Souvlaki Lady

- 33rd St &, Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

In a neighborhood as rich with Greek heritage and fantastic food as Astoria, there are few names that carry as much weight and affection as the Souvlaki Lady. An iconic fixture at the corner of 33rd Street and Ditmars Boulevard for many years, she is more than a food vendor; she is a beloved community staple. Her reputation isn't just built on delicious food, but on a warm, friendly personality that has made countless New Yorkers feel right at home. This is the place you go when you want more than just a meal—you want a taste of genuine Astoria culture.

The Souvlaki Lady has become a local legend for good reason. Her food is celebrated for its authenticity and high quality, drawing a steady stream of customers, from neighborhood regulars to tourists who've heard about her fame. One customer review perfectly captures the sentiment: "There’s really not much I can say that hasn’t been said already about this famous lady and as an Astoria staple for so many years. She is super warm and friendly; did I mention everything she serves is of the utmost quality." This personal touch, combined with the fact that she has been serving the same corner for decades, has cemented her status as an Astoria icon.

The atmosphere is as casual as it gets, a true reflection of authentic Greek street food culture. There’s a certain magic to getting your food directly from the source, prepared with care and tradition. While the setting is simple, the flavors are anything but. The focus is on comfort food and quick bites, making it a perfect stop for lunch or dinner. Tourists and locals alike travel to this specific corner just to experience her creations, proving that a great reputation, a warm smile, and truly delicious food can make a simple street cart a major destination.

The Souvlaki Lady is located at the vibrant intersection of 33rd St & Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105, USA. This is one of the most well-known and bustling corners in the neighborhood, putting her right in the heart of the action. Her cart is a landmark, easily spotted by anyone familiar with the area.

As a street food cart, accessibility is straightforward. The location is open to pedestrians and is a quick and convenient stop for people walking by. For those arriving by car, both free and paid street parking are available in the surrounding area, though, as with many parts of NYC, parking can be a bit of a challenge at peak times. The easy walk-up service and central location make it a no-fuss option for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal in Astoria. The spot is also popular among solo diners looking for a fast, delicious, and easy meal.

The Souvlaki Lady's services are built around speed and convenience, perfect for the on-the-go lifestyle of New York.

• Takeout: As a food cart, takeout is the primary service. You can place your order and have it handed to you fresh and hot in just a few minutes.

• Delivery: For those who can't make it to the corner, the Souvlaki Lady offers delivery service, including no-contact options, through various online platforms. This ensures her delicious food is accessible to a wider audience.

• Curbside Pickup: A great option for those who are driving or want to minimize their time waiting. You can order ahead and pick up your meal right at the curb.

The service is known for being friendly and efficient, ensuring you get your food quickly. One customer shared a wonderful anecdote about the Souvlaki Lady's kindness, noting how she added extra fries to their order without being asked, just to make their meal better. This is the kind of personal service that creates loyal, long-time customers.

What truly makes the Souvlaki Lady special are the unique features and offerings that have made her a beloved institution.

• Authentic Greek Flavors: The menu is simple, straightforward, and delicious. It focuses on classic Greek comfort food like chicken, pork, and gyro souvlaki, all of which are made with the utmost quality. The meat is fresh, and the flavors are spot on, reminding many customers of the souvlaki they've had in Greece.

• The "Lady" Herself: Customers consistently rave about the owner's warm and friendly personality. She's a huge part of the experience, and her kindness is often cited as a key reason why people return again and again. As one review states, she is "super warm and friendly" and a reason to "drive all the way out here."

• Daily Specials and Variety: The menu includes daily soup specials, such as Avgolemono on Mondays and Chicken Rice on Thursdays, adding a wonderful element of variety. There are also unique pita creations with names that pay homage to the neighborhood, like the "Ditmars," "Astoria," and "33 Street" pitas, each with its own special combination of flavors.

• Family-Friendly and Budget-Friendly: With offerings like the "Family Special" and a menu that’s "good for kids," it’s a great option for a family meal. The prices are also very reasonable, offering great value for the high quality of the food.

• Classic and Custom Options: You can choose from classic dishes like the Gyro Platter and Chicken Souvlaki Platter, or get a quick fix with a single stick or a pita. The menu also offers a variety of sauces, including the famous "Souvlaki Lady" sauce, Tzatziki, and Tirokafteri (Feta Sauce), allowing for a customizable and delicious experience. Don't forget the Greek Fries with feta cheese for a truly authentic taste.

The simplicity of the menu is its strength. Every item, from the "French Fries" to the "Greek Empanada," is a testament to the focus on quality. The "Hungry Lady" pita, with its generous portions, has also become a fan favorite.

Address: 33rd St &, Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105, USA

Phone: (917) 750-3748

What is truly worth choosing about the Souvlaki Lady is the combination of a fantastic culinary experience and a heartwarming human connection. This isn't just about grabbing a quick meal; it's about supporting a local legend and enjoying food that is made with passion and care. The consistency and quality of her food, along with the friendly service, have made her an "Astoria staple."

One review highlights the loyalty she inspires: "There is a reason why so many people travel far and wide just to meet this lady to sample all her creations." This a sentiment shared by many, who view a trip to her cart as an essential part of the Astoria experience. In a city filled with countless food options, the Souvlaki Lady stands out by being consistently good, authentically Greek, and genuinely kind. For anyone in New York looking for an affordable, delicious, and truly memorable meal, a visit to the Souvlaki Lady is a must. It's a taste of Greece served with a side of Astoria hospitality.

Souvlaki Lady

33rd St &, Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105, USA