It's still heat-forward chicken, whether you go with the Tikkaville or the Nashville. For me, the chicken's umami only comes after the heat lands all over the palate. That said, the breading remains incredibly crispy and textured, and stands up to the sauces generously coating the tender. A meal of a sandwich, fries, and a soda is now only $16, which is pretty good for a decent lunch these days. I was super thrown when no one greeted me as I walked in. It was 2p on a Saturday. There wasn't any other party there. An employee only appeared when a second family walked in (I think the child was making a lot of noise). Order at the kiosk without having to interact with anyone. read more

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Great tasting sandwiches. Flavors are unique and can fill you up. A little bit pricey lack of combos, sales and/or deals. staff is pleasant. Dining in location is clean. Parking is super available. I just wish this place was more affordable to eat at on a regular basis. read more

Another review from a poor man. This was a tasty find. The food was good. The portion size was good. The price was slight more than I would have liked but that is the same about everything these days. The guy behind the counter was nice and helpful. And one of the bathrooms has an interesting surprise to it that made me laugh. If there is any bad part to this review is that my burps smelled horrible for the rest of the day!!!!!! So with that I would say this is worth checking out !!!!! read more

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Ordered Namkeen on DoorDash. The fried chicken was cooked perfectly and the piece was huge. For the sandwich, medium heat was right where I wanted it. The spice blend was great and the mint chutney really pulled it all together. Also tried the smashburger as a switch-up from my usual chicken + fries order. Simple and really good, but the zesty sauce definitely stole the show. Would order again. read more

Namkeen - Smash burger - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

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Ordered this to-go and it was ready quickly and deliciously! Was hot the whole time until I got home. The shop was very cute and minimally decorated and they were very friendly. I ordered the mild chicken and I typically like American level spicy but this definitely had a kick for me. read more

Namkeen - Clucking Waffle Sandwich Masala Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

We finally made it to Namkeen in Lake Hiawatha and wow! Their hot chicken sandwiches bring Nashville heat with bold Pakistani spices--seriously packed with flavor. We also loved the spicy Smashburger, Masala Fries (and all the dipping sauces), Mac & Cheese topped with extra chicken, and chicken & waffles that hit any time of day. The restaurant decor has a fun vibe and was very clean. The staff were friendly and took great care of us too. Check out our full visit here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTRbiFHjdBF/?igsh=MXQwZnVhdW9zd2tmdw== read more

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Stopped in at Namkeen recently with Wifey and my son after seeing a great review by a local friend. First thing I noticed after trying to figure out how to order (you order at a kiosk so it's a little slow if there's a line), was how clean the place was and how there wasn't actually much in terms of decor. The staff people were friendly and helpful and our food came out fairly fast for a place that cooks the chicken fresh. My son ordered Chicken and waffles and Wifey and I both ordered Nashville sandwiches (mine a little spicier). We also ordered Fries, Masala Fries, and Mac n cheese. Food came out hot and fresh and the portions were pretty large. None of us finished our meals so we got an extra meal out of it. Don't order two kinds of fries...way too much for three people. The Nashville sandwiches were excellent - mild flavoring (again, mine was spicier) with pickles and cole slaw. My sone really liked his chicken and waffles too. I really hope this place continues to do well as the food is great. With so many restaurants in the area, there is a lot to choose from, but Namkeen is definitely going to see me back for seconds. read more

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I ordered takeout from here on New Year's Eve and they were great. The fries were so delicious with their seasoning. And their wings were very crispy and juicy. As someone who loves sweet and spicy wings, this was perfect. When you initially bite into the wings, you get the sweetness first followed by the after heat. They were so good via takeout that I really look forward to going back and dining in their store to see how their wings and fries come out tasting when they're fresh. read more

Namkeen - Masala Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

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Warning: your tastebuds are about to catch Fire!! but only if you indulge yourself on Namkeen's amazingly delicious cuisine. And trust me you and your tastebuds will be extremely glad you did. Over the years I've become a huge fan of this excellent chain which is rapidly expanding across New Jersey. And rightfully so, there's a reason why they've gained so much popularity and Luv from most of us folks who've been lucky enough to try 'em. And by welcoming their newest location here in Lake Hiawatha I take this opportunity to munch on that super flavorful spicy heat from one of their signature Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwiches. Talking About Super !! YUMMMMMMERS !! And with all the other incredible deliciousness to choose from off this one-of-a-kind Pakistani infused menu it's no wonder why most people who try Namkeen have also became huge fans as well. Their outstanding quality can be tasted in every crunchy juicy mouthwatering bite as they only use all natural hormone and antibiotic free Halal Chicken. Note; Brand new business kinks are to be expected, no doubt your patience will be payed back tenfold in Flavor Royalties. Easily 5 Stars. Come And Get Your Munch On!! read more

Namkeen - Perfectly Seasoned Masala Fries!! - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

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Wow, this was so much better than I thought it would be the chicken was juicy, the waffle was soft and had a great flavor with those jalepenos in it, everything on the sandwich complemented each other, and I didn't feel gross after eating it like I tend to with other fried chicken sandwiches. This is a great price for the amount of food you get and I'd recommend splitting this with a person, I was only able to eat 1 of these. The service was quick and the person at the counter was friendly. The place itself offered a lot of seating, was vibrant, and clean. read more

