Darjeeling Kitchen & Café

- 31-12 36th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11106

Introduction / Overview

Nestled in the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Long Island City, Darjeeling Kitchen & Café stands as a culinary beacon for those seeking authentic Himalayan flavors. This family-owned restaurant, which proudly identifies as both Asian-owned and women-owned, brings the rich traditions of Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine directly to New York City. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for any occasion, from a quick solo lunch to a relaxed family dinner. It’s a place where every dish tells a story of the Himalayan region, prepared with care and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. The café portion of the business also highlights a dedication to quality, with patrons consistently praising its excellent coffee.

The menu at Darjeeling Kitchen & Café is a delightful journey through the high altitudes of the Himalayas. Signature dishes include the famous Momo dumplings, available steamed, pan-fried (Kotey), or in a savory broth (Jhol). Reviewers often rave about the deliciousness of their appetizers, particularly the "Pakoras" and "Shabhaley." The main courses are equally impressive, featuring staples like "Darjeeling Style Thukpa" (a hearty noodle soup) and "Shaptak" (sautéed meat dish). A standout offering is the "Nepali Thali," a platter that provides a comprehensive taste of Nepal with options ranging from vegetarian to chicken, beef, and fish. It’s a culinary experience that is both comforting and exciting, providing a genuine taste of a lesser-known cuisine right here in Queens.

More than just a restaurant, Darjeeling Kitchen & Café serves as a community space. It is known for its friendly, professional staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. The venue is LGBTQ+ friendly and a designated transgender safe space, fostering an inclusive environment for all. It’s a testament to the warmth and hospitality that are central to the cultures it represents. The combination of authentic food, a cozy atmosphere, and an inclusive ethos makes it a beloved local spot and a must-visit destination for anyone in the New York area.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 31-12 36th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11106, USA, Darjeeling Kitchen & Café is ideally situated to serve the communities of Long Island City and Astoria. The neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and this restaurant fits right in, adding a unique flavor profile to the local dining scene. Its location is easily accessible from various parts of New York City, making it a convenient destination for a meal.

The restaurant is well-connected by public transportation. The 36th Avenue subway station (N and W lines) is just a short walk away, providing a direct link to Manhattan and other parts of Queens. This makes it an easy trip for commuters and tourists alike. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the area, further enhancing its accessibility. For those who drive, the area offers both free and paid street parking, which is a significant convenience in a dense urban environment like New York City.

A key feature of Darjeeling Kitchen & Café’s location is its commitment to accessibility for all patrons. The restaurant has a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a comfortable dining experience. This focus on inclusivity, from its atmosphere to its physical amenities, makes it a truly welcoming establishment for the entire community.

Services Offered

• Full Dining Options: Darjeeling Kitchen & Café offers a complete dining experience, with options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or a full-course meal, they have you covered. The restaurant provides both counter service and traditional table service, catering to different dining preferences.
• Convenient Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, the restaurant provides comprehensive service options, including takeout, delivery, and no-contact delivery. They also offer curbside pickup, making the process of getting your food convenient and seamless.
• Catering Services: The restaurant provides catering, allowing you to bring the unique flavors of Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine to your next event or gathering.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: The menu is rich with options to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Highlights include a range of halal food options, vegan and vegetarian choices, organic dishes, and small plates. They also have a happy hour menu for food, adding another layer of value for their patrons.
• Coffee and Tea Program: Beyond its main dishes, the café side of the business offers a full range of hot and cold beverages. Their coffee menu includes staples like Latte, Americano, and Mocha, while their tea selection features authentic "Darjeeling Tea" and "Masala Chai," which is praised by customers for its freshness.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Himalayan Cuisine: The primary highlight of Darjeeling Kitchen & Café is its commitment to authentic Tibetan and Nepalese food. Dishes like "Jhol Momo," "Shabhaley," and the "Nepali Thali" offer a genuine taste of the region that is rare to find in the city. The food is celebrated for its rich and distinct flavors, with customers consistently praising the quality and authenticity.
• Great Coffee: The café is well-known for its high-quality coffee. This is a significant highlight, especially for those looking for a spot to work, study, or just enjoy a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. The variety of options, from a classic "Americano" to a "Mocha," ensures that there's a brew for every coffee lover.
• Inclusive and Friendly Atmosphere: The restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it is a welcoming space for everyone. As an LGBTQ+ friendly establishment and a transgender safe space, it fosters a sense of community and acceptance. The friendly, attentive staff contribute to this positive atmosphere, making every guest feel valued.
• Family and Kid-Friendly: Darjeeling Kitchen & Café is an excellent choice for families. The casual setting and diverse menu make it a great place to bring children, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience for all ages.
• Women and Asian-Owned: As a business that identifies as both women-owned and Asian-owned, it represents a positive contribution to the local community, promoting diversity and entrepreneurship.

Contact Information

Address: 31-12 36th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11106, USA

Phone: (718) 304-5050

What is worth choosing

Darjeeling Kitchen & Café is a must-visit for anyone in New York City looking for a unique and satisfying culinary experience. It stands out in the crowded Queens food scene by offering something truly special and authentic. The combination of its genuine Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine, a menu that caters to various dietary needs (including a strong selection of vegan, vegetarian, and halal options), and an unwavering commitment to a welcoming atmosphere makes it an exceptional choice. The rave reviews from customers highlight not only the delicious food but also the outstanding service and the personal touch that makes a dining experience truly memorable.

For coffee lovers, the café’s reputation for having "Great coffee" is a compelling reason to visit, whether for a quick morning brew or an afternoon pick-me-up. The versatility of the space—being great for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as for solo dining—means it can fit into any part of your day. The accessibility features, from the wheelchair-friendly design to the convenient parking and transit options, show a dedication to making their establishment available to everyone.

Ultimately, choosing Darjeeling Kitchen & Café is about more than just a meal; it's about supporting a local, women-owned business that brings a piece of a rich culture to New York. It's a place where you can explore new flavors, feel completely at ease, and know that you are in a safe and friendly environment. The quality of the food, the warmth of the staff, and the inclusive spirit of the place make it a truly worthwhile destination that will have you coming back for more.

Darjeeling Kitchen & Café

31-12 36th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11106, USA