A Rainy but Delicious Visit to Milkflower

While wasting our time away yesterday on pleasurable things such as museums and delicious eats, Dan and I popped into Milkflower for a casual dinner.  We haven't been in quite a while and were totally craving their blistered crusted pizzas.  Our experience didn't disappoint, and we're already thinking of ways to recreate Milkflower's genius at home.


Shishito Peppers - I love to get these as an appetizer at tapas restaurants, but I've never seen them at a pizza joint.  Dan wasn't so sure, but totally changed his mind when the charred, blistered peppers arrived, along with a side of creamy cracked pepper aioli.  Even though they were light, the peppers did a good job of tiding us over until the next course.  I loved the charred taste of the pepper skin and the pronounced bite from the aioli.  Delicious!

Hawaiian Pizza - Appreciating Milkflower's take on the classic Hawaiian pizza, this came with crispy prosciutto in place of ham, which was ingenious.  The crust was as perfect and bubbly as usual with beautiful little char freckles on top.  A topping of thinly sliced pineapple and jalapeno peppers added more excitement for the eyes and the tastebuds.  Overall, this pie is a total home run, so Hawaiian purists and mavericks, please enjoy!

Service and Cost:
Since we came in right as Milkflower opened, we were pretty much the only people there and therefore received exceptional service.  We were in and out in about an hour, but felt that we could've hung out for as long as we liked.

The aforementioned meal, including a beer set us back about $33 including tax and tip, which is reasonable for high quality trattoria fare. Nom, nom, nom...

Milkflower - 34-12 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106
718.204.1300
N/Q Train to Broadway
www.milkflowernyc.com 

Basil Brick Oven's New Menu Items are Scrumptious

Last week was really fun as far as foodie adventures go, as I found myself at a Queens food blogger tasting at Basil Brick Oven Pizza, organized by none other than my friend, Bradley Hawks.  Known for his tantalizing pictures of food (aka ridiculously graphic food porn), Bradley did a great job of uniting a lot of different Queens food personalities under one roof.  Basil Brick was only too happy to host and show off their new goods, as they have tons of new menu items they were curious to get in the right hands (and mouths).  While there was maybe a bit too much food served, I really enjoyed what I had and wanted to give you all the highlights.  

Octopus Carpaccio - The mere concept of this dish sounded innovative, and I was curious as to how their octopus would stack up.  Everyone literally oohed and ahhed when the dish arrived, in all its asymmetrical glory, which showed the rustic and beautiful texture of the octopus.  I loved the acidity in its glaze and the octopus felt cool yet anything but tough.  This reminded me of the perfect summer dish I'd love to have while lunching on the beach - the fresh tomatoes, lemon and arugula were lovely too.

Giant Meatballs Marinara - There's really nothing like having great meatballs in a delicious Italian restaurant and these tasted as good as they looked.  You can tell that the marinara sauce was made from scratch, with a slightly acidic bite and a fragrant basil essence  that lingered on your tongue.  The meat itself was soft and juicy, and went beautifully with the stringy fresh muzz that hugged the top of the meatball.

Fresh, Stuffed Mozzarella Balls - And speaking of fresh mozzarella, these pretty pinwheels made me really happy.  Combining some of my favorite things such as salty, soft cheese with the peppery arugula and the smokiness of the sopressata, it was a true winner.  Dressed with a ribbon of sweet balsamic glaze, it also reminded me of eating al fresco in the summertime.  It's definitely a dish that I'll be coming back for either now or in warmer summer months.

Green Lasagna - I've never seen such solidarity in opinion as when we tasted this dish.  Everyone was truly in love with its simple, yet innovative take on lasagna, that was actually very Piedmontese.  Combining garlicky homemade pesto with sheets of pasta and a soft pesto-potato mixture, it pleased both the veggie and meat eaters.  In fact, many of my dining companions said that this is all they needed to make the night complete.  I concur wholeheartedly - especially since it was such a hearty, filling dish.

Service:
Even though this was a rather large dinner, you couldn't help but notice the hospitality and warmth that emanated from every crevice of the dining room and kitchen.  Chef Daniele and his business partners were more than generous and entertained all our questions, but weren't afraid to ask for feedback.  My only constructive point I want to stress is that it was a bit too much food. But don't get me wrong - it was all soo, soo goood.  Mille grazie Bradley and the Basil Brick Oven Pizza crew.  Mission tight waisted pants accomplished :)

Basil Brick Oven Pizza - 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102
718.204.1205
N/Q Train to Astoria Blvd
www.basilbrickoven.com 

Thin Crust Pizza Amazingness at Basil Brick Oven

Yesterday, my We Heart Astoria colleagues, Meg and Mackenzi and I celebrated another awesome Queens Blogger Social with like-minded bloggers, who write about food, culture, the arts and more.  What I love about these gatherings is of course the networking aspect and the sharing of common experiences, but aside from that, it's also being able to enjoy Astoria's amazing food.  

