Prima Donna

- 90-18 Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Introduction / Overview

Situated on the lively Roosevelt Avenue in the heart of Jackson Heights, Queens, Prima Donna stands as a culinary beacon, offering a unique and authentic fusion of Ecuadorian and Venezuelan cuisine. This establishment proudly identifies as a Latino-owned business, bringing the rich and diverse flavors of these two South American nations to the vibrant New York food scene. Prima Donna is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural experience, a place where the air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of traditional dishes and the sound of lively chatter. While some customer experiences have been mixed, with a few notes on service and consistency, others have found the food to be "amazing" and the staff to be "so nice," suggesting a recent positive shift in service. This creates an exciting dynamic for new visitors, who can look forward to a potentially high-quality dining experience. The menu is a testament to the extensive culinary traditions it represents, offering an impressive array of dishes from both countries, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate. The atmosphere is designed to be both trendy and cozy, making it a perfect spot for a variety of occasions, whether you’re looking for a quiet dinner or a lively gathering with friends. The restaurant’s appeal is broad, attracting a diverse crowd of families, groups, and tourists, and even being identified as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, which highlights its commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone in the community. Its reputation for serving a local specialty, combined with its extensive list of offerings, cements its status as a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and memorable Latin American dining experience in New York City.

Prima Donna's focus on authentic regional specialties is a key part of its allure. The menu is extensive and features classics from both Ecuador and Venezuela, providing a rich tapestry of flavors to explore. From the comforting and hearty Venezuelan cachapas to the fresh and zesty Ecuadorian ceviches, every dish tells a story. The presence of a wide variety of soups, meat selections, and seafood dishes demonstrates a commitment to a comprehensive dining experience. For example, the "Sopa de Mariscos" and various types of "Ceviche" are clearly highlights, as noted in a glowing review. The restaurant also caters to different dining needs throughout the day, offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner options, as well as late-night food. This versatility makes Prima Donna a convenient choice no matter the time of day. The presence of a bar and a great beer selection further enhances its appeal as a social hub. Whether you're coming in for a quick bite or a full-course meal with cocktails, the restaurant is equipped to handle it all. The fact that it is popular for solo dining, as well as for groups, shows its adaptability and friendly environment. With reservations recommended for dinner, it's clear that this is a well-regarded spot that attracts a steady flow of customers looking for a quality meal in a vibrant setting.

Location and Accessibility

Prima Donna is conveniently located at 90-18 Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA. This location places it squarely in one of Queens' most dynamic and culturally rich neighborhoods. Roosevelt Avenue is a major thoroughfare known for its bustling energy, vibrant nightlife, and diverse array of shops and restaurants. The restaurant is easily accessible from various parts of New York City, particularly for those using public transportation. As is typical for a major avenue in Queens, it is likely situated near several bus stops and subway stations. For those traveling by car, there are both free street parking and paid street parking options available in the vicinity, though as with any busy urban area, finding a spot may require a bit of patience. The restaurant has made a significant effort to be inclusive and accessible to all patrons. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all guests can enter and exit with ease. This commitment to accessibility extends to its facilities, with a wheelchair-accessible restroom and wheelchair-accessible seating options available, making it a comfortable and welcoming destination for individuals with mobility challenges. The central location in Jackson Heights makes it an ideal spot to either start or end a day of exploring the area, which is full of cultural landmarks, unique shops, and other culinary delights. Its prominent location and commitment to inclusivity make it a highly desirable destination for a broad spectrum of New Yorkers and visitors.

Services Offered

• Dine-in and Table Service: Enjoy a full dining experience with table service in the restaurant's casual and cozy atmosphere.
• Curbside Pickup, Delivery, and Takeout: For ultimate convenience, Prima Donna offers various ways to get your food to go, including curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and standard delivery and takeout options.
• Catering: The restaurant provides catering services, making it a perfect choice for events, parties, and family gatherings where you want to serve authentic and delicious Latin American food.
• Reservations: For those planning ahead, especially for dinner, the restaurant accepts reservations, ensuring you have a table for your party.
• Diverse Dining Options: Prima Donna serves a wide range of meals throughout the day, including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, along with dessert and late-night food.

Features / Highlights

• Fast Service: Despite some mixed reviews, the restaurant highlights its fast service, indicating a commitment to getting you your food in a timely manner.
• Great Beer Selection and Other Offerings: Prima Donna boasts a "Great beer selection" and a full bar with cocktails, wine, and hard liquor, making it a perfect spot for happy hour or a casual drink. They also offer happy hour drinks and food.
• Great Coffee and Dessert: For those who appreciate a good ending to their meal, the restaurant is highlighted for its great coffee and great dessert.
• Authentic and Varied Menu: With an extensive menu featuring both Ecuadorian and Venezuelan specialties, the restaurant offers a rich variety of comfort food, healthy options, small plates, and even an "all you can eat" option.
• Accommodating Atmosphere: The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, quiet, and trendy, providing a comfortable setting for various dining preferences. It is also a sports bar, perfect for watching the game.
• Family and Group Friendly: The restaurant is well-suited for families and groups, with a kids' menu, high chairs, and amenities that make it "Good for kids birthday."
• LGBTQ+ Friendly: Prima Donna identifies as a welcoming space, being both LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space.
• Convenient Payments: The restaurant accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Bar Onsite and Wi-Fi: A bar is available for drinks and socialising, and free Wi-Fi is provided for customer convenience.

Contact Information

Address: 90-18 Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA

Phone: (718) 806-1113

What is worth choosing

Prima Donna is worth choosing for a multitude of compelling reasons that go beyond its extensive menu. While some customer experiences have varied, a significant number of positive reviews, particularly on the food's quality, point to a restaurant that is capable of delivering an amazing dining experience. The menu is a major draw, offering an incredible variety of both Ecuadorian and Venezuelan dishes, which is a rarity in the city. This allows diners to explore an authentic fusion of two distinct culinary traditions. The "Sopa de Mariscos" and various ceviche options, as highlighted by a customer, are a testament to the kitchen's skill and the quality of its offerings. For lovers of Latin American comfort food, the selection of cachapas, arepas, and a variety of soups is second to none. The prices, while a point of contention for some, are justified by the generous portions and the quality of the ingredients used. The atmosphere is another significant reason to visit. It strikes a perfect balance between casual and trendy, making it a comfortable spot for a casual lunch, a lively dinner with friends, or a quick bite. The fact that it is a sports-friendly venue with a great beer selection adds to its appeal as a social hub where you can catch a game and unwind. Beyond the food and atmosphere, Prima Donna's commitment to being an inclusive space—identifying as a Latino-owned business, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space—makes it a truly special and welcoming place. This dedication to community and inclusivity is a feature that sets it apart from many other establishments. The variety of services, from curbside pickup to catering, and its family-friendly amenities, including a kids' menu and high chairs, make it a practical and convenient choice for a wide range of customers. In essence, Prima Donna offers a comprehensive and authentic dining experience that celebrates Latin American culture through its food, its atmosphere, and its unwavering commitment to hospitality and inclusivity. It's a place where you can find delicious, authentic food and feel right at home.

Prima Donna

90-18 Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA