Best Halal food truck! The guys working it know what they're doing. It works like a well oiled machine. The food is delicious. Had the chicken and lamb over yellow rice with white sauce! And a combo meat gyro. Very flavorful! We don't eat spicy so didn't get the red rice. The wait was worth it.

Street food!!! It was great. The food was hot and fresh. The portion size was good. The pricing was good. It was a great value. Nothing like eating a meal at 2am after a few drinks. 5/5 would recommend.

so delicious and definitely worth waiting in the line! the flavour of the rice with the chicken is sooo good. incredible chicken and rice plate!

Adele's Food Cart is an absolute gem that left us hungry for more—so much so that we returned twice during our trip! The portions are incredibly generous; one box is more than enough to satisfy two people, making it a fantastic value. The food itself is bursting with flavor, prepared with care, and served fresh, showcasing the kind of quality that keeps you coming back. What truly sets Adele's apart is the exceptional service. The staff are warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about what they do, making every visit feel personal and memorable. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Adele's is a must-try for delicious, hearty meals and top-notch hospitality. We can’t wait to visit again!

This is really a famous place. Lines started at 5.30 pm and became a sea of at least a hundred people within a few minutes. The line continues as time flies, but the great thing is their service is super fast to deal with it. The food obviously did not disappoint, and it did taste awesome, in a famous way! I ordered the combo platter on spicy rice without salads. The generous amount of white sauce n good level of spicy sauce makes the experience really hard to forget. Had this again in NYC, felt even tastier than before, and shared the flavortown with parents as well this time around!

+5

Adele’s Famous Halal Food in NYC is hands down one of the best halal food spots in the city! The lines were insanely long—we waited over an hour—but every single bite made it 100% worth it. The chicken and lamb over rice is packed with flavor, perfectly spiced, and incredibly juicy. Their famous white sauce is creamy and rich, while the hot sauce adds just the right kick. We ended up coming back five times because we simply couldn’t get enough! The portions are generous, the ingredients taste fresh, and the balance of flavors is just perfect. The food is made right in front of you, adding to the excitement. Even late at night, the quality remains top-notch, and the staff works hard to keep up with the demand. The aroma alone will draw you in, and once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why people are willing to wait so long. If you’re in NYC and love street food, Adele’s is an absolute must-try. We would go back again and again without hesitation!

Worth trying at least once! Get into line prior to opening. The sauce makes it so Yumm, get all the sauce options.

Definitely the most delicious thing I had on my NYC trip.

The mixed platter is amazing. Much tastier than the OG halal guys cart. It has much more seasoning and taste than other mixed platters and it’s the best I’ve tried so far. The wait is no joke, like almost an hour but it’s worth a try. That line is insane though, won’t go back unless it’s short lol.

First time we waited only 20 min, the day later it was 1 hour.. really worth the wait, wow amazing food!!

Ok let’s just start of by saying the hype is real!!! This place is awesome, best hala food I’ve ever had!! Yes there is a wait but it’s totally worth it. I even got a plate to take back on the plane!! You have to get the spicy rice!! Keep it up guys, yall have something special here!! Will fly back to NYC just for this!!

I saw this place viral on TickTok and it was worth the wait. I could tell that it was good because Middle Eastern and Arab people were waiting in line when there are halaal options on every corner. Great prices!

+1

Long line, but good food. Great portions and amazing price. I got a bowl with gyro meat and it had excellent rice / sauces. Some seating nearby. Come hungry or leave with leftovers. But just come. I had no idea this spot was so well known but we just happened upon it and both locals and tourists come here. So you know it’s good.

The Food Quality is Really Good. They serve excellent bowls of deliciousness. ❤️ The portions were super generous and Their signature sauces were Packed with flavor and absolutely delicious. Queues can get Very large and you have to wait around 40 to 50 min in the queue but it’s worth the wait. The staff was super friendly. They starts around 6 Pm till late Night. Overall, it was a great experience. I think If you’re in New York, Adel's is a Must Try ❤️.

Adel’s Famous Halal Food truly lives up to its name. The line was long and stretched down the block, but once I took my first bite I understood why so many people are willing to wait. The food is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. Every dish is packed with taste that makes it stand out from other halal spots in the city. The portions are generous, the quality is consistent, and the service is quick despite the crowd. If you are in New York and craving halal, Adel’s is absolutely worth the wait.

Adel’s Halal Food Truck The chicken and rice here are absolutely delicious! The chicken is tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, and the rice is always fresh and fluffy. The white and hot sauces add the perfect balance of creaminess and spice. Generous portions, quick service, and great prices — definitely one of the best halal food spots around NYC! I highly recommend!

Been to New York City, twice in May 2022 and October 2023, in the space of 18 months or so. And a trip without going to Adel's is a trip wasted. One of the top tier Halal places in the city. Still tastes the same despite being two years apart. Excited to head back in due time! Warm regards from Malaysia!

I almost don’t want to write this because I wish fewer people knew about Adel’s Halal. This place is that good. I lined up at 5:30pm thinking I was early, but there was already a long line — it took about an hour to finally get my order, and honestly, it was worth every minute. The portions are generous, the lamb and beef are insanely flavorful and tender, and the spicy sauce ties everything together perfectly. And don’t even get me started on the fries — unbelievably crispy, like they were made to be addictive. I’m literally craving it again just writing this review. If you’re willing to wait, it’s a game-changer. Just don’t tell too many people — some things are too good to share.

