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De Afghanan Kabob House
Master Critic Review
De Afghanan Kabob House
8.4
Quick-service Afghan kebab counter turning out juicy skewers, bolani, and rice plates a block from the office towers. Reliable execution and generous portions make it a strong downtown Middle Eastern option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Combination kebab plate, Bolani (stuffed flatbread), Aushak or mantu (dumplings)
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Afghan grilled meats and bolani served fast with hearty portions.
Who should go: Kebab lovers near FiDi offices
When to visit: Lunch 11:30–1:00 or early dinner lull
What to order: Combo kebabs, bolani, dumplings (mantu/aushak)
Insider tip: Pair kebabs with extra chutney; rice upgrades feed two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited in the Financial District; best bet is nearby paid garages like the Portsmouth Square Garage (5–7 min walk).
Dress code: Casual – office attire or jeans are fine, no dress code enforced.
Noise level: Moderate – can converse easily at lunch, though the counter-service rush adds background bustle.
Weekend wait: Usually no wait since it’s more of a weekday lunch crowd.
Weekday lunch: Expect a 10–15 minute line during peak office lunch hours (11:45am–12:45pm).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – bolani, veggie dumplings, and rice plates can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited – bolani with chutney and some sides work, but mains are meat-focused.
Gluten-free options: Yes – kebabs and rice plates are naturally gluten-free; dumplings and bolani are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal – it’s counter-service with a casual vibe, better for quick meals than romantic ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s walk-in only, with communal seating that turns over quickly during lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like grilled meats and dumplings; no dedicated kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and more generous portions than nearby Middle Eastern counters; Afghan specialties like bolani set it apart.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a sit-down, lingering dinner with ambiance or full bar service.