Çka ka Qellue – Mediterranean
Stepping through the doors feels like a journey to a rustic Albanian village, where rough-hewn stone walls and antique artifacts create a space steeped in old-world charm. The kitchen breathes life into centuries-old traditions, filling the air with the aroma of slow-simmered stews and golden, layered pastries that arrive at the table with a sense of heartfelt hospitality. It is a place where every bite of tender, wood-fired meat and house-made bread tells a story of heritage, inviting diners to linger in the warm, candlelit glow of a truly transportive dining experience.
118 E 31st St, New York, NY 10016 +1 212-213-2082 https://ckakaqellue.com/Rating: 4.8/5 (1614 reviews)
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Price range: $$
Dietary options: keto, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, high-protein, mediterranean, whole30, pescatarian, paleo, diabetic, heart-healthy, plant-based, sugar-free, low-fat, anti-inflammatory, atkins, south-beach, weight-watchers, clean-eating, low-cholesterol, gerd, high-fiber, low-fodmap, tlc, detox, alkaline, aip, raw-food, volumetrics, carnivore, mayo-clinic, slow-carb, pegan, candida, lectin-free, macrobiotic
Currently open
Hours
- Monday - Thursday
- 12:00 - 10:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday
- 12:00 - 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 12:00 - 10:00 PM
What diners are saying
Diners consistently praise this charming spot for its authentic Albanian cuisine, particularly raving about the fresh, steaming hot bread and the popular pepper dip appetizer. Standout dishes include the flavorful mixed grill platter, crispy veal Mantia, and rich Goulash, though guests also highlight the cozy, relaxing atmosphere suitable for both solo dining and groups. While some note the price point, reviewers celebrate the friendly, attentive service and versatile seating options, making it a new favorite for many.
Menu
Appetizers
- Pickled Pepper - $6.8: Stuffed with a medley of seasonal pickled vegetables, prepared in the authentic, time honored way Dietary tags: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Paleo, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Fat, Atkins, South-Beach, Weight-Watchers, High-Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, Volumetrics, TLC, Mayo-Clinic, Slow-Carb
- Cheese Pickled Pepper - $9.5: A traditional combination of creamy cheese and pickled pepper Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Pescatarian, Atkins
- Roasted Pepper - $8.4: Sautéed with garlic and olive oil Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, Weight-Watchers, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, Volumetrics, TLC, Detox, Mayo-Clinic, Slow-Carb, Pegan, Candida
- Pepper Dip - $8.4: A rich, velvety blend of roasted peppers and cheese for a bold, savory taste Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Pescatarian, Sugar-Free, Atkins
- Sausage Dip - $9.5: Slow-smoked sausage and two cheeses melt together in this creamy, savory dip Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free, Atkins
- Tarator - $8.2: Chilled yogurt blend with minced cucumber and garlic drizzled with parsley Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, Atkins, South-Beach, Weight-Watchers, Clean-Eating, Volumetrics, TLC, Mayo-Clinic, Lectin-Free
- Ajvar - $7.35: A roasted red pepper spread with hints of eggplant and garlic
- Cheese - $7.85: Traditional feta cheese drizzled with olive oil and finished with a touch of seasoning
- French Fries - $10.3: Classic, crispy, golden french fries, lightly seasoned Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Sugar-Free, Low-Cholesterol, Low-Fodmap, Candida
- Mixed Olives - $12.75: A selection of marinated olives, seasoned with a delightful mix of herbs and olive oil Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, Weight-Watchers, Clean-Eating, Low-Cholesterol, GERD-Friendly, Low-Fodmap, TLC, Detox, Alkaline, AIP, Mayo-Clinic, Slow-Carb, Pegan, Candida, Lectin-Free
- Baked Cheese - $16.55: Baked traditional feta cheese topped with a medley of seasonal vegetables and a touch of seasoning Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, Clean-Eating
- Sesame Baked Cheese - $16.55: Dipped in egg, coated with flour and sesame seeds, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a rich honey glaze. Served with warm bread Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Pescatarian
- Grilled Seasonal Vegetables - $17.35: Charred and seasoned to perfection Dietary tags: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, Volumetrics, TLC, Detox, Alkaline, Mayo-Clinic, Macrobiotic, Slow-Carb, Pegan, Candida
Soups
- Çka Ka Qëllu Soup - $16.65: Chicken soup with tender chicken, rice, and a mix of veggies in a flavorful broth Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, Clean-Eating, Volumetrics, Mayo-Clinic
Salads
- Mediterranean Salad - $20.35: Arugula greens topped with goat cheese, sliced green apples, sweet red beets, crunchy walnuts, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a flavorful Çka Ka Qëllu dressing Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Anti-Inflammatory, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Raw-Food, Volumetrics, Mayo-Clinic
- Shop Salad - $19.85: Sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and creamy shredded feta cheese Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Raw-Food, Volumetrics, Mayo-Clinic, Candida
- Village Salad - $19.85: Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, sweet red onions, crunchy cucumber, feta cheese, and olives Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Raw-Food, Volumetrics, Mayo-Clinic, Candida
Savory Delicacies
- Fli - $15.75: Delicate, golden layers of hand-baked batter, brushed with rich butter for a soft, flaky texture – an Albanian culinary masterpiece Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Pescatarian, Sugar-Free
- Mantia - $14.65: Crispy, golden-baked dumplings filled with ground veal and aromatic spices, served hot with a touch of traditional yogurt Dietary tags: High-Protein, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Leçenik - $10.3: Cornbread made with spinach and three cheeses, complemented by a rich pepper sauce Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Pescatarian, Sugar-Free, High-Fiber
Tava - Clay Dishes
Traditional slow-cooked dishes prepared in an earthenware pot for a comforting and authentic taste of Albanian cuisine
- Tava Dheut - $24.5: A creamy and flavorful baked dish made with tender liver, peppers, tomatoes, cheese, and spices Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins
- Tava Kosi - $27.65: A classic Albanian baked dish featuring tender lamb in a creamy, tangy yogurt and egg custard Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, Lectin-Free
- Mazë E Zier - $22.25: A rich and creamy blend of three cheeses and cornmeal, cooked with homemade butter in a pan until perfectly smooth Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Specë Në Mazë - $20.65: Fire-grilled cubanelle pepper, delicately sautéed in homemade butter and crowned with rich, artisanal cream cheese Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins
- Suxhuk Në Tavë - $25.75: A handcrafted blend of ground veal and beef sausage sautéed in olive oil, melted in a velvety fusion of three artisanal cheeses Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins
- Fasulë - $23.85: Traditional white bean stew slow-simmered with aromatic spices and olive oil. (Add homemade smoked meat or suxhuk for +$4) Dietary tags: High-Protein, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, Volumetrics, TLC, Detox, Alkaline, Mayo-Clinic, Macrobiotic, Slow-Carb
- Sarma - $27: Cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned ground meat, rice, and fresh vegetables Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber
- Stuffed Pepper - $23.5: Tender peppers filled with a flavorful mix of seasonal vegetables, herbs, and rice Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, Clean-Eating, High-Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, Volumetrics, TLC, Detox, Alkaline, Mayo-Clinic, Macrobiotic
- Mantia (Clay Dish) - $23.5: Delicate ground beef-filled dumplings, baked to perfection and immersed in a luscious, house-made cheese sauce Dietary tags: High-Protein, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Kaçamak - $22.25: A creamy Balkan porridge made with slow-cooked cornmeal, house-churned butter, and melted cheese Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Gulash - $26.6: A traditional Balkan slow-cooked beef stew, simmered with onions, paprika, and aromatic spices, topped with mashed potatoes Dietary tags: High-Protein, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
Seafood
- Grilled Branzino - $43: Grilled Mediterranean sea bass served with baked potatoes and grilled seasonal vegetables Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Detox, Mayo-Clinic, Pegan, Candida
- Grilled Octopus - $34.75: Served with mashed potatoes and grilled seasonal vegetables Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Detox, Mayo-Clinic, Candida
Grill
- Qebapa (10 pcs) - $23.5: Flame-grilled Qebapa, paired with rich kajmak and a side of cabbage salad Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, Candida, Lectin-Free
- Qofte (4 pcs) - $25.5: Flame-grilled medallions of seasoned ground beef and veal, paired with rich kajmak and a side of cabbage salad Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, Candida, Lectin-Free
- Qofte Shari - $27: Flame-grilled seasoned veal and beef mix, filled with melted cheese and chopped smoked meat served with golden potatoes topped with creamy house-made kajmak and a side of cabbage salad Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Suxhuk (3 pcs) - $21.75: Flame-grilled, handcrafted blend of ground veal and beef sausage, served in mazë, and with our leçenik Dietary tags: High-Protein, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Grilled Chicken - $28.25: Grilled chicken, herb-marinated and grilled to perfection, served alongside smoky grilled vegetables and a side of cabbage salad Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Paleo, Diabetic, Heart-Healthy, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Detox, AIP, Mayo-Clinic, Pegan, Candida, Lectin-Free
