Tag: rafiqi’s

I’ve been noticing that most of the Rafiqi’s Halal carts now have “New Beef Options” … Philly Steak sandwiches, pita wraps and platters. I got the Beef Rice Platter ($5.50). The guy pulled out a couple of thin rectangle slices of Philly Steak-style of raw beef and slapped it on the griddle. Cooking and chopping it up, asking if I want onions and cheese –yes, please.

The Philly Steak platter was surprisingly delicious. Of course, top it with white and the green hot sauce.

I only trust the Rafiqi’s on 6th Ave between 19th & 20th St, Manhattan to make this. I’ve been trying other Rafiqi’s that have been popping up in the area recently and they don’t compare. Even though it appears to be the same ingredients and toppings, the salad just taste better and the meat is cooked right at 6th. I’ve also spent hours walking around trying to find a Rafiqi’s that hasn’t raised their prices yet. There are a few out there, but then I realize I’m just trying to save 50cents.

I’ve always been hesitant to go to a Rafiqi’s Halal Street Cart. I always think of them as the chain… the McDonald’s of NY Street Carts. But after walking around for an hour in the cold rain, I decided to get the Rafiqi’s (on Avenue of America’s/6th Ave between W 19th & 20th St) lamb & chicken over rice $5.50. I got a little bit of all the toppings (corn, cheese, olives, green peppers, onions) …all free, same price. And of course the green hot sauce everyone in front of me was asking extra of. Dang. This one meal was great! Reminded me of the $8 Chicken Bowl in Gainesville, Florida. I don’t think they exist any more, but it was that good.

I had it again a couple days later with just chicken over rice $4.75. I never get just chicken. I always think it’s too bland. But these guys do it good.

And just today, I tried the Rafiqi’s on Park Ave and 24th. It looked like the same food. Same Toppings, same price, but unfortunately not the same flavor. Dang, not all Rafiqi’s are equal. But here’s to the one on 6th Ave and 19th St! Green sauce it!

Other thoughts: Halal with cheese? Is that illegal?