Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen

- 9-15 Cross Bay Blvd, Broad Channel, NY 11693

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers in the know—especially those residing in or frequenting the Rockaways—Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen in Broad Channel has become synonymous with top-tier Italian-American comfort food. Far more than a simple local pizzeria, Hooks is an establishment that has successfully elevated the neighborhood dining experience, bringing together the warmth of traditional Italian cooking with the demanding standards of the NYC food scene.

Since its opening, Hooks has garnered immediate and widespread positive feedback, quickly becoming a fixture for locals, including those traveling from Rockaway and even Howard Beach. The restaurant, led by owner Andrew Guastella and Executive Head Chef Mike Lippi, draws on a deep well of culinary expertise, including fine dining backgrounds, to craft a menu that is both familiar and excitingly fresh. This commitment to quality starts with using "top of the line" ingredients and making everything from fresh dough to homemade sauces on-site daily, which gives their food a distinctive edge.

Customers rave about the exceptional quality and the genuine hospitality that permeates the parlor. As one regular, "Rockaway Lew," testifies, the food and the staff are "exceptional." From signature pies and generous entrees to appetizers that earn accolades—such as the "best we have ever tasted" garlic knots—Hooks consistently delivers a dining experience that is comforting, fresh, and deeply satisfying. It is the perfect cozy spot for lunch or dinner, whether you’re seeking a quick slice or a full, hearty meal.

Location and Accessibility

Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen is conveniently located right on the main artery of Broad Channel, making it an accessible stop for residents and visitors traveling between Queens and the Rockaways.

The address is:

9-15 Cross Bay Blvd, Broad Channel, NY 11693, USA.

Situated on Cross Bay Boulevard, the restaurant is easy to spot and serves as a vital eating destination in a community that values quality local eateries. The area is known for its strong community ties and local charm. Importantly, the restaurant takes accessibility seriously, welcoming all members of the New York community with a focus on ease of entry for everyone.

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Ensuring easy entry for all patrons.
• Wheelchair Accessible Restroom: Providing necessary amenities for guests with mobility needs.

Services Offered

Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen offers multiple service options to accommodate the busy lives of New Yorkers, focusing on flexibility, speed, and convenience without compromising on the quality of its Italian-American cuisine.

• Delivery: Quick and reliable service reaching the Broad Channel area, Rockaway, and even Howard Beach.
• No-Contact Delivery: A safe and convenient option for delivery orders.
• Takeout: Ideal for customers grabbing food on the go or picking up large family orders.
• Dine-in: A casual and cozy environment for enjoying a meal on-site.
• Lunch and Dinner Service: Serving hot, fresh meals throughout the day.
• Extensive Menu: Offering a full range of Italian specialties including appetizers, pizzas, heroes, wraps, and classic pasta dishes and entrees.

Features / Highlights

The distinction of Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen lies in its dedication to quality and its creative takes on classic Italian dishes, providing a fresh "hook" for the local food scene.

• Signature & Specialty Pizzas: Offers a wide variety of pies, from classic Napoletana and Siciliana to innovative options like the Spicy Rigatoni Pizza and the house specialty, the “Hook” Pizza, which features spicy pepperoni, crumbled sausage, cherry pepper hints, and a homemade chipotle aioli.
• Award-Winning Background: Owner Andrew Guastella is known to hail from Pizza D'Amore stock, which was previously recognized by the Queens Chamber of Commerce, bringing a high standard of quality and expertise.
• Fine Dining Pedigree: Executive Head Chef Mike Lippi has extensive fine dining experience, including roles at renowned establishments like The Carlyle Hotel and Le Bernardin, ensuring every dish is prepared with meticulous care.
• Exceptional Garlic Knots: Widely hailed by customers as "the best we have ever tasted," praised for being "light, soft & seasoned to perfection."
• Full Italian Menu: Beyond pizza, the menu includes homemade pasta, such as Spicy Rigatoni and Vodka Pasta, and substantial entrees like Chicken Parmigiana and Chicken Francese, perfect for a full, satisfying Italian dinner.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The restaurant boasts a casual, cozy, and family-friendly environment, making it a comfortable spot for locals and families.
• Unparalleled Hospitality: Patrons frequently highlight the staff's "generosity and warmness," which contributes to a welcoming, neighborly feel.

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen, New York diners should prioritize a few of the standout menu items that showcase the kitchen’s ability to combine high-quality ingredients with creative execution.

First and foremost, the Spicy Rigatoni Pizza is a must-try. This specialty pie, which is also available as a full pasta dish, is a fantastic example of their elevated cuisine. It features a delicious homemade vodka sauce, finished with Calabrian chili and fresh mozzarella, all baked with rigatoni right on the pie. This unique creation takes the best of two Italian-American classics—creamy vodka sauce pasta and New York pizza—and combines them into a single, unforgettable dish. At $35.00 for a full pie, it’s a show-stopper perfect for sharing.

Next, do not skip the appetizers, particularly the Garlic Knots ($6.00). Customer testimonials are nearly unanimous in their praise for these: light, perfectly seasoned, and soft. They represent the core quality of Hooks—taking a common side dish and executing it with exceptional care. Pair this with a Spinach Roll or Broccoli & Cheese Pinwheel (both around $8.00), which feature fresh vegetables sautéed to perfection, a testament to the kitchen’s focus on using fresh ingredients.

For a more traditional but equally impressive meal, the Eggplant Parmigiana ($19.00 for the entrée) is a celebrated choice, as noted by enthusiastic patrons. The preparation of the eggplant, along with the homemade marinara and quality cheese, delivers an "exceptional" flavor profile that feels authentically home-cooked. For those seeking a hearty sandwich, the Chicken Parmigana Hero ($15.00) or the Sausage & Peppers Hero ($14.00) are generously sized and feature the same top-tier ingredients used in their full entrees.

Ultimately, choosing Hooks is choosing a commitment to quality. The blend of Andrew Guastella’s passion for the pizza business, his dedication to the Broad Channel community, and Executive Chef Lippi’s fine dining skill set ensures that every order, from a simple slice of Napoletana to a full entrée, exceeds expectations for Italian comfort food in Queens.

Contact Information

Patrons can contact Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen for orders, delivery inquiries, or to learn more about their offerings:

• Address: 9-15 Cross Bay Blvd, Broad Channel, NY 11693, USA
• Phone: (347) 619-8044

Hooks Pizza Parlor & Kitchen

9-15 Cross Bay Blvd, Broad Channel, NY 11693, USA