Jando S.
Yelp
The number of Croatians and Bosnians in the Astoria / LIC area has always been significant, but amidst all the businesses catering to the Balkan community, Cevabdzinica Sarajevo has somehow remained the most well known of them all.
The place is tiny, with just enough tables for lunch dates and solo dining. The interior is dated as well, but I think that just adds more charm of the place. While big group dining is possible, it would be recommended to that party to 4 max.
Many folks are coming here for the cevapi, a balkan grilled minced meat, which has been the restaurant's claim to fame. It is after all, the national dish of several countries (#1) and where better than to get them in Queens? Typically they're served with a flatbread and a pile of onions, feta cheese, sour cream, and some other condiments. The cevapi here I believe is Bosnian based, hence the use of the beef. The bottom line? It's really tasty and I highly recommend it.
But as they say with most good restaurants, that's not the only thing. I love their sarma, which is stuffed cabbage and it comes with lots of sauce and potatoes. Whenever they bring a fresh burek (stuffed with anything), I have to have it. I would also say that the mixed grill for 2 is a good value for major meat lovers and any of their kebabs (especially the chicken) is excellent. Don't sleep on the gulash either, the beef stew really comes through. (#2)
The guys running the show are super nice. They're not the best on the phone but are generally quite friendly. Prices are a little steep for the amount of food one gets, but this is LIC. I wish there were more places like this, but beggers can't be choosers. I'll continue to give Cevabdzinica Sarajevo my money and my appetite.
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(#1) Bosnia, Croatia, and Serbia
(#2) Another unintentional rhyme.