TLDR
Queens' best falafel & shawarma, serving up consistently great halal eats since its cart days. A must-try for authentic Middle Eastern street food.
Reddit Sentiment for KING OF FALAFEL & SHAWARMA(based on 35 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
A long-standing favorite in Astoria, King of Falafel & Shawarma has been a go-to spot for many for over a decade [1]. Originally a cart, it has since transitioned into a storefront, maintaining its reputation for delicious Middle Eastern street food. The marinated chicken thighs and falafel are frequently highlighted as must-tries, with some even calling its falafel the best in the city [2].
Food Overview
King of Falafel & Shawarma is celebrated for its authentic Middle Eastern halal cuisine, with falafel and shawarma being the stars. Diners rave about the marinated chicken thighs and the crispy, freshly fried falafel, with one user's Palestinian mother-in-law calling it the best she's ever tasted [1]. Some patrons have specifically recommended the 'Ashley platter' [2] and the chicken over rice [3]. While most feedback is positive, a few have noted inconsistency or dryness compared to previous years [4].
Highlights / Recommended
"The marinated chicken thighs and the falafel are frequently praised, with many considering the falafel to be among the best in the city [1]. Other recommended dishes include the shawarma, chicken over rice, and the 'Ashley platter' [2]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •falafel(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customers overwhelmingly praise King of Falafel & Shawarma, with many considering its falafel and shawarma among the best they've ever had [1]. While some note a decline in quality from its earlier cart days, the majority still find it a solid and satisfying choice.
Caveats
While King of Falafel & Shawarma is highly regarded, some long-time patrons feel the quality has declined since its early days as a food cart. A few reviews mention the food being dry or inconsistent, and some suggest that newer establishments in Astoria may now offer superior options.
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About KING OF FALAFEL & SHAWARMA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From 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."
NegativeFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user praises the marinated chicken thighs at King of Falafel & Shawarma, enjoying them with salad, pickled vegetables, and chopped pita, also noting the good Palestinian salad."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user misses King of Falafel & Shawarma and thanks the poster for the mention, which brings back memories from Astoria."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"In response to criticism of King of Falafel & Shawarma, the user questions the palate of critics and defends the restaurant, finding it superior to Duzan."
PositiveFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user has tried King of Falafel & Shawarma twice and plans to return to try other menu items."
NeutralFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user believes King of Falafel & Shawarma has declined in quality and was one of their go-to spots previously."
NegativeFrom post: Mixed Shawarma Platter From King Of Falafel
"The user suggests that King of Falafel & Shawarma is past its prime, with better options available in Astoria now."
Negative