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Velma Tavern
- 5-84 Seneca Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385

Restaurant, Bar & grill ★4.0 (57)·$30–50

5-84 Seneca Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA

4.0
VELMA’S IS GRRREAT. Pasta is perfectly Al dente and the Velma salad is PERFECTION. I’m a sucker for a good vinaigrette and the lemon vinaigrette here is so refreshing and has this super lemony goodness. Love love love it here. Will be back, highly recommend! - Kary Sartan
Velma Tavern Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$30–50 per person Reported by 57 people$10–20$20–30$30–50$50–100

Velma Tavern Introduce

For New Yorkers, the ideal neighborhood spot offers more than just a meal; it provides an atmosphere, a reliable drink, and food that feels both comforting and elevated. Velma Tavern in Ridgewood, Queens, aims to be that essential local gathering place. Categorized as a Restaurant and a Bar & Grill, it successfully blends the casual, welcoming environment of a local tavern with a menu that focuses on robust Italian-American classics and hearty comfort food. Located in one of Queens' most dynamic neighborhoods, Velma Tavern quickly establishes itself as a go-to destination for everything from a quick weeknight bite to a lively weekend dinner.

The concept of a "Tavern" in the city often evokes a sense of timeless community—a place where quality beverages meet satisfying, unfussy food. Velma Tavern embraces this, offering a space that is both cozy and trendy, making it appealing to a wide variety of local patrons, including groups looking for a casual night out or individuals seeking a great spot for solo dining. The aesthetic, noted by locals as featuring elements like old Italian-style red checkered tablecloths and an eclectic bar area, creates a unique character that is appreciated in a city always looking for authentic and memorable experiences.

Location and Accessibility

Velma Tavern is strategically located at 5-84 Seneca Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of the Ridgewood neighborhood, making it easily accessible for residents of Queens and Brooklyn, particularly those near the border of the two boroughs.

The restaurant's positioning on Seneca Avenue benefits from local foot traffic and is conveniently situated near public transportation options, which is a key consideration for New York diners. Accessibility features are a noted highlight, ensuring the space is welcoming to all members of the community. Specifically, the establishment offers a Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible seating, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity that is important for a local establishment. Whether arriving on foot, by bus, or by car, the tavern's location is integrated into the daily flow of the neighborhood, solidifying its place as a true local favorite.

Services Offered

Velma Tavern provides a comprehensive set of services designed to meet the diverse dining needs of the New York consumer, covering everything from a quick meal on the run to a fully seated dinner experience.

  • Full Dining Service: They offer table service and seating for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, accommodating groups and individual diners alike.
  • Convenience Options: Recognizing the fast-paced nature of the city, the tavern provides multiple ways to get their food, including Curbside pickup, Delivery, and Takeout.
  • Beverage Program: A full-service bar is available, offering a great selection of Beer, Wine, Cocktails, and Hard liquor. They also serve Coffee.
  • Special Dining Programs: The tavern caters to budgetary and time-sensitive needs by offering Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food specials.
  • Event and Group Services: Catering services are available, and the space is noted to be popular for Groups, with the ability to accept Dinner reservations.
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: The restaurant is Good for kids and offers High chairs and a Kids' menu, and even includes changing table(s), making it a viable option for families.

Features / Highlights

Several key features and highlights contribute to Velma Tavern’s reputation as a standout establishment in Ridgewood's dining scene, appealing directly to the discerning tastes of New York patrons.

  • Exceptional Beverage Offerings: The tavern is highlighted for its Great cocktails and Great wine list, confirming its status as a serious bar as well as a restaurant. The bar itself is described as a unique and well-designed space that enhances the overall experience.
  • Comfort and Atmosphere: The atmosphere is a successful blend of Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, providing a relaxed yet stylish backdrop for any meal. The intentional decor, featuring classic Italian elements and eclectic memorabilia, is a strong talking point.
  • Speed of Service: The highlight of Fast service is a significant advantage in NYC, assuring patrons that they can enjoy a quality meal without excessive waiting times.
  • Menu Variety with Italian Focus: The menu offers popular categories like Small plates (such as Baked Clams and Whipped Ricotta), classic Pies (including Grandma, Vodkaroni, and Meat Lovers), comforting Pasta dishes (Spicy Vodka, Bolognese), and satisfying Mains (Velma Parmigiana, Pork Chop, Velma Burger). Vegetarian options are also available.
  • Convenient Planning and Payment: The tavern Accepts reservations (with dinner reservations recommended) and accepts various payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, for maximum guest ease.

Contact Information

Velma Tavern can be reached through the following contact methods for reservations, take-out orders, and general inquiries:

Address: 5-84 Seneca Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA

Phone: (347) 798-4303

Mobile Phone: +1 347-798-4303

What is Worth Choosing

Velma Tavern is worth choosing for the Ridgewood local because it delivers a triple threat: excellent drinks, a uniquely cozy atmosphere, and reliably good Italian-American comfort food. For New Yorkers who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail or a great glass of wine, the tavern’s highlighted beverage program makes it a top contender in the local bar scene. This quality is matched by an appealing food menu that satisfies serious cravings.

