I do not need to give great detail especially in light of the many great reviews. We were a party of 12. The food was great. The service was more than acceptable. The decor and outside entry was quirky and unique. All in all it was like wonderful home cooking.

This is my favorite restaurant in NYC (as an Egyptian-American who grew up in the city)! Everything about this restaurant is a labor of love by the owner. He is the waiter, artist, chef, you name it. The food is just divine, but the experience is even better. Don't come here when you're in a rush. Come for a long, lingering conversation and a great dinner.

My fiance and I went for a walk, not intending to get dinner, but when we passed this gorgeous little building on Steinway Street, we were immediately drawn to it. We peeked our heads in and saw a cozy, ecclectically designed restaurant that made us feel like we were no longer a handful of blocks from home, but traveling to a distant land where all the troubles of life no longer matter. It was a slow night for the restaurant, which made our visit that much more special. The owner was very friendly and welcoming and recommended the perfect dishes for us to try. My fiance got the lamb shank while I opted for the sea bass. Our meals were fantastic - perfect blends of spices, tender meats falling off the bones, variety of carefully seasoned vegetables served with heaps of rice and couscous. For two people who weren't even planning on getting dinner, we finished every last bite on our plates and then relaxed with a hot cup of mint tea while discussing everything from family lineage to the state of the world with our gracious host. This is not a typical NYC restaurant. It's warm and unpretentious, the owner welcomes you like family, and the food tastes like grandma has been up since daybreak preparing it. Unbeknownst to me, Mombar has been there for 18 years and I can't believe it was my first visit. It definitely won't be my last.

Mombar is a true hidden gem in NYC. This “hole in the wall” restaurant will make you feel as if you’ve walked into the owners home. The small 6 table establishment is filled with weird knickknacks with little cohesion but it’s what gives this place incredible character. The food is absolutely incredible! The owner/chef/waiter/host has his menu memorized and happily announces each item to you. If you can keep up, you’re in for a real treat. We had the beet salad, hummus, kushari, chicken tajine and beef shank. All of it was incredibly tasty and tender. If I could give this place more than 5 stars, I would. It has quickly been placed in my top 5 places in all of NYC.

It was delicious! The lamb shank is perfectly cooked. One man runs the whole restaurant, so there is a wait, but the food is very worth it!

Very friendly chef that took us for a tour after the dinner to show his art work

This restaurant is run by the incredibly friendly owner and one helper in the kitchen. The food is delicious and lovingly prepared but if it's a busy night be prepared to wait because there is no staff. We don't have any problems waiting because the food and ambiance is worth it. The restaurant is decorated with all kinds of eclectic items collected by the owner and we always find something new and neat to speculate about. Always wait to decide on your meal based on the specials. And best in mind that this establishment is cash-only and BYOB.

I want to recommend this place, but I don't want anyone to find it. It's a gem of a place. My GF and I were lucky enough to have the whole place to ourselves one Saturday. He had no written menu, but the photos here are pretty accurate. Nice man. Fun to talk to. Great atmosphere and food.

Awesome 👍. The owner is very sweet and caring, he is wonderful. The food is great and delicious 👌.

Absolutely fantastic experience. The owner Mustafa served delicious authentic Egyptian cuisine. The place is gorgeous with many pieces of art work made by the owner.

Liver is my favorite appetizer. The rest of food is also good, lap shank with spinach is chef kiss.

Great food served by the wonderful owner. The menu changes based on the day, but everything is delicious. I'm still thinking about it a day later. There is a ton of art as well. Even the floor and some of the the tables were made by the restaurant owner. The only thing to keep in mind is this is not a place to go when you need to get in and out quickly, but it's worth spending the time to enjoy a meal here.

The owner is a so friendly old man who’s cooking and serving the food himself. He’s the only person working in the restaurant. The food is unbelievably delicious which is typical authentic Egyptian food that I have never ate like before except from my mother and mother-in-law. Food prices are not expensive. This is a unique experience. I love it!

Really great food. Home cooked. The chef is your server. Allow for extra time, but well worth it. Try the lamb.

Great experience. It's one guy who does it all, very home like feel to it. Food was fantastic and everyone around was very friendly. BYOB and no corkage fee!

The food is so delicious! The place is like a piece of art! But it’s over priced!

