32 of the best Skewers in New York City
Skewers in New York City offer a unique and delicious dining experience. These culinary delights, often featuring marinated meats and vegetables, provide a burst of flavor with every bite. From street vendors to high-end restaurants, skewers can be found throughout the city, each with their own unique twist. Whether you're in the mood for classic Middle Eastern kebabs or Japanese yakitori, New York City's skewer scene has something for everyone.
- 1. Kwa Food Deep Fried Skewers
- 2. Kashkaval Garden
- 3. Lava Shawarma
- 4. Taci's Beyti
- 5. ilili Restaurant
- 6. Ravagh Persian Grill
- 7. The Kati Roll Company
- 8. Omar Mediterranean Cuisine
- 9. Kabob Shack
- 10. Kebab Express Halal Grill
- 11. Istanbul Kebab House
- 12. Laser Wolf Brooklyn
- 13. Kochi
- 14. Gugu Room
- 15. Niko's Souvlaki
- 16. Sami's Kabab House
- 17. Izakaya Toribar
- 18. Grand Street Skewer Cart
- 19. Young xinjiang bbq cart
- 20. ABA Turkish Restaurant
- 21. Ravagh Persian Grill
- 22. Zhong Jie
- 23. Xiao Chuan Dian Mini Lamb Skewers House
- 24. Yakitori Taisho
- 25. Souvlaki GR
- 26. Kono
- 27. Spicy Palace
- 28. Kushi Kushi Yaki
- 29. Funny BBQ 98
- 30. Yemen Chuanchuan
- 31. Jue Wei BBQ Cart
- 32. The Old Spot Hotpot & Skewer
1. Kwa Food Deep Fried Skewers

2. Kashkaval Garden
First restaurant in NYC dedicated to Kashkaval cheese

For our get-together, we opted for our usual baba ganoush, kofte, and chicken skewers, but this time, we decided to try something new and added a classic fondue to the mix. The addition of the fondue was a great choice, as it offered a different and delightful dining experience.
Apart from our regular picks, we also indulged in some new dishes such as the peppadews for our starter and the grilled octopus skewer. The peppadews, with their unique taste and texture, added a nice twist to our meal, while the grilled octopus skewer provided a delicious and satisfying end to our dining experience. Overall, our meal was a perfect blend of our old favorites and exciting new additions.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
3. Lava Shawarma
The restaurant uses a unique lava stone cooking method that seals in the flavors and juices of the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.

The lamb and chicken skewers were standout dishes, expertly cooked and well-seasoned. The lamb skewers were particularly noteworthy, with just the right amount of seasoning and a perfect level of doneness. Meanwhile, the chicken skewers were also delicious, boasting a juicy and flavorful taste that was sure to satisfy.
In addition to their great taste, the portion sizes for these skewers were also generous, allowing diners to enjoy plenty of these tasty morsels. Whether you prefer lamb or chicken, these skewers are a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
4. Taci's Beyti
Offers a unique and authentic Turkish dining experience

Taci's Beyti is known for its delicious skewers. The chicken and lamb options are both highly recommended. The chicken skewers, in particular, are a standout. They are juicy and packed with flavor, making for a truly satisfying meal.
Visitors to Taci's Beyti rave about the quality of the skewers. Both the chicken and lamb options have earned high praise for their tenderness and taste. The chicken skewers, in particular, are a favorite among customers, offering a delicious and satisfying dining experience.
5. ilili Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Japanese and Korean cuisine

The beef and chicken skewers were the focus of the meal. Although the beef skewers were a bit dry, their seasoning was well-executed, making them enjoyable. On the other hand, the chicken skewers stood out as a highlight of the meal. They were cooked to perfection and seasoned just right, making them a must-try for anyone.
In summary, both the beef and chicken skewers were served as part of the meal, each with their own qualities. The beef skewers were slightly dry but had great seasoning, while the chicken skewers were perfectly cooked and seasoned. The chicken skewers were particularly impressive and are highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
6. Ravagh Persian Grill
Features a variety of stews, kebabs, and rice dishes that are hard to find in other Persian restaurants

