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Grand Street Skewer Cart
Master Critic Review
Grand Street Skewer Cart
7.7
The Grand Street Skewer Cart near the Grand St subway entrance grills cumin-dusted meats and vegetables late into the night for LES and Chinatown passersby. It’s a classic street-side stop where the smoke, spice, and crowd around the cart signal a solid, budget-friendly late-night snack.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cumin Lamb Skewers, Chicken Thigh Skewers, Enoki Mushroom Skewers
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A late-night street cart turning out smoky cumin skewers steps from the subway.
Who should go: Hungry night owls wanting a fast, flavorful street snack
When to visit: Around midnight, especially weekends, when the cart is busiest
What to order: Cumin lamb skewers, chicken skewers, enoki mushroom skewers
Insider tip: Bring cash, and be ready to eat your skewers on the sidewalk or on the way home.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect limited availability on Grand Street late at night. Easiest option is to walk from the Grand St subway station steps away.
Dress code: No dress code at all — it’s a sidewalk food cart, come as you are.
Noise level: Moderate street noise from traffic and subway foot traffic; conversations are possible but this is a grab-and-go environment.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on the bar crowd and late-night rush.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the cart may not operate consistently during daytime hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable skewers like enoki mushrooms and occasionally tofu options.
Vegan options: Limited — vegetable skewers are usually vegan, but ask about marinades to confirm.
Gluten-free options: Generally yes — most skewers are simply seasoned and grilled, but cross-contact is unavoidable at a street cart.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves street food and casual, spontaneous experiences. It’s more of a fun late-night stop than a sit-down date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables — everything is eaten standing up or on the go. No reservations needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids or teens comfortable with street food setups. Young children may find the crowds, heat, and street traffic overwhelming.
Best For
Better for: A quick, flavorful, ultra-budget late-night bite with smoky cumin spices — faster and cheaper than nearby sit-down spots.
Skip if: You want seating, long meals, alcohol, or a quieter environment. Opt for a restaurant instead if you need comfort or a broader menu.