Dairy Palace in Staten Island, New York: A Regal Kosher Dining Experience

Kosher Restaurant in Staten Island, New York ✈

During my recent visit to Staten Island in New York City I made sure to stop by Dairy Palace, a kosher restaurant at 2216 Victory Boulevard in the Castleton Corners neighborhood. Known for its pizza, vegetarian, and dairy dishes, Dairy Palace has been a beloved staple for decades, drawing both the kosher-keeping community and anyone craving comforting food.

While Staten Island may not be the first place that comes to mind for kosher dining, Dairy Palace stands out as an exception worth visiting. Established in the late 1970s to cater to the expanding Jewish community, the restaurant has grown into a neighborhood institution, beloved by generations of locals.

Staten Island is home to a significant Jewish community, which has seen steady growth over the years. Many Jewish families settled here in the mid-20th century, drawn to the area's suburban charm and close-knit atmosphere. Today, Staten Island’s Jewish population is a mix of religiously observant families, traditional Jews, and those who embrace a more modern lifestyle. As the community flourished, so did the demand for kosher food options, which led to the opening of establishments like Dairy Palace. This restaurant has since become a key part of Jewish life on the island, offering a familiar, welcoming space for families to gather and enjoy a meal together.

Book a Tour: Top New York City Tours

“In a city with diverse dining options, Dairy Palace stands firm in its roots. My visit left me with a deeper appreciation for the role neighborhood institutions like this play in their communities.”

The exterior of Dairy Palace is modest, but inside, the vibe is warm and welcoming. The straightforward setup features a counter where you place your order and a few tables for dine-in. The atmosphere is casual, perfect for families, friends, or solo diners looking to enjoy a relaxed meal.

What truly sets Dairy Palace apart is its dedication to tradition. Many recipes have remained unchanged for years, and the restaurant's focus on keeping its food kosher while offering a broad range of appealing options is part of its charm. Regulars often reminisce about their childhood meals, making it clear that Dairy Palace is not just a place to eat, but a cherished part of the community.

The menu is packed with flavorful dishes, all made fresh to order. The pizza, a major highlight, has a crust that strikes the perfect balance between thin and crisp. Beyond pizza, you'll find a variety of dairy and vegetarian options, including classic comfort foods like mozzarella sticks, baked ziti, eggplant parmigiana, and cheeseburgers, all made without meat but brimming with flavor.

Pizza lovers can choose from traditional cheese or more inventive creations like penne vodka pizza, vegetable pizza, and even a Chicago-style deep dish. Calzones stuffed with cheese, broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms provide even more variety. The pasta selection is equally diverse, offering creamy fettuccine alfredo, penne primavera, and linguini melanzo with roasted eggplant. Breakfast is served all day, featuring fluffy omelets and homemade pancakes for those in the mood for morning favorites.

Appetizers include garlic knots, Moroccan cigars, stuffed baked potatoes, and eggplant sticks - perfect starters for any meal. Sandwiches, paninis, and wraps come with flavorful fillings like tuna, falafel, shawarma, and grilled salmon, with customizable bread or wrap options. Fish lovers can enjoy the "Catch of the Day," which includes fresh fish like broiled salmon, tilapia, and red snapper.

Dairy Palace also features a Chinese menu section, with vegetarian versions of sesame chicken, General Tso’s chicken, and pepper steak, all maintaining authentic flavors. Side dishes such as spicy fries, nachos, and mozzarella sticks complement any meal, while indulgent options like cheese fries and Palace Bombs - sweet fried dough balls drizzled with chocolate - add a touch of fun.

For lighter fare, the diet menu offers stir-fried vegetables, broccoli supreme, and cauliflower dishes, along with a selection of knishes, soups, and falafel platters. Desserts like cheese blintzes and potato latkes, paired with a variety of beverages, round out the meal.

No visit to Dairy Palace is complete without a look at the dessert case, featuring an assortment of cheesecakes and pastries that reflect the same commitment to quality seen in the rest of the menu.

The staff at Dairy Palace deserve special mention as well. Despite a steady flow of customers, they were attentive and efficient, ensuring that orders were taken promptly and food delivered without delay. The relaxed yet professional atmosphere speaks to the restaurant’s years of experience.

Dairy Palace has become more than just a restaurant in Staten Island; it’s a place where locals celebrate special occasions, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a comforting meal. The consistency and quality of the food have ensured its continued success, even as other businesses have come and gone.

For visitors to Staten Island, Dairy Palace is a must-visit. It’s a reminder that great food doesn’t need pretense - sometimes, all it takes is a well-made slice of pizza or a satisfying plate of pasta to make you feel at home. For those who have been coming for years, it represents continuity and tradition in a rapidly changing world.

Before or after your meal, there are several nearby attractions to explore. If you're in the mood for some outdoor activities, head over to the beautiful Staten Island Greenbelt, which offers miles of scenic trails for hiking and birdwatching. For those interested in history, a visit to the Staten Island Museum is a great way to learn about the island's rich cultural and natural heritage. Additionally, Silver Lake Park is just a short drive away, providing a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and relax by the lake.

If you're a fan of waterfront views, make sure to check out South Beach, just a short drive from Dairy Palace. The beach offers stunning views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and the harbor, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or some quiet reflection after your meal.

Dairy Palace is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Takeout is also available for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home. Whether you keep kosher or not, the restaurant’s dedication to quality and tradition makes it worth seeking out.

In a city with diverse dining options, Dairy Palace stands firm in its roots. My visit left me with a deeper appreciation for the role neighborhood institutions like this play in their communities. If you find yourself in Staten Island, make sure to visit Dairy Palace and give it a try - you won’t leave hungry.

Book a Tour: Top New York City Tours