The chicken skewers were the highlight of the meal, offering a delicious and satisfying experience. They were cooked to perfection, with a juicy and flavorful taste that made them stand out. If you're looking for a delicious dinner option, the chicken skewers are highly recommended.
Kumar's meal consisted of the Chicken Shish Kebob Dinner, which was also a hit. The restaurant provided excellent food and prompt service, making for an enjoyable dining experience. Overall, the meal was a success, with the chicken skewers and Chicken Shish Kebob Dinner being the standout dishes.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
7. The Kati Roll Company
Offers an authentic Indian street food experience in the heart of New York City

Skewers were a notable addition to the menu, with many praising their juiciness and rich flavor. The meat was tender and well-seasoned, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
However, there were some who found the skewers to be a bit dry. Despite this, the spices used in the dish were generally well-received and helped to enhance the overall flavor. Overall, the skewers offered a good dining experience, with a satisfying taste and texture.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
8. Omar Mediterranean Cuisine
Offers a unique and authentic Mediterranean dining experience in the heart of New York City

The chicken skewers I tried were delicious and packed with flavor. They were juicy and tender, making for a satisfying meal. I plan to order them again in the future.
As for the beef skewers, they were a bit dry and lacked the juiciness of the chicken. However, the seasoning used on the beef was well-balanced and quite enjoyable. Despite the dryness, the flavor was still enjoyable.
9. Kabob Shack
Offers unique fusion of Middle Eastern and Latin American cuisines

The chicken skewers I tried were juicy and packed with flavor, making me eager to return for more.
In regards to the lamb skewers, they were cooked to perfection and had an exquisite taste that is highly recommendable.
10. Kebab Express Halal Grill

Family Platter 4 and Family Platter 1 are meal options offered for groups of different sizes. Family Platter 4 is designed to feed 14-15 people and includes a full tray of rice and salad each, along with 5 chicken breasts, skewers, 5 lamb kebab skewers, 5 tandoori kebab skewers, and 8 kofta skewers. This extensive platter is priced at $189.99.
On the other hand, Family Platter 1 is a more modest option, suitable for smaller gatherings. It includes half a tray of rice and salad each, 2 chicken breast skewers, 2 lamb kebab skewers, and 2 kofta skewers. This platter is ideal for groups of up to 6 people and costs $59.99. Both platters offer a variety of meat and vegetable options, but Family Platter 4 provides a larger quantity and a greater variety of meat skewers.
11. Istanbul Kebab House
Offers a unique and delicious taste of Turkey in the heart of New York City

The kebab stood out as a must-try dish, smaller in size but packing a punch in taste. Unlike the gyro-style items, the kebabs were the star attraction. The secret lay in their meticulous preparation – they were marinated and cooked to achieve the perfect level of doneness and consistency.
Diners are recommended to opt for the kebabs over other items on the menu. The reason being that these kebabs are marinated for added flavor and cooked just right. This results in a tender, delicious dish that is sure to satisfy. The size might be small, but it doesn't disappoint when it comes to taste and quality.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. Laser Wolf Brooklyn
Industrial-chic bar with a focus on craft beers and creative cocktails, as well as entertainment such as arcade games and live music.

Chef Michael Solomonov has brought the flavors and colors of Israeli cuisine to Philadelphia with the opening of his restaurant in May. The focus of the restaurant is to celebrate Israeli food, which is represented through a variety of skewers and salatim. The dining experience highlights a prix fixe menu, with each option priced between $46 and $52.
The prix fixe menu begins with an impressive display of salatim, served in 11 silver bowls with a perfect hummus at the center. Diners can choose one skewer to accompany their salatim. The restaurant's aim is to showcase the best of Israeli food, and the prix fixe menu is an excellent way to experience a range of flavors and dishes in one sitting. The presentation of the salatim is a visual feast, and the hummus is a standout dish, smooth and creamy with a perfect balance of flavors.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Rooftop
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
13. Kochi
Multicultural community with a mix of historical and modern attractions

A mistake in the order, forgetting the chicken skewer, created some confusion, but it wasn't a significant issue. The restaurant, Kochi, specializes in grilled dishes meant to be enjoyed using your hands, staying true to its Korean roots.
The young team at Kochi swiftly delivered a variety of impressive grilled dishes. These mouthwatering bites, cooked on skewers, showcase the restaurant's focus on hand-held, authentic Korean cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Affordable Nightlife
14. Gugu Room

The seasoning on each skewer is carefully chosen to enhance its natural flavors. The teriyaki glaze on the shrimp is subtle enough to let its fresh, ocean-born taste shine through. The pork intestine skewers are coated in a banana ketchup barbecue sauce that complements their tangy sweetness.
These grilled skewers are a must-try in NYC, available in pairs or in generous servings that reflect the restaurant's focus on hospitality and value. The quality of the food and the care put into each dish make this a standout option for anyone looking for delicious skewers in the city.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
15. Niko's Souvlaki
Family-owned and operated since 1980

This establishment offers well-prepared souvlakia, doner kebabs, and chicken skewers, along with delicious orange cake. They have a selection of fine wine and beer. However, the Niko sauce was disappointingly bland mayonnaise and the Tzatziki lacked garlic. The desserts were overly sweet. On the positive side, the chicken, beef, and pork skewers were all enjoyable, as was the pita bread.
Makis's order included a Pork Kalamaki Skewer, a Chicken Kalamaki Skewer, and a Horiatiki Salad. While the desserts were not impressive, the savory dishes were generally satisfactory.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
- Kosher Options
16. Sami's Kabab House
Family-owned and operated with recipes passed down through generations

The ground chicken skewers and stewed lamb with spinach and rice at this establishment are truly delightful. The owner goes out of their way to make guests feel welcome and valued, creating a warm and familial atmosphere. Our server, a young man, was genuinely engaged in ensuring we had a positive experience.
Another recommended dish is the mixed kebab platter, which comes with Afghani rice and chops. The skewers are cooked to perfection and seasoned with precision, resulting in a mouthwatering explosion of flavors. Both dishes are standouts and highly recommended for those looking to explore the menu.
17. Izakaya Toribar
Yakitori specialist with an extensive selection of Japanese whiskeys

This establishment offers a variety of Japanese dishes, including small plates such as chicken karaage and gyoza, as well as hot pot and teppanyaki. However, the main attraction is their yakitori. With most skewers priced around $4, this place is a great value. Customers have the option to choose how they want each skewer seasoned, either with salt or tare, which is not a common option at most yakitori restaurants.
The yakitori skewers were undoubtedly the standout dish. From the high-quality ingredients to the perfect cooking technique, each skewer was bursting with flavor. The restaurant offers a wide variety of yakitori options, which only adds to the excitement of returning to try them all. Overall, the yakitori selection is a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and authentic Japanese dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
18. Grand Street Skewer Cart

The Grand Street Skewer Cart provides a unique and enjoyable dining experience, with skewers made fresh on-site. A variety of options are available, including flavorful lamb, crispy chicken skin, and savory mushrooms. The meat is carefully seasoned and prepared, resulting in a tender and delicious meal. For those who enjoy spicy food, there are also options available to add some heat.
Food enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit the Grand Street Skewer Cart. The menu offers a wide selection of skewers that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for juicy and tender chicken or beef, succulent shrimp, or fresh vegetables, you're sure to find something that suits your palate. The cart's commitment to freshness and quality makes it a standout destination for anyone seeking an authentic and delicious skewer experience.
19. Young xinjiang bbq cart

