Kababish

- 70-64 Broadway, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers with a serious craving for robust, authentically spiced South Asian cuisine, Kababish stands as a legendary destination in the heart of Jackson Heights, Queens. Known primarily as a Pakistani restaurant but equally celebrated for its exceptional Indian dishes, Kababish has built a loyal following over the years by delivering genuine, Delhi-style flavors. Founded in 2004, it holds the distinction of being one of the first Pakistani/Indian/Bangladeshi takeout spots in America, pioneering a unique and bold taste profile that many others have tried to emulate.

The restaurant operates on a simple but powerful principle: authentic food, made with fresh Halal meat, and seasoned with time-honored family recipes. This commitment to quality and tradition makes it a popular choice for everything from a quick lunch to a late-night feast. While the establishment is noted for its cozy, busy, and unpretentious atmosphere—often described as a true "hole in the wall" gem—the quality of the food consistently draws crowds, including college students, tourists, and discerning locals. It is a destination spot for those who appreciate deep flavor, generous portions, and a serious kick of spice.

Kababish specializes in dishes cooked "off the grill," making it a veritable kabab paradise. It offers a diverse menu that covers all the favorites of Indian and Pakistani cuisine, from rich, slow-cooked curries to various breads and, of course, a dazzling selection of signature kababs.

Location and Accessibility

Kababish is perfectly positioned in the culinary epicenter of Jackson Heights, an area celebrated for its vast array of global food options. Its address places it right on a major thoroughfare, making it highly visible and easily accessible within Queens.

Address: 70-64 Broadway, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA

The location on Broadway is near several public transit routes, a major advantage for navigating the bustling New York City streets. For those driving, paid street parking is available, though it is important to remember that Jackson Heights is a highly trafficked area, and a wait for a spot is common. The restaurant offers a few amenities to accommodate guests, including outdoor seating, providing a small area to enjoy your meal when the weather permits. However, keep in mind that the interior dining area is noted by customers as being quite small and cozy, often leading to a bustling environment, especially during peak hours.

Services Offered

Kababish understands the needs of a metropolitan customer base, offering a wide array of service options to ensure you can enjoy their food anytime, anywhere:

• Dine-in: Enjoy a meal in the casual, authentic, and bustling onsite environment.
• Takeout & Curbside Pickup: The restaurant is highly popular for takeout, though patrons should anticipate potential wait times, especially during busy periods.
• Delivery & No-Contact Delivery: Convenient delivery options are available for residents across the New York area, allowing you to enjoy the full menu from home.
• Onsite Services: The venue offers a full range of dining experiences, including options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Catering: Kababish provides catering services, making it an excellent choice for events where you want to share authentic Desi flavors with a larger group.
• Payment: Accepts all major Credit cards and Debit cards for easy transactions.

Features / Highlights

Kababish’s reputation is built on its distinctive features and menu stars:

• Specialization in Kababs: The "Off the grill" section is a key highlight, featuring tender, well-seasoned meats like Lamb Chops, Chicken Tikka, Beef Bihari Kabab, and the unique Gola Kabab (delicately minced beef bound with string).
• Authentic Pakistani & Indian Cuisine: It’s a dual-cuisine powerhouse, offering beloved regional specialties like Goat Paya, Beef Nihari (a thick beef stew), and flavorful Chicken Karahi.
• Halal Food: All meat dishes are prepared using Halal-certified meat, ensuring quality and adherence to dietary standards.
• Great Tea Selection: Noted specifically as a highlight, their Chai is a must-try, offering a perfect, comforting accompaniment to any meal.
• Late-Night Food: A fantastic option for New Yorkers looking for a delicious meal late into the night.
• Popular Menu Rolls: The Kabab Rolls (available with Chicken, Beef, Gola Kabab, or Chicken/Beef Bihari) are a perfect quick bite, wrapped in a choice of fresh Naan or crispy Paratha.

Contact Information

For placing an order, confirming details, or catering inquiries, you can reach Kababish at:

Address: 70-64 Broadway, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA

Phone: (718) 565-5131

Mobile Phone: +1 718-565-5131

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Kababish is choosing a place celebrated for the depth and intensity of its flavors, making it a serious contender for the "best desi food station" in Queens. The star of the show is undeniably the barbecue. The Seekh Kabab (both chicken and beef) paired with freshly baked Naan is a combination that customers consistently praise as "so nice" and "authentic." These kababs are cooked to perfection, showcasing the powerful, secret family marinade that gives Kababish its edge. The rich, savory, and slow-cooked curries like the Beef Nihari and Goat Karahi offer a hearty taste of authentic Pakistani comfort food that is hard to find elsewhere in the region.

It is important for local users to set expectations regarding service speed. Customer feedback repeatedly indicates that while the food is "delicious" and "perfectly cooked," there is often a wait—sometimes up to 20-25 minutes—especially for takeout. This is often attributed to the small, cozy space and high customer volume, which speaks to the restaurant’s immense popularity. For those who prioritize flavor and authenticity above all else and are willing to be patient, the wait is considered well worth it.

The Chicken Biryani is another must-try, known for its aromatic spices and perfectly cooked rice. And for a unique, satisfying handheld meal, the Chicken Kabab Roll (especially wrapped in a Paratha) provides an explosion of taste that is perfect for a quick, fulfilling lunch or dinner on the go. Finally, do not overlook the reputation for having a Great tea selection—a warm cup of their Chai is the perfect finish to any of their spicy, rich dishes. If you are a New Yorker looking for an intense, flavorful, and truly authentic Halal South Asian meal that is popular enough to always have a crowd, Kababish in Jackson Heights is a highly recommended culinary pilgrimage.

Kababish

70-64 Broadway, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA