What to Check out at the New Bowery Bay

Image by Bowery Bay

For those that were fans of the late Bistro 33, you'll be interested to know there's a new player on the scene.  Bowery Bay, the new name of the restaurant that has replaced Bistro is now fully operating and headed up by the folks that ran Bistro. I'm itching to check it out, and the below menu has certainly whet my appetite for something comforting and delicious.  I've starred some items below that look particularly interesting.

Small Plates
Frisee Salad - roasted pork cheek, duck lardon, crispy duck egg, cherry mustard vinaigrette...$13
*Maple Glaze Popcorn - and lardons...$7
Coconut Shrimp - Sweet chili garlic dip...$11
*Escargot Ravioli - Brandy creme, lemon jelly...$9
*Green Garlic Mashed Wonton - with sweet pickled rhubarb...$7
Pig Part Pie - Shoulder, rump, cheeks and leg chili, crispy pig skin, Vermont white cheddar...$10
Moo Shu Tacos - Foie gas, chard kirby, cabbage, 5 spice yogurt, scallion pancakes...$12

Medium Plates
Portuguese Octopus - Fried octopus, chimichuri, red onions, Spanish olive oil, fresh herbs...$14
*Lobster Poutine - Baby chives, halloumi cheese, bacon brown gravy...$18
*Banh Mi - Coffee and chicory short ribs, shredded jicama, pickled lotus root, house mayo fresh cilantro...$12
Sloppy Goat - Curried green peas, pickled saratoga chips, saag paneer...$12
*Reuben Fondue - Corn beef, dark rye bread, mustard oil and wilted cabbage, gruyere cheese...$12

Large Plates
Baked Whole Fish of the Day - Tuscan kale salad, goat cheese, beet puree, grapefruit vinaigrette...$25
*Arctic Char - Water spinach, sauteed mushrooms, lemon sweet potato mash, demi glace...$24
*Vegan Bowl - Brown rice, stone mountain lentils, toasted cashew and orange nectar poached figs...$14
*Bowery Burger - Pickle, carrot, onion, mixed greens, tomato and fries...$12 (add cheese or bacon for $1.50 (cheddar, brie, bleu, triple cream) or $3 for halloumi cheese)
Steak of the Day - Mashed potato, vegetable of the day...$24
*Spaghetti and Meatballs for two - Crostini and pecorino cheese...$27

Extras
House Salad - Red onions, carrots, oil & vinegar...$7
*Salcha Papas - Sweet potato fries with merguez sausage...$8
*Cole Slaw - Cabbage, carrot, jicama, caraway rice wine vinaigrette...$5
Hand cut Fries...$5

Bowery Bay - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria NY 11105
718.721.1933
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd

It's Taste and Share Tuesday at Bistro 33

Image by Bistro 33

There's nothing like getting a great deal at a local eatery, especially on a lazy weekday evening, which is why I'm excited to tell you about Bistro 33's Taste and Share night.  It looks like the deal is a spin off from their usual 2 for $10 deal on Tuesday evenings, which is an equally great deal.  Here's the scoop about tomorrow:

From 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Enjoy $5 small plates on some of their signature items such as Lobster Poutine, Seafood Crepe, Moules Frites, Duck fried rice, and more!

You'll find discounted beer and wine as well, and there's nothing wrong with getting a little toasty with some friends or your significant other.  Here's to a good week!

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

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Warm up Astoria - Hot Toddies, Mulled Wine, Hot Apple Pie Martinis, Oh My!

Image by Snowdonia

Brrrr..it's freeezing out there!  I hope everyone is staying as warm as possible and doing their bestest to bundle up.  A few days ago, I threw out some suggestions of warming up with hot cocoa, but now since the windchill has hit a new low, I thought it'd be good to turn to something stronger.  Here's a quick run down of warm boozie drinks you can enjoy and at the same time, warm up with.  Drink up and stay warm, Astoria.
Sweet Afton's hot cider cocktail will do the trick on a cold day.  Containing organic apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, orange peel, and a choice of bourbon, spiced rum, or brandy, it'll surely warm your bones.  30-09 34th Street, Astoria.  718.777.2570

I bet not many of you know that Koliba serves up mulled wine during winter.  It's pretty symbolic to have this warm, spiced drink during holiday time in Slovakia and I always look forward to having it at Koliba.  Truth be told...it's very potent.  31-11 23rd Avenue, Astoria.  718.626.0430

Even though it's not your traditional warm winter cocktail, I love the variety of stouts offered at Alewife.  Nothing says robust, hearty and satisfying like a tall glass of milky stout such as the Left Hand, Dogfish Head, Alesmith and more.  5-14 51st Avenue, LIC.  718.937.7494

When it comes to Hot Toddy's, Snowdonia has you covered with this piping hot beauty (pictured above).  What can be better than sitting down to this warm comforting drink and getting a Snowdonia stacked burger to satiate your hunger?  34-55 35th Avenue, Astoria.  347.730.5783