+6

I almost hate to write a review of Mombar, as I like to think of it as a hidden secret. The Owner and one-man-show Mustafa makes amazing meals in an establishment he's decorated himself with his own artwork. It truly is an experience, and one I look forward to continuing. Its BYOB, so bring a bottle (or two) and enjoy!

I really like this place comma I have since the first time I went there and I've been there four or five times period It's a little Ram Shackle inside comma it's filled with the guys own art period he's a one-man band so you need to exercise patience in waiting for the food period there are some shortcuts employed in Making some of the food comma but none of it Does any harm to the authenticity Especially considering that when I was in Egypt I was also served some frozen vegetables and things like that comma it's the desert so You know you have to sort of temper your expectations Going to Mombar is more about the experience than it is about any one single thing. There's no alcohol on premises but you can bring your own alcoholic beverages which I recommend doing. There are local outlets for any kind of Beverage you would like within walking distance.

As long as you know what to except, it is a great experience. Food is great! It is a one person staff place, which means one person taking your order, cooking and closing your check. He’s very friendly and efficient though! So make sure you order all at once. There’s no alcohol in the menu, but it looks like you can bring your own if you want (I didn’t, but I saw other tables had it). Cozy environment. Feels like someone’s house. And again, food is very tasty! I definitely recommend it.

Extremely unique, truly one-of-a-kind, great experience. Everything is cooked single-handedly by the owner, who also created about 90% the artwork which is bursting from the walls, floors and ceiling. And the food is delicious, amongst the best I've had in New York. Because the owner is the only cook and server, come only if you're able to take some time, not in a rush. Also, cash only!

Amazing place with delicious food, unique decorations and an owner/waiter/chef that does it all. The restaurant has a very rustic ambiance, and the cloth dividers are a great touch. This spot is cash only so make sure to bring about $40-$50 a person. We ordered liver, cauliflower, and havash as appetizers. We ordered the chicken tagine, lamb shank and branzino for mains. Every dish was delicious, my favorite being the liver which had a tangy and spicy sauce to it which balanced out the flavor of the liver perfectly.

My first time in NY and food-wise, this was my favorite part! A little taken aback upon entry, but we were immediately reassured by the chef who gave us lots of options to choose from. It seems as though the menu might fluctuate from time to time, but everything we got was excellent. Tajin, lamb shank, and couscous all came in generous portions and were all supes yum. Couldn’t recommend this place more! The lamb will most def be on my mind for the next few days.

We loved our experience at Mombar. We were blown away by not only the food but the fact that it’s completely ran by the owner. He does it all - greets you, gives you background on his restaurant, is your server, and cooks all meals from scratch for all guests. One man show and it’s pretty spectacular. People have mentioned issues on prices - honestly you pay more for a meal in the city and this is some of the best Egyptian Food we’ve ever had. So worth it and will be visiting again in the future. Make sure to get there early as the restaurant will fill up. If you’re looking for a quick meal, this isn’t the place as each dish is made with love by one person. Perfect for date night or evening with a small group.

A very friendly owner/chef with no menu but makes all the delicious dishes! This is a one of a kind experience that really makes you appreciate the food and the ambiance. It feels like a home cooked meal. Cash only. Worth it!

The food was so good! The meat falls off the bone and the mint tea is a must!

It’s hard to believe this is a restaurant ! The exterior is a work of art done by the owner ; simply beautiful. The interior is filled with tapestries and artwork as well. The feeling transports you from the stress of the city and makes you feel like the invited guest in an artist’s home. The food is cooked fresh and absolutely delicious. There were no paper menus; the owner comes over to tell you what he has available that day. The lamb shank was tender and fell off the bone. Everything we tried was delicious, fresh and took the winter cold out of our bones . You will love your meal and May leave inspired to create some art work of your own. Very friendly owner and I would recommend.

A very unique and flavorful culinary experience. Expect to wait a bit for your food; restaurant is just one man doing everything—cooking and serving. Cash only. There are no menus. Dishes change based on what he has available. Everything is good. Lamb shank is delicious. Beef shank is delicious. So is the koshary. For appetizers, I like the hummus and Alexandria liver.

you must spend time to observe every table, floor, art work..the food is delish..