- Filet Mignon Veal Shish Qebap - $28.25: Succulent, marinated filet mignon veal, skewered and grilled to perfection. Served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of grilled seasonal vegetables Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free, Clean-Eating, Candida
- Mix Grill Platter - $28.75: A traditional selection of qebapa, qofte, and suxhuk, grilled to perfection. Perfect for one person Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Nut-Free, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins
- Grilled Liver - $26: Seasoned with our special homemade blend, served alongside perfectly grilled seasonal vegetables Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, Candida
- Tradita Mixed Grill Platter - $49.9: Combination of qebapa, qofte, sausage, chicken & liver Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Paleo, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, Carnivore, Candida
- Skenderbeg - $42.85: Crispy, deep fried golden-breaded veal filet mignon rolls stuffed with melted cheese and smoked meat, served with baked potatoes and seasonal vegetables Dietary tags: High-Protein, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free
- Lamb Meat - $61.85: Slow-roasted, tender lamb infused with our special house-blend spices Dietary tags: High-Protein, Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Diabetic, Sugar-Free, Atkins, South-Beach, Clean-Eating, Carnivore, Candida
- Veal Meat - $39: Flame-grilled thin cuts of marinated veal meat served with grilled vegetables and baked potatoes Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Sugar-Free, Atkins, Clean-Eating, Detox, Candida Available at: dinner, lunch
- Rib Eye Steak For One (16 oz) - $70.5: Served with grilled vegetables, baked potatoes and kaçamak Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Paleo, Sugar-Free, Clean-Eating, Candida
- Çka Ka Qëllu Mixed Meat Combination - $70.5: Choice of five (5): lamb, liver, chicken, shish qebap, veal, suxhuk, and qofte. Served with grilled vegetables and baked potatoes. Served for two Dietary tags: High-Protein, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free, Candida
- Spring Lamb Chops - $43.5: Juicy, perfectly grilled lamb chops drizzled with a light red wine, honey, and garlic sauce. Served with creamy mashed potatoes and tender asparagus Dietary tags: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free
Desserts
- Baklava - $14.65: Layers of crisp filo dough, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with honey-sugar syrup Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Dairy-Free, Mediterranean, Pescatarian
- Sheqerpare - $12: Traditional Albanian soft, buttery cookie soaked in sweet lemon syrup Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Pescatarian
- Albanian Trileqe - $12: A cake soaked in a blend of three milks, topped with rich caramel cream Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Nut-Free, Pescatarian
Frequently Asked Questions about Çka ka Qellue
- What are the most popular dishes at this restaurant?
- Popular dishes include fresh steaming hot bread, pepper dip appetizer, mixed grill platter, crispy veal Mantia, and rich Goulash.
- What type of cuisine does this restaurant specialize in?
- Çka ka Qellue specializes in Mediterranean and authentic Albanian cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like slow-simmered stews and wood-fired meats.
- Is this restaurant good value for money?
- This moderate ($$) restaurant maintains a 4.8/5 rating, with guests celebrating the service and quality despite noting the price point.
- Is this restaurant currently open and operational?
- The provided data does not include specific operating hours to confirm if the restaurant is currently open and operational.
- What is the overall customer sentiment about this restaurant?
- With a 4.8/5 rating, diners praise the authentic cuisine, specifically the bread and pepper dip, alongside friendly and attentive service.
- Is this restaurant suitable for families?
- Reviewers highlight the cozy atmosphere and versatile seating options as suitable for groups, complemented by a sense of heartfelt hospitality.
- Does this restaurant have good options for group dining with mixed dietary needs?
- Reviewers highlight versatile seating for groups, while the menu features vegan Fasulë, keto Cheese Pickled Peppers, and gluten-free Veal Meat.
- What is the restaurant's atmosphere and style?
- The restaurant features a rustic Albanian village style with stone walls, antique artifacts, and a cozy, relaxing old-world atmosphere.
- What type of diner would most enjoy this restaurant?
- Diners seeking authentic Albanian cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting rated 4.8/5 will enjoy this spot, accommodating solo guests, groups, and diverse diets.
- How does this restaurant compare to others in the same cuisine type?
- This highly-rated 4.8/5 Mediterranean restaurant distinguishes itself through authentic Albanian specialties, fresh bread, and attentive service at a moderate price.
