TLDR
Wood-fired grill and pasta specialist in Ridgewood known for its bustling atmosphere, exceptional steak program, and highly sought-after, limited-supply burger.
Instagram Posts References
Rolo's is described as having a cool atmosphere and phenomenal service. The menu features several standout dishes, with the corn cappelletti being the author's personal favorite, even more so than the popular two-sheet lasagna. The author concludes that it is worth traveling to for its dining experience, despite not being the top restaurant in NYC.
Rolo's is recognized for an 'insane pasta dish,' suggesting a highly impressive and delicious culinary creation.
Rolo's is recognized for its exceptional burger, suggesting it's a prime spot for those seeking a high-quality burger and martini combination in NYC.
Students participating in the Food Education Fund's Dine Out program visited Rolo's, a New York City restaurant. The program aims to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for a career in hospitality.
Rolo's in Ridgewood, serving New American cuisine, is celebrated for a burger that 'changed my life.' Patrons are advised to arrive by 5 PM as the burger often sells out by 6 PM. The restaurant is also noted for its incredible wine selection and wood-fired dishes.
Rolo's, a charming Ridgewood spot with a casual vibe, is a must-visit for its delicious wood-fired chicken, pasta, and burgers, as well as its popular brunch and baked goods. Reservations are recommended for this neighborhood favorite.
Details
A neighborhood standout in Ridgewood, this grill from Gramercy Tavern veterans features a lively atmosphere and a heart-centered wood-fired kitchen [1]. The menu showcases refined, detail-oriented dishes including wood-fired steaks, pasta, and their signature lasagna verde [2], [3]. While popular for a burger that often sells out early in the evening, the restaurant also earns high marks for its innovative seasonal vegetables and small plates [3], [4].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on American and Italian-American cuisine, highlighted by wood-fired preparations [1]. Highly recommended dishes include the polenta bread with Calabrian chili butter, the lasagna verde, and the dry-aged steaks [2], [3], [4]. While the house-butchered burger is a frequent point of contention due to its limited availability and polarizing reviews, many diners still find it to be an exceptional, top-tier menu item [3], [4].
Highlights / Recommended
Mentioned Dishes:
- •burger(25)
- •lasagna(10)
- •steak(7)
- •polenta bread(5)
- •green lasagna(5)
- •pork chop(4)
- •war potatoes(4)
- •calabrian chili butter polenta bread(3)
- •bread(2)
- •scallop crudo(2)
- •pasta(2)
- •burgers(2)
- •skirt steak(2)
- •two sheet lasagna verde(2)
- •croquettes(2)
- •lasagna verde(2)
- •fire charred prawns(2)
- •shrimp(2)
Customer Sentiment
Patrons generally praise the inventive, high-quality food and inviting atmosphere, frequently citing it as a go-to neighborhood gem [1], [2]. However, some diners report inconsistent service and express frustration regarding the scarcity of popular menu items and perceived value [3], [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ROLO'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Dimly Lit Brooklyn Restaurant To Celebrate Bday
"A brief recommendation for this restaurant."
NeutralFrom post: What Burgers Should I Eat During A Week Off From
"Stated that Rolos' burger is 'damn close' to Peter Luger's quality."
PositiveFrom post: What Burgers Should I Eat During A Week Off From
"Found the burger at Rolo's to be a disappointment, with the dijonnaise being overpowering and the burger overcooked."
NegativeFrom post: What Burgers Should I Eat During A Week Off From
"Suggested Rolos if a burger can be obtained."
PositiveFrom post: If You Could Have Just One Dish From One
"The commenter recommended the lasagna at Rolo's."
PositiveFrom post: Which Restaurants Recently Exceeded Your
"While enjoying Rolo's burgers, the user finds the staff and host rude, making them feel judged even during off-peak hours."
NeutralFrom post: Which Restaurants Recently Exceeded Your
"This user recommends the 'war style potatoes' at Rolo's as the best potato dish in the city."
PositiveFrom post: Which Restaurants Recently Exceeded Your
"The user found the loaded fries and lasagna at Rolo's amazing and recommends sticking to either Italian or American dishes, as mixing them doesn't work well."
PositiveFrom post: Which Restaurants Recently Exceeded Your
"The user asks for specific dish recommendations from Rolo's, mentioning they haven't tried other places on the list."
NeutralFrom post: Which Restaurants Recently Exceeded Your
"This user lists Rolo's as a place that exceeded expectations."
PositiveFrom post: On The Hunt For For Good Or Interesting Bread
"The wood-fired polenta bread at Rolo's is described as spectacular."
PositiveFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This commenter, a former restaurant professional, criticizes Rolo's for inconsistent service, management issues, and some disappointing dishes, suggesting it's overhyped and mid-tier."
NegativeFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This user questions the authenticity of the original post, finding the phrasing about Rolo's humble beginnings suspicious and suggesting it might be paid promotion."
NegativeFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This commenter asks if Rolo's is the restaurant with the green lasagna."
NeutralFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"Responding to a comparison, this user states Rolo's is not a steakhouse but is considered among the best in NYC, even compared to Manhattan establishments."
PositiveFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"The commenter confirms that Rolo's Calabrian chili butter polenta bread is delicious and baked in their wood-fired oven."
PositiveFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This user, who had a positive Rolo's dining experience, is seeking recommendations for better restaurants in Williamsburg."
PositiveFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This user is curious about Rolo's Calabrian chili butter polenta bread."
NeutralFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This user enjoys Rolo's and also recommends Hell Bender, another local restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: Rolos Strikes Again Toptier Steak And Experience
"This user dislikes the pre-sliced steak at Rolo's, believing it cools down faster."
Negative