Amazing place the food was crazy flavorful and authentic. No issues with the place or food and the artwork is amazing and all made by the owner. The owner is the only employee and does everything. The place was not too busy and the food took about an hour to come but it was made with love and passion. I would reccomend to anyone as long as they don’t mind waiting. Loved the steak and hummus.

Food was amazing. The owner does everything, be prepared to be there for a couple hours, but it is well worth the wait (bring a couple bottles of wine with you, you won't mind the time). The owner has his own art displayed everywhere, from the walls to the tables and the tiles floor. Great experience, make the time to enjoy it

Literally hole in the wall. Difficult to find their sign. Small space for seating but they seated us outside (NYC new norm). Food was amazing. I ordered their Alexandria liver which is better than what I have even tasted in Egypt. Also tried their Lamb Tajin which was amazing, the meat was so tender and spices were perfect. Their Hawawshi was also very tasty and all was very affordable. Dinner for two cost around 60, definitely worth it and would definitely go back.

Went here with my sister who left most of the experience a surprise to me. Very cool atmosphere and unique restaurant. Unlike anything else I’ve been too. Wish I could have gotten “the tour” but we caught him late at night.

Living work of incredibly sincere art, in which the artist generously allows visitors to sit and have a meal. Really incredible. He has the daily menu memorized. We had hummus, cauliflower with a light pomegranate sauce, lamb shank, and koshary.

The food here tastes honest and true. The staff member was helpful without being too present. I'm baffled by the critical reviews of this place. The taste profile satisfies cravings. This restaurant was a wonderful discovery!

This is an absolute hidden gem of Astoria, Queens, and is as authentic as it gets. Mustafa is the owner, chef, and menu curator. He is also the artist who designed the inside and the outside of the restaurant with a vividly colorful and diverse art collection. He is not only an artist, his dishes are art and it’s evident that this is his passion. The outside of the restaurant is decorated with tile and protection of the evil eye, and the inside is like walking into an artists living room. He will greet and seat you warmly as if you were visiting your dearest and most hospitable uncle. If you ask for a menu he will say, “I am the menu” with a giant grin. He goes to the market everyday to carefully curate his daily offering. I’ve been fortunate enough to have experienced Mombar 3 times. The first time I had a shared sampler of everything and couldn’t believe how flavorful and tender the meats were. The spices are out of this world. The second time I had tagine, and the third I had lamb shank. I recall a really good beet and legume salad. If you like Egyptian food, art, hospitality, and a vibrant dining experience, Mombar will exceed your expectations.

This spot knows the secret to great taste. The food literally dissolved while I tried to memorize the flavor. I genuinely enjoy this place, and you're bound to agree. The staff member showed a great attitude and ensured our first time there was thoroughly pleasant. Our group consensus is to return.

Moustafa is the best! It’s truly a hidden gem in Astoria. You feel like you’re transported into another realm, surrounded by art and pieces that the chef has collected and put together throughout the years of his life. Cash only and BYOB. Make a reservation if you can, but if not you can try to walk in. The menu is special, it’s always fresh and different, there is always a few vegetarian options available. Please stop by and make your way down here for an incredible day in Astoria!

Great experience and the food is delicious. The menu changes daily. We really enjoyed everything we had and we will definitely come back!

Amazing. Such a nice guy. Tastes homemade and just wow. What an experience. Expect to spend a few hours here cause there’s only one person who works there. He cleans, cooks, takes orders, washes dishes, everything.

Best ever !!! Feel like home .. very different experience … Highly recommend !!!!

Great food and my favorite restaurant experience in Astoria. Reminiscent of eating at grandmas house and the food is delicious. Awesome, high quality, home cooked meals. This is a true gem in Astoria.

Fun, unique, affordable, colorful spot for Middle Eastern food in a busy ethnic area of Queens. Owner-chef makes all the art, which is half the experience. Large portions, under $20. No booze - BYO - but wine openers are available. Egyptian-style suitable for timid American palates. Big tables for large groups. Quiet when we arrived at 6pm. Probably bustling at 9pm on Saturday night. Great couscous+veggies. Loved the lamb

5 stars for the freshness of food. Taste!! Very funky. Time stuck in the 70s. Super friendly chef.

+3

So good. It’s been a while since I’ve had a 10/10 meal. I would come back just to hang out with the owner. I would gladly wash all of the dishes for a chance to just smell the aroma of the first time I walked in.

This place is amazing. The food is delicious, the service is great and the atmosphere truly resembles an authentic restaurant. Mostafa the chef is amazing he greets you personally and lets you know what’s on the menu. He also has an amazing way of greeting you and checking on you while you eat makes you feel as if you are dining at home.

Don’t walk, run to Mombar ! A cute restaurant by a native Egyptian from Alexandria. Be aware food is made to order. Please be patient. Lots of vegetarian options to choose from. Decor and ambiance is 10/10.

Very interesting little spot. Found it by chance while looking for a good spot to in Astoria's little Egypt. It's truly a one man show. Definitely expensive but the duck was amazing. A must try for a truly unique experience

Can't say enough about this place. Incredible experience, amazing food, super friendly guy, art everywhere, tapestries between each table, menu changes everyday. I will be returning as often as I can

Food for art. Truly unique and warm experience. Gem in little Egypt

Absolute gem of a place! The man who runs it did all the art and decoration here. Food is in huge portions and everything is delicious. He also has off menu recommendations -- the sweetbread was amazing

Probably the coolest chef you will ever get to meet, super friendly, does everything from A to Z by himself on the spot! The most authentic & super delicious Egyptian food in NYC! Always changing & great variety menu options, must try!

Truly a magical dining experience. Don’t come in a rush. We spent a few hours there and enjoyed amazing appetizers and entres from scratch. Pictured is tagine (bottom left), beef shank (top left), koshari (top left). This is a one man show, he is the host, server, and chef.

This place is amazing. The food is delicious. Don’t expect to come hear for a fast meal. The chef takes his time to work his magic and everything is cooked from scratch. It is BYOB. I have been coming here for years. This is truly a hidden gem in queens.

Our dinner here is probably one of the best ones I’ve had yet. The food was so delicious and authentic. The service was extraordinary, Chef Mustafa was the best and his food was so delicious! And not to mention the art that he does himself, the place is so cool, this is a must in Astoria, really recommend it.

This is a solid GEM in Astoria. As soon as I walked inside I felt like I was in Egypt, teleported. The owner and chef, Mustafa, was warm and welcoming. My boyfriend and I shared the cauliflower and the Bronzino. This fish was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. I can’t wait to return and try more of his incredible recipes. I highly recommend this place if you want to feel at home and eat fresh food.

Michael Powell

A true New York, and even moreso Queens, experience! A hole in the wall family restaurant that offers daily fresh custom menus. When I went he offered us Lamb and Beef shanks that melted off the bone, perfectly cooked veggies, rice, cous, naan/hummus. So full, so happy! The owner is the nicest man who clearly loves what he does (chef/artist). The restaurant is filled with his art projects and the atmosphere makes you feel at home. He does an incredible job showcasing Egyptian hospitality. Inside you'll even see a few NYT articles and retired MOMA pieces that reference his space. Reminder - it's a one man show, so although everything was perfect. Be patient, also. Cash only

NYCity Dweller

I almost didn’t want to write about this place because I want it to stay a hidden gem, but Moustafa and his fantastically decorated restaurant deserve praise. The unassuming kitsch storefront is covered with newspaper clippings raving about the food. When you step inside into the spacious but cozy and flamboyantly-decorated, you are greeted by the wonderful host/chef/server/ Moustafa. The warm aroma of slow cooked meat and fragrant fried garlic immediately transport you to the memories of home cooked meals, family dinners and lazy Sundays. The food is made and served with care and craftsmanship. 100/10 across the board.

Eddie J

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Mombar is not a restaurant — it’s an experience. I ordered the eggplant appetizer, the cauliflower appetizer, and the lamb, and every single bite was unreal. The flavors were deep, bold, and somehow perfectly balanced. Hands down, this was some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in my life. The magic of this place is the chef. He doesn’t give you a big menu — he cooks what he wants that day, then tells you what your options are. You trust him, and you are rewarded. I’ve traveled to many countries and eaten all kinds of food, and this meal still stands above everything else I’ve ever had. This man is a culinary genius. Honestly… do me a favor and don’t go. Leave this spot for the people who know. But if you *do* go, bring cash (cash only), get there early, and don’t hesitate — because if he runs out food, he’s done for the day. Now stop reading and go. 😇

+6

Julie H

What an experience! There is one older gentleman doing all the cooking and serving etc. Just know that as a result, the experience is more akin to eating at a family member’s house rather than being served at a restaurant, which is really part of the charm. Service is slow. Bring a friend and expect to spend a couple of hours dining. The menu is not published. He told us verbally what he could make and we chose lamb shanks, hummus, and cauliflower with pomegranate sauce. And the food, all of it, was so shockingly good I could never give it enough due. The meat on the shanks fell off the bone and was served in a fantastic sauce with a tabouleh minty spinach type mixture. Paired with the hummus and fresh pita… just so great. The interior is kinda crazy too. Think a bazaar or a garage stacked with family heirlooms and strange clutter/objects. This place is so memorable and special… can’t wait to return. Fantastic neighborhood as well.

+1

Barbara Burgos

I love this place! Every time I come here it’s a unique experience, and the food is extraordinary, the lamb is must try. Just a tip though: if you visit this amazing spot, you need to have a lot of patience. You might wait over an hour for your food because the owner does absolutely everything, cooking, serving, taking orders, cashing out, etc.! It’s part of the experience! So don’t be rude and wait for your food! Also, it’s cash only, buuut the upside is that it’s BYOB! (He just has soft drinks and water)

Dianne Simmons

i haven't returned in months, but still remember the great taste. The employees gave me unprecedented levels of attention. Pricing reflects the actual value. The portion size guarantees food for another meal. Words fail to express how good this place is.

Caro Geffroy

Oh my gosh! The dishes here have ruined other restaurants for me. Employees here handle special requests with gracious accommodation. The menu items taste good, won't empty your wallet and the staff treats you right. I was pleased with all my food choices. I'd come back if I found myself in this vicinity.

Robbin

If you are looking for a delicious home cooked meal in an Egyptian house, this is the place. The price is also very good for NYC. The food didn't wow me but for the price, it was of great value!

Jeremy

A one of a kind experience. The owner himself literally made the hummus, beef shank, and eggplant dish. He served us a home made Egyptian meal. He then gave us a tour of his restaurant and showed us his art. A chef, a craftsmen, an artist, a really great guy. you have to go.

Daniel French

So this place is such a great experience, it's a family owned/run place, it's really intimate but in the best way. The food is so so good and very reasonably priced for the quality/quantity you get. Given it's one guy running it all, understandably, not quick service, but, well worth the wait

Nzinga Knight

We ate at Mombar! I’m so glad we went. I’d called and gave him a heads up abt 10 ppl the day before and then I called just 20 mins prior to give the owner and chef our order of appetizers and mains of a lamb dish + branzino. Enough for our group. The appetizers came out timely and the mains abt an hour after we arrived. It was all the perfect amount and sooooo delicious, fresh and thoughtful. He served us the right amount for our table of 7 adults and 3 children. I ordered babaganoush and it was the best I’ve ever had, cauliflower and a liver dish. Even the liver appetizer was so good! For us is was an experience. Abt an hour after we arrived our mains of branzino and lamb shank came. Absolutely delicious and so fresh! And you know what, I realize that it’s not so often that you get to have the actual chef and owner make the food. 10 out of 10 and the owner was really nice & showed us around about his artwork in the space etc. I brought my own mocktails of Brooklyn Brewed Sorrel which paired perfectly with everything. It was absolutely delicious and a great experience. I recommend that if you have a large group you order just a few dishes and have the chef make enough for everyone. Eat family style so your food can come out timely.

Jessica He

What a special place worthy of being a landmark! Outside is an unsuspecting, eclectically looking store front and inside a menagerie of unique decorations. Ambiance aside, the chef/owner championed cooking, taking orders, educating guests on the different meals, clearing tables… doing it all. That was the most impressive display of multitasking. The food was remarkable and portions generous. Everything was a highlight and my party of 4 left enjoying the entire experience. Not just a meal, but a whole experience. Would 100% recommend - the port

+1

jennifer

Went here for the first time tonight. Didn’t know what to expect. I have to say I loved it. The owner does everything. It’s a one man show- so byob and relax . The food was delicious. Had branzini, lamb, beef, beans, cauliflower . Owner so friendly and the prices were reasonable.. We were there 2 and half hours and could have stayed longer but I had to drive home . It’s decorated so cute with art work that the owner did himself. I highly recommend if you like this type of vibe. Got there at 6 was empty. By 6:30 place was full. So go early.

