Nestled in Brooklyn, this gem of a restaurant invites diners on a captivating culinary journey through Central Asia, where authentic flavors beautifully intertwine with rich traditions. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by warm, inviting decor that reflects the region's vibrant culture, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
The menu is a delightful homage to Central Asian cuisine, boasting a diverse selection of dishes that are both familiar and exotic. Each dish is prepared with meticulous care, showcasing the chef's commitment to authenticity and quality. The plov, a signature dish, is a fragrant rice pilaf bursting with tender lamb, carrots, and spices, embodying the essence of Central Asian hospitality. It’s hearty, flavorful, and served in generous portions—perfect for sharing.
The manti, delicate steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat, are a must-try. They arrive at the table steaming and accompanied by a tangy yogurt sauce that balances the rich flavors perfectly. Additionally, the lagman, a hand-pulled noodle dish, offers a delightful chewiness, paired with a savory broth that warms the soul.
Vegetarians will also find plenty to savor, with dishes like the roasted eggplant stuffed with herbs and nuts, showcasing the diversity and depth of Central Asian ingredients. The use of fresh herbs and spices in every dish highlights the kitchen's dedication to flavor.
Service is attentive yet unobtrusive, with staff eager to share their knowledge of the dishes and the cultural significance behind them. The restaurant often features traditional music, enhancing the atmosphere and transporting diners to the heart of Central Asia with every bite.
In addition to the food, the selection of beverages, including fragrant teas and regional wines, complements the meal beautifully. Don’t miss out on the sweet pastries for dessert—each one is a delightful ending to a remarkable dining experience.
Overall, this restaurant is a treasure, seamlessly blending culinary delights with Central Asian traditions. Whether you’re a connoisseur of the cuisine or a curious newcomer, you’re sure to leave with your taste buds tantalized and your heart full. A truly exceptional gastronomic...
Read moreI have lived in Bensonhurst for 27 years. The neighborhood has evolved many times, from old-school Italian to a predominantly Chinese and lightly hispanic, to now a large presence of middle eastern and central asian populations. With it comes new food and cuisines.
I stopped by out of curiosity when they first opened but never tried it today. I remember being shocked at their ratio of reviews. 2500 reviews and 4.9 stars in an outerborough restaurant is rare. Many times these restaurants are rated slightly lower due to their customers being more local and less touristy - aka frequent repeat customers with high expectations. This set my own expectations high too. I am glad to say it lived up to it.
The dumplings were incredible. Delicate, lightly crisp on the outside in a thin skin with juicy chunks of meat on the inside. They were large too, and seasoned well. The meat had a slightly gamey texture and taste that complexity to the flavor profile.
The noodles were also fantastic. Perfectly dense with a slight bounce in each chew but also very easy to bite. A reasonable meat portion and very good vegetables. The peppers, celery, and onions were fresh and crisp. The sauce/seasonings were actually lighter than I expected, but due to the quality of the ingredients the flavors of the vegetables and meat are augmented by the spice profile rather than being dominated by such. That is the sign of excellent food.
I think they do deserve their 5 stars. I have eaten at plenty of restaurants in the neighborhood as well as from the Michelin guide around the world and would absolutely say that this is amongst some of the best restaurants representing central asian cuisines I have eaten at. It really did have a home cooked feel to it.
Also, the service was excellent. Very friendly staff.
Being a newer restaurant I can imagine their operations overhead costs are probably higher than longer standing establishments, so do note the prices. But like I said, I have paid much more for much less...
Read moreVisited Laghman Express with a crew of seven—and let me tell you, convincing people to travel nearly an hour outside the city for food is no small feat. But after your first bite, the only real debate becomes whether eating here multiple times a week qualifies as a lifestyle or a problem. It’s that good.
Like movies, sequels rarely hold up to the original. Yet somehow, Laghman Express defies the odds. With two locations (both boasting 5.0 stars and over 2,000 reviews) and a third on the way in Atlanta, it’s clear this isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a phenomenon.
The atmosphere is unpretentious and warm. Plastic trays and paper plates set the tone—not like you’re dining out, but like you’ve been invited into a family’s home for a feast. Food hits the table fast, fresh, and piping hot—from appetizers to mains—without missing a beat.
The staff? Incredible. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful in guiding you through the menu. They move with the kind of grace and awareness that makes it feel like they’ve known you for years—even refilling your water and anticipating extra orders before you say a word.
In short: Laghman Express doesn’t just live up to the hype—it sets the bar. If you're anywhere near NYC, this is an essential stop. Don’t miss it.
Dishes Ordered: TOTAL $244 w/ tip PLENTY LEFTOVER Fried wonton Dumplings with chili Fried Manty Crispy eggplant (INCREDIBLE) Smashed cucumber Sweet tomatoes Pearl shaped noodles Dry fried noodles French fries with meat Tish Fish (spell check) Thrashkent...
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