Rafiqi's food cart

- 31 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003

In the bustling landscape of New York City's street food scene, Rafiqi's Food Cart stands out as a true staple. Located near the vibrant hub of Union Square, this well-established halal food cart has been serving up delicious and generously portioned meals for over a decade. It’s more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it's a reliable and cherished part of the daily routine for countless New Yorkers, from busy professionals to college students and health-conscious individuals.

Rafiqi's has built its reputation on consistency and quality. The menu features classic halal fare, including rice platters, gyros, and sandwiches, all made with care. Customers consistently praise the "tender and juicy" chicken and the "crispy yet juicy" lamb. One of the highlights mentioned in a customer review is the availability of different sauces, although the food is so well-seasoned that it can stand on its own. This commitment to flavor and quality has cemented its status as a local favorite, not just for its convenience but for its genuinely tasty food.

The food cart’s focus on providing a satisfying meal at an affordable price is a major draw in a city known for its high cost of living. A review points out that you "cannot beat this for an inexpensive bite to eat," whether you're heading to the park or your next destination. Rafiqi's proves that fast food can be high-quality, flavorful, and a great value, making it a go-to choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Its popularity is a testament to its consistent quality and friendly service.

Rafiqi's Food Cart is strategically located at 31 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003. This puts it at the edge of Union Square, a major transportation hub and a central point for shopping, events, and daily city life. The cart's proximity to a major park and several subway stations makes it an incredibly convenient stop for anyone in the area. The Union Square subway station, served by the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, and L lines, is just a short walk away, making it easily accessible from all over Manhattan and beyond.

As a food cart, it’s primarily designed for a takeout and on-the-go experience. However, the location itself offers ample opportunities for casual dining. The benches and green space in Union Square Park are just steps away, providing a perfect spot to enjoy your meal. The area is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can easily reach the food cart. This combination of a central location and great accessibility makes Rafiqi's a perfect choice for a quick and convenient lunch or dinner.

Rafiqi's Food Cart is streamlined to provide quick and efficient service, focusing on what matters most to its busy clientele.

• Takeout: The primary service is takeout. The food is prepared fresh and served quickly, making it ideal for a grab-and-go meal.
• Delivery: While primarily a food cart, Rafiqi's also offers delivery services through various online platforms, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite meals without leaving their home or office.
• Dine-in (casual): Although there is no formal dining area, the food cart is located in an area with public seating. Customers can find a spot in the nearby Union Square Park to enjoy their food, making for a casual and relaxed "dine-in" experience.
• Payments: For added convenience, the food cart accepts both credit and debit cards, in addition to cash.

These services ensure that Rafiqi's remains a convenient and accessible choice for a wide range of customers, whether they are eating on the go or getting food delivered.

Rafiqi's Food Cart stands out in a crowded market due to its specific features and unique approach to fast food.

• Generous Portions: A key highlight is the generous portions of protein served on their platters and gyros. A customer review specifically notes this, stating that they serve "generous protein portions." This makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
• High-Quality Halal Food: The food is consistently praised for maintaining "high quality standards." The chicken is described as "tender and juicy," and the falafel and lamb are also highly rated, ensuring a delicious experience every time.
• Inexpensive: The prices are notably affordable for New York City standards. Customers recognize this as a key benefit, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal without sacrificing taste or portion size.
• Customizable Options: A review highlights that a customer prefers a platter without rice or bread, just a side of salad, which suggests a degree of flexibility. The availability of various sauces also allows for customization.
• Casual Atmosphere: The food cart setting provides a relaxed and informal atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for solo dining or a quick, no-fuss meal.
• Health-Conscious Friendly: The ability to order a platter with just protein and salad, as noted by a customer, makes it a popular choice for "athletes and health conscious people."

Address: 31 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

When you're in New York City and looking for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal, Rafiqi's Food Cart is a top-tier choice. What makes it worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, flavorful food at prices that are accessible to everyone. The generous portions of chicken, lamb, and falafel, paired with the satisfying rice and fresh salad, make every meal a great value. It’s a place that doesn't compromise on taste despite its fast-food nature.

The consistency of the food is a major factor. As one customer noted, the food "maintains high quality standards consistently," which is a significant accomplishment for a food cart. This reliability means you can always count on a delicious meal, whether it's your first time or your hundredth. The staff is impressive, and the service is fast and friendly, ensuring a pleasant transaction even during the busiest hours.

Rafiqi's also caters to a variety of dietary preferences, with vegetarian options like falafel and the ability to customize orders to be more health-conscious. Its central location near Union Square makes it incredibly convenient for anyone in the area, whether you're a local on your lunch break or a tourist exploring the city. For a fast and fulfilling meal that is consistently good, inexpensive, and highly regarded by the local community, Rafiqi's Food Cart is an excellent and highly recommended choice.

Rafiqi's food cart

31 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA