Continental Lunchonette & Deli

- 104-03 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375

Introduction / Overview

In the heart of Forest Hills, Queens, you’ll find a true New York classic that effortlessly blends the service of a traditional diner with the essential convenience of a neighborhood deli. We're talking about Continental Luncheonette & Deli, a beloved establishment situated on Metropolitan Avenue. For New Yorkers, a spot like Continental is more than just a place to grab a bite; it's a staple of the daily routine, whether you're starting your morning rush, looking for a quick, hearty lunch, or ending your day with a satisfying meal. It’s the kind of local business that truly embodies the spirit of Queens—fast-paced, friendly, and serving up the classics with real flavor.

The type of establishment Continental Luncheonette & Deli represents is a cornerstone of the NYC food landscape, often referred to by locals as a deli or a 'bodega.' While the term 'bodega' originates from Spanish, historically meaning a wine cellar or grocery store, it has evolved in New York City to describe a small, independent, owner-operated convenience store that typically sells essential grocery items, snacks, and most importantly, offers a full-service deli counter for made-to-order food like sandwiches and hot heroes. Continental Luncheonette & Deli perfectly fits this model, offering the convenience of a quick stop with the delicious, fresh-made food quality of a top-tier deli and diner.

Its extensive menu covers all the bases, from breakfast staples served all day to classic hot and cold sandwiches and a full diner-style array of meals. New Yorkers on the go appreciate the quick service and the quality of the food, which maintains a local, authentic touch. As one satisfied customer put it, it's a "Solid Queens NY style Bodega, with solid prices," and they even "season their tomatoes," an "oft overlooked game changer when it comes to sandwiches." Another customer highlighted the "exceptional service and friendly staff," which are just as important as the food in a true neighborhood deli. Continental is a go-to spot for dependable, delicious meals anytime you need them.

Location and Accessibility

Continental Luncheonette & Deli is conveniently located at 104-03 Metropolitan Ave in Forest Hills, NY 11375. This is a highly accessible location within the Queens neighborhood, making it an easy stop for both local residents and those passing through the area.

For New Yorkers relying on public transportation, the deli is situated in an area with good access. The major subway hub, the Forest Hills–71st Avenue station, is a significant connection point, serving the E, F, M, and R trains on the IND Queens Boulevard Line. While the deli is not directly at the subway entrance, it is a short distance away, making for an easy connection. The area is also well-served by MTA Bus lines, which frequently run along the major avenues in Forest Hills, ensuring a quick visit is always an option. For those who walk or drive, the Metropolitan Avenue address is highly recognizable and central to the neighborhood.

Operating hours are designed to cater to the busy schedules of the community. According to publicly available information, the general hours are generous, ensuring you can grab a meal from morning until evening:

• Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Saturday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

However, specific delivery times may vary slightly by platform, with some services indicating a slightly adjusted schedule, so it's always best to check for the latest hours, particularly if planning a late evening trip. Given the focus on quick meals, it’s a perfect option for a "Quick visit" as classified in the planning information.

Services Offered

Continental Luncheonette & Deli is a full-service New York establishment designed for convenience and quality. The services cater to every need, from a sit-down meal to food on the go.

• Dine-in Service: The establishment operates with the feel of a luncheonette or small diner, providing a comfortable spot for patrons to sit down and enjoy their meal right on the premises.
• Takeout Service: Customers can place an order and pick up their food in-store, perfect for a quick stop during a busy workday or on the way home.
• Delivery Service: For maximum convenience, the deli offers delivery, ensuring that hot breakfast, lunch, or dinner can be brought right to your home or office in the Forest Hills and surrounding Queens area.
• In-store Pickup: Similar to takeout, this streamlined service allows for pre-ordering to minimize wait time during peak hours.
• Variety of Payment Options: Accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions fast and hassle-free for all customers.
• Extensive Menu: Offering a wide array of options across multiple categories—from breakfast to hot dinners—ensuring there is something for every craving and time of day.

