12 best Afghan restaurants in New York City
Discover the rich flavors and cultural experience of Afghan cuisine at the various Afghan restaurants in NYC. From traditional pilaf and kebabs to savory dumplings and vegetarian options, these restaurants showcase the unique blend of Middle Eastern and Central Asian influences found in Afghan cooking. Treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through "Afghan restaurants in NYC".
1. Ariana Afghan Kebab
Authentic Afghan flavors in the heart of New York City

Ariana Afghan Kebab is a beloved establishment known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. The prices may be a bit higher than some other moderate restaurants, but the quality of the dishes makes it worthwhile. The staff members are friendly and attentive, providing excellent service and contributing to the overall positive dining experience.
The menu features a variety of tasty options, including the highly recommended lamb kofta kebab. The kebab is perfectly seasoned and cooked, bursting with flavor in every bite. To complement the meal, diners can try the Exciting Tea, a unique and flavorful beverage. The dessert menu also offers a standout option in the almond & pistachio firnee, a sweet and creamy treat that perfectly finishes off the meal. Despite the cozy size of the restaurant, the warm and comfortable ambiance makes it an enjoyable place to dine.
2. Sami's Kabab House
Authentic Afghan flavors in the heart of Astoria.

A new culinary gem has been discovered, offering mouth-watering kebabs that are full of flavor and perfect for satisfying late-night cravings. This establishment provides an excellent take-out option, as they offer delivery services, but it is also worth dining in as the staff is friendly and welcoming.
The kebabs served here are nothing short of delicious, with the chicken kofta being particularly tender and juicy. The seasoning is on point, offering a perfect balance of spices with each bite. Furthermore, the green pepper sauce adds a refreshingly tangy element that complements the savory kebab wonderfully. Even those who are not typically fond of raisins may find themselves enjoying them in this Afghani cuisine dish. Overall, this establishment offers an exceptional dining experience that is sure to impress kebab lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
3. Dunya Kabab House
Authentic flavors of the Middle East in every bite.

Dunya Kabab House is a popular Afghan restaurant known for its delicious food and inviting ambiance, suitable for both takeout and dine-in options. The restaurant's decor features beautiful murals and authentic Afghan elements, creating a cultural and welcoming atmosphere.
Their kababs are highly acclaimed, known for their rich flavors, juiciness, and tenderness. Among their popular dishes is the pumpkin bolani, a crispy flatbread filled with pumpkin and spices, which is highly recommended. While the service might be slow-paced, the friendly and diligent staff make up for it by providing excellent care for their customers.
4. Bakhter Halal Kabab Afghan
Authentic Afghan flavors in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

The lamb and chicken tikkas at this establishment are truly delectable offerings. Among the menu items, the chicken kabob with chicken tikka over rice platter stands out as a particularly satisfying choice.
Impressive culinary skills are on display with this restaurant's food. The accompanying salad and sauces are served generously without the need for request, adding to the overall excellence of the dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Kosher Options
- Cheap Eats
5. Sami's Kabab House LIC
Authentic Afghan flavors in the heart of Queens

The food served at Sami's is exceptional and sure to delight any palate. From the juicy and generous chicken, beef, and lamb kebabs, to the bed of buttery rice that they rest on, every dish is a delight. Patrons can expect to spend around $20 for a satisfying meal.
Sami's also boasts an atmosphere that is both welcoming and convivial. Diners will feel right at home in this establishment that serves up authentic Afghan cuisine. Whether you're a fan of Afghan food or new to the cuisine, Sami's is not to be missed. Its standout kebab game is sure to make it a favorite among New Yorkers.
6. Kabul Kabob House
Authentic Afghan flavors that dazzle your taste buds.

The service at the establishment is often described as attentive and friendly, with some guests even going so far as to call it exceptional. However, not all guests have had the same experience, with some reporting average service during their visit. There have been a few instances of issues with service, such as missing side dishes and a lack of salad being served.
The food at the establishment is generally described as good and flavorful, with many guests praising the sambosas in particular. However, some reviewers have noted issues with the food, such as missing side dishes and a lack of variety in the salad options. Despite these occasional missteps, the overall impression of the food is positive, with many guests complimenting the quality and taste of the dishes.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
7. Afghan Grill
Experience the rich flavors of Afghanistan in every bite.

