A website for reviewing halal carts is also provided."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user believes King of Falafel & Shawarma serves authentic shawarma, distinguishing it from 'fake Greek stuff'."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user lives near King of Falafel & Shawarma and finds it consistently solid."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user believes King of Falafel & Shawarma was better over a decade ago when they operated as a cart on Broadway in Astoria, and quality declined after opening the restaurant."
NegativeFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user likes King of Falafel & Shawarma but finds it a long trip from Brooklyn."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user acknowledges that Duzan was also highly recommended and turned out to be a great experience."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user states that King of Falafel & Shawarma's food was extremely dry and that Duzan nearby is a much better option."
Negative