Young Xinjiang BBQ Cart is a must-visit for skewer lovers. The cart offers a variety of mouth-watering skewers that are sure to satisfy. The meat quality is excellent, and the flavors are delicious. The owners are a friendly couple who welcome customers with open arms.
20. ABA Turkish Restaurant
Authentic Turkish experience in the heart of NYC

The skewers at this establishment are a standout, particularly the lamb skewers that feature perfectly cooked and well-seasoned meat. For chicken skewer fans, they will not be disappointed with the juicy and flavorful option available.
Visitors to this location should not miss out on the opportunity to try the lamb skewers, which have been highly praised for their execution. The chicken skewers also earn high marks for their succulent and tasty flavor, making them a top choice for any meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
21. Ravagh Persian Grill
Delicious and authentic Persian cuisine in the heart of New York

The chicken kebob and chicken koubideh were both delicious and stood out as the highlight of the meal. The chicken was cooked to perfection, with a flavorful exterior and juicy interior that made each bite a pleasure. This meal easily qualifies as the best Persian food in the city, with a variety of options that showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of the cuisine.
If you're looking to try Persian food, this is the place to go. The menu includes a range of options, from beef kebabs and chicken skewers to dolmeh (stuffed grape leaves) and alaboo (cherry rice). Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in bold and satisfying flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you're a fan of Persian cuisine or looking to try something new, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
22. Zhong Jie
Offers hot pot and Chinese barbecue

ZLS BBQ offers a variety of delicious dishes to enjoy, such as grilled chicken, calamari, and cold noodles. The restaurant is known for its special skewers, featuring flavors reminiscent of regional street food.
The grilled chicken is always cooked to perfection, while the calamari is tender and full of flavor. Cold noodles provide a refreshing contrast to the hot skewers. Beef and lamb skewers are particularly praised for their exceptional taste, making ZLS BBQ a must-visit for any fan of delicious barbecue.
23. Xiao Chuan Dian Mini Lamb Skewers House
A hidden gem for lamb skewer lovers in Palisades Park

Great BBQ Skewers is a restaurant that specializes in Chinese-style skewers. The skewers are moderately priced and come with a variety of options. While the skewers are a popular choice, our group found that we preferred the hot dishes. Despite this, we noticed that the spicy hot dishes all had the same sauce, and the skewers only had a dry rub for flavor. Despite this, the flavors were still decent and satisfied our taste buds.
The restaurant has an authentic feel to it, making it a great spot for those looking for an authentic Chinese BBQ experience. The menu offers a range of dishes, from spicy hot dishes to skewers with different seasonings. However, while the flavors were decent, they could have been more distinct between the skewers and hot dishes. Overall, Great BBQ Skewers is a solid choice for those looking for Chinese-style skewers and hot dishes at a reasonable price.
24. Yakitori Taisho
Specialized in serving grilled chicken skewers with various parts and seasonings

The yaki unagi roll at this establishment was once double its current size, providing a more substantial and satisfying meal. While the roll remained delicious, the skewers were the true standout. Unfortunately, the chicken on the skewers was disappointingly flavorless and overly soft, making it difficult to finish.
The sauces accompanying the dishes also seemed to lack the necessary power to enhance the flavors of the meal. This unfortunate experience may have been a rare off night for the restaurant, but it left the author feeling cheated and still hungry. The quality of the meal and portion size did not align with expectations, causing disappointment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
25. Souvlaki GR
Family-owned and operated, offering homemade recipes

The menu at this establishment is extensive, featuring a variety of options such as meat, fish, seafood, casseroles, vegetarian dishes, dips, and skewers. While the food is decent and reasonably priced, it does not quite reach the level of quality offered by high-end Greek restaurants.
Unfortunately, there was an issue with the skewers being burnt, which affected the overall quality of the food. The quality of the other dishes was only average to low, which was disappointing.
26. Kono