+2

Adel’s Famous Halal Food is that spot that never misses. We showed up at 5:55, and they open at 6, but there was already a line of like 20, 30 people deep. That alone tells you everything you need to know. The crew runs things like a machine, super fast, efficient, and friendly. You wait, but it’s never painful because you can see the magic happening on the grill. Once you get that food, it’s game over. We ordered the lamb over rice platter, and man, it was fire. The lamb was tender with that perfect char, the rice was flavorful, and they don’t skimp on portions. You get a legit plate that’ll fill you up and still leave you thinking about it later. The white sauce hits that creamy, tangy spot, and the green sauce? It’s the MVP, spicy enough to wake you up but not burn your tongue off. Together, they take the whole dish to another level. Adel’s has the vibe of those New York street carts but with their own twist, and it’s totally worth the hype. The food is fresh, seasoned right, and comes out hot every single time. Even with the long line, you walk away knowing you got your money’s worth. Bottom line: if you’re anywhere near this place and you don’t stop by, you’re missing out. It’s easily one of the best halal spots around, 100% worth the wait.

I’ve tried so many halal food trucks, so when I saw the long line at Adel’s Famous Food Truck, I was skeptical. after all, it’s just chicken and rice, right? Wrong! I waited about 40 minutes, and honestly, it was worth every second. I ordered the chicken with spicy rice and with red and white sauce, and it blew me away. The flavors were incredible! juicy, perfectly seasoned, and unlike any other halal chicken and rice I’ve had (and I’ve tried plenty in Austin, where I live). Definitely worth the hype! I highly recommend it!

Love it!! Huge servings and good value meal in the middle of Manhattan There’s a long queue but it goes by so fast - this will be my go-to halal food

I visited this food cart from Toronto with the intention of trying the Halal Guys experience, but I wasn’t aware of Adel’s Famous. I was surprised to see a line even longer than Halal Guys — and now I understand why! The food was delicious, honestly even better than Halal Guys. The chicken was fresh, flavour ful, and perfectly cooked. Great portions, great taste, and a really enjoyable overall experience. Definitely worth the visit!

This is by far the most delicious food i ate in New York City. I know the lines are outrageously long but its worth the wait. The chicken over rice with the white sauce is so good i got it twice.

Amazing amazing amazing!!!! Went here yesterday for dinner by recommendation and we are glad we did. It was a short walk from our hotel. When we reached the line wasn’t that bad. They have 2 trucks. They make sure they move along the line fast. We had the mix platter and chicken platter with chicken gyros and fries. Let me tell you!! They did not disappoint!! The quantity and quality were excellent. So much flavor. Moist. Just amazing!! Staff is amazing too. Definitely definitely go to them!! You will not be disappointed

+2

Good food at a great value! The line was long but everyone in line was friendly and chatty. Lots of tourists scratching their heads on why people were waiting in that long line! Next time I am ordering ahead with Seamless. Most important, get extra white sauce and respect the red sauce! Get it on the side and pour at your own risk! Delicious though… 🙌🏻

Delicious food. Had to wait in line for 20-30 minutes but i guess it was worth it at the end. We enjoyed the food. Found seating area nearby luckily. A must try especially if you are visiting for the first time.

+1

Best Platters in New York. Line is always long as heck but it's worth it. Get the spicy rice with fries.

Normally you would not top rate a cart where you need to queue for 20 mins or even longer, some saying even +1h. But I am merging the location, waiting time, eating on a street corner as a true NY experience package. And the foos is superb, delicious.

+1

It lives up to the hype, I see why the lines can be 2+ hrs long. The secret is all in the sauce but the lamb and rice was amazing nonetheless. Atmosphere is just a 1 star but that’s just cause it’s a food cart in the middle of the city, so can’t really rate that a 5/5 if there’s a homeless guy around the corner watching you.

Line looked insanely big but took 30 minutes. Food was great, I ended up eating 1.5 bowls but I’m a big back. Normal eaters would eat like 1 or less. Combo (chicken and lamb) over spicy rice is the move.

Just the feeling of waiting in line for 50 min to get food from a street vendor is a way to get you hyped for the food. And yes the hype is worth it. We tried both chicken over rise and lamb over rise. Both was great but the lamb was the best one. We took french fried to, so then it was just to much food. And they were good to. So yes it its worth going there.

Daryl

Amazing chicken plate. I always get it with yellow rice, no pita, and extra white sauce. That sauce is boss. It’s crack. You’ll want more of it. Skip the line and order pickup on grubhub. You’ll save at least an hour. Thank me later.

+4

I tried Adel’s Famous Halal Food and ordered the combo over rice (chicken and lamb). The rice was full of flavor, the meats were tender; it also comes with fresh lettuce, warm pita, generously topped with white and spicy sauces. Even though the line looked long, I only waited about 10 minutes. Their operation is impressively efficient -one person handles orders while two prepare the to-go orders- so service is fast and friendly. My bag even included a fork, napkins, and extra hot sauce just as requested. For under $13, the portion was huge; I couldn’t finish it despite being starving. Great value, great flavor. Highly recommend!

