A Food Lover’s Guide to Little Egypt in Astoria: Best Arab Restaurants & Cafés
Explore Astoria’s Little Egypt along Steinway Street, where Arab American heritage thrives through authentic restaurants, coffeehouses, and hookah lounges.
In Astoria’s Little Egypt, food is more than just a meal—it is heritage, history, and family tradition passed down through generations. Nestled along Steinway Street, between Astoria Boulevard and 28th Avenue, this vibrant corridor in Queens is home to Middle Eastern restaurants, coffee houses, and hookah lounges that have shaped the cultural fabric of the neighborhood for decades.
With April marking National Arab American Heritage Month, it is the perfect time to honor the culinary traditions of Arab American communities by exploring Little Egypt. From Yemeni coffee to Egyptian seafood and halal fusion dishes, here are some of the most beloved spots that bring Arab flavors to life in Astoria.
Levant (25-64 Steinway St.)
A neighborhood favorite, Levant serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern touch. Known for its fresh-baked bread, chicken shawarma feteer, mix grill platters, and baklawa, it’s a must-stop for traditional flavors.
Qahwah House (22-37 31st St.)
A Yemeni coffeehouse open from morning until midnight, Qahwah House offers rich brews like Sana’ani and Qishr coffee alongside espresso, cold brew, and tea. Visitors can enjoy desserts like Sabaya and Khaliat Alnahl, a honey-drizzled cheese roll that’s both buttery and soft.
Mokafe (25-73 Steinway St.)
This modern café combines halal sandwiches with artisanal pastries and specialty drinks. Highlights include pistachio croissants, avocado toast, and drinks like lavender vanilla matcha tea.
Duzan (24-11 Steinway St.)
For hearty Middle Eastern meals at affordable prices, Duzan is a go-to. From beef lamb shawarma to shawarma mix bowls, its no-frills menu delivers authentic taste for dine-in or take-out.
Zyara (25-53 Steinway St.)
A cozy eatery serving authentic dishes, Zyara offers everything from Turkish eggplant and lamb over hummus to grilled branzino. Guests can choose to dine in or take their meals to go.
Sands of Persia (25-01 Steinway St.)
An upscale restaurant and lounge with a chic ambiance, Sands of Persia blends food, desserts, and hookah. Signature items include Persian masala chicken sandwiches, masala fries, and halal chicken wings. Perfect for special occasions or a stylish night out.
Sabry’s Seafood (24-25 Steinway St.)
A beloved seafood destination, Sabry’s offers Egyptian-style BBQ branzino, grilled calamari, shrimp scampi, and more. Its warm, spacious setting makes it ideal for gatherings or date nights.
Kebab Cafe (25-12 Steinway St.)
A cornerstone of the community, Kebab Cafe is a family-run restaurant where Chef Ali personally prepares and serves each dish. Known for lamb shank, chicken kebabs, and intimate dining, it offers an authentic and personal experience.
Hayati Lounge (25-47 Steinway St.)
A lively hookah and dessert lounge, Hayati serves Moroccan tea, mocktails, baklava, kunafa, and decadent dessert shakes. It’s a weekend favorite for both friends and couples.
Conclusion
Astoria’s Little Egypt is more than a dining destination—it is a cultural landmark celebrating Arab American heritage. Each restaurant, café, and lounge tells a story of tradition, migration, and community pride. Whether you’re savoring Yemeni coffee, indulging in Egyptian seafood, or enjoying Lebanese-inspired desserts, Little Egypt offers a culinary journey that keeps Arab heritage alive in New York City.
