Hunkar Restaurant

- 319 Hackensack St, Carlstadt, NJ 07072

Welcome to the Garden State's culinary passport to the Mediterranean coast and the rich, vibrant flavors of Turkey. If you're searching for an authentic, high-quality Turkish and Mediterranean dining experience right here in New Jersey, look no further than Hunkar Restaurant in Carlstadt. For nearly two decades, Hunkar has been a beacon of genuine Turkish hospitality and exquisite cuisine, establishing itself as a beloved local gem for Bergen County residents and food enthusiasts from all over the state. The name 'Hunkar' itself translates to 'Sultan,' suggesting an imperial quality to the food and service, a promise the restaurant consistently delivers upon.

Hunkar Restaurant is far more than just a place to eat; it's a delightful journey for the senses. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere is designed to be warm, inviting, and reminiscent of the welcoming restaurant culture found along Turkey’s Aegean coastline. This establishment beautifully marries the fresh, healthy essence of Mediterranean flavors with the deep, complex richness of traditional Ottoman-era dishes, creating a menu that is both familiar and exciting. This unique blend ensures there is something to captivate every palate, from those new to Turkish food to those who know and love the cuisine.

The core of Hunkar's reputation is built on its expertly prepared, char-grilled specialties. Patrons consistently rave about the quality of the meat, noting its juicy texture and robust flavor profile, achieved through careful marination and perfect cooking over a flame grill. Whether you are craving succulent kebabs, fresh seafood, or traditional Turkish stews, Hunkar delivers an unforgettable meal that uses authentic ingredients and time-honored techniques. The dining experience is complemented by attentive and friendly service, ensuring every visit is comfortable and memorable. It’s truly an oasis of authentic taste nestled conveniently in North Jersey.

The atmosphere at Hunkar is often described as cozy, romantic, and casual, making it suitable for a wide variety of occasions. Whether planning a special date night, a relaxed family dinner, a business lunch, or a celebratory gathering with a group of friends, Hunkar’s ambiance enhances the meal. The restaurant also prides itself on being family-friendly and welcoming to all crowds, including groups and tourists seeking a taste of authentic international fare close to the metropolitan area. The thoughtful details, such as the option for quiet seating and a bar on-site, cater to diverse needs and preferences, solidifying its place as a top-tier Mediterranean destination in New Jersey.

Location and Accessibility: A Carlstadt, NJ Destination

Hunkar Restaurant is conveniently situated at a prime location in Carlstadt, making it highly accessible for residents throughout Bergen County and beyond. Its proximity to major thoroughfares in the North Jersey region means a fantastic dining experience is never far away. The restaurant is located at:

319 Hackensack St, Carlstadt, NJ 07072, USA

Accessibility is a priority at Hunkar, which offers a variety of amenities to ensure a pleasant visit for all guests. The venue provides wheelchair-accessible seating. For those driving, one of the significant conveniences is the available parking, with options for both free street parking and a free parking lot. This eliminates the usual stress of finding a spot, allowing you to focus purely on the meal ahead. The location’s true standout feature, however, is its spectacular outdoor dining options.

Patrons often speak glowingly of the beautiful back patio and the unique rooftop seating area, which provides a captivating, unobstructed view of the NYC skyline. This feature transforms a simple dinner into a truly special occasion, especially at sunset or during a clear night. This rare combination of authentic cuisine and a million-dollar view is a powerful draw for New Jersey diners looking for a memorable evening out without having to cross the river.

Services Offered

Hunkar Restaurant provides a comprehensive set of services and dining options to meet the needs of every customer:

• Dining Options: Available for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Seating: Offers various seating arrangements, including a cozy indoor dining space and beautiful Outdoor seating.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient services for those who wish to enjoy Hunkar's cuisine at home, including Takeout, Delivery, and Curbside pickup.
• Catering: Comprehensive catering services are available, perfect for special events and large group gatherings.
• Full-Service Bar: Serves a selection of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, with dinner reservations being recommended, especially for weekend dining or for securing the best seating areas.
• Special Offerings: The menu includes Halal food, Vegetarian options, Vegan options, Healthy options, and Small plates, ensuring broad appeal.
• Payment: Accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features and Highlights

What truly sets Hunkar Restaurant apart in the competitive New Jersey dining scene are its unique features and commitment to a high-quality experience:

• Authentic Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine: A cherished blend of rich Ottoman flavors and fresh Aegean coast ingredients, served for nearly two decades.
• Spectacular NYC Skyline Views: A defining feature, particularly from the outdoor seating area and rooftop, offering a stunning backdrop for any meal.
• Atmospheric Fireplace: Adds to the cozy and romantic ambiance, especially appealing during the cooler months.
• Fast and Attentive Service: Highly praised by guests for the warmth, friendliness, and professionalism of the staff.
• Excellence in Desserts: Renowned for its Great dessert selection, including the highly-rated, creamy Oven Baked Rice Pudding and the traditional Baklava.
• High-Quality Kebabs and Entrees: Must-try dishes include the Chicken Shish Kebab, Skewered Ground Lamb (Adana Kebab), and the classic traditional dish Hunkar Begendi (a stew of lamb or chicken over a creamy, cheesy eggplant puree).
• Extensive Meze Selection: Offers a wide array of Cold Appetizers (Soguk Mezeler) and Hot Appetizers (Sicak Mezeler) perfect for sharing, such as Humus, Babaganush, Eggplant Salad, and the flaky Cigarette Borek.
• Variety of Seafood: Includes fresh grilled selections like Branzino (Levrek) and Dorade Fish (Cupra).
• Welcoming Ambiance: Described as casual, cozy, and romantic, suitable for all types of patrons, including groups and families (with high chairs available).

Contact Information

Ready to make a reservation or inquire about catering? You can reach Hunkar Restaurant at the following contact points:

Address: 319 Hackensack St, Carlstadt, NJ 07072, USA

Phone: (201) 507-0606

What is Worth Choosing: Signature Dishes and the True Hunkar Experience

For first-time visitors and longtime fans alike, a visit to Hunkar Restaurant is an exploration of the best of Turkish and Mediterranean food. The menu is expansive, but a few dishes stand out as essential to the true Hunkar experience, reflecting the depth and authenticity of the kitchen's craft.

The most iconic dish is the Hunkar Begendi (meaning "The Sultan Liked It"), an Ottoman classic featuring tender chicken or lamb chunks cooked in a rich tomato sauce, served dramatically over a velvety puree of smoked eggplant blended with cheese. This dish alone is a reason to make the trip to Carlstadt.

No Turkish meal is complete without its foundational char-grilled items. The Lamb Shish Kebab and Chicken Shish Kebab are consistently praised for being marinated to perfection and cooked until tender and flavorful. For the adventurous, the Hunkar Special Mix Grill offers a grand tour of the kitchen's grilling prowess, combining several types of kebabs, including the flavorful Adana and Kofte kebabs. Even the simple grilled accompaniments, like the grilled peppers and tomatoes, are noted by customers for their authentic, smoky appeal.

Beyond the main courses, the appetizers, known as 'Meze,' are crucial. Consider starting with a selection from the Combination Platter of Cold Appetizers, which typically includes classics like the creamy Humus, smoky Babaganush, and zesty Spicy Paste (Acili Ezme). Among the hot appetizers, the delicate, flaky Cigarette Borek (filled with feta and parsley) and the crispy Fried Calf's Liver (Arnavut Cigeri) are popular choices. And for a lighter, vibrant starter, the refreshing Shepherd Salad (Coban Salata) is a must-try.

To conclude your experience, the dessert menu is a strong finishing act. The Oven Baked Rice Pudding (Firin Sutlac) is celebrated as a creamy, perfect end to the meal. For a more traditional Turkish treat, the rich and sweet Baklava or the shredded wheat dessert Kadayif provide a delicious final note.

Hunkar Restaurant in Carlstadt is genuinely a special place in the New Jersey dining landscape. It combines authentic, high-quality Turkish and Mediterranean food with a unique, stunning ambiance, especially with that unparalleled NYC skyline view. For any North Jersey resident looking for a meal that is both exceptionally delicious and memorable, Hunkar is a destination that earns its title as a local sultan of flavor.

Hunkar Restaurant

319 Hackensack St, Carlstadt, NJ 07072, USA