For the third year in a row, Albanian restaurant Çka Ka Qëllu has secured a spot on The New York Times’ list of the 100 Best Restaurants in NYC for 2025.
Founded by Kosovar entrepreneur Ramiz Kukaj, the restaurant is more than a dining spot—it’s a cultural landmark. With locations in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Stamford, CT, Çka Ka Qëllu showcases the rich flavors of Albania and Kosovo in a rustic, museum-like setting filled with traditional artifacts.
In its June 2 announcement, The New York Times praised the eatery for its hearty grilled meats, tangy yogurt sauces, and dedication to culinary heritage. “Hard work, dedication, and love for our tradition made it happen again,” Kukaj wrote on Instagram. “Thank you to everyone who’s part of this journey.”
Kukaj, a refugee from Peja, Kosovo, came to the U.S. in the mid-90s and opened Çka Ka Qëllu in 2017. The name, meaning “we serve what we’ve got,” reflects the Albanian spirit of hospitality and resilience. Now a beloved gathering place for both Albanians and curious foodies, the restaurant is also featured in the MICHELIN Guide and boasts fans like Dua Lipa and Action Bronson.
With a 4.8-star rating on OpenTable and an ever-growing fanbase, Çka Ka Qëllu proves that authentic tradition, when served with heart, always has a seat at the table in the world’s most diverse city.
