Fun World Cup Experience at Marketa

Yesterday's big World Cup final warranted enjoying it and celebrating in public.  There's a few places I had in mind to get that true spirit and atmosphere that only a diverse crowd in Astoria can bring, Studio Square Beer Garden being one of them. In the end, Dan and I found ourselves strolling down 30th Avenue and settled comfortably at Marketa.

Never actually having been to Marketa, I've observed it from the outside a bit as well as kept my eye on their social media presence.  I have to be honest in that what actually got us through the door is that it wasn't completely packed yesterday, unlike some of its neighbors.

Atmosphere:
Following suit with other popular eateries and bars on this heavily trafficked block, Marketa offers everything they do, plus convenience and hospitality to boot.  I like the varied set-up of the main dining room including different sized tables up front, in the back and also in their charming backyard.  The entire space has very much of a loft vibe, as there's more room upstairs, with a bar presumably, but I didn't go and check it out myself.

Since we were there to just cheer on the teams and have mostly cocktails, we situated ourselves at the spacious bar, which also had access to a big screen TV.  We liked this spot since it didn't feel cramped and was conducive to being chatty and social.

Food and Drinks:
During our visit, Marketa was still serving brunch, which is in effect til about 4 p.m. on weekends.  We weren't much in the mood for it, as we hosted brunch at our place earlier that day, but wanted something smallish to nibble on.

Short Rib Hash - Dan selected this little side, which was actually pretty hefty in size and just as filling.  Topped with braised short rib that was juicy, succulent and full of flavor, it was a perfect way to keep us satiated and also at attention in between cocktails.  The hash that sat underneath the short ribs was also flavorful - on the well done side and sautéed with veggies such as onions and red peppers.

White Sangria - A tall glass of white sangria was the perfect refreshment during yesterday's humid weather.  I liked that it was fruity but not overly sweet and also topped with plenty of fresh fruit such as sliced apples and oranges.  Our bartender served it up with a little wooden spear that allowed you to neatly fish out all the fruity goodness - instead of just relying on your fingers.

Other Drinks - I noticed a few other interesting non-alcoholic drink options that I didn't have the pleasure of trying yet but that I'd be back for.  Including items such as a Nutella latte (frozen or iced), frozen hot chocolate, a java chip frappe and various smoothie options, consider it when you need a little refreshment.

Service and Cost:
I'm happy to say we enjoyed great service at Marketa, as our bartender was attentive, thoughtful but also knew when to leave us be.  She mixed a mean cocktail and did a great job of juggling different requests during this very busy sporting event.

Costs are moderate to almost reasonable for the progressively more expensive 30th Avenue cafes.  Our drinks (three in total) and our hash set us back about $24 ($28 with tax and tip).

3 Mmmms

Marketa - 37-17 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
347.813.4437
N/Q Train to 30th Avenue

New Summer Menu at Bistro 33

Since summer is officially here, it's nice to think about some delicious, light summery food, and a few restaurants are starting to reflect that in their menus.  One in particular I want to highlight here is Bistro 33, that's always diligent about keeping up with the seasons.  Browsing through their new summer menu got me excited - take a look:

Escargot - Honshimeji, Maitake ragu, cheesy grits, scallion pesto crispy parsnip

Salmon Crudo - Poached in duck fat, soft boiled duck egg, sauteed greens, potato pancake, orange supremes, bacon BBQ

Half Pheasant - Fennel, kimchi, Peruvian potato salad, hoisin sauce, cognac mustard

Tuna Foie Gras - Asian pear chutney, spicy cashews sour cherries, Thai basil salad, orange blossom honey

These are just a few things, but you can peruse their entire menu online.  Looking through it, I noticed the Lobster Roll that also got me pretty stoked.  Enjoy!

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Summer Specials at Bistro 33

As the summer progresses, so do the fun food and drinks specials around town.  This one comes from the folks at Bistro 33, which has something interesting (and affordable) going on almost every day of the week.  Here's the run-down of their different specials.  It's particularly nice to stop by before or after visiting Astoria Park.  Enjoy!

Mondays - $5 Margaritas all night long
Tuesdays - 2 for $10 special (applies to beer, wine and appetizers)
Any day - Beer + Burger for $12, each night until 8 p.m.

