Ike Love
Before sharing my review, some context: I’m a huge fan of Halal street food. My first taste was in New York City, where authentic chicken over rice won me over. Later, living in Philadelphia, I came to rely on the ubiquitous Halal trucks—some better than others, but almost always satisfying. Historically, these carts emerged to serve observant Muslims seeking meals that adhere to dietary laws, while also providing a quick, affordable bite.
Now, on to Ahki’s. I’ve eaten here before and was eager to have this kind of food nearby—though I’m skeptical whether the chicken is truly Halal.
My usual order is the chicken and lamb combo, loaded with white sauce. That’s the classic way. The sauce is typically tahini-based, though sometimes it’s tzatziki or garlic sauce. I appreciate the option to add veggies like lettuce, onions, and olives, though I was disappointed cucumbers weren’t available. These dishes are usually spiced with turmeric, giving the rice its signature orange color. Unfortunately, Ahki’s chicken was surprisingly bland and visually different from what I’m used to. The lamb was mediocre and tasted processed. The white sauce lacked enough garlic for my taste and leaned too heavily into mayo.
But my biggest issue is the price. On the East Coast, these plates run $8–$12 at most, often including a drink. Even a favorite spot of mine in Columbus, Ohio charges around $12. Here, a small chicken and rice—which only includes one meat—cost nearly $13, with lamb as a $4 add-on. Asking for extra white sauce, which is standard elsewhere, led to an upcharge: $1 for a small cup, smaller than a typical wing spot’s ranch cup. At Ahki’s, they’re noticeably stingy with the sauce.
Overall, I left deeply disappointed—by the taste, the portion, and the pricing. I’ve visited before and it was better then; now, it’s a poor representation of Halal street food. I won’t be returning.
2 belly rubs out of 5.
… moreDivine Williams
I went a little after 5pm on a Friday and everything was gone. Sounds like a great day. We got what was left over for our salads, pita chips and smoking drinks.
I want to be fair so I will try them again another day.
Food was okay even though there were not a lot of options to pick from.
… moreCapt Rick
In Bham for a concert and we stuck our heads in around 3…packed! I mean almost out the door line waiting to order, so we’re decided to walk around a bit and come back. 4:30 we’re back and it’s empty, the owner was sitting outside and informed us he was SOLD OUT of food! Disappointing for us but a great problem for him to have, right!? Wife asked if she could get one of his special drinks…dude says yes ma’am and went inside to make her an incredible fruit/lemonade drink in a REAL coconut! Totally cool, totally delicious and a testament to his dedication to customer service! We will definitely be back!
… moreTakara Shelton-Farias
Upon entering we were immediately welcomed. Short wait as others were in front of us. Ordered a Phuket and Bali lemonade for my son and I… delicious but needed the nitro or ice to make it colder. Food order was a combination bowl with chicken and lamb (not so big a fan of the texture of the lamb) but the flavor was incredible on the whole thing. White Magic sauce was chef’s kiss. One large platter is enough for several meals. I will definitely be back.
… moreNancy Chen
The owner was extremely welcoming and always had a smile on his face! He was super kind and thoughtful!! He gave us extras and was very generous and gave us extra sauces. He took the time to explain his food and showed deep love and passion for in his work. He checked up on us and was very hospitable. The food was super good and within a very reasonable price range! He even gave us rewards cards and talked about his new visions and homemade sauces! Will definitely be coming back here!!
… moreD cottingham
All I have to say it the food is great I had the lamb and chicken bowl. The meat was tender and seasoned well. And you definitely can’t leave out the white sauce and the new hot honey they are a must … I would definitely recommend 10/10
… moreKira Craig
The food at akis is bombs everybody go there fresh toppings meat has the best flavor you definitely get your money’s worth
… moreAaron Williams
Went here for lunch and was very impressed, great flavor and portion size. Will definitely go back again. The guy at the front was super friendly and helpful.
… moreAllie
Ahkis is honestly both one of the BEST Birmingham restaurants and one of the most slept on! They have the absolute best lamb in the city, and his lemonade is to die for. We’re so excited they’ve expanded their hours so we can stop by for dinner! And it’s so much food, we’ll be eating left overs for lunch the next day. Thank you!!!
… moreLETICIA PARKER
This experience was mind blowing. I visited the restaurant on my work lunch break. I waited in line almost 45 minutes to get serve and was turned around simply because I ask for that white sauce on the side. He shouted you get on top or nothing at all, and quickly told me i dont want your money. He shouted to the line of customers the lemonade sold out so dont ask.Talking loud welcoming the customer to the AHKI’S Show. He seemed friendly at first but the more people that came in the rudder he became. Their was also a women employee that was very nice trying to help him but he did not let her help so she leaned against the counter and watched the show. I guess he on top of the world from the TikTok reviews. What goes up will come down. The AHKI doing to much talking and not enough serving show!!!!
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