If you’ve spent any time walking the border where Forest Hills bleeds into Rego Park, you’ve definitely seen it. Tucked away at 101-15 Queens Boulevard, Stix Forest Hills NY (officially known as Stix Kosher Restaurant) isn't exactly a secret, but it’s the kind of place people often walk past a dozen times before finally realizing what they’re missing.
Most people think "kosher restaurant" and expect a very specific, perhaps limited, experience. Stix basically shatters that. It’s a sensory overload of Central Asian and Middle Eastern smells—charred lamb, fresh-baked tandoori bread, and that sharp, vinegary bite of pickled cabbage. Honestly, it’s less of a standard "grill" and more of a love letter to the Bukharian Jewish culinary tradition that defines this corner of Queens.
The first thing you need to know? It's Glatt Kosher.
That matters, whether you keep kosher or not, because the quality control on the meat is intense. You aren't getting mystery cuts here. You’re getting hand-trimmed, perfectly seasoned skewers that have been perfected over generations.
The Menu: It's All About the Skewers (But Also the Bread)
Let’s get real: the name "Stix" isn't a metaphor. It’s a literal description of the menu’s backbone. The kebabs are the stars. Most regulars will swear by the Hanger Beef Kebab. It’s rich, slightly fatty in that way that melts on the tongue, and heavily seasoned with the kind of spices that make you want to order three more.
But if you really want to eat like a local, you have to try the Lamb Ribs.
They are unapologetically messy. You’ll be eating them with your hands, and your fingers will be stained with fat and spice, and you won’t care. There’s something about the way they char the edges over the open flame that creates a crust you just can't replicate at home.
Then there is the Pargiot.
For the uninitiated, pargiot is boneless baby chicken thigh. It’s way more flavorful than a standard chicken breast, which can get dry if the grill master blinks for a second too long. At Stix Forest Hills NY, the pargiot stays juicy. It’s a safe bet for picky eaters but sophisticated enough for people who actually care about the texture of their poultry.
Don't Skip the Carbs
You're going to be tempted to just order a mountain of meat. Don't. You need the Tandoori Bread. It comes out warm, thick-crusted, and soft in the middle—perfect for swiping through a plate of their Babaganoush or Hummus.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, look for the Samsa. These are essentially savory pastries filled with minced meat and onions, baked until the pastry is flaky and golden. It’s the ultimate Bukharian comfort food.
- Asian Pilaf (Osh Palov): This is a staple. It’s a slow-cooked rice dish with chunks of lamb, beef, carrots, and chickpeas. It’s hearty. It’s basically a hug in a bowl.
- Lagman: If it’s cold outside, this hand-pulled noodle soup with meat and vegetables is the only answer.
- Mantu: Steamed dumplings that are delicate on the outside but packed with seasoned beef and onions inside.
The Vibe and Experience
The atmosphere at Stix Forest Hills NY is... interesting. It’s casual. Like, "come in your sneakers and bring the kids" casual. But there’s also a certain energy to it, especially on a Thursday night or right after Shabbat ends on Saturday night. It’s a community hub. You’ll see large families occupying the long tables, plates of kebabs stacked high, and a lot of loud, happy conversation.
It’s not a white-tablecloth, romantic date night spot. It’s a "we’re here to eat incredible food and leave full" spot.
One thing that surprises people is the price point. In an era where a mediocre burger can run you $25 in Manhattan, you can get a serious meal here without feeling like you need a second mortgage. The skewers are priced individually, which lets you mix and match. It’s a "choose your own adventure" style of dining that makes it easy to try things like Veal Liver or Quail without committing to a massive entree.
What Most People Get Wrong About Stix
People often confuse "Mediterranean" with just "Greek" or "Israeli." While Stix certainly has those influences (the Israeli salad is fresh and crisp), the heart of this kitchen is Uzbek and Bukharian.
This means the spice profile is different. It’s more cumin-forward. There’s a deeper emphasis on slow-cooked meats and savory pastries. If you come in expecting a standard gyro, you’re missing the point. You’re here for the Khorovak (veal sweetbreads) and the Lamb Fat skewers.
Also, a pro tip: the service is fast. Sometimes very fast. They want to get that food to you while it’s still sizzling from the charcoal. Don’t expect a slow, lingering three-hour service. Expect efficiency.
How to Navigate the Location
Parking on Queens Boulevard is, to put it mildly, a nightmare. If you’re driving, give yourself an extra 15 minutes to circle the side streets near 67th Road or 67th Avenue.
Or, honestly, just take the M or R train to 67th Ave. The restaurant is just a short walk from the station. It’s also a prime spot for takeout. They have the delivery game down to a science, and the food actually travels surprisingly well—though nothing beats the bread when it’s 30 seconds out of the oven.
Quick Facts for Your Visit:
- Location: 101-15 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375.
- Kosher Status: Glatt Kosher (supervised).
- Best Time to Go: Lunch for the specials, or Saturday night for the full "community" experience.
- Must Order: Hanger Beef Kebab, Samsa, and the Tandoori Bread.
The Verdict on Stix Forest Hills NY
Basically, if you live in Queens and haven't been here, you're doing it wrong. It represents the best of what the borough offers: authentic, unpretentious, and culturally specific food that tastes like someone’s grandmother is in the back making sure the rice is just right.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Forest Hills is one of the best food neighborhoods in the city. You don't need a fancy interior when the lamb ribs are that good.
Actionable Next Steps:
Check their hours before you go, especially on Fridays, as they close early for Shabbat. If you're ordering for a group, get the Mixed Kebab Dinner to sample the variety. Always ask for extra "white sauce" and "red sauce"—the red one has a kick that cuts through the richness of the lamb perfectly. If you are planning a weekend visit, calling ahead for a reservation is a smart move, as the dining room fills up fast with local families.