And even if you don't feel like going in for the specials, they have tons of interesting things on their regular menu such as foie gras poutine, lobster mac 'n cheese, wild boar bolognese, Southern fried chicken and biscuits, and more! What's your favorite thing to get at Bistro? 

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

718.721.1933

N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Bistro 33 is Turning 5 - Come Celebrate!

Here ye, here ye...a longtime neighborhood cafe, Bistro 33 is celebrating a milestone birthday, as they turn the big 5.  Although this place has been around longer than that, they're celebrating 5 lovely years in the Ditmars locale.  Here's what you can expect at the party next week, so gear up, come hungry, and bring your friends to enjoy it with you!

Bistro 33 5th Birthday Party
Wednesday, June 13th from 5 p.m. - whenever

$5 for...
Barbecue menu
Pitchers of beer
Margaritas and sangria

The birthday theme will be prominent throughout the event, channeling your inner child with party games, pinatas, ice cream and cake.  Sounds like an adult's dream...Yum!

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

718.721.1933

N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Bistro 33's Spring Menu is Here

Just in time for the nice weather we're having this week, Bistro 33 is not only opening up their patio seating, but they're rolling out some spring eats as well.  There's nothing like sitting outside for a good bite to eat, after taking a leisurely stroll around the nabe (it's close to Astoria Park).  Here are some new nibbles you can enjoy this week:

Blue Cheese Walnut Salad
Foie Gras Poutine
Portobella burger
Maine Lobster Roll
Waygu Philly Cheese Steak
Shrimp & Grits
Wild Boar Bolognese
and other goodies...

Enjoy yourselves and indulge in a specialty cocktail while you're at it.

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Create - New Astoria Eatery with Room for Personalization

As I was getting home from last week's Queens Bloggers Social, organized by my We Heart Astoria colleagues and me, I noticed Create - a casual, fresh foods eatery on 30th Avenue near 36th Street.  I've never seen it before, probably since I've been so MIA the past month, but there it was.  It looked vibrant and cheery, and the menu seemed plentiful.  I grabbed one, which was also chock-full-of-details and wanted to share the highlights with you.  Feel free to check it out if you're looking for something light and quick - the prices seem pretty wallet-friendly too - and I love all the options for personalization.

Breakfast:

Breakfast sandwiches (made with organic brown eggs, your choice of multigrain roll, brioche roll, English muffin or whole wheat wrap)

The Boulevard - Organic brown eggs, turkey sausage, gruyere cheese, tomato...$4.29
The Grand Ave - Organic brown eggs, maple turkey, low fat Swiss, avocado...$4.29
The Steinway - Organic brown eggs, Canadian bacon, Vermont cheddar...$4.29

The Kicking Greek Omelet - Fresh jalapeno, diced tomato, imported feta...$5.99
The Turbo Omelet - Grilled chicken, organic spinach, fresh mozzarella...$5.99
Huevos Rancheros - Jack cheese, guacamole, salsa...$5.99

The Classic French Toast - Sweet challah French toast, powdered sugar, sprinkled cinnamon...$4.99

The California - Sweet challah French toast, berries, banana and a vanilla yogurt dip...$6.99

The Nutella Toast - Sweet challah French toast, nutella spread, sliced banana...$6.99

Lunch & Dinner:

Little Italy Sandwich - Genoa salami, mortadella, capicola, provolone with Peppadew olive salad and extra virgin vinaigrette on a parmesan oregano bagatta...$7.95

The Hudson Sandwich - Tuna salad, red onion, arugula, avocado on a grain bagatta...$7.95

Chelsea Sandwich - Pepper turkey, jack cheese, salt and vinegar chips, avocado, tomato, mayo on a classic bagatta...$7.95

Spanish Harlem Hot Sandwich - Hot baked ham, fresh turkey, melted Swiss, sliced pickle and dijon mustard on a plain bagatta...$7.95

Tribeca Hot Sandwich - Grilled chicken, melted asiago, sweet roasted peppers, caramelized onions, balsamic vinaigrette...$7.95

The Times Square Sandwich - Hot roast beef, melted cheddar, peppadew peppers, crispy onions and steak sauce on jalapeno bagatta...$7.95

Disco Fries - Steak fries, melted mozzarella, gravy...$4.75
Half Skin Fries - Tossed with rosemary and olive oil...$4.75
Texas Fries - Steak fries, melted cheddar, hot sauce, fresh sliced jalapeno...$4.75

Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl - Grilled chicken, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, feta, cherry tomato, kalamata olives, chopped lettuce...$8.95

Napa Valley Quinoa Bowl - Grilled chicken, chopped walnuts, cran-raisins, arugula, honey dijon...$8.95

Buffalo Quinoa Bowl - Ever roast Buffalo chicken, baby spinach, crumbled goat cheese, red onions, cherry tomato...$8.95

The Hampton Salad - Grilled chicken, avocado, mango, plum tomato and walnuts over baby spinach...$8.75

The Astoria Park Harvest Salad - Grilled chicken, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, crumbled gorgonzola, garbanzo beans, cherry tomato, cucumber over organic greens...$8.75

The Baja Salad - Chipotle chicken, shredded cheddar, smoked applewood bacon, plum tomato, red onions topped with guacamole and sliced jalapenos over crisp romaine...$8.75

Create - 36-03 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.204.0333
N/Q Train to 30th Avenue

www.createandgo.net 

Bistro 33 - Back at It?

After a short hiatus due to renovations and a new sushi-focused offshoot called Side Door Sushi, Bistro 33 is open for business again.  Eager to check it out after the revamps, Dan and I corralled friends, Moses and Sonya to come along for dinner. Overall, a satisfactory experience but unfortunately not the stellar time we remember here in the past.  Most of this was due to the service, which needs a lot of TLC. 

Here's what we ordered:

Shrimp and Grits - This was my choice, as I never pass up an opportunity to have something comforting and cheesy.  I loved how colorful this dish looked, and the flavors reflected this visual vibrancy as well.  There was smokiness from andouille sausage, earthiness from the asparagus, tanginess from the shredded cheese and of course a velvety creaminess from the grits.  The only thing I was underwhelmed by were the shrimp, which were a tad undercooked.  Nothing tragic to complain about, but still noticeable.

Roasted Chicken - As you all probably know by now, Dan is on a super health kick, so he made sure to order light.  Not to say that this dish delivered that, because as you see, it had a huge tower of fried onion strings piled on top, but he made sure to donate those to me.  The chicken was absolutely delicious - juicy and flavorful with golden brown skin to die for.  Dan enjoyed it very much and praised it highly.

Roasted Duck - This is what Moses got, and it looked and tasted scrumptious.  I'm a pretty harsh connoisseur when it comes to duck, but this one had a wonderful texture and an incredibly delicate flavor that didn't go unnoticed.  The broth that surrounded it was light and slightly sweet, with some nice looking squash wedges to brighten the plate visually and to also bring in fresh flavor.

Cheeseburger - Sonya's burger was quite disappointing unfortunately, and you can tell just by looking at the above picture.  The bun was sadly disfigured, which was a bummer - especially considering all the gorgeous burgers (with fluffy buns) that came out beforehand.  Another let down was that the cheese (costing an extra $2.50!) was dried up and shriveled.  I really wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt, but this just didn't look appetizing.  Sonya and Moses both confirmed that the fries were really good though!

Gingerbread Parfait - Despite an inconsistent meal, the dessert was fantastic.  Consisting of soft pieces of gingerbread cake, pure vanilla ice cream and tiny little wild blueberries with blueberry sauce to boot, this dessert was addicting and awesome.  The cake was slightly spicy and the blueberry sauce a little tart, providing a gorgeous juxtaposition.  At only $6 for a large portion, I think there couldnt've been a better way to go.

Service and Cost:
As I mentioned, the service was spotty and at times frustrating.  From the beginning, upon being seated at a makeshift foursome table outside that wobbled, to receiving our entrees 45 minutes after ordering, the service was highly disappointing.  Even after our food came, we were never approached by our server again to see how we were doing, and couldn't help but feel unimportant and forgotten.  What a drag!