+2

Luna Z

Amazing place with delicious food, artsy decorations and friendly chef. The owner does everything and has very interesting stories to tell. Everything in the restaurant is either his art or his collection, including the chandelier and flooring! It’s like eating dinner in an art studio. We had lamb shank and branzino, the lamb just melted in my mouth. After our meal, he even gave each of us a small piece of mint chocolate as dessert. Overall unforgettable experience, definitely a special place to check out!

+6

Lola Wu

We came to this place by chance and we love it! The space is cozy and filled with beautiful vintage and amazing art pieces -most it seems made by the chef/owner. The food was spectacular- I went with some family members who had never experienced food outside of what they’re used to and they LOVED it! I will say it is a long wait- it’s one person doing everything- but with good company the time goes by and honestly the food is worth the wait.

Mei Bharadwaj

If you have a few hours to spend on dinner, you will enjoy this gem. This place is run by one person, a gentleman. He takes your order, cooks, and cleans everything. If you want something quick, this is not the place for you. The food was phenomenal, accompanied by wonderful music. They are CASH ONLY.

kazi afsar

You know hidden gems of New York City ? This is one of those hidden gems ! Where 99% people doesn’t know about it 😅❤️ The best traditional Egyptian food ever I had. It was amazing. They located in famous Astoria near all these hookah places. But nobody couldn’t recognize that hidden gems it’s been located there for 21 years. The food is amazing. We ordered lot of authentic food . Amazing amazing and amazing. Try them. The most beautiful part of this restaurant the chef work by himself, he’s the server dishwasher and chef himself. The place look amazing. It’s gonna give you the home vibes where you can find books and other stuff to spend quality time with your family.

+5

Excellent food and a pretty sweet environment, but not fast paced. A spot where you will look sit down and don’t rush the meal. The hummus, foul and baba gannoush appetizer is really good too!

Nice small place in Astoria. One man operation with owner serving as waiter and cook, so be prepared to wait a while. No menu so he will read off what is available that day. I loved my eggplant dish but my wife’s vegetable entree was a bit plain. BYOB was cool, wine glasses provided. Would have really liked a menu as I’m not very familiar with the cuisine, but overall good experience.

A very special place, the quality of food is very intense and surprise us. The dishes and their flavor were outstanding.

Mombar is definitely an interesting place. The front of the building can be easy to miss because the signage is not bold but the facade itself is detailed and artistic. When you walk in, you're transported into someone's home and you don't feel like you're in New York anymore. Bring $50-80 cash because it's cash only. Mostafa is the chef and server so service can be slow because he's doing everything by himself. A lot of the decor is stuff that he's made. There are paintings on the tables and pieces of art on the floor, walls, and ceiling that he's made himself and was kind enough to explain them to us when we were done with our meal. The menu is verbal which was difficult for me because I'm more of a visual person but I caught key words of food items I wanted. We ordered fava beans, hummus and lamb tagine. The fava beans have the tiniest bit of spice but are so delicious and my husband and I ate it up. The hummus is smooth and garlicky and I had to hold myself back from eating it all otherwise I wouldn't be able to eat the lamb tagine. The couscous definitely needed the lamb's sauce. The lamb was super tender and easy to chew.

Very good. Service can be a little slow. Menu is verbal which can be a little difficult to understand but the food is very very good.

Aw man, would have loved to eat here. Although the hours say open til 11pm, you have to get there before 9 (he told us). Like the other reviews say, it’s a one man show. But boyyy, did it smell delicious. We literally followed the smell, and the place has so much vibrancy. Will be back for sure. Someone should update the information tho ‼️

I didn’t have full experience as I wanted another type of food but the place is awesome !

A quiet place in Steinway street. The food is super authentic, not too expensive and served in decent portion. The chef/host is super friendly and took his time to explain us the menu. Also, do not expect to have your food ready in 5min, it's more like a slow food kind of place but that's why I want to go back there some other time. (Cash only but there is an ATM next door)

+3

Place was quiet on a Saturday evening. Owner (I assume) was very nice. Food was tasty, the couscous was a little dry for my liking, the lamb shank was tender and the spinach was delicious. The hot hibiscus tea was a tart delight.

