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A Feast for the Senses: Navigating the Diverse Menu of 786 Kabob House

Introduction: Where Flavor Meets Culture

In the heart of Newark, California, nestled among a bustling urban backdrop, lies a hidden gem for lovers of authentic Afghan cuisine — 786 Kabob House. With its vibrant spices, aromatic dishes, and soul-warming hospitality, this culinary haven offers more than just food; it offers a journey. Every item on the menu is a testament to the rich heritage and gastronomic artistry of Afghanistan.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning customer craving your favorite kabob, this guide will take you on a tour through the diverse menu of 786 Kabob House, highlighting what makes each dish unforgettable.

The Kabobs: The Heartbeat of the Menu

Kabobs are at the core of Afghan cuisine, and at 786 Kabob House, they are nothing short of spectacular. Grilled over open flames, marinated in secret spice blends, and served with fragrant basmati rice or freshly baked naan — these kabobs are culinary poetry in motion.

1. Chicken Tikka Kabob

Marinated in a vibrant mix of yogurt, garlic, paprika, and lemon juice, the Chicken Tikka is tender, juicy, and perfectly charred. It's a dish that balances smoky flavor with subtle tanginess. A favorite among health-conscious diners, it's lean yet satisfying.
Perfect For: Those new to Afghan food or fans of classic South Asian flavors.

2. Beef Seekh Kabob

Seasoned with coriander, cumin, garlic, and green chili, the Seekh Kabob is a spiced ground beef delicacy. Its long, skewer-grilled form and robust flavors make it a hearty meal option.
Perfect For: Spice lovers and meat enthusiasts.

3. Chaplee Kabob

A regional Pashtun favorite, this flat, round ground meat patty is infused with chili, pomegranate seeds, coriander, and onions. Fried and slightly crispy on the outside while moist inside, it’s rich, earthy, and deeply satisfying.
Perfect For: Those looking for bold, rustic flavors.

4. Lamb Kabob

Lamb is a central protein in Afghan cuisine. At 786 Kabob House, the lamb kabobs are slow-marinated and grilled to perfection, yielding tender, savory pieces bursting with umami.
Perfect For: Fans of premium meats and Middle Eastern-style grills.

Pallow & Rice Dishes: A Royal Treat

Afghans are renowned for their rice dishes, and the Pallow (Pilaf) offerings at 786 Kabob House reflect royalty on a plate. These dishes are often the centerpiece of Afghan feasts, prepared with care, patience, and pride.

1. Quabili Pallow

The national dish of Afghanistan, Quabili Pallow features long-grain basmati rice cooked with warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom, topped with tender lamb shank, raisins, and julienned carrots sautéed in sugar. It's a beautiful balance of sweet and savory.
Cultural Note: Traditionally served at weddings and holidays, this dish is a symbol of Afghan generosity and celebration.
Perfect For: Everyone. This dish is a must-try.

2. Chicken or Beef Pallow

Lighter than its lamb counterpart, these dishes still pack an aromatic punch. The chicken/beef is simmered with Afghan spices and paired with saffron-tinted rice for a subtly complex flavor.
Perfect For: Those who prefer mild, fragrant meals.

3. Kabob & Pallow Combo Plates

These are crowd-pleasers. They include a selection of kabobs with richly spiced pallow, making them a great way to sample multiple flavors in one meal.
Perfect For: First-time visitors or group diners who want variety.

Appetizers: Small Bites, Big Flavors

Before you dive into the main course, warm up your palate with these irresistible starters.

1. Bolani

This stuffed flatbread is filled with potatoes, green onions, and herbs, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Think of it as an Afghan samosa — but bigger and flakier.
Perfect For: Vegetarians and those who enjoy savory snacks.

2. Sambosa

These triangular pastries are filled with spiced ground beef and fried until crispy. They’re usually served with chutney, which adds a zesty kick.
Perfect For: A quick bite or appetizer to share.

