Garulios — Review by First We Feast
New York, United States — American, Burgers, Roast Beef
The reviewer visits Garulios, an 88-year-old establishment known for its roast beef, to try the Guardulo burger—a unique creation born from the Russo family's tradition of combining roast beef and burgers. The burger, featuring beef topped on a bun with cheese and onions, represents an exciting new addition to the menu while the restaurant maintains its legendary roast beef legacy.
What was great: The Guardulo burger with beef on top, cheese, and onions; the roast beef which has been a menu staple for years; the restaurant's rich history and family tradition
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
Garulios presents two compelling burger options that showcase the restaurant's evolution while honoring its storied past. The Guardulo burger is the star of this visit-a fascinating creation that literally stacks beef atop a burger patty, crowned with melted cheese and caramelized onions on a sturdy bun. This unconventional sandwich represents a decades-long family tradition that finally found its way onto the official menu, blending the restaurant's legendary roast beef expertise with classic burger craftsmanship. The layering of beef on beef creates an audaciously meaty experience, with the roast beef adding richness and textural contrast to the traditional patty.
The classic Garulo burger serves as an excellent counterpoint, allowing diners to appreciate the quality of Garulios' burger program without the roast beef topping. Both sandwiches demonstrate the Russo family's commitment to ingredient quality and thoughtful preparation, with properly melted cheese and onions that have clearly been given proper attention rather than treated as mere garnish.
The Experience
Garulios radiates the warmth and authenticity of a true New York institution. The restaurant's 88-year legacy permeates every corner, with a welcoming atmosphere that feels like stepping into a family gathering space. The back room, historically reserved for the Russo family's raucous Sunday night celebrations complete with cases of beer on ice and Italian bread from Coney Island, hints at the informal, celebratory energy that defines this establishment. Service is personable and genuine, with staff clearly proud to share the restaurant's rich history and the story behind the Guardulo creation.
Value & Pricing
While specific pricing wasn't detailed in the visit, Garulios appears to offer fair value for quality roast beef and burger offerings at a New York restaurant with nearly nine decades of operational excellence. The Guardulo burger, given its unique dual-beef construction and heritage, represents compelling value for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Notable Moments
"We have a lot of history with Garulios. All our family functions, weddings, baptisms-all these special events were always at Garulios."
This touching testimony underscores the restaurant's cultural significance beyond mere dining. Another pivotal quote highlighted the Guardulo's journey:
"The star of the menu obviously is the roast beef, but the up and coming star is the Guardulo because it's something new and fresh and exciting. Even though we've been serving it probably 30 years, it's new to us."
The Verdict
Garulios is essential dining for anyone seeking authentic New York food history and genuine family-run hospitality. The Guardulo burger is a must-try for adventurous eaters who appreciate the story behind their food. The restaurant perfectly balances respecting its legendary roast beef legacy while embracing exciting new creations, making it ideal for traditional and adventurous diners alike.