Worth the wait!!!! Food is so good. My only complaint is that there are so many to-go order/door dash type people coming up, chatting and gettin to go food- and it seems to slow way down for the people standing in line.

Worth all that long wait, I had Falafel over rice and a fries on the side with all the sauces mixed. Can't explain how good the rate is you gotta try it yourself but fr tho don't see the long line and walk away, this guy knows how to make good rice!

Believe the hype! This will easily be in your top 5 halal cart spots. Get yourself the chicken/lamb combo platter. Not only is the meat moist and flavorful, the RICE also compliments it. Usually halal carts have bland rice but you don’t have to worry about that at Adel’s!

Eric Helferich

Went to Adel’s thinking I’d grab a quick bite… next thing I know I’m trapped in a line so long I aged a full presidential term. Pretty sure I paid taxes while waiting.Yeah yeah, call it iconic, call it overrated, call it “for tourists.” IDC. That line moves slower than my gym progress because everyone knows the truth: this spot SLAPS. By the time you reach the front, the guys in neon traffic-cone shirts are basically performing surgery—chopping chicken and lamb under hospital-grade lighting like it’s the Halal Olympics. Do yourself a favor: get the chicken & lamb combo with the red rice, drown it in white sauce, add that little Instagram-model drizzle of hot sauce( That Adel’s hot sauce isn’t spicy, it’s a spiritual awakening with pain.), and act like you didn’t almost lose your will to live waiting for it. Touristy? Sure. Overrated? Maybe. But one of the most satisfying $15 meals in NYC? Absolutely. Highly recommend it!!! #nyceats #foodieinthebigapple2025 #halalcartchronicles #manvslunch #nycfoodspots #lowbudgetluxury #fyp #fypreelsinstagramシ❤️ #fypage #fype #fypreels ##onlyinnyc #fypppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppp

+2

Thomas Carter

Finally visited adel's Famous Halal!.. After years of procrastination, I made the trek from Queens to midtown, hoping for the short line some people said there was, around the time I wanted to go. Arrived to adel's at 130AM!!!..Line wasn't too bad and moved quickly.. Ordered 3 adel specials (combination lamb & chicken, spicy rice, white /red/green sauce) to go, also the Guys there are very helpful in ordering and the line moves quick, as you step to the side and await your order to be fulfilled. It's possible they may have missed the green sauce, or maybe I took it to go and ate it 15min later, but the flavor just lacked a little. For the price you do get a healthy plate which only you can finish on an empty stomach.. The proteins were good, rice was spicy, it was just missing the kick!. Overall it was worth the trek and wait on the famous line. I will definitely visit them again and give it another run!

+1

Ling Liuuu

First time in NYC, and we saw the long line while walking to The Halal guys (a place my friend recommended- it was good but nothing special). Then another friend - (New Yorker) told me we went to the wrong place, we need to try to Adel. Boyyyyyyyy!!! It was SOOOO freaking GOOOOD!! (portion size✅ the price✅ flavor✅ and food are not greasy)

Next Level Explorer

The food is good and exactly what you’d expect from a food truck. What’s truly impressive is their coordination… they handle a massive line seamlessly, with just one person taking orders and two preparing the food. They even have a separate cart dedicated to refills, which keeps everything moving smoothly.

+6

Bushra Noorulain

Adel's NYC is a must-try! Easily one of the best halal street food spots in America. Service is super fast and friendly. The food is DIVINE! Get the lamb gyros—the fresh bread and delicious lamb are standout. The mixed platter with spicy rice and fries was also perfection. Everything here is top-notch!

Ashtravelvlogs

Adel’s Famous Halal Cart is easily one of the best halal carts I’ve ever tried. I’ve had halal food in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and several spots around Midtown NYC, but this one truly stands out. I finally understand the hype! We visited during the holiday season and got there around 5:30 PM — the line started forming even as the truck was still being moved into place. Despite the crowd, the service was quick, and the portion sizes were amazing for the price. I got two chicken‑over‑rice plates for $24.36, which felt like a great deal. They do offer an order‑ahead option, though the price is slightly higher. If you’re visiting NYC, you absolutely have to try this cart — or order ahead if you want to skip the line. The white sauce they serve with the fries is the real star… incredibly tasty! Make sure to get in line early and enjoy the food!

Manahil Syeda

I made a huge mistake. According to my New York itinerary, I was supposed to bring my parents here on our third day of the trip. Because of schedule changes, I ended up bring them here on our first. After that, my parents were absolutely unwilling to eat anything UNLESS it was Adel's Famous Halal Food. I'm so serious - we ate here like three times, and even picked up extra boxes to eat at the airport on our way back. 3 full boxes of incredibly addicting, flavorful food for $33, to feed a family of four and STILL have leftovers. If this isn't an immediate 5 stars, I don't know what would be. As for other notes, the lines are always very long, even more so closer to midnight interestingly (as they should be), but the food carts is incredible efficient and you will be out of there with your food in like 30ish min. There is seating area around. Also recommendation to pay with cash as its preferred by them but also cheaper from our side. Ask for the fries and all the sauces - all are very very good. And that garlic sauce is to die for. Their owner also has scary good memory. Also note the cart timings, they open closer to evening (around 6pm) and close early in the morning. Please ignore the crusty table in the pictures, the food was bussin TLDR: Overall: Forget everything, and come straight here if you're in Manhattan. I dream of this place. My Order: For four people, we always got three boxes. One chicken platter on the spicy rice, one mixed combo (chicken, gryo, etc) on spicy rice (this one is my favorite), and one mixed combo on yellow rice. Fries on top of all, and all three sauces on all (green, red, white). Price Breakdown: $33 for three boxes. Portions: Thoroughly filling and so addicting. They really stuff those boxes. Halal/Vegetarian Friendly: All halal! Would get again: This is not even a question, I would go back to NY just for this.