The standout dishes at this establishment include the Chicken Belly Skin, Chicken Pate with Truffle Sandwich, and Chicken 'Oysters'. These dishes showcase the chefs' skillful preparation and cooking techniques, with the chicken skin being expertly grilled over an open flame for a visceral and exciting dining experience.
In addition to the delicious food, the service is also superb, adding to the overall wonderful experience. This elevated skewer expedition offers a unique and memorable dining experience that is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
27. Spicy Palace
Authentic Sichuan cuisine in a cozy setting, highly recommended for spicy food lovers

Spicy Palace offers a variety of skewers for 60 cents each, with additional menu items available. A popular choice at the restaurant is the spicy broth, which is a hit with customers who enjoy spicy food. Among the recommended dishes are the tasty tomato broth, spicy beef, and spicy pork. The yogurt served at the restaurant is also a must-try. Apart from the spicy options, Spicy Palace also offers delicious beer and refreshing beverages such as fruit tea and bubble tea.
When visiting Spicy Palace, there are several menu items that should not be missed. The spicy broth is a popular choice, especially for those who enjoy spicy food. For something tangy and refreshing, the yogurt is a great option. The skewers, priced at 60 cents each, are a great value and come in various options such as spicy beef and spicy pork. To complete the meal, customers can enjoy a cool glass of fruit tea or bubble tea, or a refreshing beer.
28. Kushi Kushi Yaki
Japanese-style skewers grilled to perfection

The skewers, the highlight of the meal, were grilled to perfection with a generous seasoning that enhanced their flavor. The 5 skewer combo included a variety of options, all of which were delicious and satisfying.
Apart from the skewers, the chicken kara-age, bulgogi fries, and tuna tartare bibimbap were also ordered. The chicken kara-age was a crowd favorite with its crispy exterior and juicy interior. The bulgogi fries were a unique and tasty take on the classic dish. The tuna tartare bibimbap was a flavorful and refreshing option that provided a nice contrast to the other dishes. Overall, the portions were perfect for sharing among three people.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
29. Funny BBQ 98
Cult favorite for unique and delicious BBQ experience

The service at the establishment can sometimes be slow, especially when it is busy. However, the skewers that they offer are a highlight of the dining experience. In particular, the pork short rib skewer is highly recommended and should not be missed.
The variety of skewers available is another standout feature. One of the most delicious options is the lamb skewer, which boasts juicy and flavorful meat that is sure to satisfy. Whether enjoying the pork short rib or lamb skewer, diners are sure to be pleased with the offerings.
30. Yemen Chuanchuan

The price of the skewers served at the establishment is a topic of discrepancy, with some items such as lobster potentially costing more than 80 cents. However, the crispy pork and skewers stand out as highly recommended options due to their fresh and delicious taste.
Excellent service is a notable aspect of the establishment, with attentive servers ensuring a positive dining experience. Complimentary soup dumplings are an occasional treat, adding to the overall value and satisfaction of the meal.
31. Jue Wei BBQ Cart

Old and new collide at the corner of 39th Avenue and Prince Street in gentrifying downtown Flushing. Diagonally from the bright and spacious 1392, the Juewei BBQ cart (originally Fat Ni BBQ) has tempted dozens of pedestrians to line up for its grilled skewers since 2012. Most skewers here are $2 and include lamb, chicken gizzard, enoki mushrooms and stinky tofu. The two partners run a no-nonsense assembly line that moves the skewers to the right as they cook.
32. The Old Spot Hotpot & Skewer
Offers a fun and interactive dining experience

The skewers were a featured item on the menu and did not disappoint in terms of flavor. They were well-seasoned, with a savory taste that was enjoyable. However, there was a slight issue with the cooking time as they were slightly overcooked in one instance, resulting in a less-than-ideal texture.
Despite the slight overcooking, the skewers were still a delicious dish. The seasoning played a big part in this, as it provided a robust and savory taste that was satisfying. Overall, the skewers were a tasty option, with the only downside being the texture caused by overcooking. A recommendation for more precise cooking time would improve the dish.