Welcome to Balkh Shish Kabab House
"OUR STORY"
Balkh Shish Kabab House, an Afghan gem in NYC, has been serving authentic and high-quality Afghan cuisine since 1997. Known for massive portions and affordable prices, this cozy spot offers a wide range of dishes from lamb shank to beef dumplings with yogurt sauce. The national dish, Kabuli Pulao, is a must-try marinated lamb with rice, carrots, and raisins. With friendly service and a laid-back vibe, Balkh Shish Kabab House is a treasure for those seeking homely Afghan flavors in Astoria. Don't miss out on their signature lamb shank, manto, and pumpkin turnovers for a truly satisfying dining experience.
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2310 31st St Astoria, NY 111052310 31st St Astoria, NY 11105 Hotline: (718) 721-5020
Welcome to Balkh Shish Kabab House, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Astoria, NY. Since 1997, this unassuming eatery has been serving up authentic Afghan cuisine, inviting diners into a world of rich flavors and hearty portions. Located at 2310 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105, the restaurant proudly holds a Halal certification, ensuring that every dish meets the dietary standards of its patrons.
The moment you step into Balkh Shish Kabab House, you experience an ambiance that is warm and welcoming, embodying the spirit of a traditional Afghan eatery. Though it may lack the frills of some modern establishments, the focus here is on high-quality food that speaks for itself. The staff, often described as friendly and attentive, adds to the overall positive dining experience, even as they traverse the challenges of a busy restaurant environment.
One of the standouts on the menu is the Kabuli Pulao, a beloved national dish of Afghanistan. It features marinated lamb served over seasoned rice mixed with sweet carrots and raisins. Reviewers rave about the tenderness of the meat, which seems to melt in your mouth with every bite. This dish encapsulates the essence of Balkh's offerings — generous portions that can easily satisfy two diners.
Other notable entrees include the Combo Kabab, a delightful mix of boneless chicken, lamb tikka, and beef keema that presents a taste experience to remember. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try the Fish Kabab, featuring fresh salmon marinated in Balkh’s special blend of spices. The Chicken Korma is equally spectacular, boasting tender chicken enveloped in fragrant herbs and spices. Every dish is crafted with love and passion, evident in every bite.
Don’t overlook the side orders, either. The Sabzi, fresh spinach cooked with lamb, is a perfect complement to any main dish. And let’s not forget a finishing touch — the Baklava, a dessert that perfectly encapsulates the sweetness of the East with its thin layers of pastry, honey, and nuts. At just $3, it’s an unmissable treat to round off your meal.
Balkh Shish Kabab House may not boast extravagant decor or cutting-edge amenities, but it more than makes up for this with its commitment to delivering flavorful, authentically Afghan food. Each plate offers a massive portion at a reasonable price, a trait appreciated by locals and newcomers alike. So, whether you find yourself craving kababs or in search of a cozy spot to enjoy comforting food, Balkh Shish Kabab House promises a satisfying and memorable culinary journey.
Visit today or call (718) 721-5020 for takeout, and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience!
This is one of the best Afghan places in NYC and has actually been open since 1997. It is not a fancy place, but is a place to get some high quality and authentic Afghan food. And best of all, the portions of food are absolutely massive. Each individual plate of food here is big enough to fit two people. Their prices have gone up in recent years, so it is not as good of a deal as before. They are still very affordable though at about $18 to $24 for a plate of food. I recommend getting the kabuli pulao, which is the national dish of Afghanistan. It is marinated lamb with rice and carrots and raisins. The meat was so tender and just fell of the bone. With all of their plates, you can upgrade them into combos for a few dollars, with different kinds of meat added.
Great food. The owner is very nice some of the dishes there is a lot of rice and not much meat but it still excellent. Definitely recommend getting rice with carrots and raisins and try the lamb or beef kebab. Such nice waiters too. 10/10 would recommend
A nice little small local halal restaurant~ they are super nice and the food was amazingggg. Got the combo one tikka and kema kabob!! We dined in but there is no air conditioning so just be prepared to sweat! They also dont serve ice for some reason. But if ur willing to be hot while eating its a really chill as the servers are nice and check up on you. Great halal food and good vibes. Just lack of AC and ice is the only thing I gotta say.
Food was amazing and very filling. We got these beef dumplings that are boiled as an appetizer and they were amazing, it comes with like a yogurt sauce. The ambience wasn't crazy it's a small mom and pop restaurant. You see the man cooking your kebabs. The service was a bit slow because there was like only one server and we went during a busy time. The food was amazing though so worth the wait. 4 stars because the service was so slow so if you go don't expect prompt service.
Once upon a time i came here about a decade ago and had a great meal Today i revisit and since it has grown exceptionally in flavor and quality. The ambiance is nice and cozy and the service was a bit busy. i got the front page menu Kabli Pulao combo as well as the beef mandoo. the lamb shank was incredible and the chicken kebab pieces was the best i ever had. the Mandoo was pretty good but the Kabli is the star of the show. they gave us dates and water bottles as well. i enjoyed it very much and can say i can't wait to go back again soon this place is the Gem of Ditmars Queens 10/10 A++ a Must go!
Best Kabuli Palao in NY! My brother comes from out of state to have their lamb shank. He says there's no place better. Honestly, I agree, but I've cut down on eating meat, so I always order the salmon kabob. It's always cooked to perfection. The owner is one of the nicest people. This place is a treasure. Happy Yelping!
One of the best Afghan food in NYC. Their specialty is their lamb shank and manto. Their kababs are good but not great. Good service and best green tea!
My go-to place for Afghani cuisine. Can't beat the price, portions, and homely service. Usual ordered items - Pumpkin turnovers Lamb stuffed dumplings Chicken Shish Kebab Mixed grill Lamb Shank w/ steamed carrots and raisins (kabuli rice) Enjoy the friendly staff, including the owner himself and the aroma of all the kebabs being grilled over flame by the entrance. A true gem for a hole in the wall in Astoria.