Ali D

This massive delicious plate of food only costs $10 bucks and is absolutely worth the hype. Was not a fan of the long lineup in the cold but I would say it was worth it in the end. I tried both the spicy rice and yellow rice and both were amazing. I would say that I preferred the lamb over the chicken, as it had a more unique flavour. I would recommend you double up on the white sauce because it's truly delicious. The fries on top I would probably skip though, you get so little that it's not worth the added cost.

Excellent middle eastern halal food. I can see what the hype is all about and why there are long lines. The food is spectacular and the price is right. Customer service is friendly and they give good advice if you're unsure what to get. We got a mixed plate (lamb and chicken) over spicy rice, a lamb gyros, and a ginger ale. Open late night makes it a perfect destination after a Broadway show and/or if you're in Times Square. The vibe is very friendly and the vibe is welcoming. 5 stars and two thumbs up! Assalamualaikum and thank you!

+1

We patiently queued for about 30 minutes in –10°C weather just for Adel’s Famous Halal Food — and yes, it was worth it. Ordered the lamb over rice (yellow & spicy). Super flavorful, perfectly spiced, and very satisfying. We tried it because of all the positive reviews, and it’s proven — this spot lives up to the hype. Must try when you’re in Manhattan. Cold hands, happy stomach 😄

Fryad Omar

When I was in New York, I visited Adil’s famous Halal food spot, which serves authentic Middle Eastern halal dishes. Located right on a bustling street, I found myself waiting in line for about 15 minutes, but it was absolutely worth it. Once it was my turn, I ordered a delicious combo of chicken and lamb over rice, and the flavor was phenomenal. The food was not only tasty but also affordable, and the atmosphere was really welcoming. The staff were friendly and made the experience even better. Overall, it was a fantastic visit!

+3

Stuck Omits

I usually avoid trendy food spots with long lines, but this one completely changed my mind. The flavors were rich, bold, and absolutely unforgettable. The garlic and spicy sauces took everything to the next level—creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced. The serving size was massive; easily enough for two people to share without feeling shortchanged. Every bite tasted freshly made and full of authentic spices. You can tell they take pride in quality and consistency. The staff were friendly, the line moved fast, and the food was worth every minute of waiting. I’m already planning my next visit for another plate!

+4

Tanner Leavitt

My wife was skeptical when I told here we were going to try a Halal cart. Once she tasted the food though she was sold! We got the chicken and lamb combo on spicy rice and added fries on top. Very flavorful and perfectly seasoned. The combination with the fries and sauce just works together. We did have to wait in line for about 15-20 min, but it was worth the wait. I would recommend and will be back next time I am in NYC.

+6

Jashan Singh Gill

Absolutely amazing!! Must try if you’re in nyc. Got the Adels famous chicken over spicy rice bowl and again, it was phenomenal. It was very flavorful and fulfilling. Do not forget the spicy sauce on the side! Absolutely worth the approximately 30 minute wait in line. Do not let the wait scare you away. It’s definitely worth it! It’s hard to find seating nearby and no parking space nearby.

+2

For a seasoned traveler in New York, the debate between the big names and the local favorites is always a highlight, and Adel’s Famous Halal Food definitely lives up to the hype. While there is almost always a substantial queue—expect to wait at least 20 to 30 minutes—the experience is a testament to why some street food is worth the patience. The energy of the crowd and the efficiency of the staff make the wait feel like part of the authentic Midtown experience. ​We opted for two platters, the mixed and the chicken, and both were absolutely amazing. In a city full of halal options, these were easily some of the best we’ve had; the seasoning was vibrant, the meat was perfectly tender, and the overall flavor profile felt a step above the standard street cart. It is a masterclass in how simple, well-executed comfort food should taste, and it’s clear why the line never seems to disappear. ​Despite the prime location and the massive popularity, the price remains very reasonable. You get a hearty, high-quality meal that offers incredible value for Manhattan. It’s a high-turnover, fast-paced operation that manages to maintain its soul and quality even under pressure. For anyone navigating New York and looking for a top-tier, reliable meal that represents the best of the city's food culture, Adel’s is a mandatory stop. I’ll definitely be joining that queue again on my next visit.

Victoria Tong

The best food I had on my trip! I will definitely get it again. the wait was worth it as soon as I tasted it. There wasn't a lot of places to sit after we got our food, but it was a really busy night.