This month's social was held at the newly expanded Basil Brick Oven Pizza, which is totally awesome, and we were all excited to see that they brought their A-game last night, with both the food and the hospitality.  There's a lot of new things we tried, and tons that we'll still have to have next time, giving us more reasons to come back.  But without further ado, here are the delectable goodies we devoured:

Antipasti - We received two generous helpings of antipasti, both of which were really bright in color and flavor.  The first was the piece-de-resistance, fig/pineapple/prosciutto platter and the second was a classic tomato, mozzarella, basil salad (aka Caprese salad).  I really enjoyed both dishes, but the first was a complete standout, the figs sweet as candy and really tender to the bite.  While you normally wouldn't eat the skin of a fig, this was absolutely an occasion where you could, and I personally couldn't resist.  The salty prosciutto that was served on top of this dish made for a lovely combination of sweet and savory.  It also has to be said that the figs were as fresh as can be, and sourced from Basil Brick's very own backyard garden.
The Caprese, also sourced from their local tomatoes and basil was amazingly clean tasting, refreshing and a great way to start this pizzalicious meal. It was also nice because our vegetarian friends got to enjoy it, guilt free.

Pizza - With over 40 varieties of pizza, our guests got to choose the pizza of their liking, and because these pies are great for sharing, we each got to try more than one.  Veggie options were very popular at my side of the table, and I went for a veggie pizza as well to keep it semi-light.  I say "semi" as my dish incorporated gorgonzola cheese, so I didn't give up too much in terms of indulgence.

So...I went with the Pera & Gorgonzola pie, which included sweet Williams Pears, homemade fresh mozzarella, creamy gorgonzola, parmigiano and basil.  Holy moly, was this good! I loved the juxtaposition of sweet and savory, with the pear and cheese, and the gorgonzola especially brought a very decadent, luxurious flavor to the pie.  The soft texture of the pear was interesting as well, and it felt as if it was literally melting on your tongue.

The other pizza variety I tried was also a veggie slice, simply called "Basil."  This one boasted  a bright pesto sauce, homemade mozzarella, thin slices of oven baked rosemary potatoes and pine nuts.  The combination was interesting, and each ingredient really complimented the other, the fresh basil offsetting the heartiness of the potatoes.  I liked that it didn't contain a traditional red sauce, which also made the pizza a lot lighter - not to mention its airy, slightly charred crust, which also lightened things up.

Dessert - How could we end this already perfect meal without another form of Basil Brick's signature food...pizza?!  We of course did just that by devouring their chocolate pizza pie.  Obscenely incredible, this pizza was even more delicious than their savory options, the crust being even thinner and stuffed with a thin layer of chocolate (and hazelnut) spread.  What was key is that they didn't overdo it, and each slice went down easily, making us reach for another, which we naturally used as a scoop for all that fresh whipped cream in the middle.

Service and Cost:
Basil Brick's hospitality was absolutely lovely, as they took great care of us from start to finish.  From replenishing our drinks without us having to say a word to nicely spacing out a very generous meal, we were all satisfied and felt like home.  I think that's the vibe they're going for here, and I can confidently say it was achieved.

Costs are really affordable, as we worked out a competitive prix-fixe menu for our guests.  While each deal is unique in its own way, I must stress that Basil Brick is extremely flexible and they're willing to do everything for their guests.  If you're looking to have a private party or to host a bigger dinner there, I'd highly recommend reaching out to them.  And please tell them who sent you.

3 Saucy (and cheesy) Mmmms

Basil Brick Oven Pizza - 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102
718.204.1205
N/Q Train to Astoria Blvd
www.basilbrickoven.com 

Basil Brick Oven is Super Sized

Right before going to Japan, I had the distinct pleasure to attend a really fun event at Basil Brick Oven Pizza, in honor of their big expansion.  Meg came with, and we were prepared to enjoy a fun, yet laid-back evening with good food, drinks and culinary networking.  We were totally shocked to see how high-profile and glitzy this event was (in a good way), and as soon as we arrived, we noticed people spilling out of the new location, enjoying their fizzy prosecco cocktails and eating gelato.  "Wow! What a neighborhood affair," we both thought, as we saw people laughing, chatting and really relishing in a new and exciting neighborhood establishment.  

