Vendy 2009 Finalist: The King of Falafel

In following with my earlier post, 2009 Vendy Awards, I visited each of the 5 finalist to select my own favorite prior to the ceremony on September 26th.  My first stop was to the King of Falafel – Fares “Freddy” Zeidaies.

I consider myself to be a true New Yorker.   As such, I know that the magic of this city does not begin and end in Manhattan.  However, I must confess that I rarely find myself eating street food in Queens, as I  only typically frequent the many wonderful ethnic restaurants in the borough.

My trip to Fares “Freddy” Zeidaies’ cart on Broadway & 30th Street in Astoria was outside of my routine, but Freddy and his team certainly had their own routine down pact.  They work with the precision of a synchronized swimming team, and the speed of the 100 meter dash.   Despite the long line of patrons, I was at the front of the line in no time.  Since I barely had time to think, I ordered the falafel combo which the 4 patrons before had ordered.  This was definitely a good choice.  The bread was wonderfully warm and fresh, and the vegetables were slightly cool and crisp.  The falafel had a wonderful outside crunch with a tasty fluffy chickpea interior.

While I devoured my falafel standing near the cart, I noticed that many people were ordering the chicken and rice platter.   I got on line again and got a platter for the road.  It had a delicious aroma, which tantalized me (and my fellow subway passengers) all the way home.  It was fortunate that the portion was very generous, because I had to split the platter with hungry family members who were drawn by the smell once I arrived home.  The platter was flavorful and delicious.

Between the good food, fast service and reasonable prices, it is no surprise that the Fares “Freddy” Zeidaies was a Vendy Finalist this year.

Overall, I give the King of Falafel a 92% rating.  [rating:92/100]

King Falafel

Broadway & 30th Street, Astoria 718.838.8029  www.thekingfalafel.com