Mombar

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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!