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Uncle Peter's
Master Critic Reviews (4 Lists)
Uncle Peter's
8.7
This 2001-opened Jackson Heights institution delivers Italian classics with Argentine and Spanish influences, earning its TripAdvisor #1 ranking through impeccable seafood preparations, housemade pastas, and gaucho-style steaks. The warm, white-tableclothed dining room has become the neighborhood's go-to for celebrations and special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seafood Salad alla Venezia, Scaloppine Marsala, Gaucho-Style Ribeye with Chimichurri
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Italian-Argentine fusion with owner Ernesto's personal Malbec grappa and Latin jazz ambiance
Who should go: Couples, families celebrating milestones, seafood enthusiasts
When to visit: Weekend dinner reservations recommended for special occasions
What to order: Bronzino, rigatoni with braised beef, strawberry panna cotta
Insider tip: Ask about the chef's daily specials and the owner's wine recommendations
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Northern Blvd (challenging after 6pm), valet available on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual - dressy jeans acceptable, most guests lean elegant for dinner
Noise level: Moderate - intimate enough for date conversation, rises on busy Saturday nights
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation; tables turn quickly so arrive early
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - salads, risottos, pasta dishes (mushroom risotto, fettuccine alfredo noted as favorites)
Vegan options: Limited - can modify salads and pasta dishes; ask server for current options
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options available per TripAdvisor; notify server when ordering
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. White tablecloths, Latin jazz ambiance, moderate noise level, and romantic lighting create the perfect intimate setting. Tables are close together so skip if you need privacy for serious talks.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch: yes, easily. Weekend dinner: risky - Saturday nights pack out with wait times of 30+ minutes. Call (718) 651-8600 to reserve; not on OpenTable. Worth the advance planning.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - Yelp marks it 'good for kids' and families frequent for celebrations. Pasta and chicken dishes work well for younger diners. The white-tablecloth setting means it's better for well-behaved kids at dinner.
Best For
Better for: Special occasion seafood (bronzino, whole fish), Italian-Argentine fusion flavors you won't find at standard Italian spots, and neighborhood regulars who value personal service from owner Ernesto
Skip if: You want quick-turnover casual dining, need lots of vegan options, or prefer quieter tables with more spacing - try Park Side in Corona for more spacious classic Italian instead
Uncle Peter's
8.5
Classic Italian comfort with a loyal local following, known for hearty lasagna and red‑sauce standards in a relaxed dining room. The crowd‑pleasing portions and consistent execution make this a dependable choice for casual family dinners in Jackson Heights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Meat Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan, Spaghetti & Meatballs
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Hearty, old‑school Italian classics locals love
Who should go: Families and casual red‑sauce lovers
When to visit: Weekend dinners or casual weeknights
What to order: Lasagna, Chicken Parmesan, Spaghetti & Meatballs
Insider tip: Get there early — it fills up on weekend nights
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, can be challenging during peak hours; consider arriving early or using nearby paid lots.
Dress code: Casual, no formal dress code required.
Noise level: Moderate - can hear your date, but may get louder during peak times.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated menu section with a variety of vegetarian options.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options available, primarily pasta dishes and salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area for gluten-free orders.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, the cozy and relaxed atmosphere makes it a great option for a low-pressure first date, especially if you both enjoy classic Italian comfort food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but it’s highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekend evenings when it fills up quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, families with kids will enjoy it. The large portions and relaxed setting are ideal for children, and there are menu items suited for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Hearty, no-frills Italian comfort food in generous portions, perfect for a casual, family-style dining experience.
Skip if: If you're seeking a more modern or trendy atmosphere, or if you prefer lighter, more refined Italian cuisine.
Uncle Peter's
8.2
A cozy Italian restaurant known for classic pasta, seafood, and a comfortable private dining area suitable for mid‑size groups and family celebrations. Its traditional menu and casual setting make it a reliable choice for communal dinners. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Must-Try Dishes:
Spaghetti Alle Vongole, Chicken Parmigiana, Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Classic Italian fare with a welcoming private dining setting
Who should go: Families and groups seeking traditional Italian
When to visit: Evenings and weekend lunches
What to order: Spaghetti alle vongole, chicken parmigiana, tiramisu
Insider tip: Book early for Sunday family dinners
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, limited spaces on weekends; valet service not offered.
Dress code: Casual - jeans are fine, but smart casual attire is recommended for a more polished feel.
Noise level: Moderate - the atmosphere is lively, but conversation is still easily audible.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, even for mid-size groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several pasta and vegetable-based options on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options available, mainly vegetable dishes and salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free pasta options are available, prepared in a separate area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? While it’s a cozy and comfortable spot, the casual ambiance makes it more suitable for family or group dining rather than an intimate first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s best to book a table in advance, especially on weekends. The private dining room can fill up quickly, and weekends tend to be busier.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the restaurant is family-friendly with a casual vibe. Kids will enjoy the classic Italian dishes, and the private dining area provides a quieter space for families.
Best For
Better for: Uncle Peter's excels for family gatherings and group dinners, offering classic Italian comfort food in a cozy, private space.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a more modern or upscale Italian experience, consider alternatives with more contemporary menus or décor.
Uncle Peter's
8.4
A polished, old-school Italian dining room on Northern Boulevard that leans into steaks, seafood, and red-sauce comfort with a grown-up, celebratory feel. The room reads more “special occasion” than neighborhood joint, making it one of the stronger date-night picks in the ZIP for ambiance and pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Penne alla vodka, Lasagna, Panna cotta
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A surprisingly upscale Italian room with a celebratory, date-friendly vibe.
Who should go: Couples wanting a sit-down Italian dinner
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for calmer pacing
What to order: Penne alla vodka, lasagna, panna cotta
Insider tip: Book ahead on weekends—tables fill with celebrations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Northern Boulevard; manageable earlier in the evening but becomes difficult after 7pm. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy — jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished for date nights and celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during peak dinner hours but still comfortable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: No wait typically (lunch service is calmer and less crowded)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pasta dishes and classic Italian vegetable sides work well.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications, but not a strong vegan destination.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some proteins and sauces are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated GF pasta program.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the ambiance feels intentional and polished without being intimidating, making it a strong choice if you want something a step above casual.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or early evenings, but weekends and holidays often fill up with birthdays and group celebrations.
Is it kid-friendly? Kids are welcome, but the vibe skews adult and celebratory — better suited for teens than younger children.
Best For
Better for: Date nights, anniversaries, and celebratory Italian dinners with a classic steak-and-seafood lean.
Skip if: You want a casual neighborhood Italian spot, fast service, or strong vegan/gluten-free specialization.