Dominick's

- 2335 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458

Welcome to the heart of the Bronx's "real Little Italy," where culinary tradition and a vibrant community spirit thrive on Arthur Avenue. Among the many celebrated food establishments, one name stands out as a true neighborhood landmark and a beloved institution for generations of New Yorkers: Dominick's Italian Restaurant.

Dominick's, located at 2335 Arthur Ave, is far more than just a place to eat—it is a living piece of New York Italian-American history, upholding traditions that have long vanished in other parts of the city. Since its founding in 1962, Dominick's has committed to a distinctly old-school, no-frills, and highly authentic dining experience. For local diners seeking gargantuan portions of classic red-sauce dishes and a truly communal atmosphere, Dominick's is a mandatory pilgrimage.

The restaurant's reputation is built on its distinctive approach to service, which can be an adventure for newcomers. Traditionally, there is no printed menu or stated prices; patrons discuss their desired meal with the waiter, who then acts as a culinary guide, suggesting and delivering the day's fresh, classic offerings. This conversational ordering style adds to the unique, family-centric ambiance that defines a meal at Dominick's. While a single, small menu has reportedly been added to the back wall, the preferred and time-honored method remains a casual chat with your server.

For those who crave authentic, traditional Italian-American comfort food, this is the destination. Dominick’s serves dishes that are generous, hearty, and cooked with a passion that echoes through the decades. From expertly prepared antipasti and seafood to classic veal and chicken entrées, the flavors here are robust and genuine. It’s the kind of cooking that makes you feel instantly at home, with massive portions perfect for sharing.

Location and Accessibility

Dominick's is centrally located in the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx, a section of Arthur Avenue renowned as New York City's most authentic Little Italy. The area is a vibrant commercial district, full of markets, bakeries, and specialty food shops, making it a fantastic destination for a full day of Italian culture and cuisine.

The address is: 2335 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA.

While the restaurant is a short walk from the nearest subway, the neighborhood remains quite accessible. For those driving, various parking options are available, including free street parking, metered street parking, and paid parking lots in the vicinity. The establishment also offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all New Yorkers can partake in this historic dining experience.

Services Offered

Dominick's maintains a focus on traditional, in-house dining with limited alternative options, perfectly aligning with its historical nature.

Dining and Ordering:

• Dine-in service for lunch and dinner.
• Takeout is available for those who want to enjoy the feast at home.
• Table service is provided by experienced, knowledgeable waiters.
• Communal, family-style seating is a core part of the experience, encouraging a social and cozy atmosphere.
• Beverage Offerings include a Full Bar with Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard Liquor, Wine (often simple choices like "Red or White"), and Coffee.
• Dining options also include Dessert.

Accessibility and Amenities:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance.
• Restrooms available.
• Bar onsite for pre-meal or casual drinks.

Features / Highlights

The character of Dominick's is defined by its deep commitment to time-honored practices, making it an anomaly in modern NYC dining.

• The Cash-Only Policy: In a nod to its long-standing tradition, Dominick's operates as a strictly cash-only establishment. Visitors must come prepared, as credit cards are not accepted for payment. This reinforces the old-world charm and authenticity.

• Family-Style and Communal Seating: Patrons often sit at large tables, sharing the space with other parties. This communal style fosters a lively, friendly atmosphere and emphasizes the large, shareable portions served from the kitchen.

• No Printed Menu and Verbal Ordering: The lack of a formal, visible menu is perhaps its most famous and quirky feature. Ordering is a dynamic process where the waiter guides you through the available dishes, contributing to the feeling of dining at a long-time family friend's home.

• Generous Portion Sizes: Dominick's is celebrated for its huge servings. Entrées are often large enough for two or three people, making it an excellent choice for groups and family gatherings.

• Classic Dishes are Recommended: While the offerings rotate, certain dishes are consistently highlighted by regulars, including the Baked Clams, Chicken Parmigiana, Veal Sorrentino, and the highly-praised Stuffed Artichoke.

• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: The interior is described as casual and cozy, reflecting a bygone era of New York dining. It's a place where history feels tangible, making it a unique destination for both locals and tourists.

• Great Wine List: Despite the no-frills reputation, the restaurant is noted for having a great wine list, complementing the hearty Italian fare.

Contact Information

For inquiries or to confirm hours, you may contact Dominick's using the following details:

Address:

Phone Number:

Current Operating Hours (Subject to change; it's always best to call):

What is Worth Choosing

If you are visiting Dominick's, the overwhelming consensus is that you are there for the classic Italian-American comfort food, served in magnificent quantities. The sheer breadth of the menu, even when delivered verbally, is a testament to the kitchen’s mastery of the classics.

Highly Recommended Appetizers and Sides:

• Stuffed Artichoke: A highly-talked-about specialty that regulars consistently recommend. At $15.00, it’s a must-try classic appetizer.

• Baked Clams (12 for $19.00): Praised by many for being legitimately very good and served in a sea of garlic. A classic starter that sets the tone for the meal.

• Mussels Marinara ($15.00): Described as "outstanding" by patrons, with an excellent tomato sauce that converts even the most traditional butter-and-garlic fans.

• Broccoli Di Rabe ($9.00): A classic Italian vegetable side, prepared simply and traditionally.

Must-Try Main Courses:

• Chicken Parmigiana ($18.00): A huge portion of classic Chicken Parm, which many reviewers praise as hitting the spot.

• Veal Sorrentino ($21.00): A flavorful dish of pounded veal, tender eggplant, and mozzarella, highly recommended for meat lovers.

• Roasted Pork w/ Cabbage ($21.00): A truly excellent, less stereotypical Italian dish that showcases the kitchen’s depth.

• Ossobuco (Ask waiter for availability and price): A classic, slow-cooked masterpiece that is often available and highly praised.

• Beef Brociola ($20.00) or Pork Skin Braciola ($16.00): Traditional, hearty meat rolls perfect for an authentic, classic Italian meal.

• Zuppa di Pesce for 2 ($55.00) or 3 ($78.00): A glorious seafood stew perfect for sharing (Note: No seafood is served on Sundays).

A Final Word on the Experience

Choosing Dominick's means choosing a lively, authentic, and truly local experience. You might have a short wait before being seated, but the payoff is a meal rooted in generational tradition. Whether you are a solo diner, part of a large group, or a tourist seeking the real Little Italy, Dominick's delivers on its promise of big flavors and a nostalgic, community-focused dining environment. Just remember to bring your appetite, your friends, and most importantly, your cash. It’s an authentic taste of New York's culinary history that is well worth the trip to Arthur Avenue.

Dominick's

2335 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458, USA