AbuQir Seafood The Best Dish Grilled Tiger Shrimp

abuqirseafoodqueens.com – New York City is never short on great seafood, but every once in a while, a place comes along that makes you wish you had discovered it years earlier. That’s exactly how I felt after finally visiting AbuQir Seafood in Astoria, Queens. If this restaurant had been open back when I lived nearby, I would have happily spent far too much money there.

AbuQir Seafood offers a unique experience that blends the atmosphere of a seafood market with the comfort of a casual restaurant. Their grilled tiger shrimp easily earn the title of Dish of the Week, and after one visit, it’s clear why this spot has become a favorite among locals and seafood lovers across New York.

Discovering AbuQir Seafood in Astoria, Queens

Astoria has long been known as one of New York City’s most exciting neighborhoods for food. During the many years I lived there, I frequently visited seafood markets and Egyptian restaurants along Steinway Street. However, at the time, no place was doing seafood quite like AbuQir does today.

Back then, one standout was Elias Corner, a Greek restaurant where you could inspect the fish on ice before choosing which one you wanted cooked. Later came Astoria Seafood, which elevated the “choose your fish” concept even further. AbuQir Seafood fits right into this tradition but with its own Egyptian-inspired twist.

Although AbuQir is not a new establishment, it was completely new to me. Discovering it now feels almost unfair, considering how much I would have loved it years ago.

A Seafood Market and Restaurant in One

Choose Your Fish, Your Way

AbuQir Seafood operates as a full-service seafood market. You can walk in and purchase fresh fish to cook at home, but most visitors choose to dine in. The concept is simple: select your seafood, decide how you want it prepared, and let the kitchen handle the rest.

Whether you prefer your fish grilled or fried, AbuQir keeps the preparation straightforward, allowing the quality and freshness of the seafood to shine.

Start with Baba Ganoush

Before diving into the main event, I had read that the baba ganoush is a must-try and the hype is justified. Creamy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned, it’s an excellent way to wake up your tastebuds and set the tone for the meal ahead.

Fried Anchovies and Egyptian Spices

Crispy, Addictive, and Full of Flavor

Unable to decide between fried and grilled options, I ordered a bit of both. The fried anchovies were a surprise standout. Lightly dusted with flour and fried until perfectly crisp, they were seasoned with a sweet-spicy Egyptian spice blend, possibly dukkah.

Each bite was crunchy, savory, and incredibly addictive. This dish alone would be reason enough to return to AbuQir Seafood.

Grilled Black Tiger Shrimp: The Star of the Meal

Why the Grilled Tiger Shrimp Stand Out

The real highlight, however, was the grilled black tiger shrimp. These shrimp were impressively plump and generously sized, cooked just right to preserve their natural sweetness.

They were brushed with olive oil, lightly seasoned with mild spices, and loaded with garlic. The grilling added a subtle smokiness without overpowering the shrimp’s delicate flavor.

Taste and Texture

Each bite was:

• Meaty and juicy

• Naturally sweet

• Balanced with garlic and gentle spice

• Finished with a whisper of char from the grill

Without exaggeration, these are some of the best shrimp I’ve had in a long time, not just in Astoria, but in New York City overall.

Pricing and Value

Is AbuQir Seafood Worth the Price?

The grilled tiger shrimp are priced at $19.95 per pound, which feels more than fair given the quality, portion size, and freshness. In a city where seafood prices can climb quickly, AbuQir offers excellent value for money.

You’re paying for:

• Fresh, high-quality seafood

• Simple but expert preparation

• A unique market-to-table experience

Why AbuQir Seafood Is a Must-Visit in New York

AbuQir Seafood captures everything that makes Astoria special: cultural diversity, bold flavors, and an unpretentious love for great food. It’s a place where seafood is treated with respect, and where simple techniques allow top-notch ingredients to shine.

After just one visit, I found myself joking but also half-serious about moving back to Astoria just to be closer to this restaurant.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a seafood lover visiting New York or a local looking for your next favorite spot, AbuQir Seafood in Astoria deserves a place on your list. From the addictive fried anchovies to the unforgettable grilled tiger shrimp, this restaurant delivers flavor, freshness, and value in every bite.

Sometimes, discovering a great restaurant comes with a bit of regret for not finding it sooner. AbuQir Seafood is exactly that kind of place and absolutely worth the visit.