We need more Afghan spots like this in Monmouth County! I was so excited when I saw this place open up awhile back, and FINALLY got in to try some of their food. Admittedly my first impression on the location was "random," because we don't have anything like this around (at least that I'm aware of). But I am truly thankful that Flame Kabob House has laid its foundation conveniently off the Route 66 / Route 35 traffic circle bordering Ocean. I live in Wall and got there in under 10 minutes to pick up my takeout order (okay, maybe my hunger had something to do with the quick trip).
Feel free to judge me, but my first experience here was fueled by that "haven't eaten a legit meal all day" hunger. I knew they opened at 5pm but I called at 4:58pm because clearly my stomach couldn't last another two minutes (this is the part where you judge me). Someone promptly picked up the phone and took my order with ease. No attitude or snide remarks telling me they weren't open yet (yes, we all know some unfriendly service establishments have pulled that in the past). My order was taken swiftly with a turnaround time of 20 minutes.
I decided not to be a complete loser and waited to show up until the FULL 20 minutes had passed. The man behind the counter had a really bright, warm and friendly aura. My food was ready waiting for me, and once I paid without issue I "raced" home to get early dinner started.
I've never had Banjan Borani as an appetizer before, but after having it here I'll never forget the name. The eggplant was fresh, perfectly cooked and basking in a royally delicious sauce. I decided to seize the moment and skim a piece of my qabuli rice through that sauce, which made it even better. Qabuli rice is not actually rice but more of a naan-like bread served with the entree dishes.
I opted for the Chicken Tikka Kabob entree and was not disappointed. The chicken was PERFECTLY cooked and seasoned. I especially loved the sauces that came on the side, one of which was definitely a type of hot sauce, and the other presented itself as a creamy sort of 'ranch' equivalent. This place is VERY generous with the Afghan rice portions, so much so that I have a third of it leftover to pair with something creative tomorrow :)
Here comes my only complaint, and the reason I could not give this awesome place five stars... my rice was lacking the carrots and raisins described on the menu and featured in the pictures. Disappointing since I was most excited about trying the rice with those accompaniments and it was definitely listed on the menu. Not sure if they were out of stock or if this was an innocent misstep, but I'll be back again to try more dishes and undoubtedly look forward to getting some carrots & raisins on my plate. read more