Unearth The Voyage
New Yorkers are lining up in Astoria for a taste of Egypt’s coastal brilliance at Ibn Hamido Seafood. With a 4.5 star reputation and thousands of reviews, the buzz is not hype, it is hard earned. Diners handpick pristine seafood, choose cooking styles, and sit back as platters arrive steaming and fragrant. If you love bold flavors, generous portions, and a lively scene, this Egyptian seafood icon might become your new NYC obsession.
1. The Egyptian Fish Market Experience
At Ibn Hamido Seafood on Ditmars Boulevard, the experience begins at the back counter, where glistening prawns, snappers, scallops, and lobster tails rest on ice like jewels. Guests select the seafood by type and weight, then choose how it will be cooked, from delicate grilling to fragrant baking. This market-first ritual creates a personalized feast and brings Egyptian fish house traditions to NYC in a vivid, hands-on way. Prices are market based, with most diners landing around the $20–30 range per person for sides and plates. The team is chatty and helpful, making suggestions and weighing items openly before sending them to the kitchen. You then settle into the spacious dining room, often with warm pita on the house, anticipating the moment your custom order arrives, piping hot.
2. Signature Flavors, Cairo to Astoria
Ibn Hamido’s charm lies in bold, elemental flavors that channel Egypt’s coastal kitchens. Think striped bass butterflied and kissed by the grill until tender, or jumbo shrimp brushed with garlic and spices that bloom under heat. Scallops arrive plump and perfectly cooked, while octopus leans smoky and supple. Bright sides balance the richness: lemony salads, creamy dips, and rice that soaks up every savory jus. Fresh mint lemonade provides a cool counterpoint, and warm pita becomes a vehicle for every morsel. The kitchen focuses on freshness and simplicity rather than fussy sauces, letting the catch and spice blend shine. This approach explains the loyal following and those ecstatic tableside reactions seen across social feeds, night after night.
3. What to Order: Crowd Favorites
Regulars rave about lobster tails that are thick and juicy, jumbo shrimp loaded with garlicky flavor, and scallops cooked to a satin-centered tenderness. Calamari is another standout, especially grilled, bringing a clean, briny sweetness. For a shareable spread, pair seafood with mezza and a big basket of warm Egyptian bread. The Greek salad adds freshness, and rice makes the meal feel complete. If choosing fish, ask about butterflying for easy eating and even cooking. Some guests note snapper bones, so filleting can help. A pitcher of mint lemonade cools everything down. Many consider the shrimp and striped bass essential orders, while lobster tails are a celebratory splurge that wins hearts and camera lenses.
4. Ambiance, Service, and Seating
The restaurant is spacious across two floors with additional outdoor seating along Ditmars Boulevard. On weekdays, seating is generally easy, while weekends can draw serious lines. The staff is known for being attentive and friendly, refilling water, clearing plates, and checking in often. The environment is lively yet comfortable, with natural light upstairs and a cozy buzz throughout. It is clean, organized, and welcoming to families, groups, and date nights alike. Expect a mix of celebratory tables and seafood lovers focused on the feast. The overall vibe balances neighborhood casual with special-occasion energy, a sweet spot that keeps locals returning.
5. Pricing, Portions, and Value
Seafood is priced by the pound, so your total hinges on choices and appetite, but many diners find the value strong for the quality and quantity. Expect sides in the $20–30 overall dining range per person to feel reasonable when sharing. Portion sizes are generous, with rice bowls that stretch and mezza that feeds a group. Lobster and certain fish can climb depending on weight, so ask for an estimate beforehand. Guests appreciate transparent weighing and the ability to calibrate their order. The result is a tailored feast that feels indulgent without sticker shock. For the best value, go with friends to share several preparations and sides, transforming the table into a festive spread.
6. How to Navigate the Line Like a Pro
Peak times, especially weekend evenings, often mean waiting to order at the seafood counter and then to be seated. To beat the rush, arrive near opening at 12 PM or visit weekday evenings. If you are set on Saturday dinner, embrace the wait and treat it like part of the experience. Decide your seafood and cooking style while in line to move quickly at the counter. Ask about butterflying or filleting if bones are a concern. Once you place your seafood order, you will receive a menu for sides at the table. Bring good company and an appetite, and the wait melts away when the platters arrive.
7. Practical Details You Need to Know
Ibn Hamido Seafood sits at 31-29 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105, near the heart of the neighborhood’s dining strip. Hours run 12 PM to evening nightly, typically until 9:30 PM on weekdays and 10 PM Friday through Sunday. Call +1 718-535-4700 or check hamidoseafood.com for updates. The rating hovers around 4.5 stars with over two thousand reviews. Average spend varies with selection, but thoughtful ordering keeps costs manageable. The space is large, with outdoor seating when weather permits. Location coordinates are roughly 40.7755443, -73.9096256. It is a straightforward trip via the N or W trains to Astoria, followed by a pleasant stroll.
8. Honest Takes from Real Diners
Reviews consistently praise freshness, warm service, and the fun choose-your-catch ritual. Highlights include jumbo shrimp, striped bass, scallops, and lobster tails, with many applauding the mint lemonade and fresh pita. Some guests note long waits and occasional inconsistencies, like overcooked lobster or bland seasoning on certain nights. The consensus still trends positive, emphasizing value for the portion sizes and a memorable, casual celebration vibe. Savvy ordering helps: request filleting or butterflying, ask about recommended cooking methods, and balance the meal with standout sides. Those who go earlier in the day or on weekdays often report smoother experiences with faster turnaround.