I waited in line for 20-30 minutes but really moved along and there was lots of people watching, lol. The staff was nice and the food was very good. I wish I had known to ask for both types of rice. I also felt they were a little stingy in the gyro meat and heavy on the chicken. Overall it was worth the wait and the cost was very good. I had the combo plate.

Pretty good food truck food, stationed in a chaotic area. I went around 12am on a Thursday and waited in line for about an hour for food (as expected). They are pretty quick at serving and used to long lines. Portions are very generous and the food is very heavy (we tried the chicken/lamb and rice) so you can easily share an order with 2-3 people! There's plenty of public seating nearby, but unfortunately no garbage cans so lots of litter.

+5

Combo platter was good but not quite as good as I remember it being in 2024. Definitely good value for money. Waiting in line to order can take quite long but once you do get to the front it's a very short wait (<5 min) for your food. I'd come back here if the line weren't too long.

The food was good, but I ended up with leftovers possibly due to my high expectations or the long wait time. The line was really long, and it took us 1.5 hours to get our food. Overall, it was still a nice experience.

+6

Had the chicken on yellow rice, white sauce and green sauce. & Beef&lamb mix on spicy rice, hlwhitw suace and green sauce. The chicken meat and rice almost has a Pakistani flavor profile more than middle Eastern. Wasn't a fan of how the chicken texture was. Fries were cooked and seasoned well. Ask for extra green sauce on side. And garlic white sauce. I actually perfered the yellow rice over red spicy rice. Yellow rice flavor is similar to Indian briyani. Prefer chiken meat, more flavorful but texture is off. Paid cash, $22 USD for both.

Tried this halal cart due to the raving popularity and it was delicious! But I’ve had better, so I think it was a bit overhyped. Workers weren’t super friendly but I understand they’re busy. There was a long line when we went but it moved fast. Got our order in about 20 minutes with plenty of seating nearby!

It's a good buy but I'm upset how they mixed my order. I especially don't like lamb so I basically need to throw it out or give it to someone else. I order chicken over rice with sauce in a side they gave me mixed combo with sauce when I told them 2 times straight. Overall food good but need to check it before you leave. I would have bring it back to them but I went home too fast.

I finally tried Adel’s Famous Halal Food after hearing all the hype. The lamb over spicy rice was good, and the white sauce definitely added flavor, but I don’t think it lived up to the reputation. The wait was almost an hour, which felt way too long for what you get. On the plus side, there’s a spot nearby where you can sit and eat your food, which makes the experience a little better after standing in line so long. Overall, worth trying once, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to wait in that line again.

If you love platters, Adel’s has the best out of all the ones I’ve tried between NJ and NY; solid 10/10. I always get the mixed/combo platter over spicy rice. The chicken is tender and the lamb is packed with flavor; the lamb has this subtle crispy texture that enhances the flavor. The sauces, I always get them on the side: their green sauce tastes almost like a cilantro where it’s not really spicy but adds a ton of flavor. The spicy rice isn’t spicy at all by the way (which is not a bad thing), but it really boosts the flavor and is WAY different and better than the yellow rice. Now, the unfortunate downside is the wait time. They have gained popularity over time, so the line often runs around the entire block. I waited 1 and a half to 2 hours for platters. If you’ve never tried them before I would say wait it out for the experience, but if you’re a veteran, it might be too long of a wait. They’re quick to give you your food once you’re at the front though, which is why I give the service 3 stars. Price wise, they were super fair with quantity you get!

So my bestie talked me into going into Manhattan at 6pm on the train to get halal food. I read the reviews and expected to be starving and freezing by the time we got our food, but we got Very Lucky. Go early! The line wasn’t more than 50 people. Both trucks were open. They have online orders I didn’t know that. You can order ahead, delivery guys were there picking up. Good to know. Prices weren’t displayed but it was $30 for three plates. I got the combo, the chicken and the lamb. It was good but not the best halal I’ve ever had. The prices was right. I didn’t see anyone getting gyros but we can assume. Cash and cards were accepted. We got there Way before the concert at Radio City Music Hall let out Or the Saturday night live crowd across the street. So go early, be prepared to wait if it’s late night, dress warmly. It was good for the price and the time we spent.