Patrons frequently praise the classic items that embody Italian-American home cooking, with the Meatballs often cited as "excellent" and the pasta cooked "perfectly al dente." The Velma Salad is also a local favorite, praised for its "super lemony goodness" vinaigrette. The mix of high-quality comfort food (like the Grandma Pie and the Velma Parmigiana) and the tavern environment creates a relaxed yet spirited dining experience, making it perfect for various occasions—from a dinner date to a casual gathering with friends. The commitment to fast service and accessibility further cements its status as a reliable and thoughtful neighborhood establishment. When seeking a place that effortlessly blends a cozy, fun environment with satisfying comfort cuisine and a great drink selection in Ridgewood, Velma Tavern is a standout choice.

Velma Tavern Menu

  • Appetizers

  • BAKED CLAMS $19.00

    littleneck clam, breadcrumbs

  • WINGS $18.00

    jumbo twice cooked wings, buffalo sauce

  • CRUDITÉ $18.00

    garbanzo bean hummus, carrot, endive, cucumber, cherry tomato, green bean, sweet pepper

  • FRIED MOZZARELLA $17.00

    housemade breaded mozzarella served with marinara sauce

  • FRIED CALAMARI $19.00

    served with marinara

  • NUGGETS $10.00

    10 piece of double battered chicken breast

  • WHIPPED RICOTTA $17.00

    fresh ricotta, chili honey, garlic chips, basil, parsley, mint

  • Pies

  • GRANDMA $30.00

    fresh mozzarella, basil, garlic, tomato sauce. Square pie.

  • VODKARONI $30.00

    vodka sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, cheese

  • MUSHROOM $32.00

    wild mushrooms, five cheeses, pesto

  • POTATO $30.00

    potato, rosemary, roasted garlic, onion, mozzarella

  • MEAT LOVERS $30.00

    pepperoni, crumbled italian sausage, mozzarella, ricotta

  • VELMA $30.00

    jalapeño, shallot, green olives, pepperoni

  • Salads

  • VELMA SALAD $14.00

    romaine lettuce, lemon vinaigrette, grated pecorino, pistachios, grated egg

  • CAESAR SALAD $16.00

    romaine, housemade caesar dressing, housemade croutons, white anchovies

  • MANDOLINA SALAD $18.00

    arugula, endive, pear, walnuts, imported gorgonzola with prosecco vinaigrette

  • WEDGE SALAD $20.00

    iceberg lettuce, buttermilk blue cheese dressing, thick cut bacon, tomato, red onion, egg

  • Mains

  • ROASTED CHICKEN $30.00

    chicken breast, herbs, french carrots, fingerling potatoes

  • PORK CHOP $28.00

    double bone in pork chop, porcini mushrooms, marsala sauce

  • VELMA PARMIGIANA $30.00

    chicken cutlet, vodka sauce, cherry pepper, spaghetti

  • TAVERN STEAK $28.00

    hanger, served medium

  • MUSSELS FRA DIAVOLO $18.00

    organic mussels, Calabrian chili, marinara

  • VELMA BURGER $17.00

    4oz charbroiled burger, special sauce, shredded lettuce, tomato, red onion, dill pickles (served medium) with herb fries

  • Pasta

  • SPICY VODKA $18.00

    mezze rigatoni, calabrian chili, vodka sauce

  • LEMON PASTA $16.00

    spaghetti, lemon, parmigiana

  • KALE ALFREDO $18.00

    rigatoni in cream sauce, kale, pecorino

  • BOLOGNESE $20.00

    beat and park balegnese, withsspaghetti

  • Sides

  • DRESSED ARUGULA $5.00
  • FINGERLING POTATO $8.00
  • FRENCH CARROTS $10.00
  • FRENCH STRING BEANS $10.00
  • HERB FRIES $7.00
  • Dessert

  • TIRAMISU $12.00
  • SUNDAE $18.00

Velma Tavern Details

  • Service options

  • Curbside pickup
  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great cocktails
  • Great wine list
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Happy hour drinks
  • Happy hour food
  • Hard liquor
  • Small plates
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy
  • Crowd

  • Groups
  • Planning

  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids
  • Has changing table(s)
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu

Velma Tavern Photos

Velma Tavern Picture 1Velma Tavern Picture 2Velma Tavern Picture 3Velma Tavern Picture 4Velma Tavern Picture 5Velma Tavern Picture 6Velma Tavern Picture 7Velma Tavern Picture 8Velma Tavern Picture 9Velma Tavern Picture 10

Velma Tavern Location

Velma Tavern

5-84 Seneca Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA

Velma Tavern Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 142 user reviews.

pricesitalianatmospheresaladcocktailsspicypool tablelumachehappy hoursunday sauce

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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