Caravan Restaurant & Grocery Store Afghan Market — Restaurant in Hayward

A Hidden Gem of Afghan Hospitality, 🌟Caravan Restaurant & Market 🌟

Caravan is more than just a place to eat. Truly a warm embrace of Afghan culture, where tradition, flavor, and heartfelt hospitality blend into an unforgettable experience. It's a soulful journey through Afghanistan’s rich culinary heritage.

One of the best kabuli palows is nothing short of extraordinary. It's perfectly seasoned with warming spices, topped with tender lamb, sweet carrots, and plump raisins.

Not to be missed is the tasty tekka kabob, a mouthwatering masterpiece of grilled perfection that boasts a tantalizing blend of spices and a smoky aroma that will have you reaching for seconds.

Of course, the mantu (Afghan dumplings) are delicately crafted and paired with a garlic-yogurt sauce that enhances their delicate flavors.

Their meals are cooked fresh every morning and with high demand can easily sell out.

Beyond the exceptional food, the impeccable cleanliness, not just in the dining area but throughout the entire market, especially the meat department. The meat counter is spotless, well-organized, and clearly maintained with high hygiene standards. The fresh meats are neatly covered, labeled, and handled with care, giving you peace of mind when buying for a home cooked meal. The environment is meticulously maintained and inviting, reflecting a commitment to hygiene that immediately puts you at ease.

The grocery section is equally delightful, offering a treasure trove of Afghan and Middle Eastern staples from fragrant spices, teas, traditional sweets, fresh produce for great deals.

The greatest assest of Caravan are the loving, hardworking staff that treat their customers like family. They are kind, respectful, generous, and always eagerly serving the community, ensuring every visit feels like coming home. Whether you’re Afghan and craving a nostalgic flavor or simply in search of an extraordinary culinary experience, Caravan Restaurant & Market makes you feel like part of the family.

💫 A true community treasure, Caravan Restaurant isn’t just about a meal, it’s about crafting memories. Highly recommended for anyone who values flavorful cuisine, cultural authenticity, impeccable cleanliness, and...

When I first left a review 2023 I had nothing but praise. Great flavors and great customer server. Unfortunately, It would seem new management has taken it over since then. They are now lacking in the customer service department. I am not sure if it is just because I don't speak Dari or what but they suck at even attempting to communicate. You call to order togo and the gentleman who always answers will never say anything coherent. He usually just mumbles something then hangs up. And I as the customer am left completely clueless as to whether they even properly received the order. It also now consistently takes over 30 minutes for them to assemble just one kabob plate. That was not the case last year. Usually I don't mind because eventually they bring me my food and are kind and apologetic. That was the case until today. I actually had to call twice today because on the first call he just hung up on me after I stated what I wanted! And when I called back for clarification on what happen he mumbled something and just hung up. So I called ahead of time, spoke to a gentlemen, placed my order, waited over 30 minutes (like always), came in to collect and pay for my order, and was completely ignored by the staff. The guy in the front initially acknowledged my presence with a head nod but then he quickly retreated to the to the back of the store out of sight and never returned. After waiting there for 5 minutes to just be greeted - I left. Utterly disappointed in the service being displayed at this establishment and won't...

So far I have ordered food from here 3 times and Everytime it has been fresh and tasty. I hope they can continue to keep that standards. Very clean inside out store.

UPDATE: It is so disappointing to see this place turn into careless tasteless spot. Last three times I ordered food, each time food was not fresh and so dry and hard that I had to throw it away. I spoke to owner and he was willing to replace the meal free of cost next day. Sadly next day food was just as bad. I went to get meat there a month later and person behind the counter refused to grind fresh beef for me because the piece he had was bigger that the amount I needed. Very very odd behavior.

Second Update: it feels like they have improved themselves a lot. The food is fresh, the store looks more full with product and cleanliness is there. The owner and his family is really making an effort to provide better service and product to their customers. I have been ordering food from here and their beef boti...