The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill

- 179-08 Union Tpke, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366

The vibrant New York City culinary scene is famous for its diversity, but few spots manage to blend a casual, trendy atmosphere with top-tier, strictly kosher comfort food quite like The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill. Nestled in the heart of Fresh Meadows, Queens, this establishment has quickly become a local favorite for anyone craving an expertly crafted burger, savory barbecue, or satisfying sandwich. It's more than just a quick bite; it's a dedicated dining destination that brings high-quality, Glatt Kosher meat dishes to the community.

In a city where kosher dining is abundant, The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill stands out by focusing on the classics—elevating the humble hamburger and the slow-cooked tradition of barbecue. They recognized a clear demand in the Fresh Meadows area for a welcoming, laid-back venue that serves up delicious, high-quality meals suitable for the whole family, college students from nearby St. John's University, and groups gathering for a casual dinner. This vision translated into a restaurant concept that offers robust, flavorful food in a comfortable setting, moving beyond the typical fast-food feel to provide a truly enjoyable dining experience.

The restaurant's core appeal lies in its commitment to quality and variety, offering everything from signature burgers and loaded appetizers to full entrees and dedicated lunch specials. Whether you are a classic burger connoisseur or searching for innovative, meat-centric dishes, The Hot Spot provides a diverse menu that ensures everyone leaves satisfied. Their presence is a testament to the thriving and increasingly sophisticated kosher food market in Queens, catering specifically to the community’s evolving tastes and lifestyle.

One of the most praised items on the menu is their extensive burger selection. From the simple yet perfect Grilled Burger to the decadent 'sky-scraper' style specialty burgers like the Hangover, loaded with pastrami, onion rings, and a fried egg, the offerings cater to all levels of hunger and preference. They have successfully carved out a niche as a must-visit spot for those seeking the best kosher burgers in Queens, reinforced by positive customer feedback that highlights the clean atmosphere, quick service, and the thoughtful inclusion of various sauces for dine-in guests.

The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill is proud to be a local business deeply integrated into the Fresh Meadows community, a neighborhood known for its suburban feel, proximity to St. John's University, and significant thriving Jewish community, including younger populations of Asian Americans, Israelis, and Bukharian Jews. This vibrant demographic appreciates the restaurant’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality kosher food.

The emphasis on both flavor and adherence to dietary standards (Glatt Kosher, under the supervision of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens) ensures that this establishment is not just a popular choice, but a trusted one. They successfully bridge the gap between fast, satisfying comfort food and a more elevated, quality-focused dining experience, making it a valuable addition to the Fresh Meadows landscape.

Location and Accessibility

The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill is conveniently situated at 179-08 Union Tpke, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366, USA, right on the bustling Union Turnpike. This location places it squarely in a commercially active part of Fresh Meadows, a predominantly residential neighborhood in the northeastern section of Queens.

The surrounding area is well-served by transportation options, making it accessible for residents across Queens and those traveling from other boroughs or Long Island. For drivers, both free and paid street parking are available in the vicinity, which is a significant amenity in New York City. The restaurant is located near several major roadways that lead into Fresh Meadows.

Public transit users have multiple bus routes available in the area, which is characteristic of Fresh Meadows being well-connected by public transportation. For those looking to travel to or from Manhattan, the Union Turnpike express buses—including the QM1, QM5, QM6, QM31, QM35, and QM36 to Midtown Manhattan, as well as the QM7 and QM8 to Lower Manhattan—run along Union Turnpike, providing excellent commuter links. While there isn't a direct subway station in the immediate area, the F train at Jamaica-179th St and the LIRR at Hollis or the Hillside Facility are within a short distance, complemented by bus routes connecting to these transit hubs.

Crucially for all patrons, the restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone in the community.

Services Offered

The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill provides a comprehensive range of services tailored for the diverse needs of its Queens clientele:

• Full Dine-in Service with Table Service
• Takeout for quick and convenient meals
• Delivery service to bring meals directly to your door
• Catering options for events, private parties, and gatherings
• Reservations Accepted for planning group dinners or special occasions
• Lunch, Dinner, and Late-Night Food availability
• A dedicated Kids' Menu and high chairs for family-friendly dining
• Glatt Kosher certification (under Vaad Harabonim of Queens supervision)
• Specialty offerings including Glatt Kosher Barbecue and Burgers
• Free Wi-Fi access for dining patrons
• Acceptance of various payment methods: Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments

Features / Highlights

What sets The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill apart in the competitive NYC dining landscape:

• High-Quality Glatt Kosher Cuisine: The entire menu is certified Glatt Kosher under the supervision of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens (VHQ), ensuring peace of mind for kosher diners.
• Signature Burgers and BBQ: Famous for its extensive, mouth-watering burger list—including the towering Hangover Burger (beef, pastrami, onion rings, fried egg) and the Brisket Burger—and other BBQ-style delights like the Brisket Sub.
• Trendy and Casual Atmosphere: The restaurant maintains a laid-back, chill, and trendy environment that is comfortable for solo diners, college students, families, and groups alike.
• Excellent Customer Service: Patrons frequently praise the super friendly and quick service, with staff going the extra mile, such as providing a variety of sauces directly to the table for an enhanced dining experience.
• Diverse Comfort Food Menu: Beyond burgers, the menu offers a wide array of options including classic favorites like Chili Fries (a signature item), Pastrami Eggrolls, Wings, various Sandwiches/Wraps, and filling Entrees such as Beef Shish Kebab and Schwarma Platter.
• Accessibility and Amenities: The restaurant is highly accessible, featuring wheelchair access, gender-neutral restrooms, and good for kids amenities, demonstrating a commitment to serving all members of the community.
• Late-Night Options: Serving comfort food and quick bites late into the evening (until 10 PM on weekdays and 1:00 AM after Shabbat on Saturdays), it’s an ideal spot for evening cravings.

Contact Information

For reservations, takeout orders, catering inquiries, or general information, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 179-08 Union Tpke, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366, USA
• Phone: (718) 969-2200

What is Worth Choosing at The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill

For local New Yorkers and visitors in Queens, The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill represents a perfect blend of high-quality, specialty kosher dining and a welcoming, casual atmosphere. The value proposition is clear: you get delicious, expertly prepared Glatt Kosher meat in a setting that encourages friends and family to gather and relax. The establishment is a strong alternative to typical New York fast food, offering 'fast food' convenience but with a more elegant, comfortable feel and gourmet touches.

Choosing The Hot Spot is choosing variety without compromise. Where else can you find a Brisket Burger and a hearty Chicken Rice Bowl on the same kosher menu? The depth of the menu, from innovative appetizers like Brisket Eggrolls to classic, well-executed desserts like the Chocolate Soufflé (often served hot and gooey with vanilla ice cream), ensures there is a compelling option for every taste and every time of day. The lunch specials, such as the Classic LS or Wing LS, provide an excellent, affordable option for the midday rush.

In a neighborhood like Fresh Meadows, which has a distinct community feel, choosing a local spot that is dedicated to quality and service is always a great decision. The staff's reputation for being super friendly and attentive—as highlighted by customers who appreciated being 'taken care of'—turns a simple meal into a positive experience. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick, post-work Crispy Sandwich, gathering the family for a full Cripsy Platter, or need a late-night fix of Chili Fries, this restaurant delivers on its promise of delicious, quality kosher eats in the heart of Queens.

The Hot Spot BBQ & Grill

179-08 Union Tpke, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366, USA