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Grand Street Skewer CartB+Worth Trying

Name: Grand Street Skewer Cart
Address: 246 Grand St, New York, NY 10002, New York, United States
Rating: 4.9

246 Grand St, New York, NY 10002 · Chinese restaurant, Barbecue restaurant, Yakitori restaurant · 4.9/5 Google (280 reviews)

Takeout

Charcoal-grilled Chinese skewers with bold cumin-chili seasoning, fast service, and true budget pricing; best for quick, late-night snacking more than full sit-down meals.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Grand Street Skewer Cart delivers excellent food quality with authentic cumin-chili lamb and respectful charcoal char that justifies its loyal following and destination appeal. Fast, friendly service and outstanding value ($2–$3.50 per skewer) make it a standout street-food experience, but occasional charring variance and the no-frills sidewalk format—cash-only, weather-dependent, no seating—prevent it from reaching higher grades. A must-try for street-food enthusiasts seeking genuine flavor at bargain prices.

Restaurant Summary

Smoke from the charcoal grill curls over Grand Street as a small cart turns out skewers with big street-food flavor. Lines move quickly, and the couple behind the grill keeps it friendly and efficient. One diner summed it up: best cheap snack with real char that lures you from a block away. It is a no-frills, cash-only scene built for snacking, not lingering. The cooking is traditional Chinese chuan’r: cumin-chili spice, respectful char, and simple cuts done right. The culinary approach leans classic and comforting rather than experimental, with lamb, beef, shrimp, and bacon-wrapped enoki or scallops getting raves. Expect fast, made-to-order skewers where a few sticks make a great bite, and a handful more become dinner. For families, this cart can work as a quick treat: hot dog and sausage are kid-friendly, and corn or rice cake helps the less adventurous. No seating and a lively sidewalk might be hectic for very young kids, but pricing is gentle and choices are simple and familiar.

At a Glance

Outstanding value at $2-$3.50 per skewer
Signature cumin-chili lamb with authentic charcoal char
Open late with fast lines and friendly operators
Cash only; hours can be inaccurate, weather dependent
Occasional over-char or dry items reported during rush

What Sets It Apart

charcoal_chuanr_at_budget_prices
open_late_sidewalk_experience
bacon_wrapped_scallops_and_enoki

What People Love

Smoky cumin-chili flavor that tastes like China
Bacon-wrapped enoki and scallops that punch above price
Speed and efficiency even when lines form
True cheap-eats find that regulars revisit

Points of Concern

Cash only; bring bills or you will need an ATM
A few reports of burnt edges or dry beef during busy times
One-off complaints about attitude or shorted item in rushes
Street corner is gritty after dark for some diners

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter Only Average Cost$12-$20 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Build a balanced set: 1 lamb, 1 bacon-wrapped enoki, 1 chicken or shrimp, plus corn or rice cake; expect $10-$14 for 4-5 sticks.

Perfect For

Late-night snack after a show
Casual food crawl in Chinatown
Quick, budget-friendly bite on the go
Introducing friends to Chinese street skewers

Location Insights

Area: Bustling Chinatown corridor with heavy foot traffic, late-night snacking culture, and budget-friendly street eats.

Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; some reviewers note gritty corners and occasional discomfort after dark.

Nearby: Near Grand St subway; mix of eateries, groceries, and small shops; lines form at night.

Lower East SideThe Lower East Side offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of traditional delis, innovative restaurants, and hip bars. It is a lively neighborhood with a strong cultural identity, attracting a diverse crowd that enjoys both casual and upscale dining experiences.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday17:30–01:00 Tuesday17:30–01:00 Wednesday17:30–01:00 Thursday17:30–01:00 Friday17:30–01:00 Saturday17:30–01:00 Sunday17:30–01:00

Available: Takeout

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