Rahatul Islam

⸻ I finally made it to Adel’s Famous Halal Food after hearing about it for months from friends, social media, and all the hype around the city, and my feelings about the experience ended up being pretty mixed—there were definite highs and some frustrating downsides. Let’s start with the good: the food itself is flavorful and satisfying. The classic combo over rice with chicken and lamb is hearty and well-seasoned, and the portions feel generous for what you pay. The tangy white sauce and spicy hot sauce are what make the platter truly memorable—the balance between creamy and fiery is a big part of why people line up in the first place. Many reviewers rave about how filling and delicious the meat and sauces are, and I can see why: it’s an iconic NYC street-food flavor profile that delivers on boldness and richness.  However, that’s where my enthusiasm starts to get tempered. The line and wait time are frequently long—seriously long. During my visit, I ended up waiting well over 30 minutes just to place my order, and then more waiting for the food to be ready. Many locals and visitors alike report that sometimes the queue can stretch 45 minutes to an hour or more, especially during peak evening and late-night hours.  For a food cart that’s essentially fast casual street food, that felt excessive and a bit tiring, especially if you’re just hungry and on the go. Another thing that didn’t wow me was the rice. While the spicy rice is often touted as a differentiator compared to other carts, I found it good but not particularly outstanding. Some friends thought it was flavorful, but others have said the rice can be a bit bland or overly salty, and I tended to agree more with that camp.  In terms of value, the price is reasonable for Midtown Manhattan street food, and you definitely get a filling meal. But between the long crowd and the fact that there are other halal carts and vendors in the city with similar food and shorter lines (like The Halal Guys or Mido’s Halal Food or even local hidden gems around Midtown), I struggled to justify the time investment every visit.  The staff I encountered were friendly and efficient once you got to the front, and the food is undeniably a classic NYC halal cart experience. That said, the hype almost overshadows the reality—there’s something to be said for trying a viral spot at least once, but I’m not sure this is someplace I’d regularly go back to unless I was with friends or already nearby. In summary, Adel’s is worth trying once if you love classic New York halal food and want to see what all the buzz is about—but temper your expectations. The food is tasty and hearty, but the long waits, inconsistent rice experience, and overall crowd scene make it a “good, not great” experience in my book. If you’re short on time or patience, you might find other nearby carts just as satisfying with much less waiting involved.

+4

Don't get me wrong, the food is very good and every bite was great! However, I don't think I'd get it again and it's a nice "one and done" kind of experience. Got there right before they opened and waited around 40 minutes for the food. While it was tasty, it really wasn't much better than platters I've gotten at my local spots. The rice has a nice color from the spices and the hot sauce is a lot spicier than I expected (coming from someone that's used to eating spicy food). Definitely give it a try if you're around the area and have the time but make sure to temper your expectations.

Avais Sherani

This is the newest talk of the town halal cart in Mid Town Manhattan on 6th Avenue. The Food is really good, the menu is simple and straightforward, they have beef, lamb, and chicken in meat, and falafel in vegetarian option. The most famous part about this place is the wait, it takes minimum of 25 minutes waiting in the queue, while on weekend nights it easily reaches up to one hour. Please be prepared to order as they are in a rush to take order, but amazingly they always get your order right. Both cash and card (contactless) payments are accepted, though paying by cash is cheaper. The order taker and server can be nice or rude depending on their mood and your style of ordering. Both are efficient nonetheless. They charge additional money for extra sauces. The only downside is that the base of rice bowl is layered up with Pita that means lesser rice, though quantity of meat is decent. Plenty of outdoor seating option available around the area. Paid street parking by is available on both adjoining streets as well as 6th Avenue after 6 PM Daily and all day Sunday.

+4

I got the mixed plater with spicy rice and hot sauce white sauce pita bread fries and salad. I got in the line in 5.52 pm and got my food an hr later. It was great above average but not the nost ultimate plsyter you might get. But it is definitely an experience. People do definitely place multiple orders at once that clogs the line. But the cooks work as hard as they can. Could be .ore spicy tho

+1

Mind Thamaratanasiri

We ordered the mix platter that came with a mix of chicken and lamb. You can also top the platter with French fries. The meats are so moist and tender. They gave you plenty of meats so it definitely worths the price. It was super tasty goes well with the white and spicy sauce. I would definitely go back to have it again. Unfortunately, the queue is very long every single day regardless if it’s weekend or weekday. Even we went there at 9pm almost 10pm, we waited for over 50 mins. So be prepared for the waiting.

Finally got around to trying Adels. I waited in line for 45 mins on a Tuesday night @ 11 pm. The line was barely moving, when I got closer I realized why. When I got in line there was about 12-15 people in front of me. I clearly saw that there was a large amount of food already cooked on the grill and about 4-5 employees working. Couldn't figure out why the line wasn't moving. Well it wasn't moving because they were serving tons of other people who are just walking up & forming a crowd on the opposite end. Mainly ALL ARABIC SPEAKING people. When I got to the front I stood there waiting for 10 minutes as the guy working took money from people who were never in line and gave them their orders, while I just waited 45 mins in line.. Not sure if this is common practice with them but it definitely was when I went, and a VERY BAD first & last impression. Now to the food, I actually liked the food, had good flavor and it was a decent portion. We got 2 combos, one with yellow rice & one with spicy rice. The sauces were pretty good too. Probably will never go back which is unfortunate because I actually liked the taste of the food, unless I'm driving by one day & there is ABSOLUTELY no line. There are way too many good food options in NYC who have great customer service & wont make you wait in line for 45 mins while they are serving people they want from a different line.

+2

Is it worth the hype? The food is decent. It’s not mind blowing. If the line is 15 min. I would wait. Anything longer… no way

Adel’s is overhyped for no reason. I had to wait for 45 to 55 minutes on the line, and the food was not as good as it looked on Instagram or Facebook. I tried to experience it firsthand, but food bloggers should stop with their fake reviews. The guy taking the order and money was very busy with other customers and employees. He kept asking me what my order was, even though I had already repeated it four times. I asked for double meat, one chicken and mix platter with spicy rice, no lettuce or tomato, white sauce, and hot sauce. When I repeated my order again, he still got my order the wrong one. The food was not the best. The meat was less than what I ordered, and the spicy rice was drowning in the white sauce. It was a total waste of my time & money .

