TLDR
Authentic Sicilian specialties and rare street food finds. A Brooklyn staple for classic Italian comfort.
Details
Known for its authentic Sicilian offerings, this neighborhood institution serves traditional specialties in an unpretentious setting [1]. While some patrons swear by its classic pasta and street food staples [1], [8], others feel the quality has fluctuated in recent years [6], [7], [9]. It remains a go-to spot for those seeking a genuine taste of Southern Italy in Brooklyn [2], [5].
Food Overview
This establishment specializes in Sicilian and red-sauce Italian cuisine, including destination-worthy panelle and arancini [1], [11], [12]. Diners particularly recommend the pasta con sarde [1] and panelle with ricotta [8], though the consistency of the food is a point of contention among recent visitors [6], [7].
Caveats
Some visitors have reported a decline in food quality, with concerns regarding potential use of microwaves [7] and inconsistent preparation [6]. Additionally, some menu items like vastedda are listed without translation, which may be confusing for some diners [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About JOE'S OF AVE U
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Is There Any Arancini In Nyc Similar To Whats In
"Identifies the place as a Sicilian restaurant with great arancini."
PositiveFrom post: Is There Any Arancini In Nyc Similar To Whats In
"The commenter describes the arancini here as being served 'special' style with sauce and cheese, noting it is a different preparation than what is found in Sicily."
PositiveFrom post: Arancini Onion Focaccia And Sfincione From
"Mentioned as a place on the user's list to visit, known for being one of the few places to get panelle."
NeutralFrom post: First Taste Of Panelle At Visit Sicily Nyc East
"The author stated that Joe's of Avenue U is now awful."
NegativeFrom post: First Taste Of Panelle At Visit Sicily Nyc East
"The author expressed love for Joe's of Avenue U, specifically highlighting their panelle with ricotta as the best."
PositiveFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"This commenter felt Joe's of Ave U has declined, mentioning their food was microwaved and is not what it used to be."
NegativeFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"This commenter had a very negative experience at Joe's of Ave U, stating it was some of the worst food they've had in NYC recently, despite good service, and that the restaurant is past its prime."
NegativeFrom post: Red Sauce Italian
"Joe's of Ave U was mentioned as a red sauce Italian option."
NeutralFrom post: Sicilian Calamari
"This user clarified that Joe's of Ave U is not too far for them, in response to the travel time mentioned by another user."
PositiveFrom post: Sicilian Calamari
"This user suggested Joe's of Ave U for Sicilian calamari in red sauce, noting it might be a bit of a trip."
PositiveFrom post: In Search Of Authentic Foods
"In response to a request for authentic Italian restaurant ideas for a school project, Joe's of Ave U was recommended."
NeutralFrom post: Looking For Some Authentic Italian Recommendations
"Joe's of Avenue U is praised for its menu in English and Sicilian, its pasta con sarde, panelle, and arancino. They also mention vastedda as an untranslated menu item."
Positive