Even though the food, I don't think was totally representative of what they serve in the restaurant, as it was designed to serve a big party rather than more intimate dine-in groups, the atmosphere was electric.

New Digs:
To say that the space at Basil Brick doubled would be doing it injustice, as I feel it more like quadrupled.  The previously little pizza and panini spot went from a tiny storefront, seating about 20, to a legit restaurant with an impressive anteroom, a large kitchen and an expansive dining room in the middle and the back (now probably seating more like 50 or 60).  I just love the view you get from the back of the restaurant, as you can observe the busy Hoyt Avenue, and get a gorgeous vision of the RFK bridge.  Outdoor seating will be available as well, and surprisingly the restaurant feels more private and somehow more legit.  I mean, we all knew they produce quality eats, but now they have the space to prove it.

Something else I noticed and really liked was the gelato area towards the front of the restaurant, which feels more casual and still very much like a grab and go place.  Meg and I indulged in a cup of their homemade gelato, me trying the coffee and Meg having the stracciatella, I believe.   While I didn't taste the latter, the coffee flavor was deliciously strong and had that nice creamy consistency too.  I'd gladly come back for another on a hot day.

If this little description hasn't enticed you yet, make sure to check out their tantalizing menu of homemade, simple Italian eats such as gnocchi, pasta, pizza (both savory and sweet), salads, panini and more.  You can enjoy a meal in their beautiful new space or you can always get take-out.  Try it, and do let me know what you think.

Basil Brick Oven Pizza - 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102
718.204.1205
N/Q Train to Astoria Blvd
www.basilbrickoven.com 

Basil Brick Oven Pizza is the Real Deal

I've been hearing a lot of fabulous things about the tiny brick oven pizzeria on Astoria Blvd called Basil Brick Oven Pizza.  Many friends of mine had nothing but great things to say, and after my salsa class at Simply Fit Astoria, I decided to pop in for a bite.

Atmosphere:
Although my first gut was to get take out, as I was on my own, Basil is really small and intimate, and so very endearing that I was inclined to stay.  Why not, I thought, relax and eat in peace after a long day.  

The space fits only about 3 four-top tables and one or two additional two-tops.  The gorgeous brick oven is situated at the very back of the narrow room, but it's nicely exposed for all to admire.  Casual and friendly, the vibe proves this to be a place of respite for solo diners and small parties too.  Being that Brick Oven is situated on the ground floor of an apartment building, I imagine they get a lot of residents that are regulars.

Food:
It's clear from the menu that the pizza is the star of the show, as there are 40 different options.  Yes, you heard me right...40!  But even though some of their creative pizza combinations were definitely calling my name, I decided to go with a panini instead.

Toscano Panini - When I noticed that this panini included a combination of champignon mushrooms, ham, and homemade mozzarella, I was in.  When it arrived, I was really happy to see that it came with a side salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes and fresh parmesan.  It was lovely and crisp and the perfect way to supplement the substantial panini.

So about that...I just couldn't believe how huge the panini actually was!  It came with two large pieces that could very well be split among two people, and I only ate a half and took the other home for Dan.  All the ingredients inside the sandwich were spot on - the mozzarella was especially tasty, milky white and elastic, while the ham was gently smoked.  The mushrooms were my favorite filling, meaty and chunky bits that made the sandwich that much more substantial.  But the real stand-out of the whole thing was the thin bread that was slightly charred on the outside from the brick oven - it was thin, crispy and pretty similar to thin pizza dough.

Service and Cost:
Despite the small space, there were quite a lot of attentive waiters.  The place wasn't too busy, but still, there was a lot of attention paid to each patron and the minute I drained my glass of water, it was refilled instantly.  The staff was approachable and friendly and made each customer feel comfortable and appreciated.  I heard some of them speaking in Italian which showed me this was the real deal.

Prices are quite competitive and include:

Antipasti - $8.75 - $11.50
Salads - $7 - $9
Pasta - $9.50 - $11.75
Panini - $9.25
Pizza - $6 - $14
Desserts - $5 - $13

Basil Brick Oven Pizza - 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102
718.204.1205
N/Q Train to Astoria Blvd
www.basilbrickoven.com 

Another Boston Pizza is Coming!

