Queens is huge. Like, really huge. If you’ve ever found yourself wandering through the residential stretches of Hollis, you know it’s not exactly a place where tourists go to find "viral" eats. It’s a neighborhood with deep roots, legendary hip-hop history, and some of the most underrated food in the five boroughs. Right there on the corner, Datz Deli Hollis Avenue Queens NY stands as a testament to why you should never judge a storefront by its simple awning. It looks like your standard New York bodega from the outside. But once you catch the scent of that Caribbean-infused soul food hitting the air, you realize this isn't just a place to grab a lottery ticket and a ginger ale.
It’s an institution.
People come here for the "Datz Deli Mac." If you know, you know. It’s not just cheese and pasta; it’s a cultural event served in a plastic container. You’ve probably seen it on your Instagram feed or a random TikTok where someone is pulling apart a sandwich that looks like it belongs in a museum of gluttony. Honestly, the hype is actually real for once.
The Magic of the Datz Deli Hollis Avenue Queens NY Menu
What makes this place tick isn't just one recipe. It's the fusion. We’re talking about a Guyanese-American influence that bleeds into every dish. You aren't just getting "soul food." You’re getting a specific, spicy, seasoned-to-the-bone flavor profile that reflects the diaspora in Queens.
Take the Stuffed Beef Patty. In most parts of the city, a beef patty is a quick snack you grab for three bucks. At Datz Deli, they treat it like a canvas. They slice that flaky, yellow crust open and jam it full of their signature mac and cheese, maybe some oxtail gravy, or even jerk chicken. It is heavy. It is messy. It is absolutely glorious.
The oxtail here is another story entirely. It’s tender. It’s slow-cooked until the meat basically surrenders off the bone. They don't skimp on the gravy either. In many "trendy" spots in Manhattan, you’ll pay thirty dollars for a tiny portion of oxtail on a bed of fancy polenta. Here, they heap it onto rice and peas with a side of that legendary mac, and you’re set for the day. Probably the next day, too.
That Mac and Cheese Though
Let’s be real. You’re likely reading this because you heard about the mac.
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There are two schools of thought on mac and cheese in New York. There’s the creamy, saucy version and the baked, crusty-top version. Datz Deli occupies this weird, perfect middle ground. It’s got that pull. You know the one. The cheese isn't just a topping; it’s integrated. It’s seasoned with a kick—nothing that’s going to blow your head off, but enough to make you realize "oh, they actually used salt and pepper here." And maybe a bit of paprika. Or a secret blend they’ll never tell you about.
Why the Location Matters
Hollis isn't Long Island City. It’s not Astoria.
When you head to Datz Deli Hollis Avenue Queens NY, you are entering a neighborhood that has a very specific rhythm. This is the birthplace of Run-D.M.C. and LL Cool J. There is a sense of pride in the air. The deli reflects that. It’s a community hub. You’ll see guys who have lived on the block for forty years chatting with kids who drove two hours from Jersey just to try the sandwich they saw online.
It’s crowded. Expect a wait. This isn't fast food; it's "made with love" food that takes a minute. If you show up at 1:00 PM on a Saturday, be prepared to stand on the sidewalk for a bit. It’s part of the ritual. The staff is working fast, but they aren't going to rush the quality. That’s the trade-off.
Navigating the Order
If it's your first time, don't overthink it.
- Get the Mac and Cheese. It’s the baseline for everything else.
- Try the "Datz Sandwich." It’s basically their greatest hits on a roll.
- Don't forget a drink. They usually have a solid selection of Caribbean sodas—grab a D&G Ginger Beer or a Pinehill juice to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Beyond the Viral TikToks
There is a misconception that Datz Deli is just a "stunt food" place. You see those videos of overstuffed sandwiches and think it’s all for the ‘gram. But the locals know better. They were eating here long before the influencers showed up. The reason it stays popular isn't the marketing—it’s the consistency.
You can taste the Guyanese influence in the seasoning of the meats. It’s a bit more complex than your standard Southern soul food. There’s a brightness to the spices. It’s a reminder that Queens is the most diverse place on the planet, and the food here acts as a bridge between cultures.
The portion sizes are massive. Seriously. If you’re a light eater, one platter is two meals. Maybe three. The value proposition is actually insane when you consider the price of meat and cheese these days. You get your money's worth and then some.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
If you're planning a trip to Datz Deli Hollis Avenue Queens NY, keep these things in mind so you don't look like a total amateur:
- Check the Hours: They aren't a 24-hour bodega. They have specific kitchen hours. Always check their social media or call before you make a long trek.
- Parking is a Pain: It’s a busy stretch of Hollis Avenue. You might have to circle the block a few times or park a few streets over in the residential area. Just be respectful of the neighbors' driveways.
- Cash is King: While many places are moving to card, it’s always smarter to have cash in a Queens deli. It speeds things up.
- The "Secret" Menu: It’s not really secret, but you can usually ask to combine things. Want oxtail gravy on your mac? Just ask. They’re usually cool with it if they aren't slammed.
- Take it to a Park: There isn't much seating inside. It’s a grab-and-go spot. If the weather is nice, find a local park or just eat in your car like a true New Yorker.
What Most People Get Wrong
People think they can just pop in and grab a sandwich in two minutes. You can't. This is a destination now. Also, some people complain about the "heaviness" of the food. Well, yeah. It’s mac and cheese and fried chicken and beef patties. It’s soul food. Don't come here looking for a salad. Come here when you want to feel full for a week.
Another thing? The spice level. It’s not "white bread" mild. It’s got a bit of Caribbean soul. If you’re sensitive to heat, maybe ask them to go light on any extra sauces, but honestly, the spice is where the flavor lives.
Final Thoughts on the Experience
Visiting Datz Deli is a reminder of what New York food is supposed to be. It’s not about white tablecloths or "curated" dining experiences. It’s about a counter, a heavy take-out container, and flavors that tell a story of immigration and adaptation. It’s about the fact that you can find some of the best food in the world tucked away on a corner in Hollis.
If you want to experience the real Queens, skip the trendy spots in Long Island City for once. Take the bus or the train out to Hollis. Stand in line. Smell the oxtail. Get the mac. You won't regret it.
Next Steps for Your Food Tour:
- Map your route: Use the LIRR to Hollis or the F train to 179th St and a bus transfer.
- Follow their Instagram: They often post daily specials that aren't on the regular menu.
- Bring a friend: You’re going to want to split a few different items because the portions are too big for one person to handle reasonably.
- Check the weather: Since you'll likely be eating outside or in a car, pick a day that isn't pouring rain.
Get out there and support a local business that’s doing things the right way. Your stomach will thank you, even if your belt doesn't.