Features / Highlights

The menu at Continental Luncheonette & Deli is a tour de force of New York deli and diner favorites. The highlights showcase why this spot is a neighborhood institution, offering quality, variety, and the meals New Yorkers crave most.

• The New York Breakfast Staple: Famous for its breakfast items, one customer specifically recommends the "perfect bacon egg and cheese" on a roll, a quintessential NYC morning hero. Other options include the classic "2 Eggs With Ham Or Bacon On Roll" and the hearty "Continental Breakfast" platter.
• The Legendary Chopped Cheese: A true local highlight, the "Chopped Cheese Sandwich On A Hero" is a must-try, described by one reviewer as "exceptional." This hot sandwich is a signature of the New York deli scene and a clear customer favorite here, served with lettuce, tomato, onions, ketchup, mayo, and pickles.
• Signature Hot Sandwiches and Heroes: Beyond the Chopped Cheese, the menu features other hot heroes and sandwiches that define the New York lunch experience, including the savory "Steak & Cheese On A Hero," the rich "Beef Brisket With Gravy On A Hero," and the classic "Italian Hero" packed with cold cuts.
• All-Day Breakfast Options: Whether it’s 6 AM or 6 PM, you can satisfy your breakfast craving with items like the "Breakfast Tortilla," "Western Omelette," or the comforting "Pancakes 3 Pcs. Or French Toast 3 Pcs."
• Cold Cut Variety: The deli counter offers a robust selection of Cold Sandwiches on a roll or bread, including Pastrami, Roast Beef, Everroast Chicken, and specialty options like Honey Turkey and Salsalito Turkey, catering to all preferences.
• Fresh Sides and Salads: Complement your sandwich or platter with fresh side options like "Greek Salad - Large," "Garden Salad - Large," or classic deli sides like "Macaroni Salad," "Cole Slaw," and crispy "French Fries" or "Onions Rings."
• Friendly and Exceptional Service: The staff and service receive high praise from local customers, noted as being "friendly" and "exceptional," which contributes significantly to the welcoming, communal atmosphere that New Yorkers value in their local spots.

Contact Information

For orders, inquiries, or just to say hello, here is the essential contact information for Continental Luncheonette & Deli:

Address:

104-03 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA

Phone:

(718) 520-8336

What is worth choosing

In a city overflowing with delis and luncheonettes, what sets Continental Luncheonette & Deli apart is its unwavering commitment to the staples of the Queens diet, executed with care and consistency. This spot is worth choosing because it delivers a pitch-perfect execution of the meals that form the backbone of New York street food culture—the kind of simple, honest, and delicious food that is often the hardest to get right.

For your first visit, you owe it to yourself to try one of their undisputed customer favorites. The "Chopped Cheese Sandwich On A Hero" is a true showpiece of the NYC deli counter, and at Continental, it’s earned the label of "exceptional." The perfectly seasoned tomatoes mentioned in a review speak volumes about the attention to detail that elevates a simple sandwich from good to great. Similarly, their breakfast game is strong; if you need a quick start, the "Bacon Egg Cheese On Hero" or the full "Continental Breakfast" platter are highly rated ways to fuel your day.

Beyond the food, choosing Continental means supporting a genuine neighborhood institution that thrives on repeat business and local connection. It’s the quintessential New York experience—a place where you can quickly grab your order and head out, or take a moment to sit down and enjoy the local Forest Hills vibe. From your morning coffee, which can be an Iced Coffee, regular Coffee, or a Cappuccino, to a hearty lunch of a "Steak & Cheese On A Hero" or a healthy-sounding "Continental Healthy Wrap," this deli covers all your needs with the reliability and quality New Yorkers depend on. If you’re in Forest Hills and looking for an authentic, high-quality, and friendly Queens deli experience, Continental Luncheonette & Deli is the place to be.

Continental Lunchonette & Deli

104-03 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA