TLDR
Iconic retro diner famed for roast beef, addictive 'cheez' sauce, and some of the city's best milkshakes. A timeless Sheepshead Bay staple that feels like stepping back into the 80s.
Details
An iconic Sheepshead Bay institution, this retro establishment has been serving classic roast beef sandwiches and American diner staples since 1971 [1]. The atmosphere is defined by ochre-colored Formica booths and chandeliers, maintaining an unchanged vibe since the 80s [2], [3]. While its roast beef remains a subject of intense local debate, the restaurant is widely celebrated for its legendary milkshakes and unique 'cheez' sauce [1], [2], [4].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on American fast-food classics like roast beef sandwiches, burgers, and cottage fries, all of which benefit from the signature 'cheez' sauce [1], [3]. Customers highly recommend the milkshakes [2] and cheese fries [3], while pizza is explicitly noted as a dish to avoid [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ROLL-N-ROASTER
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: I Had The Gargiulo Burger At Hamburger America
"The user criticizes the restaurant, calling it local fast food slop."
NegativeFrom post: I Had The Gargiulo Burger At Hamburger America
"The user agrees the beef was stringy and nearly inedible, and notes the turkey is superior."
NegativeFrom post: I Had The Gargiulo Burger At Hamburger America
"The user notes that their recent experiences have not been great, specifically citing chewy roast beef."
NegativeFrom post: I Had The Gargiulo Burger At Hamburger America
"The user suggests this restaurant is better than Brennan & Carr for this type of food."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user stated that Roll-n-Roaster's vanilla milkshake is the best in the city."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user had a really good B&W milkshake at Roll-n-Roasters over the weekend."
PositiveFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"Rock n Roaster is mentioned as a place people go on beach days, along with L&B."
NeutralFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"Comparing Rock n Roaster to Brennan & Carr, the commenter found RnR's roast beef to be nice and tender but lacking flavor and seasoning in the gravy. They preferred Brennan & Carr."
NeutralFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"The commenter prefers Rock n Roaster for its simplicity, noting it's usually just bread, slices of beef, and a bit of sauce. They also like their wings without sauce. Brennan and Carr is described as saltier, and John Deli as different but good."
PositiveFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"Rock n Roaster is described as a beloved local fast food joint, worth trying once but not necessarily a reason to go out of the way. The commenter found the roast beef dry and lacking flavor in broth, and preferred John Deli."
NeutralFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"One commenter simply stated that Roll n Roaster is better than Brennan and Carr."
PositiveFrom post: Brennan And Carr We Do Things The Old Way Nyt
"After a visit to Brennan and Carr, the commenter considered trying Rock N Roller for comparison."
NeutralFrom post: Where To Lose Beef Virginity
"The roast beef sandwich from Roll n Roaster is recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Where Is The Best Nyc French Dip
"Roll n Roaster is suggested as a contender in the discussion for best French Dip."
PositiveFrom post: Your Favorite On The Way Spot
"This commenter criticizes Roll n Roaster, stating that their bread goes stale."
NegativeFrom post: Your Favorite On The Way Spot
"During the summer, the commenter stops at Roll n Roaster in Sheepshead Bay on their bike route from Williamsburg to Jacob Riis beach, noting they offer free water with a bike helmet."
PositiveFrom post: Im Looking For The Cheesiest Cheeseburger In Nyc
"Recommended for its 'cheez' option, suggesting to ask for extra cheese to make the burger very cheesy."
PositiveFrom post: French Dip Or Roast Beef Recommendations In
"This user stated they prefer orangeade."
NeutralFrom post: French Dip Or Roast Beef Recommendations In
"This user mentioned enjoying cheese fries and lemonade from Roll N Roaster, even while sitting in traffic."
PositiveFrom post: French Dip Or Roast Beef Recommendations In
"This user suggested going to Roll N Roaster and eating the food on a bench with a view of the bay."
Positive