About Uncle Tony's
Three generations of family recipes and neighborhood love
The Uncle Tony Story
Born in Brooklyn in 1952, Anthony "Tony" Benedetto grew up in a house where the kitchen was the heart of everything. His grandmother, fresh from Sicily, taught him that food wasn't just about eating—it was about bringing people together, sharing stories, and creating memories.
After working in his uncle's restaurant throughout high school and college, Tony had a dream: to create a place where everyone felt like family. In 1978, with $500 in his pocket and his grandmother's recipe book, he opened the first Uncle Tony's Italian Grill.
What started as a small neighborhood spot with six tables has grown into a Brooklyn institution, but the heart remains the same. Every meatball is still hand-rolled, every sauce still simmers for hours, and every customer is still treated like family.
"Nobody leaves Uncle Tony's hungry. If you do, you did it wrong."
- Uncle Tony
What Makes Us Special
It's not just about the food (though the food is pretty amazing)
Family Recipes
Every recipe comes from Tony's grandmother's handwritten cookbook. No shortcuts, no substitutions—just authentic Italian-American flavors passed down through three generations.
Fresh Everything
Our pasta is made fresh every morning, our bread comes out of the oven every hour, and our sauces simmer all day. We believe fresh ingredients make all the difference.
Neighborhood Family
We know our regulars by name, remember how they like their coffee, and always have a table ready for special occasions. This isn't just a restaurant—it's your neighborhood home away from home.
Our Journey
From six tables to Brooklyn institution
The Beginning
Uncle Tony opens the first location with six tables, $500, and a dream to serve authentic Italian-American food.
Growing the Family
The famous meatball sub becomes a neighborhood legend. Lines start forming on Friday nights.
Second Generation
Tony's son Michael joins the business, bringing fresh ideas while keeping the family traditions alive.
Brooklyn Institution
Featured in "Best of Brooklyn" for the fifth year running. Still the same six tables, just more love.
Still Going Strong
Three generations later, we're still serving the same recipes with the same love. Come be part of our story!