Shalenzer Introduce
Introduction / Overview
For New Yorkers seeking a genuine taste of West Africa without leaving the five boroughs, Shalenzer Restaurant stands out as a highly-regarded destination in the heart of Jamaica, Queens. Specializing in authentic West African and Nigerian cuisine, Shalenzer offers a vibrant and cozy atmosphere that has earned a loyal following among local food enthusiasts. The restaurant proudly identifies as Black-owned and is dedicated to bringing traditional, flavorful dishes to the New York community. From classic 'swallow' soups to the essential Jollof Rice, this eatery provides a culinary experience that many customers describe as truly authentic and a welcome severance from their own home kitchens. It is a place celebrated for its fresh ingredients, large portions, and the kind of comforting, seasoned-to-perfection food that speaks to the soul of West African culinary traditions. Whether you are already familiar with the depth of Nigerian flavors or a curious newcomer, Shalenzer offers an exciting and engaging dining journey right here in New York City.
While the majority of feedback for Shalenzer is overwhelmingly positive, praising the quality, authenticity, and customer service—with specialties like the Jollof and various soups receiving high marks—it is worth noting the diverse range of customer experiences common in the vibrant New York food scene. Some past comments have suggested inconsistencies with rice seasoning or meat texture and spiciness levels, which is something to keep in mind when ordering. However, the consistent praise for the friendly owner, Obi, the welcoming environment, and the excellent quality of specific, traditional items like the meat pies and *Banga* soup, suggest a local gem that is committed to cultural flavor and service.
The menu is a testament to the region's rich food culture, featuring staples that are popular for both lunch and dinner. Signature dishes include the Jellof Rice and Chicken with plantain ($22.00), which is often highlighted for its perfect seasoning, and the Egusi Soup with Mixed meat ($22.00), a beloved classic. For a quick bite, the small plates, like the "Love pie" (Meat pie) ($2.50) which is lauded for its flaky, savory perfection, are highly recommended. For those looking for an authentic grilling experience, the 'Point & Grill' options, featuring large Croaker Fish ($50.00) or Mackerel Fish ($40.00), are prepared expertly with house marinade. Shalenzer isn't just a place to eat; it's a cultural connection point in Queens.
Location and Accessibility
Shalenzer Restaurant is conveniently situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Jamaica, Queens, making it a key destination for African cuisine in the New York area. The specific address is 157-03 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA. This location is accessible for local residents and those traveling from other boroughs. As a well-established area of Queens, Jamaica is serviced by various public transportation options, though a quick search of the nearest bus or subway lines is always recommended for the most efficient travel from your specific starting point. For those driving, planning for street parking should be part of the travel arrangements, as is typical for most popular destinations in Queens. The restaurant serves as a culinary landmark in this part of the borough, often sought out by customers specifically for its authentic Nigerian offerings. The central location provides a welcoming spot for family outings, solo dining, or catching up with friends.
Services Offered
- Dine-in: Enjoy a meal in the casual and cozy atmosphere with available table service.
- Takeout: Quick and easy pickup for meals on the go.
- Delivery: Convenient no-contact and standard delivery options for local customers.
- Curbside Pickup: Hassle-free retrieval of orders without leaving your vehicle.
- Outdoor Seating: Options to enjoy your meal al fresco when weather permits.
- Catering: Available for events, bringing the authentic taste of West Africa to larger gatherings.
- Reservations: Accepts reservations for planning special meals or ensuring a table during peak hours.
- Payments: Accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.
- Dining Service: Offers Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Counter service, and Dessert.
Features / Highlights
- Cuisine Specialization: Authentically focused on African, specifically West African and Nigerian, dishes including classic soups and rice dishes.
- Atmosphere and Crowd: Casual and cozy environment, noted as being Family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a Transgender safespace.
- Special Offerings: Includes Alcohol, Beer, Coffee, Comfort food, Happy hour food, Healthy options, Organic dishes, Vegan options, and Vegetarian options, demonstrating a commitment to diverse dietary needs.
- Entertainment: Features Live music and Sports for an engaging dining experience.
- Speed and Convenience: Highlighted for Fast service and providing Quick bites for those in a rush.
- Family Amenities: Provides a Kids' menu and Has changing table(s), making it welcoming for families with young children.
- Facility Amenities: Includes a Restroom and Wi-Fi for customer comfort.
- Private Dining: Offers a Private dining room, suitable for small celebrations or group events.
Contact Information
Address: 157-03 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA
Phone: (718) 413-5145
What is Worth Choosing
Shalenzer Restaurant is truly worth choosing for New Yorkers who value cultural authenticity, friendly service, and a diverse menu that caters to many tastes. The restaurant’s identity as a Black-owned establishment deepens its commitment to preserving and sharing the rich culinary heritage of West Africa, specifically Nigeria. What sets Shalenzer apart is the consistently high praise for its essential Nigerian soups—like *Egusi*, *Afang*, *Banga*, *Ogbono*, *Okra*, and Pepper Soup—which are praised for their authentic, deep flavors. Customers often rave about the quality of the 'swallow' meals, perfect for pairing with these traditional soups.
Beyond the main courses, the appetizers and sides offer must-try items. The *Suya*, a spicy grilled meat skewer, is a popular choice, and the Love pie (Meat pie) is frequently mentioned in reviews as one of the best available in Queens, thanks to its well-seasoned filling and flaky crust. The establishment is also 'Popular for' Lunch and Dinner, as well as Solo dining, indicating it's a comfortable spot for any occasion. The combination of Fast service, a casual and cozy setting, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere—including specific features like a Kids' menu and a transgender-safe space designation—makes it more than just a place to eat; it's a community hub. The availability of diverse offerings, from healthy and organic dishes to comfort food and vegan options, ensures there is something for everyone. For an authentic and satisfying West African meal in Queens, Shalenzer delivers a flavorful and memorable experience that locals are proud to call their own.
