Çka Ka Qëllu

- 2321 Hughes Ave, Bronx, NY 10458

When New Yorkers talk about culinary treasures in the Bronx, the conversation naturally leads to the vibrant energy of Little Italy, particularly the area around Arthur Avenue. While this neighborhood is famously known for its stellar Italian delis and eateries, a new wave of authentic flavor has firmly taken root, introducing the city to the rich, hearty traditions of the Balkans. That is where you'll find Çka Ka Qëllu, an acclaimed restaurant that has become a destination for those seeking genuine Albanian and Kosovan cuisine.

Çka Ka Qëllu, which is more than just a restaurant—it's a cultural celebration—offers a warm, rustic escape right here in the heart of NYC. The name itself, which loosely translates to a welcoming sentiment in the context of hospitality, embodies the restaurant's ethos: treating every guest like family. It serves as a culinary bridge, showcasing the finest elements of Mediterranean and Eastern European cooking, a fusion that results in deeply satisfying, comfort-driven dishes. From slow-cooked specialties in earthenware pots to expertly grilled meats and labor-intensive savory pies, dining here is an immersive experience that transports you far beyond the boroughs of New York.

The cuisine at Çka Ka Qëllu highlights traditional recipes from Albania and Kosovo, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. The menu is a journey through the authentic culinary landscape of the region, emphasizing what Albanians do best: providing a meal that is simple, flavorful, and filling. This establishment is not only a favorite among the local Albanian community—one of the largest in North America—but it has also garnered attention from critics and food lovers across the entire New York metropolitan area, cementing its status as a must-visit dining spot.

Location and Accessibility

Çka Ka Qëllu is perfectly situated in a prime spot within the renowned Little Italy/Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx. Its specific address is 2321 Hughes Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA. This location places it just a stone's throw from the bustling Arthur Avenue Retail Market, making it an ideal stop during a day of exploration in the area.

The proximity to major Bronx landmarks and its central position near Arthur Avenue means it’s easily accessible for locals, Manhattanites, and tourists alike.

Services Offered

Çka Ka Qëllu provides a range of flexible services and dining options to accommodate all patrons, whether you are planning an intimate dinner or just stopping by for a quick, delicious bite.

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy a meal in the warm, cozy, and rustic interior, complete with attentive table service.
• Outdoor Seating: The restaurant offers outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying a meal on a pleasant New York day.
• Takeout: All menu items are available for convenient pick-up.
• No-Contact Delivery: For those preferring to dine at home, no-contact delivery options are available.
• Reservations Accepted: Dinner reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure your table.
• Full Bar Service: A variety of beverages, including beer, hard liquor, and Albanian beer, are offered alongside coffee.
• Payment Options: The restaurant accepts major Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for hassle-free transactions.
• Dining Options: Serving Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, Çka Ka Qëllu caters to all parts of the day.

Features and Highlights

Beyond the exceptional food, Çka Ka Qëllu stands out in the New York dining scene due to its unique atmosphere, cultural dedication, and dedication to authentic Balkan flavors.

• Authentic Albanian and Kosovan Cuisine: The menu is a genuine representation of traditional dishes from Albania and Kosovo, known for its hearty, meat-centric, and dairy-rich comfort foods, often prepared in clay vessels known as Tavë.
• Rustic, Cultural Atmosphere: The decor features 18th and 19th-century Albanian artifacts, creating a museum-like experience and an atmosphere described as casual, cozy, and even romantic, reminiscent of an old Albanian farmhouse or village tavern.
• Featured in the MICHELIN Guide: Recognized for its quality, the restaurant has been highlighted in the MICHELIN Guide, a significant acknowledgment of its culinary excellence.
• Neighborhood Staple: Located in the Little Italy/Arthur Avenue area, it serves as a central gathering point and a "home away from home" for the large Albanian community in the Bronx and surrounding areas.
• Handmade Savory Pies and Breads: Traditional items like Fli (layered crepe-like savory pastry) and freshly baked breads, which pair perfectly with rich Balkan cheeses and dips, are prepared on-site.
• Popular Signature Dishes: Must-try items frequently praised by local customers include the flavorful Mantia (traditional veal dumplings), the perfectly seasoned Qebapa (skinless grilled sausages), and the delectable Grilled Octopus, which has been described as "absolute perfection."
• Hospitality and Service: The staff is known for their friendly, welcoming nature, attentive service, and for sharing the stories and culture behind the traditional dishes.
• Ideal for Various Crowds: The ambiance and generous portions are excellent for families, groups, locals, and tourists seeking an authentic cultural experience.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to place a takeout order, you can reach Çka Ka Qëllu at the following:

Address: 2321 Hughes Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA

Phone: (718) 933-6194

What is Worth Choosing: A Culinary Deep Dive

Choosing what to order at Çka Ka Qëllu is an adventure in itself, as the menu is filled with authentic dishes, many of which are rarely found in other parts of New York City. The pricing is reasonable for the quality and portion size, making it a great value for an authentic European dining experience.

A great way to begin is with the Appetizers. Try the Ajvar ($5.50), a piquant red roasted pepper spread that is a staple of Balkan cuisine, or the Tarator ($5.00), a refreshing chilled yogurt blend with minced cucumber and garlic. The Cheese Pickled Pepper ($5.50) also offers a delightful contrast of spice and dairy richness.

The most authentic experience can be found in the Tavë section—dishes traditionally slow-cooked in earthenware pots. A must-try is the celebrated Tava Kosi ($20.50), a classic Albanian baked dish of lamb submerged in a creamy, tangy yogurt and egg custard. Another great choice is Sarma ($19.00), which features cabbage rolls stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables, or the Mantia Në Tavë ($16.00), which are baked veal dumplings in a clay dish. For a creamy and unique offering, consider the Mazë E Zier ($17.00), a rich blend of three cheeses and cornmeal cooked with homemade butter.

If you are craving charcoal-grilled meats, which are a hallmark of the Balkan region, the Grill section is where to look. The individual portions, such as Qebapa (10pcs) ($17.00) (finger-sized skinless sausages) or Qofte (4pcs) ($18.00) (seasoned ground meat medallions), are excellent. For groups, the Çka Ka Qëllu Mixed Meat Combination ($50.00) or the Tradita Mixed Grill Platter ($34.00) offer a savory assortment of meats, perfect for sharing. For a truly unique and highly recommended dish, diners rave about the Mantia ($11.00) from the Brumat section, which are small, traditional baked veal dumplings. One customer highlighted the Grilled Octopus ($23.50) as "absolute perfection," suggesting that the Mediterranean influence extends beautifully to their seafood offerings.

To complete the meal, one cannot skip the desserts. The Albanian Trilece ($6.25)—a version of the "three-milk" cake—is a perfect light and sweet end, as is the flaky, honey-sweet Baklava ($7.50).

Çka Ka Qëllu offers New Yorkers an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the comforting, robust flavors of Albanian and Eastern European cuisine. Whether you are a local seeking a new regular spot or a visitor to the Bronx’s Little Italy, the authentic food, museum-like rustic ambiance, and famously attentive service promise a deeply satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Çka Ka Qëllu

2321 Hughes Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA