Udai Tambar was born in Scotland, lived in India, and eventually moved to Queens while in elementary school. He grew up in Jamaica Estates and now lives in Forest Hills with his family. The Cornell University graduate serves as President & CEO of Long Island City-based New York Junior Tennis & Learning, the country’s largest nonprofit youth tennis and educational program. His Instagram is filled with food images.
Good Eats
When I want a slice of real New York pizza, I head to Romeo’s Pizzeria on Union Turnpike off 188th Street in Fresh Meadows. It’s not pretentious, there’s not a fancy brick oven, but the pizza is fantastic and staffers always welcome me back. I’m also a big fan of the “Loaded” breakfast burrito — which I load with avocado — and the chicken parm at The Local Eatery & Craft Beer on Selfridge Street off Yellowstone Boulevard in Forest Hills. The same neighborhood also has great French baked goods at La Boulangerie on 72nd Road and fantastic Mexican fare at Metro Taco on Metropolitan Avenue. I know it’s part of a chain, but I enjoy heading to the local Carvel with my 13-year-old son for soft serve vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate.
Wander Streets
I enjoy walking with my wife around Forest Hills Gardens, where it’s always peaceful. Since it’s not a grid, it’s easy to get lost, but I like that. We’ve been living in the neighborhood for about two decades, and it’s very walkable. Plus, it’s not too far from Flushing Meadows Corona Park, where we enjoy taking long walks around the lake.
Historic Feats
It might not be a historic landmark, but one establishment that holds a special place in my heart is The Lemon Ice King of Corona on 108th Street. I remember going there with my dad and brother when I was a kid, and I take my boys there now. The rules haven’t changed; they won’t mix flavors! I always order the cherry or coconut. And the prices haven’t increased that much.
Unique Treats
There are too many to choose from, so I will highlight a few that I keep going back for. First is the Bonelle Pastry Shop on Ascan Avenue. My family has been going for decades, and it sells the best carrot cake in the city. I regularly head to Lulu’s Bakery on Union Turnpike for the cream-filled lobster tail. And I recently discovered a bakery a short distance from my office in Astoria called “Little Flower Cafe.” I can’t stop thinking about the firni doughnut, which is an Afghan custard. It’s possibly the best donut I ever had in my life! (Yes, I like desserts.)
