The Story Behind

Our Story

Welcome to Dera Restaurant
Where tradition meets taste in the heart of Jackson Heights, Queens.. Enjoy the finest, authentic Desi flavors crafted with care for an unforgettable taste experience.
Welcome to Dera Restaurant, where tradition meets taste in the heart of Jackson Heights, Queens.
The journey for what is today began in 1971, since then, this property has been serving a blend ofPakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, and Nepali dishes.
After several changes in ownership, Mohammad Saif Ullah Nagra, a passionate entrepreneur, took over in 2004 and transformed the restaurant into what is today Dera Restaurant and Sweets.
Mohammad Saif Ullah Nagra, originally from Gujranwala, Pakistan, moved to the United States in 1991. Like many immigrants, he faced numerous challenges but remained driven and determined.
Dera Owner
Before becoming a restaurant owner, Nagra worked various jobs in the U.S., from a video store to a Manhattan bakery, until he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 1995, opening his first business, a deli in brooklyn NY as any entrepreneur he explored and changed many businesses throughout the years . Although he was familiar with business, it was his frequent visits to Jackson Heights for authentic Pakistani food that ignited his passion for the restaurant business.When Nagra took the reins, he infused Dera with dedication and community spirit. He addressed key issues, extended operating hours, and transformed Dera into a beloved community hub.The name “Dera,” meaning “a sitting place” in Punjabi where people gather, reflects our mission to be a cozy and welcoming space for relaxation, connection, and enjoyment of delicious food.
 
Dera Restaurant
At Dera, we pride ourselves not only on our food but also on the sense of community we foster.
From our daily offering of warm halwa puri to our famous goat curry, we provide a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Our culinary delights don’t stop at savory dishes—we also offer a variety of traditional sweets that have become customer favorites, including falooda, jalebi, gulab jamun, and ras malai, all prepared with authentic recipes from scratch in house.Dera doesn’t stop there—we cater to all types of events, from weddings and baby showers to
conventions and more. Whether it’s for 150 or 1,500 people, we proudly tell our customers, “You
request it, we do it.” We offer a fully customizable experience for special occasions, ensuring that
every wish comes true.
Dera Restaurant
Testimonials
What People Are Saying
I was came from Australia 🇦🇺. We were 3 guys and honestly speaking this place is Just Perfect. Everything is delicious 🤤.
Imran Tanvir
True Gujrawala & lahori taste in Jackson Heights 7209 Queens new york
Dera review
Patio Time
One of the best Asian food place in NYC. Specially their goat polao and beef paya(nehari) and beef bihari kabab as well.
Mohammad Fojlul Kobir
The food here is always so great, and their naan is always so fresh and delicious, just like everything else 🙂 highly recommend the malai boti and nihari
Shanzeh Ali
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