Namkeen - Clucking Waffle Sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

I once tried their burgers at the Chatham location and when they announced long back that they were coming to our neighborhood, I was excited, but it took them over a year to open this, nevertheless, it's here... we tried their food yesterday. It's nice, big, clean and has good decor with a Foosball table. We ordered Tikkaville Sandwich, Nashville Burger, and Dhamaka Fries both sandwich and burger taste the same, maybe one could be with some different sauce otherwise it tasted the same. it was good though, but where is the crispiness, and why chicken is so chewy? Dhamak fries- fries underneath, it's all soggy. chunk of chicken pieces and desi sauces added the flavor, but hey I want my fries crisp if I am eating right there. also, a couple of tables were occupied by their staff's friends and it was not so pleasant. it was very noisy overall, it is a nice addition to the neighborhood, just improve the service and be courteous, it seems like a bunch of school goers running this. read more

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I love my Chatham Namkeen, so opening one closer to home is a win-win. This place feels different and has a few more menu options, but I would probably have to go in person to get this Seriously Spicy™. Still, the old standbys are here and every bit as wonderful as over in Chatham. So now when I get that craving for delicious fried spicy chicken, I've got twice the choices! Bon appetit, Hiawatha. read more

Namkeen - One Tikkaville sandwich, spicy - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

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We ordered the Nashville sandwich, the Dhamaka fries and chai tea. I wife It is probably the best chicken sandwich I have ever had, so flavorful and so juicy. The ingredients blended together so well for a unique taste. The Dhamakn fries is stopped with chicken, tikka sauce, mint chutney and the stuff they put in the sandwich. It's also very good and tasty. The chai tea was made fresh as we order. They have a private parking lot and plenty of tables. One last note, we order our sandwich mild which we thought was perfect. My wife thinks it is pretty spicy but I think I can do spicier. But it is on the spicy side so be careful what you choose. The service is also really great. The server was helpful and polite. read more

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Best fried chicken sandwich I've ever had. Flavor galore. If I had to choose one sandwich as the best in jersey, it would be this one

We came here on a Friday afternoon and it wasn't very busy which was great, though they have lots of seating and plenty of parking so I'm sure that no matter what time you come in you'll find space. It is set up like a fast food restaurant so you go up to the counter and order there and they also have a screen that you can use to order instead. I decided to get a Nashville chicken sandwich in medium heat and fries in the side (FYI, the fries are not part of the sandwich's price, they don't have a combo option.). The chicken was humongous compared to the bun it came in! It was very crunchy and flavorful yet not greasy which is very hard to find. The fries were crunchy, but very similar to fries you would get from a frozen bag at a grocery store, just the really high-quality ones. It took him around 10 to 15 minutes to give us her food and the person from the counter was kind enough to bring it to our table, which was really nice . Overall, I really like this place and I think I would definitely go back to try other dishes . read more

The food is very good, but they really really need to work out the operational side. Our late-lunch order was to be ready in 20 minutes. We waited for another 40 minutes at the restaurant yesterday. Additionally, the prices are substantially higher than other fried chicken places...for sandwiches and sides. So even if the food was very good, to overlook terrible service (order was wrong) and high prices.....it's a "try once & move along" kind of place. Recently tried The Cheeky Chicken. THAT was so much better all around. The owner even talked about how he makes all of the homemade sauces for the chicken and they maintain their quality standards. read more

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We arrived shortly after opening and waited almost 45 minutes for our food. We ordered chicken tenders, fries, and mac & cheese. The chicken tender was a huge serving. They do their seasoning a bit different than other hot chicken spots so I didn't love it. We were disappointed that the chicken came out way later than the sides. We were practically done with our fries and drinks by the time the chicken came out. The mac & cheese was barely warm. The noodles on the bottom of the cup were plain. The cheese sauce didn't get hot enough for it to seep to the bottom. We really enjoyed their fries! I know they are a new restaurant so I'll give them the BOTD and try again another time. read more

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Everyone knows the food here is bomb so the fact that they also upgraded their aesthetic with Pakistani art just gives them a 10/10 Great service and the portions are literally huge. I kid you not when I say the clucking sandwich was bigger than my head! Ordered wings too, thinking I'd be able to have both but boy was I wrong- all good tho since I got to eat it the next day. Idk what is in their batter, but chicken is super crispy bonus tip: take your phone to the bathroom, it's literally a party in there! read more

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My friend and I have come to eat here often. The food is extremely good and I definitely recommend it to anyone (:

Namkeen is leading the hot chicken game, and it shows! The Clucking Waffle Sandwich is next-level--crispy, perfectly spiced chicken in a soft waffle with just the right touch of sweetness. The Buffalo Bites are a must-try too--crispy, juicy, and coated in bold, tangy heat. Great portions, fast service, and unbeatable flavor. If you love hot chicken, this is your spot read more