Image by Boston Pizza

Chatting with my fellow Astoria bloggers at last night's We Heart Astoria blogger's social at Ornella, we briefly talked about the closing of three year old Pasha Balkan restaurant.  I was sad to learn about this, as I adore Balkan food, which reminds me of my childhood vacations which we took in the former Yugoslavia.  I adore the typical dishes, cevapi and bureks and really enjoyed them at the former Pasha.

What's taking its place you ask?  Another Boston pizza (the original location is on Broadway near 37th Street), which my colleagues spoke about and which I noticed tonight as I was driving by.  To be honest, I'm not sure what to think of this, as I've heard some mixed reviews about Boston Pizza, but only time will tell how the community will react.  It looks like this new location will open any minute now.  What are your sentiments around it?

Boston Pizza - 31-01 31st Street, Astoria NY 11102
Opening Soon

N/Q Train to 30th Avenue
www.bostonpizzasubs.com

Michael Angelo's Sophisticated, and Always-Classy Sophia Loren Pizza

After countless raves about the greatness of Micheal Angelo's Pizzeria from friends, Meg and Tom, it was evident that I was clearly missing out on something spectacular.  Both friends are usually spot on when it comes to good food, that I was somewhat disappointed in myself that  I still hadn't tried it.  Well they finally fixed that and I thank them profusely. 

As you can see from the above picture, we ordered Michael Angelo's Sophia Loren thin-crust pizza this weekend, and let me tell you, it didn't stay in the box for long.  Next time we'll have to account for seconds (and thirds).

Sophia Loren Thin-Crust Pizza - A very classic, sophisticated yet simple pizza pie, not unlike Sophia Loren herself, this pizza was topped with only the best quality ingredients such as fresh mozzarella, tears of fresh basil, tomato sauce and thin tomato slices too.  The thin-crust dough was perfectly crispy near the crust, but soft enough to bend in the middle.  Each bite was perfect and felt super light - I didn't get a weighed down feeling I sometimes get when I indulge in store-bought pizza.  The spices were just spot on, not too strong but still packed with flavor.  I think this is a great option for traditionalists and pizza connoisseurs alike.

Cost:
All these amazing ingredients come at a premium, as their small Sophia Loren will set you back $10.75, while the large one is a whopping $19.50.  So worth it though!

3 Mmmms

Michael Angelo's Pizzeria - 29-11 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.932.2096
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd
www.michaelangelospizzeriaastoria.com

Trattoria El Greco - The Latest Scoop

My mission to stalk the opening of Trattoria El Greco continues.  I walked by yesterday and couldn't believe that it's still in progress. However...they have the menu posted, which is exciting.  I hope that means an opening is in store.  Here's the menu - prepare to salivate!

Trattoria El Greco - Sample Menu

Antipasti:

Cozze - Mussels in a spicy tomato broth...$9
Polpo - Grilled octopus, olives, tomatoes, potato & arugula...$13
Crostoni - Assorted bruschetta with sweet & savory eggplant relish, creamy gorgonzola cheese with honey, garlic & tomato...$13
Carpaccio - Thinly sliced filet mignon with arugula, artichokes & parmigiano...$12

Panini:
Polpetta - La Trattoria bacon cheeseburger with arugula, tomato, red onions & fries...$14
Diavolo - Spicy sopressata, tomato, mozzarella, black olives & chili...$9
Orto - Roasted veggies, mozzarella, gruyere & pesto...$8

Pizze:
Capricciosa - Tomato sauce, mozzarella, ham, artichoke, anchovies & black olives...$16
Diavola - Tomato sauce, mozzarella, hot sopressata, scallions, black olives & chili...$15
Zola e Pere - Mozzarella, gorgonzola & pear...$15
Pancetta - Tomato, mozzarella, onions, pancetta & black pepper...$14

Paste:
Chitarra - Tomato & basilico...$13
Pappardelle - Homemade meat ragu, porcini mushrooms & peas...$17
Gnocchi - Taleggio cheese & creamy leek sauce...$16
Linguine Allo Scoglio - Seafood in white wine with a mild spicy tomato sauce...$17

Main Courses:
Pollo - Grilled chicken paillarde with arugula, tomato, red onions & feta cheese...$15
Porco - Grilled pork tenderloin in barola & balsamico sauce with collard greens & salsify...$20
Costa - Spicy boneless beef spare ribs, slow cooked with tomato, rosemary & garlic served with broccoli rabe & roasted potato...$20
Pesce - Pan fried sea bass with clams, shrimp & mussels in a spicy tomato broth...$26

Trattoria El Greco - Corner of 30th Avenue and 37th Street, Astoria NY 11103
718.721.7400
N/W Train to 30th Avenue