ÇKA KA QËLLU Albanian Restaurant Opens in Stamford

A few weeks ago we headed to Stamford where it was rumored that a new Albanian restaurant had opened to rave reviews by Eater as well as the New York Times.  Stamford, CT is the third ÇKA KA QËLLU location – the first was in the Bronx and the second in the Murray Hill section of New York City. 

Why Stamford, I wondered? I then learned that Stamford has a large Albanian population. ÇKA KA QËLLU serves a modern selection of the most popular and well-loved dishes of Albania and Kosovo, including unique, mouth-watering desserts, according to their website. They also claim to proudly serve authentic dishes that are sumptuous and healthy at the same time. We were more than eager to check out this new-to-us cuisine.

Tucked away in a quiet street, the restaurant’s exterior automatically draws you in. As soon as you enter the building you feel as though you’ve stepped into another time and era that’s part castle and part museum filled with all sorts of wonderful and unique authentic 18th and 19th century artifacts, all imported from Albania. In fact, much of the architectural detail has been imported as well. The interior is fantastic and fascinating and we strongly encourage guests to take the time to wander around and admire all the details that have been meticulously executed. Dining at Çka ka Qëllu is a fully immersive experience that’s unrivaled by anything else in the state. Perhaps I should liken it to a Broadway performance with its magical sets and lighting. The wait staff dressed in their costumes, wonderful Albanian uniforms, and the music is the din of the diners and activity as it circulates around the vast open space. 

The name Çka ka Qëllu is derived from an old proverb meaning “what we happen to have” according to Eater. It’s based on the notion that if a traveler is near your home you invite them inside and offer them whatever you have. But the menu at Çka ka Qëllu is not at all haphazard. It is well planned and each dish beautifully executed. 

Not at all versed in Albanian cuisine we went with suggestions from our wonderful GM Adi Memetti.

We started off with Leçenik, a traditional Albanian cornbread made with spinach and cottage cheese it’s not at all sweet, but rich, savory and incredibly decadent. Following, we sampled Mantia, which are traditional veal stuffed dumplings with their Sausage Dip, a classic traditional Albanian veal sausage dip that was smooth and yogurt-like with its piquant flavors that so well complimented the mild gaminess of the veal. 

The Shop Salad was refreshing and the ultimate palate-cleanser. Simple but delicious, made from chopped cucumber, tomato, red pepper, and shredded feta cheese in olive oil & vinegar. I loved the shredded feta which was so light and airy. 

I likely would not have ordered the Sarma if left to my own devices, but how glad I was for this recommendation! This delicious and aromatic dish comprised of cabbage leaves stuffed with ground veal, rice, assorted vegetables and spices such as paprika and coriander in a wonderful tomato based broth.

I cannot resist a grilled octopus dish and theirs is simply not to be missed. Perfectly grilled, the meat was tender with an abundance of lemon and garlic that just hit right. Accompanied by a simple green salad, this very unassuming dish was delightful and one of my favorites. 

The mixed grill was also recommended to us and we so enjoyed the grilled chicken, veal sausage as well as their traditional Albanian meatball, which wasn’t a ball at all - but flat like a small hamburger patty. Each piece of meat was as wonderful as the next as so flawlessly seasoned. The chicken was simple with lemon and garlic. The sausage packed a surprising hint of heat and the meatball featured a wonderful array of spices and flavors and was nothing like the meatball we’re familiar with.

And even though we were stuffed, we were encouraged to try a typical Albanian dessert.  There was Baklava, Trilece – the Albanian version of Tres Leche and Sheqerpare. We went with the honey covered Baklava and the Sheqerpare, a traditional Albanian butter biscuits soaked in sugar syrup. 

What an absolutely wonderful find! It was a joy to dine there and I hope you will consider this new cuisine and wonderful Albanian experience. My recommendation is that you go with an appetite and be willing to explore and try something new. I look forward to returning one day soon! 

ÇKA KA QËLLU 15 Clark St, Stamford (203) 354-0735