For something a little more luxurious, how about a Hot Apple Pie Martini cocktail at Bistro 33? Just looking at the ingredients of this drink warmed my belly, with fireball whiskey and firefly apple moonshine...need I say more? 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria.  718.721.1933

New Winter Eats at Bistro 33

It's been quite a while since I've visited Bistro 33, but that'll soon have to change, as I recently learned about a few new menu items they're featuring this season.  Sounding all sorts of decadent and comforting, I think these specials will do the trick as far as winter food goes.  Take a bite out of these seasonal specials:

Lobster Poutine $14
Pomme frites, Maine lobster, cheese curd, bacon jus

Scallops & Bacon $13
Root vegetables quinoa, maple syrup glaze

Seafood Crepe $12
Seafood medley, cognac creme sauce, mushrooms

Short Rib Ravioli $8
Shallot garlic demi glaze

Bar Snacks:
Parmesan Popcorn $6
With pancetta crisp

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

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

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

Bistro 33 Ups their Whiskey Offering

For all of you whiskey lovers, you'll be happy to hear that Bistro 33 has upped the ante on their whiskey offering.  Their new whiskey menu includes twelve different whiskeys including domestic and international:

Peach Street
Town Branch
Blanton's
Widow Jane
Bulleit
Templeton
Hudson
Old Overholt
Hibiki
Yamazaki (Dan's favorite)
Hakushu
Old Pulteney

Pair these with Bistro's hearty fare including their lamb pops with crispy leaks, a horseradish pork shoulder, steak frites or their classic burger with tomato aioli and bacon.  Sounds fabulous!

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Bistro 33 Unveils the Lobster Roll and New Cocktail Options

It’s been a while since I’ve heard from Bistro 33, so I was eager to see that they had some new food and cocktail news.  They do seafood particularly well, so I was happy to see they’re offering a lobster roll option, along with some yummy sounding cocktails.  It’s meant to be a pairing, and the options sound lovely – just perfect for spring and summer.

Spicy Lemonade – Corp organic meyer lemon vodka, fresh lemon juice, hellfire bitters and siracha salt

Ginger Bash – Muddled ginger root, fresh pineapple, Flor de Cana Rum, cherry rum, apple liqueur and lime juice

Monkey Iced Tea – Monkey Shoulder Scotch, fresh mint and lemon juice

33’s Old Fashioned – Chopin Rye Vodka, orange peel, cherry liqueur, peychauds bitters

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

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Bistro 33's Artisanal Tasting

After a little stint of Bistro 33 bringing back their sushi on Halloween night, they're once again working on a special event for guests that should be interesting.  Featuring a special artisanal wine & cheese tasting, patrons will enjoy a unique menu of artisanal cheeses, breads, and charcuterie paired with the wines of Southern Europe.  Hosted in Bistro's private dining room, it should be a fun event, which can be nice to share with a small group of friends or your significant other.  Here are the deets:

Bistro 33's Artisanal Tasting
Thursday, December 6th from 7:00 p.m.
Bistro 33's Private Dining Room (21-76 21st Street)
Give a call soon to reserve your spot.

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

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Return of Sushi at Bistro 33

Halloween is coming, and with that, so is a special sushi resurgence at Bistro 33.  For those of you who've lived in the nabe for a while, you'll remember that sushi used to be a staple at Bistro 33, but the menu has since then been taken over by other, more classical bistro fare.  I remember those sushi days well and always loved their inventive house rolls, which were prepared with a lot of thought and regard for ingredients.

If you come in during Halloween next week, you can enjoy sushi and sake all night long.  The extravaganza starts at 5:30 p.m. and goes on all night - come in costume and get your sush on!

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

718.721.1933

N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.bistro33nyc.com

Bistro's Fall Menu is Here

As the weather chills out a bit and the fall season officially enters, restaurants are changing their menus, serving heartier dishes that'll warm your bones.  While lots of places feature seasonal root veggies, places such as Bistro 33 are incorporating heartier proteins into their fall offering.  Just take a look here...

Bistro 33 Fall Menu:
Foie Gras & Pork Belly with chestnut bread pudding
Pork Porterhouse with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted granny smith apples, caramelized onions 
Roasted Salmon sancho potato pancakes, baby bok choy, sake soy reduction
Pheasant & Sweet Breads rosemary fingerling potatoes, chinese broccoli, sour cherry sauce
Short Rib miso daikon, roasted fuji apple, red wine sauce
Bistro Burger now 10 oz.