I believe it’s overrated, you can have this level of taste from many other well known places, it doesn’t worth to wait for more than an hour just in a long queue to have this food, tried whole menu almost, but I didn’t see something extra ordinary that makes your 1 and half hour waiting worthy. You can enjoy somewhere else the same food taste. Also, you’re paying more with card, so whenever you go there take cash with you. They can way improve there system but they want to see people waiting to keep their hype. Although they can easily reduce the line by increasing their staff to serve more people simultaneously.

+2

As soon as i entered new york started search on halal restaurants and this one Adeel's was always appearing in one of the best list. I went there and saq there is a huge line so i left without ordering and next day i came same long queues. I talked to of the guy and he tols if you pay 18$ the. Yiu will get the foos right away otherwise get in line and get for 10$ I paid 18 to sew what everyonr is behind. The food was ordinary and nit the hype it has there. Others are better

I waited 40 minutes in line, with the food taking ~10 minutes to be prepared and packed. Service can be so much better and professional but I realize this is not optimal as it is a street food truck with a high food output serving an extremely long line of customers, on which they deliver very well. Although one thing that the company can do better is making a separate section for customers who are waiting for their orders. Having us around their kitchen and ordering counter can be confusing and inconvenient for everyone; it makes everybody an obstacle and uncomfortable. I had the mix platter with fries, chicken platter, both with spicy rice, and falafel (6 pieces). They tasted great but I do not think I will join the line again, unless I am visiting with some company.

Tried Adel’s Famous Halal Food for the first time. I rate it 3 stars because of the lack of organizing.The long line looks weird, but after nearly 50 minutes of waiting, it became clear the queue is less about demand and more about poor (or intentional) mismanagement to create hype. The food is average at best, no better than countless other food trucks in NYC. Cheap, yes. Worth standing in the cold and rain for almost an hour? Absolutely not. This is a one-time experience for me. Long lines don’t equal quality, and customer experience clearly isn’t a priority here. sincerely hope the owner rethinks how the business is managed, and if guidance is needed on improving operations and customer experience, I would be more than happy to help, free of charge.

+6

Edna G

Wednesday late evening, the Adel's food stand line was still long but it goes by fast. Quick meal on the go. Had to try their halal as it's always on social media. Very simple menu and price. The halal meat was tender and flavorful as well as the sauce. We got chicken and beef combo. When you get this to go, I feel like they cheat on the ingredients with their price. I found as I was eating, there were so many pita or Nan breads underneath making it look like a big pile of food. I was thinking we were lucky. They packed a lot in this to-go but now that I think of it, this is definitely not for sharing. You have to get your own. Flavors are good. The red sauce to me was not too spicy. Good to try. Plenty of spaces to eat i]near the food stand.

+1

HUSSAIN BAJWA

I finally tried Adel’s Famous Halal after hearing so much about it, and while the food was decent, it didn’t completely live up to the hype. The flavors were good and everything was cooked well enough, but nothing really stood out in the way I expected based on all the buzz. The portions were fair and the seasoning was solid, but the overall experience felt more “okay” than exceptional. It wasn’t bad by any means—just not the unforgettable meal it’s often made out to be. For a place with such a big reputation, I expected more depth in the flavor and a bit more freshness in the overall presentation. Service was quick and the staff were friendly, which definitely added to the positive side of the visit. If you’re nearby and craving halal, it’s a decent option. But is it worth going out of your way for or calling it “famous” level? Not really, at least based on my experience. In short, good food, but definitely overhyped.

+3

I've been wanting to try this place forever since it's obviously famous. I ordered a chicken platter with red sauce and green sauce on the side. When I took my first bite of chicken, I was honestly really underwhelmed. I was really disappointed with the flavor and seasoning. I felt like it was really lacking. For the rice, I got half yellow and half spicy. I wasn't really a fan of the flavor of the rice. I don't know which rice but one of them tasted heavily like cinnamon but I'm not sure which one since they were mixed together pretty much. That's just a personal preference though, nothing bad on them. What I did like about the platter was the white sauce and I did like both hot sauces. I appreciate the fact that they charge the same prices as most of the other Halal carts even with their fame. I think that is nice that they keep the prices reasonable. They could probably easily charge more and get away with it. There is clearly a big following which I can respect but it's not for me. I'm happy that I tried it but I wouldn't get it again.

Adel’s is probably the most popular halal food cart in all of New York City. Given its reputation, a line is expected. I spent an hour and 50 mins waiting in line before placing my order. What makes this worse is that there is a separate priority line for friends and family. Despite the long wait, the food is actually really good. I got the combo platter with spicy rice. The lamb and white sauce are some of the best I’ve had. The chicken is pretty average. Because of the outrageous waiting times due to them prioritizing certain people, I would not recommend Adel’s unless there is no line when you visit.

Line is usually unbearable so I decided to order on grubhub. I ordered one chicken over rice platter which was $16 and some change. I requested for additional white sauce on the side and some hot sauce because I didn’t want it to be directly on the platter. The total came up to 30$ which is INSANE for just one chicken over rice. There was barely any rice in the small container and overfilled with salad. You should fix the portion for the price you charge.

