On a bright Sunday afternoon, my family decided to join me on a tasting trip. Our choices were Egyptian, Filipino or Afghan cuisine. After a quick vote, the tastes of grilled meaty kababs and basmati rice won the vote. We chose the restaurant Aria in Flushing and quickly left to start our adventure.
Aria Kabab House is located at 72-55 Kissena Blvd in Flushing, New York. It's one of four stores on a small strip mall off of 72st.
Upon entering the eatery, we were greeted by the inquiring looks of four cute children, dressed in colorful wear. We took a seat and a man with a very long, full beard and a pleasant face greeted us and brought over the menus. It took us a while to decide what we should have as the menu was quite extensive.
Nevertheless, like usual, hunger won out and we made our selections. This trip we skipped over the appetizer round and focused on the main course.
My sister Shannice chose the Sharwarma Kabab Platter. This was a spiced chicken and vegetable medley that was served with seasoned Basmati Rice and homemade bread.
My mom went for the the Chicken Kufta and Chicken Tikka. The Chicken Kufta was a ground chicken log-like patty and the Tikka were medallions of Chicken, seasoned with traditional spices. It was served with the same aromatic Basmati rice.
My young niece could not be persuaded to try something new, so she opted for a handmade burger with fries. The patty was seasoned with chopped herbs and spices and was quite tasty. It was not like any burger I've ever had (Yes, I did taste it). She also opted for the Strawberry Slushy with real fruit. It was the perfect drink for a hot Summer day.
My sister Shellon chose the classic Chicken over rice combo. It was flavorful and full of veggies, just the ways she likes it. It was also served with the rice we have grown to love.
As for me, it was the Beef Kufta and Chicken Tikka platter that drew me in. The seasoned beef patty was delicious and the chicken did not disappoint either. I was in Halaal food heaven.
We enjoyed our dishes with the coveted "white sauce" and another green herb sauce that was zingy and spicy and simply delectable.
Our desert was the ever pleasing, ever satisfying Boklava. It's layer after layer of of thin, flaky pastry was delicious. Interestingly enough, it was not too sweet and the topping of chopped pistachio was just right.
We thoroughly enjoyed our outing and Aria Kabab deserved the solid B+ we gave it. The restaurant is more of a quick bite or takeout place and the ambiance was seriously lacking. I wanted to hear some ethnic music so I could do my little shimmy as I waited for the meal to arrive.
Enjoy any one of these dishes if you are ever in Flushing and have the craving for a nice Afghan meal.
