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Çka Ka Qëllu - Manhattan
Master Critic Review
Çka Ka Qëllu - Manhattan
8.8
Çka Ka Qëllu brings Kosovar and broader Balkan home cooking to a townhouse space that feels part museum, part dining room, with shelves of antiques framing hearty platters and slow-cooked stews. Opened in 2020, it’s become a destination for regional specialties and long, family-style meals fueled by raki and grilled meats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fli (layered crêpe-style pie), Tava Kosi, Çka Ka Qëllu Mixed Meat Combination
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Deep-cut Albanian and Kosovar dishes served in a living-history townhouse.
Who should go: Adventurous eaters craving Balkan comfort and ceremony.
When to visit: Evenings for unhurried, family-style platters and raki.
What to order: Fli, tava kosi, mixed meat combination.
Insider tip: Book upstairs if you want the full “village house” atmosphere and quieter tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited; expect to circle or use nearby paid garages on 2nd Ave or 3rd Ave ($18–$28 for evening rates). Rideshare is strongly recommended.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but many guests dress up slightly for dinner and photos.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; you can hold a conversation, but energy rises as the night goes on.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; reservations are highly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several vegetable-driven dishes, stews, and breads available.
Vegan options: Limited - a few vegetable-based plates can be prepared vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Limited - grilled meats and some stews are gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you want something memorable and conversation-driven. The dramatic decor and shared plates create natural icebreakers, but it’s better for curious eaters than picky ones.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends are risky. Walk-ins are more likely to snag bar or smaller upstairs tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens than young kids. Portions are shareable and familiar enough for older kids, but the evening atmosphere skews adult.
Best For
Better for: Regional Balkan cooking, immersive old-world atmosphere, and slow communal dining that feels personal and transportive.
Skip if: You want quick service, predictable Mediterranean flavors, or a quiet, low-key meal—this is meant to be an experience.