Shalenzer Food & drink
Shalenzer Restaurant Menu
- Jellof Rice and Chicken with plantain $22.00
🌟 Taste the Essence of Nigeria at Shalenzer Restaurant! 🌟 Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our signature Nigerian Jollof Rice paired with succulent grilled chicken and perfectly caramelized plantains. At Shalenzer, we bring the heart of Nigeria to Queens, NY—just 3 minutes from JFK! Our Jollof Rice is a beloved classic, cooked to perfection with a rich blend of tomatoes, peppers, and spices, delivering a taste that dances on your palate. The grilled chicken is marinated in our special spices, offering a smoky, juicy delight that complements the rice beautifully. And don’t forget the sweet plantains—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re the perfect finishing touch! Join us for a culinary journey that showcases the warmth of Nigerian hospitality. Whether you're a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, our dishes promise to leave you craving more. 📍 Visit us at Shalenzer Restaurant and savor the best of Nigerian cuisine! Your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
- Egusi Soup with Mixed meat $22.00
Our Egusi Soup is crafted from ground melon seeds, bursting with flavor and nutrients. Paired with a delicious mix of beef, goat, and chicken, every bite is a celebration of taste and tradition. The perfect blend of spices creates a savory delight that will transport your senses straight to Nigeria. At Shalenzer, we pride ourselves on serving authentic dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Nigerian cuisine or trying it for the first time, our Egusi and mixed meat dish is sure to leave you craving more. 📍 Join us at Shalenzer Restaurant and savor the true essence of Nigerian cooking! Your table is waiting! 🍲✨
- Love pie ( Meat pie) $2.50
🌟 Savor the Love Pie at Shalenzer Restaurant! 🌟 Treat yourself to our signature Nigerian Love Pie, a delightful meat pie that captures the heart of Nigerian comfort food! Located just 3 minutes from JFK in Queens, NY, Shalenzer Restaurant is proud to bring you this beloved delicacy. Our Love Pie features a flaky, golden crust filled with a savory blend of seasoned minced meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or pairing it with one of our delicious sides, the Love Pie is a must-try! At Shalenzer, we’re committed to serving authentic Nigerian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere. Come experience the taste of home, where every dish is made with love. 📍 Visit Shalenzer Restaurant and fall in love with our Nigerian Love Pie! Your taste buds will thank you! 🥧❤️
- Point & Grill ( Croaker Fish ) $50.00
Grilled Croaker Fish & Plantain Combo Charred to perfection, the Croaker Fish delight is fire-grilled with Shalenzer’s house spice blend, served with golden-fried plantain and our bold, pepper-infused sauce. Topped with sautéed onions, sweet red peppers, and fresh tomato garnish — it’s a smoky, spicy, juicy explosion of flavor. A backyard favorite — made to impress. Call the restaurant for Reservation. ( 718-413-5145 )
- Point & Grill ( Mackerel Fish ) $40.00
Grilled Mackerel & Plantain Combo Charred to perfection, this double mackerel delight is fire-grilled with Shalenzer’s house spice blend, served with golden-fried plantain and our bold, pepper-infused sauce. Topped with sautéed onions, sweet red peppers, and fresh tomato garnish — it’s a smoky, spicy, juicy explosion of flavor. A backyard favorite — made to impress. Call the restaurant for Reservation. ( 718-413-5145 )
Soups
- Egusi Soup
- Afang Soup
- Banga Soup
- Ogbono Soup
- Okra Soup
- Pepper Soup
Rice
- Jollof Rice
- White Rice & Stew
Sides
- Beans & Plantain
- Moi-Moi
Appetizers
- Nkwobi
- Suya
Shalenzer Details
From the business
- Identifies as Black-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Live music
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- All you can eat
- Beer
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour food
- Healthy options
- Organic dishes
- Private dining room
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- Kids' menu
Shalenzer Photos










Shalenzer Location
Shalenzer Reviews
jollof ricegoatsuyanigerianspicyegusi soupmeat pielolokraginger
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Im addicted! I’ve been looking for a great African restaurant and I’ve come to the end of my search! My niece loves the okra stew. The food is always very fresh! Obi, the owner is friendly and pleasant! The foods do not disappoint! The banga and jollof have me severing ties with my kitchen. Thanks guys for bringing close to authentic Nigerian food to Queens!
October 14 · majodieDo NOT recommend.Rice was blandChicken tasted like rubberSauce was too spicyI wasted my time here.The lady behind the counter assured me the food was freshly made and that it was NOT spicy. Neither was the case. I even heard her using the microwave to heat up my food.Never again!
December 04 · GinaThe best Suya I’ve had in a long long time. The Egusi soup was also very good. I can’t wait to try their upcoming menu. Definitely recommend!
July 19 · Jenniffer GarciaFirst of all this is the best meat pie I’ve ever had in my life only thing that can compare is in Ashimowu Bakare street. I also ordered jollof rice and goat but I ate it too fast. The goat was well seasoned and so tender omg the jollof was also very good. I give this place a 10 star and the man inside was very nice and provided great customer service. You have to check this place out I’ll definitely be back lol perhaps tmm.
November 06 · Miriam GiordanoI ordered Okra soup with goat and Banga soup with goat. AMAZING!! Spicy and so good! My only feedback would be make the okra soup a little more liquid, but it all tastes fabulous!
May 09 · Alia
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