Rolo’s

- 8-53 Onderdonk Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385

Nestled in the heart of Ridgewood, Queens, Rolo’s is a bar and grill that has quickly become a standout destination for food lovers from across the city. This isn't your average neighborhood spot; it's a place that blends an elevated culinary experience with a warm, comfortable, and trendy atmosphere. With a focus on cooking over a wood-burning grill, Rolo's offers a menu that is both familiar and innovative, featuring a variety of dishes that are simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. The ambiance is a mix of casual, cozy, and upscale, making it a perfect spot for a variety of occasions, from a laid-back dinner with friends to a special night out with a loved one.

Rolo’s has earned a reputation for its high-quality food, a result of its commitment to butchering meat in-house, making its own pasta and breads, and sourcing local ingredients. This dedication to craft is evident in every dish, from the signature two-sheet lasagna to the wood-fired steaks. The restaurant is a popular choice for both lunch and dinner, as well as a bustling weekend brunch scene. The lively bar and excellent cocktail and wine list further enhance the dining experience. While it can get busy and often requires a reservation, the quality of the food and service makes the wait worthwhile. This article will provide an in-depth look at what makes Rolo’s a true culinary gem in Ridgewood, from its location and offerings to its features and the dishes that make it a must-visit.

Rolo’s is located at 8-53 Onderdonk Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385. This address places it in a vibrant and evolving part of Queens, close to the Brooklyn border. The restaurant's position on Onderdonk Avenue makes it a central and convenient destination for locals and those venturing into the neighborhood. For drivers, the availability of free street parking is a significant bonus, making it easier to visit and enjoy the meal without the added stress of finding a spot.

The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible restroom, and wheelchair accessible seating. This comprehensive approach ensures that Rolo's is a welcoming and inclusive space for all diners, regardless of their mobility needs. The establishment is well-suited for groups and families, and the availability of high chairs makes it a good option for those dining with children. The blend of a prime location with a strong focus on accessibility makes Rolo's a comfortable and easy choice for a wide range of customers.

• Outdoor Seating: Rolo’s offers an outdoor seating option, allowing patrons to enjoy their meal in the fresh air when the weather is nice.
• Delivery: The restaurant provides a delivery service, bringing its delicious food right to your doorstep for convenience.
• Takeout: Customers can opt for takeout, which is perfect for a quick, delicious meal at home or on the go.
• Dine-in: The cozy and trendy atmosphere makes dining in a great experience, with table service provided.
• Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner: Rolo's serves a full menu for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner, offering a wide array of options for different times of the day.
• Catering: The restaurant also provides catering services for events and gatherings.
• Reservations: Rolo’s accepts reservations, with recommendations to book ahead for brunch, lunch, and dinner due to its popularity.

• Wood-Fired Cooking: A major highlight is the use of a wood-burning grill, which imparts a unique and delicious smoky flavor to many of the dishes, including meats and breads.
• Excellent Beverage Program: Rolo's is praised for its great cocktails and extensive wine list, featuring a variety of small-production wines. The bar is a destination in itself.
• House-Made Products: The restaurant is known for its craftsmanship, with house-made pastas, breads, and charcuterie like mortadella and coppa, all of which contribute to the high quality of the food.
• Unique and Flavorful Menu: The menu is unique and delicious, featuring standout items like the two-sheet lasagna verde and the wood-fired polenta bread.
• Upscale but Casual Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as both trendy and cozy, making it a great place for a casual meal or a romantic night out.
• Late-Night Food: The restaurant is a good option for late-night dining, with a bar and food offerings available until a later hour.
• Fast Service: Despite its popularity, the service is often noted for being fast and attentive.

When visiting Rolo's, the decision of what to choose from the menu is a delightful one, as the quality is consistently high across the board. However, a few items stand out as particularly noteworthy and are highly recommended by patrons. The wood-fired polenta bread is a must-try. Customers rave about its chewy, nutty, and flavorful profile. Paired with the calabrian chili butter, it’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying starter that showcases the restaurant’s mastery of its wood-fired oven. This dish, as one reviewer noted, is a testament to their skill in bread-making.

Another standout is the two-sheet lasagna verde. This dish is celebrated for its richness and delicious flavor, with one customer even wanting to order a second one immediately. It's a perfect example of Rolo's ability to take a classic dish and elevate it with exceptional craftsmanship. For meat lovers, the double cheeseburger is a popular choice, often selling out early, and the house dry-aged prime cuts are a testament to the restaurant’s in-house butchery program. The grilled arctic char is also a strong contender for seafood enthusiasts.

Ultimately, what makes Rolo's worth choosing is the combination of its high-quality, house-made food and its welcoming, trendy atmosphere. The attention to detail in everything from the food to the service makes it a worthwhile dining experience. The restaurant is a great choice for celebrating a special occasion with a loved one or enjoying a lively meal with friends. The full bar with great cocktails and a superb wine list provides a perfect complement to any meal. Rolo's is not just a place to eat; it's a neighborhood institution that delivers a top-tier culinary experience in a comfortable and friendly setting.

Address: 8-53 Onderdonk Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385

Phone: (718) 417-6567

Rolo’s

8-53 Onderdonk Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA