Joe's of Ave U - Foccaceria Palermitana

- 289 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223

A gem of Gravesend, Brooklyn, Joe's of Ave U – Foccaceria Palermitana stands as a beloved local institution, proudly serving a slice of authentic Palermo, Sicily, right here in New York City. This is not your average neighborhood Italian spot; it is a true 'Foccaceria Palermitana,' a style of casual eatery reminiscent of those found while touring Sicily, specializing in quick, hearty, and traditional street foods and full-course meals.

For over 50 years, this establishment, affectionately known as Joe's of Avenue U, has been a cornerstone for both long-time Brooklyn residents and adventurous food enthusiasts from across the city. It provides a unique dining experience, capturing the nostalgic ambiance of an old-school Sicilian haunt. Visitors often praise the unchanged, unpretentious setting, complete with traditional decor like maps of Sicily and murals depicting island landscapes, creating a warm, comfortable atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home.

The cuisine at Joe’s is distinctly Sicilian, differentiating itself from what is commonly known as Italian-American fare. Sicilian cooking, particularly the style of Palermo, is characterized by its heavy use of seafood, wild fennel, raisins, pine nuts, and, notably, toasted breadcrumbs used generously as a stuffing, crust, and topping. For those looking for a truly authentic taste of the island's capital, Joe's of Ave U delivers dishes and flavors that are hard to find anywhere else in the five boroughs.

Location and Accessibility

Nestled in the heart of Gravesend, Joe's of Ave U is conveniently located for a dedicated local following and easily reachable for visitors traveling from other parts of the city. The restaurant’s physical location solidifies its status as a quintessential neighborhood spot, perfect for a casual lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a quick bite of authentic Sicilian comfort food.

The full address for the restaurant is:

289 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

Accessibility is a key factor for any New York City establishment, and Joe's accommodates its patrons by offering a wheelchair accessible entrance, making it a welcoming destination for all.

Services Offered

Joe's of Ave U provides a range of dining and service options tailored to meet the needs of a bustling urban clientele, whether you're dining solo, having a meal with family, or simply grabbing food on the go. The focus is on traditional, generous portions served in an efficient and friendly manner.

• Dine-in Service: The restaurant features a spacious dining room with booths and tables—a perfect casual setting for a relaxed meal.
• Takeout Service: A brisk takeout counter is available for neighborhood patrons who want to enjoy the authentic flavors of Sicily at home.
• Lunch and Dinner: The menu is suitable for both midday and evening meals, making it popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.
• Dessert Offerings: Customers can complete their authentic Sicilian meal with a selection from the dessert menu.
• Payment Flexibility: Credit cards are accepted for customer convenience.
• Casual Atmosphere: The overall ambiance is relaxed and casual, encouraging patrons to feel comfortable and at ease.

Features / Highlights

Joe's of Ave U's reputation is built upon its commitment to authentic Sicilian fare and its traditional, friendly atmosphere. Several unique features make this establishment a standout destination for food lovers in New York.

• Authentic Palermitana Cuisine: The menu focuses on traditional specialties from Palermo, including unique and hard-to-find dishes that truly represent the region.
• The Vastedda (Pane câ Meusa): This is arguably the most famous and unique offering—a traditional Sicilian sandwich made with veal spleen, layered with creamy ricotta and melted Parmesan cheese, served on a toasted sesame-seed bun. It is a true street-food delicacy of Palermo and a rarity in New York City.
• Sicilian Specialties: Beyond the Vastedda, the restaurant excels at other regional favorites, such as jumbo Arancini (fried rice balls, especially the 'Rice Ball Special' smothered in sauce, ricotta, and cheese), homemade Panelle (chickpea fritters), and Caponata (eggplant salad).
• Pasta con Sarde: A classic and essential Sicilian dish featuring bucatini pasta with fresh sardines, wild fennel, raisins, pine nuts, and often topped with toasted breadcrumbs instead of grated cheese.
• Fast and Efficient Service: Highlighted by customers, the service is known for being prompt and quick, ensuring a satisfying experience even during peak hours.
• Generous Comfort Food Portions: Dishes are known for being hearty and affordable, offering true comfort food that feels like a home-cooked Sicilian meal.
• A Timeless Brooklyn Landmark: The restaurant maintains an unchanged, nostalgic ambiance, having been around for over half a century, making it a piece of living Brooklyn history.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire about the menu, you can contact Joe's of Ave U directly.

Address: 289 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

Phone: (718) 449-9285

What is Worth Choosing

Joe's of Ave U is more than just an Italian restaurant; it is a cultural and culinary experience centered on the unique traditions of Palermo. What makes this spot truly worth choosing is its unwavering dedication to authenticity, offering dishes that are staples in Sicily but are often missing from the broader New York Italian food landscape. New Yorkers should visit Joe's of Ave U for an encounter with genuine Sicilian street food and classic regional comfort meals.

The undisputed star and a "must-try" for any adventurous eater is the Vastedda special (also known as pane câ meusa). As one customer noted, this is a specialty sandwich that is incredibly difficult to find elsewhere in the city, providing a rare and delicious taste of Palermo’s culinary tradition at a remarkably reasonable price.

Beyond the famous sandwich, the Sicilian specialties menu is a treasure trove of flavors. Whether you choose the massive and delectable Rice Ball Special (Arancina M Pupata), the savory Stuffed Artichoke, the classic Pasta con Sarde, or one of their fresh seafood selections, you are guaranteed a meal that honors the rich, complex, and distinct flavors of the Sicilian coast. The atmosphere itself is a draw—a trip back in time to the heart of old-school Brooklyn, providing a comforting and authentic backdrop to a truly memorable meal. For a taste of history and true Sicilian cuisine, Joe's of Ave U is an essential Brooklyn destination.

Joe's of Ave U - Foccaceria Palermitana

289 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA