Moroccan Bites by Siham Review: Is This Halal Moroccan Restaurant in Astoria Worth Trying?
Quick Summary: Moroccan Bites by Siham is one of the best halal spots in Queens. While transportation to Steinway Street requires a bit of planning, the incredibly warm hospitality and outstanding Lamb with Prunes and Apricots make it an absolute must-visit.
- Overall Rating: 9.5 / 10
- Standout Dish: Lamb with Prunes and Apricots (10/10)
- Price: ~$67 total for a full multi-course meal
- Dietary: 100% Halal
- Best For: Families, dates, solo dining, and North African cuisine lovers
- Would I Return? Absolutely
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 28-44 Steinway St, Astoria, NY 11103 |
| Neighborhood | Astoria, Queens |
| Cuisine | Moroccan / North African (Halal) |
| Total Spent | $66.87 (tax & tip included) |
| Transit Options | M/R to Steinway St; Q101 or Q18 Bus |
| Payment | Cash & Cards Accepted |
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Watch My Experience at Moroccan Bites by Siham
In my video, you can see the full meal I had at Moroccan Bites, including the Moroccan Mint Tea, Moroccan Potatoes, Chicken Pastilla, Lamb with Prunes and Apricots, and Msemen.
What made this meal memorable was how distinctly different each dish was—ranging from savory spices to rich, fruit-infused glazes.
Why I Visited Moroccan Bites by Siham
I wanted to explore more authentic Moroccan food in New York, and Moroccan Bites by Siham came highly recommended in Astoria.
Note: My photos and video showcase the original 28th Avenue space; the restaurant has since relocated to a larger venue on Steinway Street.
💡 Relocation Notice: I originally visited when Moroccan Bites operated out of a smaller venue on 28th Avenue. They have since expanded to a new, larger location at 28-44 Steinway Street. While the space has changed, the exceptional food quality remains the same!
Atmosphere & Service
The original location was cozy and intimate, filled with traditional blue cushioned seating, geometric wall patterns, and authentic tea sets.
The service was another standout element. The owner was genuinely welcoming and attentive throughout the entire meal, making the dining experience feel personal and relaxed.
- Atmosphere Rating: 9.3 / 10
- Service Rating: 9.7 / 10
Location & How to Get There
- New Address: 28-44 Steinway St, Astoria, NY 11103
- Subway: Take the M or R train to Steinway Street. From there, it is a short walk or quick bus transfer.
- Bus Lines: The Q101 runs along Steinway Street (stopping at 28th Ave), and the Q18 runs along 30th Avenue.
- Parking Warning: Street parking on Steinway Street is tight. Taking public transit or a rideshare is strongly recommended.
What I Ordered
My entire meal cost $66.87 including tax and tip. Here is how every item performed:
1. Moroccan Mint Tea
- Rating: 9.0 / 10
I started with the Moroccan Mint Tea while waiting for the food.
It arrived in a traditional-style metal teapot with a decorative Moroccan tea glass, which made drinking something as simple as tea feel like part of the experience. The tea itself was refreshing and aromatic.
I also liked having it throughout the meal because some of the Moroccan dishes combined savory and sweet flavors. It paired especially well with the Chicken Pastilla.
2. Moroccan Potatoes
- Rating: 8.8 / 10
Next came the Moroccan Potatoes.
These were small potatoes seasoned with herbs and spices. It's a simple dish compared with the lamb and pastilla that came afterward, but I still enjoyed them.
I actually liked that the meal didn't begin with something overly heavy. The potatoes worked well as an appetizer before getting into the richer dishes.
3. Chicken Pastilla — Sweet & Savory
- Rating: 8.5 / 10
The Chicken Pastilla was probably one of the most interesting things I ordered. If you've never had pastilla before, it's a Moroccan pie that combines sweet and savory flavors.
The version I had was filled with chicken and topped with powdered sugar. When I cut into it, you could see the filling underneath the flaky exterior.
I thought it was good, and I especially liked eating it with the Moroccan Mint Tea. But I wouldn't call it my favorite dish.
Personally, I'm not a big fan of savory dishes that taste sweet, so the sweetness of the pastilla isn't something I would normally choose. It also had an overwhelming cinnamon flavor which to be honest its my least favorite spice. But I am sure there are others who would enjoy it.
That's more about my personal taste than the quality of the dish. I still thought it was prepared well and I'm glad I tried it.
4. Lamb with Prunes & Apricots — My Top Favorite
- Rating: 10 / 10
The Lamb with Prunes and Apricots was easily the highlight of my meal.
The savory flavor of the lamb blended really well with the sweetness of the prunes and apricots. It was also topped with almonds and sesame seeds, adding another layer to the dish.
It was tender and covered in a rich sauce that I didn't want to waste. The bread served alongside it was perfect for eating with the lamb and soaking up some of that sauce. Personally, I think the Lamb with Prunes & Apricots would also go well with couscous or rice, although that may not be the traditional way to serve it.
This is the dish I would tell someone to order on a first visit, especially if you like lamb.
Comparison: I've had incredible lamb across NYC—like the slow-roasted Lamb Haneeth at Yemen Cafe in Brooklyn—but this Moroccan preparation showed me how masterfully lamb pairs with dried fruits when executed with balance.
5. Msemen with Butter and Honey
- Rating: 8.9 / 10
I finished my meal with Msemen, a Moroccan flatbread. The Msemen was served with butter and honey, giving it a sweeter flavor. Personally, this is something I could see myself eating for breakfast.
After having several heavier dishes, I liked ending with something simpler. Between the flatbread, butter, and honey, it almost felt like a Moroccan breakfast item being used as the final part of my meal.
I wouldn't put it above the lamb, but I'm glad I tried it because it gave me another look at Moroccan food beyond the main dishes.
Was $66.87 Worth It?
- Value Rating: 9.2 / 10
Getting a multi-course spread—mint tea, starters, pastilla, lamb stew, and dessert flatbread—for under $70 total is an impressive value in New York City. The quality and depth of flavor in the lamb alone justify the price tag.
If you enjoy exploring authentic Middle Eastern and North African dining across the boroughs, pair this visit with Palestinian favorites like Al Badawi in Brooklyn for another incredible halal feast.
Final Verdict: Is Moroccan Bites by Siham Worth Trying?
Overall Rating: 9.5 / 10
Yes, without reservation. Moroccan Bites by Siham serves some of the most comforting, flavorful food in Queens. Order the Lamb with Prunes and Apricots, enjoy the warm hospitality, and experience one of Astoria's true culinary gems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Moroccan Bites by Siham halal?
Yes, all meat and food served at Moroccan Bites by Siham is 100% Halal.
Where is Moroccan Bites located now?
The restaurant has moved from its former 28th Avenue location to 28-44 Steinway St, Astoria, NY 11103.
What is the best dish to order?
The Lamb with Prunes and Apricots (10/10) is an absolute must-try.
Is it easy to park near Steinway Street?
No. Metered street parking on Steinway Street is very limited. Taking the M/R train or Q101 bus is recommended.
Is Moroccan Bites expensive?
I spent $66.87 including tax and tip for my meal. Considering the number of dishes I tried and how much I enjoyed the food, I thought the value was good.
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