The cashier was super RUDE!!! He just keep ignoring the customer in front of me when he ask questions. I get a combo over rice, its 9 dollar, food is good but not amazing. I don’t recommend to spend time here if u are doing quick vacation. I queue for about 30mins. Btw there’s 2 line one for pickup and one for walk in, don’t mixed up

I went to Adel’s a few days ago. It used to be my favorite halal spot, but lately it hasn’t been the same. Because of how many people go now, the quality seems to have dropped. I asked for veggies with my spicy rice, but the rice wasn’t even spicy and they didn’t give me any vegetables. They used to add bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, which made it so much better but they only put lettuce. I also asked for white, red, and hot sauce on top, but they only put white sauce and then charged extra for the other sauces, which felt like a scam. Adel’s really needs to get back on its game.

While visiting New York, we had a bucket list of places to see and eat at. This spot was one of them—highly recommended by local guides and people who had previously visited NYC. The cart is an easy walk from Times Square, but be prepared to wait anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. I ordered two chicken over yellow rice plates and one combo over spicy rice. The food came smothered in white sauce with bits of pita mixed in. The chicken had a tandoori-style flavor, but the heavy white sauce overpowered the grilled taste and smell. The rice was nothing special. As for the spicy combo box, it was pretty similar—the lamb tasted like thick cuts of doner meat. Honestly, I didn’t get the hype. It cost around £20 for the three plates, which was fair, but the flavor and quality just weren’t there. I’d take a Lebanese mixed grill from the UK over this any day. Overall, the food was mid and definitely not worth the 30-minute wait.

I’ve been seeing this famous halal cart all over instagram so I decided to do the damn thing, wait in line and try it for myself. First impressions? The chicken was packed onto the grill so much, it was falling onto the floor. What does that mean? The chicken isn’t being cooked/grilled properly. I received my food, still excited to try this famous food and was immediately dissatisfied. My chicken was mushy; almost like vomit chunks in my tray. The rice was fine & the sauces were good. But would I rate this the best halal food? Absolutely not. I’ve had better from local carts. They are so focused on pushing out a large quantity of food, that they forget to focus on the quality. I think people in the city overhype this cart because they like to follow trends and don’t know what quality chicken over rice is suppose to taste like. It’s an overall 6/10 & not worth the hype, the line or the $32 I spent on 2 foods.

I ordered the mix over rice 🍛 from Adele’s food cart through Grubhub 📱. The food itself was okay 👍, nothing special but decent. However, the customer service was terrible 😡. My order showed as “ready for pickup” ⏰ after 30 minutes, but when I arrived 🚶‍♂️, I still had to wait another 20 minutes ⏳ just to get my food. That long delay was frustrating 😤 and really put a damper on the experience 👎.

The man at the counter clearly missed some basic lessons in manners and respect. He was super rude to women and acted like basic politeness doesn’t apply to him. Maybe some proper training or life lessons would help before he deals with customers again. As for the food, it was below average,definitely not worth the line or the wait. People only rush there because the prices are cheap, not because the quality is good.

Waited 25 minutes in line but definitely not worth it. No taste, no flavor, just bland. The only thing you get is mayo and garlic on top. Not worth the wait at all

Last night I’ve visited Adels to grab food. The line was very short but they seem like they were in a rush. We ordered 2 chicken over rice. I’ve asked for both spicy rice with hot and white sauce. Then they handed the bag to me, I’ve asked them about the hot sauce, they said it’s on the side. I gave them a tip. After I got home, they gave us regular rice instead of spicy and no hot sauce. I was very disappointed. I don’t recommend buying there and their food is not worth the hype. Trust me, there are better halal spots than this.

Food is good but I would not go again because the guy who took order was behaving like a boss to us. Halal guys used to have this kind of attitude and look at them now. I hope the owner seeing my review.

Flavorful food. Bit on the spicy end. Their prices are inconsistent and not listed on the menu. Some people were charged 12, 13 or 14 for the same item. Also, extra money was charged when we requested sauces on the side. Apart from the experience, good was above average and favorable, but a bit spicy for me. I just feel the food maybe a bit on the high calorie side for weight watchers. I would give the food 3/5. Sauces were less than 1/4th full. When you charge, you should provide atleast half the quantity of the container. But overall experience on shadiness of the owner or front desk, i would give it a 1.5/5

Mohid Shaikh

Finally tried Adel’s. But what a colossal letdown. Taste is good, no complaints on that. But is this how you treat your customers who are standing in line for an hour? The person at the counter doesn’t even bother asking about customization options, what sauces we want. You get the default plate handed to you, where as, online ordering you can customize. On top of that, the person at the counter has the gall to tell us “come next time” (if you want the extras). Enjoy the success, but all great things come down eventually. I honestly would recommend Shawarma Bay.

All I know is I stood in the freezing cold for 30 mins at midnight. When I got to the front there were a ton of angry people not getting their orders correct. I tried not to think too much about it. I told them very clearly one of mine was chicken and rice with no sauce. (My husband cannot have dairy or eggs). The told me that has the order ready. I asked about the sauce and they said I was good. I walk back to the hotel and sure enough they both have sauce. Overall it was just greasy, disappointing, and I ended up buying one that we could not eat.