The setting is very antique as if he brought the whole egypt with him, very unique. Food’s good feels like a touch of home. The only thing is that there’s only one old person working here. He does everything from serving to cooking. He even does the dishes himself so you have to wait quite a bit but it’s totally worth it. It’s like the saying “A patient man will eat ripe fruit.”

Essam Gawish

Love the food and the place. There is no service at all. The cook is the server. Still expected a full tip although service was non existing. They should hire at least one waiter. Not cheap. Lamb shank is $30.

Paul

Unique dining in Astoria. Solid Egyptian food prepared and served by one man so if you are pressed for time this is not your place. My dining partner really enjoyed theirmeal, I was a little underwhelmed but overall a nice dining experience in a funky dining room

+1

aandgdesigngroup

It's easy to miss when you're walking down the street. But, step inside to an oasis. It's dark and romantic. No menus, the nice owner explains the options, and everything is tasty. He enjoys speaking with guests. He explained the history of the space. We were the first ones there. So, we didn't have to wait at this one-man-show. It feels like you're sitting in a Middle Eastern bazaar. We had a Fava Bean starter, Hummus, Lamb shank with couscous, and spinach. There was a vegetarian special that sounded delicious. We could have sat there forever. But, more customers were coming and a big party was expected. Anyone who appreciates good food and ambiance should go there. We will definitely return.

I LOVE this place and this chef. Sooo authentic Egyptian down to even his outfit! I’ve taken different friends here to experience this restaurant and the food especially the amazing tajin and the pyramid shape rice but the last time I came, we both had roaches crawling up our leg and our table. Please Please do something about this. So embarrassing. Yes, there’s a wait time and there’s only the chef who does everything and the place is just filled with little decor of everything and that’s what gives it its charm, but the one thing I just can’t handle is the roaches..

Maybe it's not a good place for dinner or it was a bad day. Granted that the owner seems to be the only staff. The food was fine, and I enjoyed my beef with rice. I personally enjoyed the lamb, but the chef decided I would have beef instead. Additionally, I was asked if I wanted Fries or cous cous, but I ended up with neither. In an empty time, the dishes still took 50 minutes. It was also very dim lit, and the atmosphere is niceand cozy but the wait time really was sad.

The decor here was brilliant. Service was great too. Food was not good at all. Very bland and expensive for what it is. It was just one person preparing, serving and taking care of everything since we came as a large group so I wasn't too harsh on the review. If you want good food, better to go to a cart. It was a nice experience here but I wouldn't recommend it.

TLDR: - Cash only - One man show - Long wait time - Decent food but pretty expensive Chef El Sayed was very welcoming and kind when walked in for dinner right when Mombar opened at 5. There are no menus and the chef will tell you what is being served that day so make sure you listen carefully. He is a one man show so it took nearly an hour to get our appetizer and then another hour to get our entrees. While we were waiting, we kept hearing him open and shut the door to the microwave and press the buttons to heat up food. Not sure why so many reviews say the food is really fresh. It seemed pretty clear to me that the veggies in the tajin were frozen from a mixed vegetable bag. The vibe of the place was also interesting. The tapestries and artwork make for a very cozy vibe, but the dinning area is not kept very clean. I had a seat facing some of the artwork and it was pretty obvious nobody had ever dusted around there. Not sure why the city gave it an A for sanitation. Cost $90 before tip for hummus, fava beans, tajin and lamb shank. Seemed a bit steep for the quality that we were served. Chef seemed like a lovely man, but seems like he could use a hand running the show.

It was recommended by many & the raving reviews, I had to try it., 1st the restaurant is blast from the past for me, Egyptian music & the decorations, you really feel it’s Authentic, even the unorganized look made it even more authentic. Now the food, 1st there’s no menu, he memorized the menus & tells us with a heavy accent which is great as an Egyptian myself. Appetizers are great, very delicious liver & fool or foul (either way it’s delicious) the main course was not up to par at all, we were the 1st table to sit but then when started to get busy things went down really quick. Tajeen is not tajeen, it’s frozen vegetables with a couple pieces of chicken, wasn’t good at all….AT ALL, even the lamb shank was horrible. the conclusion is, unorganized almost unsanitary looking kitchen produced mediocre food way overpriced on a strip in Astoria that full of very competitive places with a lot better food & a lot better prices, I will not go there again.