If you're looking for a hot chicken sandwich with a twist, you have to try this place! The regular hot chicken sandwich is also really good and it's pretty big. The spice and the crunch make the sandwich. The waffles and fries are good too. It's a big pricey compared to other hot chicken places but the quality is pretty good. There's also a small parking lot next to the building which makes it convenient! read more

You need to go stop what you're doing and go to Namkeen RIGHT NOWWWWW. I tried their mint mojito, tikka melt, tikka bites and the Gulabi waffle. All was 10/10! Highly recommend! This has to be my fav restaurant in NJ. SOOOO GOOOOOD!!!! Also, disco ball in the bathroom is such a good touch!!! Loved it read more

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Food was good . What you would get at a regular friend chicken spot. There was one guy working behind the register who was providing great service and carrying the place. Place was nicely decorated. The prices however were extreme. Like I understand there's inflation but even with that the prices are ridiculous . I can go up the block to birdies for half the price. Then they charge a dollar for small plastic container if you want syrup. I don't see myself going back read more

Namkeen - Nashville sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

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Congratulations on opening! Great free Nashville Chicken sandwich. It was a great balance of chicken, crunch and munch. Excellent service on a very busy night. read more

Namkeen - Nashville Hot Chicken - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

Their chicken is always crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.What I love most is that the spice level is a little intense but never overpowers the flavor. The buns are soft and fresh. Honestly, if you're craving a hot chicken sandwich, this is the spot to go!!! Clean and spacious inside read more

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I'm not an expert food blogger nor an experienced taster but in my opinion the Nashville burger was delicious , crispy ,juicy and messy once I started bitting to it, even thou I asked for non spicy , it was a little bit spicy but it was good the level of heat for me, also I had the Kulfi shake that made the spice better to handle and with the crunchiness of the pistachio it was really good for me. read more

food came put quick, great flavor and spice, great portions! The staff was great and I really had a greaat time

Tried Namkeen for the first time last weekend. Ordered the tikkaville burger and the Nashville sandwich for carry out. The tast was definitely unexpected and unique. Looking forward to returning again and trying their fries and shakes! Believe the team is still under training so expect a bit of a wait but it is worth it! read more

Wow, this place just opened in our neighborhood and we went the day after they opened. So impressed with their food, service and organization. so customer friendly. We had the Nashville chicken sandwich and chicken tenders. Super crispy crunch on the outside and moist flavorful chicken inside. You can control the level of spice/heat to your taste. Also tried the Masala fries, great flavor and the Dhamaka fries which are loaded with fried chicken, Tikka sauce, Masala seasoning and other goodies, amazing flavor. So many other good things on their menu to try but beating that chicken sandwich is going to be hard. read more

Do not go here. Ordered Food to go and it sits out for 10 mins before they boxed and gave it to me.

This location has amazing great Ambiance, it's such a vibe. The service is quick, everyone is really nice and the food is great. I've never got anything that I haven't liked off of the menu. The mint mojito, tikka melt and smash burger are all great. read more

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While I understand they just opened, I hope this feedback helps management fix their operational issues quickly. New restaurants need meticulous planning and adequate staffing to capitalize on the community's initial excitement and build a loyal following. I visited tonight (Friday evening - prime dining time) and ended up canceling my order for a single sandwich after a frustrating 30-minute wait with no end in sight. The scene was chaotic: over 30 boxed orders piled on the counter, more than 10 customers actively waiting, 5 brown bags with partial orders sitting out, and new customers constantly arriving. There was only one ordering panel forcing everyone to line up, no paper menus to review options, and wall menus that were hard to read. Three overwhelmed teenagers fumbled behind the counter, repeatedly promising orders were "coming in 10 minutes." One customer with a partially filled order was visibly frustrated as staff started removing sandwiches already in his bag - they had clearly lost track of what was in his order. A delivery driver, obviously on a tight schedule, had to hand his customer's phone directly to staff to sort out the confusion. When I asked for a refund, the cashier punched some keys and told me it was processed but didn't provide any receipt or confirmation. After I asked twice and made direct eye contact for reassurance, he confirmed the refund had gone through. I left without my sandwich, putting my faith in the system. Thankfully, when I checked my credit card online later, the refund had indeed been processed. read more

absolutely loved this place! the smashburger was definitely my favorite along with the tikka melt and the honey maple boneless wings. I will definitely be stopping back in again soon for a smashburger and wings. The staff is super friendly and accommodating as well. read more

Namkeen - Chicken Shop Near Me - Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey

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Amazing food options love the staff & ambiance, plenty of street parking & beautiful neighborhood

Delicious food, great ambiance, and excellent service! Highly recommend this spot! The food always hits the spot

Wasn't expecting to be blown away, but Namkeen seriously delivered. The wings were unreal--super crispy, packed with flavor, and had that perfect kick. You have to try them. The ambiance was also a vibe--laid-back but still lively enough to keep things fun. Great spot to grab food and just chill. Will 100% be back! read more

Waited 45 minutes for our food. When we got the food it was wrong, and they took another 30 minutes to fix the order. Fine food but we will not be back read more