A warm and welcoming atmosphere is evident as soon as you step foot into the establishment. The staff provides friendly and professional service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The menu offers a variety of options, but the hummus and sambosas are standouts, bursting with flavor and freshness in every bite.
For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to save room for dessert. The Firnee, in particular, is a must-try. This delicate and aromatic milk pudding is the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. It is highly recommended to include this dessert as part of your order. Overall, the quality of the food and service make this a destination worth returning to.
8. Balkh Shish Kabab House
Authentic Afghan flavors in the heart of Astoria.

The food at this Afghan restaurant is truly exceptional, bursting with rich and authentic flavors that are sure to delight. Upon visiting with my Brazilian family, who were tryings Afghani food for the first time, their immediate reaction was one of delight and enthusiasm. The lamb, chicken, and eggplant dishes were particular standouts, each dish evoking a sense of traditional home-cooking. The experience was further enhanced by the attentive and friendly service, making for a truly enjoyable meal.
This no-frills Afghan eatery is a hidden gem, serving up hearty and delicious dishes in generous portions. The rice is a particular highlight, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Located just off the subway, it may be easy to miss, but it's well worth seeking out. The stewed meats are tender and succulent, while the kebabs are expertly charred with a delightful texture. For those seeking authentic and delicious Afghan cuisine, this restaurant is the perfect choice.
9. Pamir Kabab House & Grill
A taste of Afghanistan in the heart of Flushing.

Pamir Kabab House and Grill is highly regarded by its customers, with a 4.5 rating and an impressive 91% praising the establishment for its quality offerings. The menu boasts a variety of delicious options, with the Jujeh Kabab and Family Combo being among the most popular choices.
The Mix Kabob platter at Pamir Kabab House & Grill is a crowd favorite, featuring succulent meats and savory sauces. Customers rave about the freshness of the food and the excellent service, with one customer even going so far as to call the older lady a "sweetheart." The combination of delicious food and friendly service makes for a memorable dining experience.
10. Afghan Kebab House
Authentic Afghan flavors in a cozy setting.

Kebabs at this establishment are undeniably delicious, offering a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience. The chicken biryani and tandoori chicken stand out as must-try menu options, showcasing a consistently high level of food quality.
The Chef's Combo Kebab is a particular highlight, featuring generous portions that allow diners to fully savor the flavors of fresh salmon, chicken, and aromatic rice. Overall, the prices are reasonable and represent good value given the high quality of the offerings.
11. Shirazi Cafe
Authentic Afghan flavors in a cozy setting.

The meal from Shirazi Kabob House was nothing short of exceptional. The meats were cooked to perfection, with each piece possessing a freshness and delightful seasoning that made for a truly enjoyable experience. The accompanying rice, salad, and sauces were all top-notch, complementing the main dishes wonderfully.
Shirazi Kabob House offers delicious food that arrives in plentiful portions, making it a great value for the price. Among the standout items are the succulent chicken tikka, juicy chicken kofta, tender lamb tikka, and flavorful lamb kofta, as well as the exquisitely grilled salmon. Additionally, the creamy and delectable white sauce deserves special mention, elevating each dish to new heights of deliciousness.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
12. Aria Kabab
Experience the rich taste of the Middle East in Queens

The taste of the food at this establishment is excellent, as evidenced by the delicious Chicken Kabob with Kabali rice, salad, and bread. The white sauce served with the meal is particularly noteworthy, adding a delicious and unique touch to the dish. The service is also commendable, with Fasel providing friendly and attentive service, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
This establishment offers a wide variety of food, all of which is carefully prepared and presented. The portions served are large, providing excellent value for money. Family combos are a particularly good deal, making this a great option for groups or families. The staff are consistently friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall positive atmosphere of the restaurant. Overall, the combination of high-quality food, good value, and excellent service make this a recommendable dining option.