Costs are moderate, and for the above mentioned meal with 2 drinks, we paid about $25/person including tax and tip.

1.5 Mmmms

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
718.721.1933
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.lilbistro33.com

A Little Kitchen That Could Opens

The other day while hanging with Meg, she tipped me off about a little place with a clever name called A Little Kitchen that Could.  Replacing the short-lived, Munch that occupied the space before, this place has been open just shy of a month. 

The food offering is simple, local and extends beyond the breakfast and lunch service of its predecessor.  Instead, dinner is offered as well, and when I walked by around 8 p.m., I saw a few people in there enjoying their food, immersed in conversation or a good book, so it seemed. 

I like that the hours are a lot more flexible, being open all week round, pretty much around the clock:

Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., 4:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 7 a.m. - Midnight
Sunday -  8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Check it out and do chime in with your opinions.  I'm eager to get a hold of the menu and will share it soon.

A Little Kitchen That Could -24-01 29th Street, Astoria NY 11102
347.242.3954
N/Q Train to Astoria Blvd 

Meli Cafe & Bakery Came and Went

Last weekend when I was running errands on 30th Ave, I noticed that the short lived Meli Cafe & Bakery was papered up again.  It only seemed like yesterday when it looked this but for a very different reason - when it was opening. 

Meg confirmed the same suspicion the other day and then I got further confirmation from one of my Tweeples.  Feel free to chime in if you know more about it and if it's going to come back or what will take its place.  Personally, I still miss Pinocchio and would love to see it back.  I crave their gyros, and I know that a lot of people really loved their pizza. 

See you later Meli - do let us know if you'll return.

Meli Cafe & Bakery - 32-02 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102
718.406.9950
N/Q Train to 30th Avenue

Monika's Cafe Bar - Fun Happy Hour Specials

Image by Cafe Bar

I love Cafe Bar!  Besides its off-beat, retro atmosphere (which has been revamped a couple of months ago), its friendly staff and good food & drinks make it one of Astoria's oldies but goodies.  There's never a shortage of activity going on and if you'd like to stop in and enjoy the outdoor seating (while the weather still cooperates), check out their fun happy hour special every day of the week.

Weekday Happy Hour: 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Well drinks & house wine - $4
$1 off bottled beers, $16 - $20 beer pitchers

And if you're hungry, try one of their small plates such as spinach halloumi fritters, mixed dips, cheese & meat platters and other fun munchies.

Monika's Cafe Bar - 32-90 36th Street, Astoria NY 11106
718.204.5273
N/W Train to Broadway
www.monikascafebar.com

Bugatti - A 31st Avenue-Neighborhood Newbie

While visiting BareBurger, one of my favorite places for getting a bite of organic, meaty goodness, I noticed a new cafe that looks like it'll open soon.  It's called Bugatti and is located on the corner of 34th Street and 31st Avenue.  A new restaurant competitor should be interesting, and once again serves as proof that 31st Avenue is officially hoppin'!  I tried to call them to find out more, but still no response.  Please chime in if you know more about Bugatti, including the type of cuisine they'll serve and when it'll open.  Judging from the exterior, it looks pretty modern and sort of like a 30th Avenue Cafe.  I'm praying for something non-generic.  We'll see.

Bugatti - 31-05 34th Street, Astoria NY 11106
718.626.1115
N/W Train to Broadway

Cafe Triskell - A Delicious Diamond in the Rough

Cafe Triskell - 33-04 36th Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.472.0612
N/Q Train to 36th Avenue
www.cafetriskell.com

Last night, Meg, Mackenzi and I ventured out to a small, French creperie that's been a staple in Astoria for many years now.  Even though it's a mainstay, Mackenzi and I have never been, and Meg has eaten there once a long, long time ago.  Well after this visit, I hope that not too much time passes before we go back - we just enjoyed it so much.

Atmosphere:
A teensy, intimate spot, Cafe Triskell seats maybe 20 people in its dining space, which is a bit oddly shaped.  Even so, that's what makes it so endearing and personal, as you almost feel like you're sitting in someone's unwieldy dining room.  Mementos such as paintings, t-shirts, photographs and vintage posters hang on the walls, and we curiously took them all in, as we got comfortable in our seats, ready to peruse the menu.

Food:
For the most part a creperie, Cafe Triskell serves ten varieties of savory crepes, fourteen types of sweet crepes but also other French classics such as Croque Monsieur, vichyssoise, escargot, quiche and more.  I think we ordered a fair representation of their offering with:

Tomato Goat Cheese Quiche - A special of the night, it sounded delicious to me, as I'm a sucker for a goat cheese and egg combo.  And as incredible as it sounded, it looked and tasted even better. Just look at this beauty - the crust alone made me swoon, as it was perfectly crimped around the edges and had a crumbly, buttery texture that was to die for.  The contents were heavenly, with a custardy, eggy inside, interlaced with tangy goat cheese and cubes of fresh tomato and herbs on top.  It came with a side of mixed greens and tomatoes in a classic, lemony dressing, which formed a great combination with the quiche.

Savory Crepes - Meg and Mackenzi both ordered savory crepes, which were very large yet really thin, just as they should be.  Meg ordered the same variety of ingredients as was in my quiche and Mackenzi's crepe included a mix of seasonal veggies.  I had a bite of Meg's and enjoyed the delicate crepe shell that was slightly crispy around the edges and not at all greasy.  The contents inside melded together beautifully, creating a really savory and satisfying dinner dish.

Frites - Our meal couldn't be complete without a side order of thin, crispy frites (or fries), for which we also requested mayonnaise and ketchup.  Meg liked the former condiment and I did too, as I double dipped the thin matchsticks of goodness first into the mayo and then the ketchup.  It was addicting and wonderful to say the least.

Lemon and Sugar Dessert Crepe - Ending the night on a sweet note, but not taking it too far, we kept things simple with a lemon and sugar crepe.  We were slightly indecisive about it, thinking that it was too boring, but after we got a bite, we were sold.  The crepe was served open faced and included a thin coating of lemon and sugar glaze that made the outside extra crunchy.  The lemon gave the crepe some zing but its overall essence was still gentle and slightly indulgent from the sugar.  Mmmmm....

Cider - Meg and I enjoyed a cup of sparkling apple cider, which felt very French to me.  It was refreshing and fruity but not too sweet, and at $6 a glass, I thought it provided good value.

Service and Cost:
Since Cafe Triskell is a small establishment, one waitress served all its guests.  She was nice enough albeit slightly surly, which made her fit in with the cafe's quirky surroundings.  But there's nothing to complain about, as all dishes came out on time and were nice and hot. 

Costs are very affordable and please note that this establishment accepts cash only.

Appetizers - $6.75 - $14.95
Savory Crepes - $7.25 - $14.95
Sandwiches - $8.95 - $9.95
Entrees - $14.95 - $22
Sweet Crepes - $4.50 - $7.50

3 Mmmms

Eat 'n Run is On The Way

While on my way home the other day, I noticed an interesting new eatery on the corner of 33rd Street near Astoria Blvd.  The bright orange awning drew me in immediately and the fun name, Eat 'n Run intrigued me to stop and poke around.  I don't know too much yet except that the place is being worked on and looks like it will open soon.  Judging by its name, location and overall style, it looks like it'll be a casual cafe serving "on-the-go" grub such as sandwiches, maybe burgers and other quick eats. I saw some work-in-progress last weekend so the wheels are definitely in motion.  I'll follow-up with a menu soon and an estimated opening date. 

It'll be a great to have a new cafe in this nabe, as there aren't many stop 'n go eateries here aside from fast food joints like Burger King. We'll see what surfaces - in the meantime, I'm excited.

Eat 'n Run - Corner of 33rd Street and Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102

New Eatery Near 30th Ave Satisfies Your "Crave"

Crave - 28-55 36th Street, Astoria NY 11103
718.726.4976

N/W Train to 30th Avenue
www.craveastoria.com 

On my way from the gym this weekend, I noticed a new eatery right off of 30th Avenue and 36th Street called Crave.  Don't know much about it yet, except that it looks like it's about ready to open.  I have a call into them and will update you with any progress.  It looks like a cool space for something funky and different than the run-of-the-mill 30th Avenue cafe.  Holler if you know more about it.