Jackson Diner
37-47 74th Street, Jackson Heights
While it may sound like the setting for another episode of Diner Cakes, the Jackson Diner is actually a very well-known Indian restaurant in Jackson Heights. It has been around for a long time and I have been wanting to try it for years. I am not sure why it is so famous, but probably for the modern diner-esque atmosphere which is inviting to a younger, hipper clientele. The room has high ceilings, metallic fixtures and booth along the walls. The menu has pretty typical Indian offering that are quite tasty. For an app I had these white squishy lentil cakes which I dipped in this cup of stew-flavored sauce. It was new to me and interesting. The four of us had typical tasty entrees: aloo gobi, saag paneer, chicken korma and an okra dish – and of course naan and aloo paratha breads. They were closing at 10:30 on Saturday night, which is strange, especially for Jackson Heights, but it was a good meal. I would recommend the Jackson Diner for high quality, reasonably priced Indian fare, and am anxious to visit other more hidden gems in the neighborhood.
Those squishy white lentil/rice cakes are what my mom ate for breakfast nearly every day of her childhood! When we went to India two years ago, one of the highlights was getting to eat idli every day. Idli are a special (I’m tempted to say, sacred) thing in our family and I would love to share Indian food w/you some time. We eat it (both at home & out) A LOT. A few of our favorite Manhattan spots are Madras Mahal & Copper Lantern (Lexington) and just discovered the Leela Lounge (1 W. 3rd).
Now, I agree with you that Jackson Diner is indeed consistently very good Indian food, but don’t you find it’s reputation a bit overstated? I can’t count how many people have told us, “Oh, you MUST go to the Jackson Diner!!!” as if it were the finest Indian food on the planet.
Thanks for the great comment Deborah! I could see idli making for a very satisfying breakfast. I agree that Jackson Diner is overrated and that there are much better places. Thanks for the suggestions. I’ve been wanting to try Leela Lounge for awhile.