Rocco’s Of Roc Beach Coal Oven Pizza

- 115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Rockaway Park, NY 11694

Rockaway Beach has long been known as a premier destination for New Yorkers seeking sun, surf, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Over the last few years, the dining scene in this coastal Queens neighborhood has elevated significantly, and leading the charge for authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine is Rocco’s Of Roc Beach Coal Oven Pizza. More than just a pizzeria, this establishment has quickly become a culinary beacon, celebrated for its traditional cooking, welcoming service, and signature coal-fired specialties.

Since opening its doors, Rocco's has garnered significant acclaim, being recognized by the Queens Chamber of Commerce as the winner of the inaugural “Queens Best Pizza Competition” and, notably, being named on the New York Times' “Top 25 Best Pizza Places in New York Right Now” list. The recognition is well-deserved, reflecting a commitment to authentic Italian traditions, including daily-made pasta, freshly baked bread, and—of course—some of the most perfectly charred, flavorful pizza crusts in the city. For New Yorkers in Queens and beyond, Rocco’s Of Roc Beach offers a genuine taste of Italy with a charming, laid-back beach vibe.

The restaurant successfully blends a casual, family-friendly setting with an upscale feel, making it perfect for a romantic dinner, a lively night out with friends, or a satisfying family meal. With a menu overseen by the talented Five-Star Chef Bruno Milone, who focuses on meticulous preparation and the freshest ingredients, patrons are treated to a dining experience that feels both traditional and uniquely New York.

Introduction / Overview

Rocco’s Of Roc Beach Coal Oven Pizza is not your average local joint; it’s a destination for authentic Italian culinary excellence situated right in Rockaway Park, Queens. It is a full-service Italian restaurant, bar, and bakery that specializes in coal-fired pizza, an art form that imbues the crust with a unique char and flavor. The atmosphere is frequently described by patrons as being warm, friendly, and having a "laid-back yet upscale beach vibe," striking a perfect balance for any occasion.

The commitment to quality ingredients is evident across the extensive menu. From appetizers like homemade Burrata and Baked Clams, to an impressive selection of homemade pastas and substantial Secondi (main courses), the food is consistently praised for being delicious, fresh, and flavorful. The restaurant also takes pride in its service, with staff often treating guests "like long-lost cousins," creating a warm and memorable experience that feels distinctly New York-Italian. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, celebrating a milestone, or simply craving the best pizza Queens has to offer, Rocco’s Of Roc Beach promises a fulfilling and highly acclaimed meal.

Location and Accessibility

Rocco’s Of Roc Beach is conveniently located just blocks from the Rockaway Beach shore, making it an ideal spot to visit after a day by the ocean or as a culinary escape from the city. The exact location is 115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd in Rockaway Park, NY 11694. This Queens location is a rare gem, offering an easily accessible dining option in the Rockaways.

Public Transit Access for New Yorkers:

The restaurant is highly accessible via MTA. It is situated around the corner and just a few doors down from the Rockaway Park-Beach 116th Street subway station. This station is the western terminal on the IND Rockaway Line and is served by the Rockaway Park Shuttle (S train) at all times, with limited A train service during rush hours in the peak direction. Its proximity to the subway makes it a straightforward destination for those traveling from other parts of Queens, Brooklyn, or Manhattan. The location is so close to the station that the restaurant's name and logo can reportedly be seen from the subway platform.

Parking and Accessibility:

While street parking is available, the restaurant also offers Valet Parking on weekend nights, acknowledging the demand in the area. The venue is fully committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

Contact Information

Address: 115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Rockaway Park, NY 11694, USA

Phone: (718) 799-5050

Services Offered

• Dine-In: Comfortable indoor seating, bar seating, and outdoor dining options are available, including covered and heated outdoor seating areas.
• Takeout & Delivery: Easy options for picking up orders, curbside pickup, and delivery, including no-contact delivery.
• Catering: Award-winning catering services are available for office lunches, private celebrations, and other events, bringing their authentic Italian excellence to your venue.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for busy weekend nights.
• Onsite Bar Services: Full bar onsite offering a great wine list, cocktails, beer, hard liquor, and happy hour specials (food and drinks).
• Specialized Dining: Offers Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Counter Service, Dessert, and Table Service options.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Equipped with high chairs and a dedicated Kids' Menu.

Features / Highlights

• Award-Winning Coal Oven Pizza: Their signature coal-fired pies, including the classic MARGHERITA and the Queens Best Pizza winner Upside Down Siciliano Square Pie, are a key draw, offering a distinct charred flavor and crispy-yet-pillowy crust.
• Authentic Homemade Italian Specialties: The menu extends far beyond pizza, featuring daily-made fresh pasta (like PAPPARDELLE ALFREDO and PACCHERI CON FRUTTI DI MARE), homemade mozzarella, freshly baked bread, and house-made gelato and desserts.
• Exceptional Atmosphere and Service: Patrons consistently praise the "incredibly warm service," friendly staff, and the "laid-back yet upscale beach vibe" of the dining rooms, which feature a fireplace and multiple dining areas (inside, bar, and patio).
• Dietary Accommodations: The restaurant is highly accommodating, offering a range of Vegan and Vegetarian Options, as well as Gluten-Free pasta and pizza prepared on separate surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.
• Special Dining Experiences: Features a notable Chef's Table experience hosted by Chef Bruno Milone, providing a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu paired with wine.
• Diverse Italian Menu: The expansive menu covers every craving, from light salads (AMALFI SUMMER SALAD) and fresh seafood (Grilled Octopus, Branzino) to hearty mains (Rib Eye, Double Cut Pork Chop) and Italian comfort food classics (Grandma's Meatballs, Baked Ziti).
• Late-Night Options: Offers late-night food to satisfy cravings after a long day or evening out.

What is Worth Choosing

For any local or visitor in the New York area, Rocco’s Of Roc Beach represents a compelling choice for Italian dining, especially given its proximity to the Rockaway Beach coast. The primary reason to visit is undoubtedly the Coal Brick Oven Pizza. This ancient cooking method is a dying art, and Rocco’s execution is top-tier, making pies like the MARGHERITA and the savory SESAME & SALT CRUSTED PEPPERONI a must-try. The char on the crust provides a smoky depth of flavor that is simply unmatched by conventional ovens.

Beyond the pizza, the commitment to authenticity shines in the homemade pasta selection. Dishes like the RIGATONI BOLOGNESE or PICI CACI PEPE showcase the heart of Italian home cooking. The quality of ingredients is noted by nearly every reviewer, particularly the sauces, which are described as being "zesty rich and abundant."

The full dining experience is another huge draw. Patrons often feel like family, thanks to the engaging and professional staff who go out of their way to provide attentive and warm service. This "cozy mom-and-pop style" combined with a slightly "upscale beach vibe" is what elevates a meal here from a simple dinner to a true "culinary paradise." The option for outdoor seating, including heated and covered areas, makes it a comfortable year-round destination.

For those with specific dietary needs, the presence of dedicated Gluten-Free pizza and pasta options, prepared with care to avoid cross-contamination, makes Rocco's a highly thoughtful choice. And don't forget the desserts—with an adjacent express bakery, the in-house Gelato, Tiramisu, and Italian bakery items are the perfect capstone to an exceptional Italian feast. In a city saturated with Italian restaurants, Rocco’s Of Roc Beach offers a unique and award-winning experience that is truly worth the trip to the Rockaways.

Rocco’s Of Roc Beach Coal Oven Pizza

115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Rockaway Park, NY 11694, USA