3. Mantoo (Afghan Dumplings)

These steamed dumplings are filled with seasoned ground beef and onions, then topped with lentils and a garlic yogurt sauce. Complex, rich, and satisfying.
Perfect For: Adventurous eaters who enjoy layered flavors.

Afghan Bread: The Silent Star

Afghan naan is not just a side — it’s an essential part of every meal. Baked fresh in-house, this soft, chewy bread is perfect for scooping up kabobs, pallow, or curries. Warm and slightly smoky from the tandoor oven, it completes the Afghan dining experience.

Salads and Sides: Freshness and Balance

Afghan cuisine is all about balance. While meats and rice dominate the menu, freshness is introduced through simple yet flavorful sides.

1. Afghan Salad

A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and herbs with a light lemon dressing. It’s crisp and refreshing — perfect for cutting through rich kabobs.

2. Yogurt Sauce (Chaka)

Creamy and cooling, chaka is like Greek tzatziki, and is ideal for pairing with spicy kabobs.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

786 Kabob House ensures that everyone feels welcome. Their vegetarian offerings aren’t afterthoughts — they’re full meals designed with care.

1. Vegetarian Pallow

Aromatic rice served with sautéed vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and peas in a spiced tomato base.

2. Sabzi (Spinach Curry)

A comforting spinach dish cooked with garlic, onions, and spices, perfect with naan.

Desserts: A Sweet Ending

No Afghan meal is complete without dessert. At 786 Kabob House, sweet endings are traditional and delightful.

1. Firni (Afghan Milk Pudding)

Made from milk, cornstarch, cardamom, and rosewater, this delicate custard is often topped with pistachios and almonds.
Perfect For: Fans of creamy, floral desserts.

2. Baklava

Layers of filo pastry with honey and nuts. It’s a Middle Eastern classic and always a hit.

3. Sheer Yakh (Afghan Ice Cream)

A floral, cardamom-spiced ice cream often mixed with rose water and nuts.

Beverages: Sips of Tradition

Complement your meal with traditional drinks that refresh and relax.

1. Doogh (Salted Yogurt Drink)

Tart and refreshing, this drink aids digestion and balances spicy food.

2. Green Tea with Cardamom

A soothing hot beverage served in traditional Afghan style — aromatic, light, and great for post-meal sipping.

What First-Time Visitors Should Order

Not sure where to start? Here’s a sample meal:
Appetizer: Bolani with Chaka
Main Course: Quabili Pallow with Chicken Tikka Kabob
Side: Afghan Salad
Dessert: Firni
Drink: Doogh or Afghan Green Tea

This combination offers a full spectrum of Afghan flavors — from savory and spicy to sweet and soothing.

Cultural Experience Beyond the Food

Eating at 786 Kabob House isn’t just a meal — it’s a cultural experience. From the décor to the hospitality, the entire restaurant is designed to make guests feel welcomed and immersed in Afghan tradition.

Afghan music, modest interiors with cultural motifs, and friendly service all contribute to a warm, community-driven vibe. Whether you're dining solo, with family, or hosting a business lunch, the space caters to comfort and authenticity.

Why 786 Kabob House Stands Out

• Authenticity: Traditional recipes, halal ingredients, and preparation methods.
• Quality: Fresh ingredients, grilled-to-order kabobs, and handmade sides.
• Inclusivity: Great vegetarian options, generous portions, and cultural representation.
• Affordability: Reasonable prices for generous, high-quality meals.

Final Thoughts

Afghan food is rich, nuanced, and soulful — and 786 Kabob House is a shining example of this culinary heritage brought to life in California. Their diverse menu offers something for everyone, whether you're craving grilled meats, aromatic rice dishes, or sweet desserts.

A single visit won’t be enough. Every dish invites you back to explore more. The love, time, and tradition behind each recipe make this restaurant not just a place to eat, but a place to experience.

So, gather your friends, bring your appetite, and prepare for a feast for the senses — one that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Visit Today:

786 Kabob House
39941 Balentine Dr, Newark, CA 94560
Phone: +1 (510) 771-9579
www.786kabobhousenewark.com