Don Roberto’s Classic Italian

- 616 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine taste of old-world Italian cuisine without leaving the city limits, Don Roberto’s Classic Italian stands out as a premier destination on Staten Island. Located on Forest Avenue, this establishment has quickly earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, authentic Italian food in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It is the type of neighborhood gem that locals recommend enthusiastically, and travelers from Manhattan consider worth the free ferry ride and a special trip. The restaurant perfectly blends the casual, family-friendly feel of a traditional Italian eatery with an elevated menu that focuses on classic recipes and fresh ingredients.

Don Roberto’s commitment to classic Italian flavors is evident throughout its extensive menu, which spans from beloved appetizers to robust pasta dishes and substantial entrées. Guests are often greeted with the warm, attentive service that makes any dining experience feel special. The atmosphere is designed to be comfortable and welcoming, making it an excellent spot for a family dinner, a casual group outing, or even a solo meal. Reviews consistently highlight the excellence of the food, the warm hospitality of the staff, and the overall vibrant, yet relaxed, atmosphere. It embodies the best of Staten Island’s highly-regarded Italian dining scene.

The restaurant proudly features dishes that feel both authentic and homemade—a tribute to the culinary traditions often passed down through generations. A customer review mentioning “a Nonna in the kitchen making magic” speaks volumes about the authentic, comforting quality of the food. From the house-made olive oil blend served with bread to signature dishes like the Famous Mamma's Meatballs and the enormous 'The Don’s Big Chicken Parm,' Don Roberto's offers generous portions of expertly prepared Italian classics.

Address: 616 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310

The restaurant’s location on Forest Avenue places it in a busy, easily navigated area of the island. For those traveling by car, accessibility is maximized with multiple parking options, a considerable amenity in the New York metropolitan area. These parking amenities include a Free Parking Lot, Free Street Parking, and even Valet Parking, ensuring a stress-free arrival.

Accessibility is further emphasized by the physical design of the restaurant, which is fully equipped to accommodate all guests. The venue features a Wheelchair Accessible Entrance, a Wheelchair Accessible Restroom, and designated Wheelchair Accessible Seating. This commitment ensures that every member of the New York community can enjoy a comfortable dining experience.

Guests traveling from Manhattan or other boroughs via the free Staten Island Ferry will find the trip entirely worthwhile, as noted by appreciative customers. The restaurant is situated a short distance from major transit points and nearby attractions, making it a perfect spot to dine after visiting local landmarks like the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden or the Staten Island Zoo.

• Dine-in: Offering full table service in a casual and cozy atmosphere, suitable for couples, groups, and families.
• Takeout: Meals can be ordered for quick pickup, allowing patrons to enjoy the classic Italian flavors at home.
• Curbside Pickup: A convenient service option where customers can have their orders brought directly to their car outside the restaurant.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, and dinner reservations are highly recommended, which is an excellent feature for planning group gatherings or special evenings out.
• Dining Hours: The restaurant serves a full menu for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, providing flexibility for all dining times.
• Catering / Groups: The atmosphere is noted to be popular for Groups, and the large menu selection makes it ideal for hosting or ordering large quantities of classic Italian comfort food.
• Happy Hour: A special Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the bar top, featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and 25% off bottles of wine.

• Exceptional Beverage Program: The restaurant is known for a Great Wine List, offering a variety of selections to pair with classic Italian dishes. They also feature Great Cocktails, along with a full bar selection that includes Alcohol, Beer, Hard Liquor, and Happy Hour Drinks.
• Live Entertainment: A major highlight is the Live Music on Fridays, which starts around 6:30 p.m. and adds a lively and entertaining backdrop to the dinner service.
• Signature 'Mamma's' Dishes: The menu features several standout items, including the highly-praised Famous Mamma's Meatballs, described as pan-fried and served with tomato sauce and ricotta, and Mamma's Famous Lasagna.
• Over-the-Top Entrées: For those with a hearty appetite, the THE DON’S BIG CHICKEN PARM—affectionately described as being the size of a person's head—is a must-try, along with the NY Strip and Pork Chop Scarpariello.
• Local Specialty Items: The menu features classic regional specialties, such as Orecchiette Barese (with broccoli rabe and sausage) and Pasta Fagioli Soup, which aligns with the restaurant's commitment to serving authentic local Italian specialties.
• Kid-Friendly Options: With a dedicated Kids Menu offering favorites like SPAGHETTI & MEATBALL and KID’S PENNE VODKA for $12.00, plus the availability of High Chairs, the restaurant is a fantastic choice for families.

Address: 616 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310

Phone: (718) 442-7204 / +1 718-442-7204

What truly sets this establishment apart is the blending of a casual, cozy environment with deluxe food offerings. Whether you're indulging in the comforting flavor of Spicy Rigatoni Vodka, savoring the richness of Truffle Gnocchi, or tackling the massive THE DON’S BIG CHICKEN PARM, the food provides genuine comfort and satisfaction. The free and easy parking, which includes valet service, removes a major headache associated with dining out in New York City. Finally, the added benefit of live music on Fridays and a daily Happy Hour running until 7:00 p.m. makes it a dynamic, full-service venue—a neighborhood spot that manages to offer an excellent date-night or group experience, proving that a trip to Staten Island for exceptional Italian dining is truly worth the journey.

Don Roberto’s Classic Italian

616 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310, USA