TLDR
Authentic Middle Eastern spot in Astoria famous for crispy, oval-shaped falafel and juicy chicken shawarma. Iconic street-cart-turned-storefront known for fresh pita and legendary hot sauce.
Reddit Sentiment for KING OF FALAFEL & SHAWARMA(based on 40 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
The Chicken Shawarma Wrap from King of Falafel & Shawarma is featured for $10, with the added bonus of receiving a piece of falafel while waiting. The author's hands are shown holding a substantial wrap filled with chicken, vegetables, and sauces.
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
Originating from a popular street cart in Astoria, this spot is celebrated for its authentic Middle Eastern fare, particularly its signature oval-shaped falafel [33]. Many long-time patrons praise the consistent quality of the marinated chicken and fresh pita, often highlighting the owner's welcoming presence [6], [15], [33]. However, some diners feel the experience has declined since the transition to a brick-and-mortar establishment, occasionally noting issues with dryness or consistency [7], [14], [19], [21].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern staples, receiving high praise for its crispy, freshly fried falafel and marinated chicken thighs [6], [29], [33]. Customers frequently recommend the chicken over rice and chicken shawarma pita, often pairing them with fresh Palestinian salad and pickles [6], [26], [27]. While the food is widely considered elite, some diners have found the offerings dry compared to other local options [14], [21].
Highlights / Recommended
"The signature oval-shaped falafel is highly acclaimed for its perfect crisp [33]. Additionally, the chicken shawarma pita and chicken over rice are consistently recommended by regular patrons [6], [26], [27]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •falafel(6)
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment remains largely positive, with many customers considering it a staple for high-quality, reliable halal food [5], [12], [26]. Some visitors, however, express nostalgia for the original cart experience and occasionally report inconsistencies in food quality [7], [19], [21].
Caveats
Some long-time fans note a decline in consistency since the move to a storefront [7], [14], [19]. Additionally, the brick-and-mortar location features an intense, uniquely political interior decor that may be noticeable to some diners [37].
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."
Positive