Fresh, flavorful kebabs, pizzas, burgers; dine-in or takeaway
"More recently, I’ve noticed quick-service Central Asian places popping up, such as Kebab Empire in Hell’s Kitchen, which calls itself Uyghur cuisine." - Robert Sietsema
"I found the lamb with rice exemplary of Uyghur grilling: stellar cumin‑laced kebabs alongside carrot‑perfumed polo rice that’s simultaneously sticky and sweet — and the price for both together is just $10." - Ryan Sutton
"I noticed Kebab Empire, a Uyghur joint that opened down the block from me, as an example of a small-time operator finding ways to make things work even as chains burgeon." - Ryan Sutton
"Stopping by Kebab Empire near Columbus Circle I tried chicken, beef, and lamb and found the lamb ($2.50) to be the best — juicy chunks served on metal kebabs over tins that catch the juices; order three, sprinkle cumin, and enjoy the free warm milk tea for an affordable, filling meal." - Eater Staff
"Visiting Kebab Empire in Hell’s Kitchen, I found the 24-hour kebab joint’s menu on point: lamb chops, juices shining, are thrust on blades a foot long and crossed like swords; leg of lamb is hewn in hunks, pressed with crushed cumin seeds, black pepper and salt, then skewered. Both pick up a good marbling of char from the grill — gas, not charcoal, but still the smoke goes deep. Recommended dishes include all of the lamb: cumin lamb, lamb kebab, lamb chop, and lamb shank, and Eater critic Ryan Sutton is also on board." - Stefanie Tuder