Pakistani Street Food · Williamsburg
By Monty Khas, Anonymous Critic. Pays every bill.
Some of the best Pakistani food in New York comes in a bun. BK Jani, on Grand Street in Williamsburg, is the passion project of Sibte Hassan, a Lahore native who grills the way Lahoris eat: big flavors, lots of char and no fuss. The result is a halal burger-and-grill joint that has become a Brooklyn favorite and grown into a small local chain.
The vibe
BK Jani is a counter-service spot with a handful of seats inside and a backyard lined with picnic tables. It's BYOB, so bring a bottle and settle in. It's relaxed, friendly and a great place to bring friends who have never tried Pakistani food.
What to eat
Start with the Jani. It's the house burger, a thick beef patty with spicy mint chutney and a slice of grilled tomato, built on the flavors of Lahore's street-food stalls. It's juicy, punchy and nothing like an American burger joint.
Next, the lamb chops, which are marinated, spiced with real confidence and grilled until charred at the edges. They're the dish that wins over desi skeptics. The beef flatbreads are flaky, savory and perfect for sharing, and the nihari sandwich turns the classic slow-cooked beef stew into handheld comfort food.
If someone in your group prefers chicken, the chicken tikka and fried chicken sandwich both deliver. The lentil soup with lightly fried paratha is a cozy side, especially in winter.
Where to go
The original is at 679 Grand Street in Williamsburg. BK Jani also has a location in Downtown Brooklyn and a stall at The Hugh food hall in Midtown, which makes a Jani burger an easy lunch near the office.
Why it matters
Pakistani food in New York has long been centered on the community counters of Jackson Heights and Coney Island Avenue. BK Jani brings those flavors to a new crowd without watering them down, and it does it with personality. It's the most fun Pakistani meal in the city.
The Quick Fix
What to order: The Jani burger; grilled lamb chops; beef flatbread; nihari sandwich; chicken tikka; fried chicken sandwich; lentil soup with paratha
Pricing: Wallet-friendly. One of NYC's best-value desi meals.
Best for: Casual dinners, late lunches, BYOB nights, groups and non-desi friends trying Pakistani food
How it compares: The best Pakistani burger in NYC; more creative than Jackson Heights' classic counters; far more casual than anything else on this list
See where BK Jani ranks: The Best Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi Restaurants in New York City: Our Top 10 for 2026
The food was always this good. We're just paying attention.