Hello dear
Dera Restaurant, a beloved gem tucked away in Jackson Heights, New York, serves an impressive array of authentic Pakistani dishes that leave patrons craving more. Renowned for its vast menu, diners can indulge in flavorful curries, tender kebabs, and rich biryanis, alongside freshly made naans and parathas. The Bihari kebab, celebrated for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, stands out as a must-try dish. Though the ambiance is casual and can get bustling during peak hours, the attentive staff ensures a pleasant dining experience. With reasonable prices and hearty portions, Dera Restaurant remains a cherished spot for fans of Pakistani cuisine.
Story & Atmosphere
Welcome to Dera Restaurant, a revered gem in the vibrant culinary landscape of Jackson Heights, New York. Renowned for its authentic Pakistani cuisine, Dera offers an expansive menu that showcases the rich flavors and traditions of South Asian cooking. Whether you're a connoisseur of spice or a curious newcomer, this restaurant is a delightful destination for food lovers of all kinds.
With an impressive selection that includes everything from succulent curries to flavorful kebabs, Dera Restaurant epitomizes the art of Pakistani dining. The Bihari Kabab, a fan favorite, stands out for its tender, marinated beef, which is enriched with robust spices. Reviews from regular patrons like Sonia R suggest that this dish is an absolute must-try, carefully prepared to ensure an unforgettable experience.
The ambiance at Dera may be described as cozy yet lively, especially during weekends when the restaurant buzzes with energy. While seating is ample, it's advisable to visit early to avoid the rush. As Sagar Bhatt Karia mentions, the chicken, palak, and channa masala dishes are equally commendable, served promptly and bursting with flavor.
Each visit to Dera reveals an array of textures and tastes. From the fluffy, generously sized naans to the smooth and refreshing raita, there is no shortage of delicious accompaniments. Although not every dish garners unanimous praise—as noted in Sagar Bhatt Karia’s review of the bhindi masala and chicken kebab—the overall culinary experience remains one of value and heart.
As Samir Nawaz aptly describes, Dera is an "old school OG" restaurant that brings a huge variety of traditional dishes to the table. From Nihari to biryani, every bite offers a glimpse into the authentic cooking methods that have stood the test of time. While prices have seen a gradual increase, loyal customers affirm that the quality and taste of the food justify every penny spent.
If you're seeking a place to indulge in hearty, flavorful dishes steeped in cultural heritage, Dera Restaurant is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey. With a commitment to authenticity and flavor, this establishment remains a cherished spot for those who appreciate the true essence of Pakistani cuisine. Don’t miss out on discovering your new favorite dish!
For reservations or inquiries, connect with Dera Restaurant at +1 718-898-3372.
“ Very tasty food, ok ambience, helpful staff. It does get pretty busy during weekends/evenings but there's plenty of seating. The food was served promptly and was really delicious. I recommend you get the chicken, palak, channa masala dishes. Naans are pretty big. Raita was pretty good too. We did not like the bhindi masala and chicken kebab that much but they were ok. Most of the dishes and naan are pretty oily. ”
“ This is an old school OG Pakistani restaurant in NY. Been going here for years, HUGE selection of authentic and good Pakistani food. They have anything you can think of, curries, kebabs, rices, Nihari, piya, daals, biryani, pulao, keema, haleem, all types of naans, rotis & paratha and every type of sweets you can think of. Large seating area. Prices have gone up over the years but still worth it. ”
“ This would be my best spot just to eat food, absolutely real food served with reasonable price everything. Much larger place to dine in. ”
“ Dera is my go-to spot in Jackson Heights for me. Their Bihari kabab is an absolute must-try—the beef is incredibly soft, flavorful, and truly delicious. While the paya was okay, the Bihari kabab is the star of the show. It takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, but it's well worth the wait. You can tell they take their time with the marination and cooking, which makes all the difference. I hope they never change their recipe; it’s perfect just the way it is. If you’re looking for a genuinely great Bihari kabab, this is the place to get it. ”