And...
Old favorites like Lobster Mac & Cheese, Crawfish Tempura and Steak Frites still available

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

Bistro 33's Winter Beach Party

Here's something fun and a little kooky to look forward to next week from the folks at Bistro 33.  I like that they often think of fun food events to shake things up, and I was surprised and also a little intrigued to find out about a winter beach party and clambake they're hosting next week.  Sounds like they want to shake things up and add a little whimsy to brighten up the winter blues.  Here's the special you can expect:

Wednesday, January 25th, starting at 5 p.m.

Lobster & Clambake
$5 Margaritas and other drinks special

They encourage people to dress up in the spirit of the clambake and they'll even provide beach balls, shades and hats.  It's going to be a sight to see...that much I can guarantee.

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
718.721.1933
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.bistro33nyc.com 

10 New Year's Eve Options in Astoria and LIC

Image by Confessions of a Cookbook Queen

With Saturday's New Year's Eve plans soon approaching, you may still be figuring out just what to do. Are you up for a fancy dinner and drinks at a hot spot or would you rather chill out at a small cozy resto and end the night with a glass of champagne at home?  It's up to you of course, but I wanted to provide you with options to make that decision.

Studio Square - If you're looking for something fun and boisterous to do with a large group of friends, Studio Square may be just right for you.  Their party will start at 8 p.m. with a live DJ, complimentary party favors, and lots of drinks options.  With only a $15 cover, it's affordable and promises to be a lively time.  35-33 36th Street, LIC.  718.383.1001

LIC Market - Extending their fabulous supper club concept to New Year's Eve, LIC Market will host two dinner seatings, one at 6 p.m. and the other at 9 p.m.  The latter is the more lavish and pricier option, with a 6-course tasting and a glass of sparkling wine.  Cheers to that!  21-52 44th Drive, LIC.  718.361.0013

Seva - The deals at Seva never cease to impress me, and especially when you consider the high quality of their food.  For New Year's Eve, they're offering a 3-course dinner special for just $20.12 per person.  You can choose from all your regular favorites such as samosas, chicken, shrimp, lamb dishes, and more.  Considering that this deal is extended until New Year's Day, even if you don't end up here that night, you can still enjoy the great value the day after.  30-07 34th Street, Astoria.  718.626.4440

DiWine - It's guaranteed to be a partay at DiWine for New Year's, as they'll be offering a 4 hour open bar, a live DJ, party favors and more for $65/person.  Stay until midnight of course and receive a free glass of champagne and hors d'oeuvres.  I also noticed they're throwing in an incentive for dinner, as diners will receive a $10 off the open bar option.  Eat and drink up!  41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.1355

Bistro 33 - Enjoy New Year's Eve in this intimate, casual venue with a special 3-course dinner that starts at 10:30 p.m. and includes a champagne toast and party favors.  You can also come by earlier and choose anything off their a la carte menu.  You can read all about the special menu items here, which include yummies such as steamed mussels, a duck duo, fluffer nutter dessert and more.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria.  718.721.1933

Cavo - Cavo's New Year's Eve event is always a big production and this year is no different. Whether you choose to come by for their Mediterranean feast between 7 and 8:45 p.m. or their after party, which starts at 9 p.m., it's guaranteed to be a night of excitement, dancing and fun.  42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.1001

Bear -  Although still a newcomer, Bear is certainly making a name for itself with its sophisticated menu and plentiful vodka offering.  For New Year's Eve, they'll be featuring a 3-course menu and a glass of champagne for $65/person.  The menu is tantalizing, with items such as roasted rabbit fettuccine, a three-shot vodka special, roasted duck with apples and more.  See the entire New Year's Eve menu here.  12-14 31st Avenue, Astoria.  917.396.4939

Vesta - Always promising a great time, this wonderfully local restaurant is hosting a "Blast from the Past" decades party.  Guests are encouraged to come in costume from their favorite era, and enjoy a gorgeous 4-course dinner.  As usual, there will be 3 seatings, with the last one also including complimentary party favors, a session with a tarot card reader and a midnight toast.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.545.5550

Veslo - Stretching out the celebration throughout the night, Veslo's New Year's Eve will start with a 5-course dinner with a top shelf open bar, and then extend to a big after party, starting at 12:30 a.m. Dinner reservations are highly encouraged and comfortable shoes are also a plus, as you'll want to dance your hiney off.  32-11 Broadway, Astoria. 718.728.0549

El Ay Si - Another great place to keep the celebration local is El Ay Si where you'll be able to enjoy their regular dinner service as well as other food and drinks specials.  A DJ will be spinning and the good news is that there is no minimum charge per person - a great choice that won't break the bank.  47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC.  718.389.8781

More Fall Food Goodness at Bistro 33

Speaking of fall food, I wanted to add another place on to your radar when cruising for new fall menus.  This one comes from Western Astoria joint, Bistro 33, which I frequent on occasion, especially when I want a bite of something comforting  (they're excellent at soups!).  Here's a peek at their new fall menu, which I hope sparks your interest:

Split Pea Soup - with smoked hamhock
Foie Gras - with berry jam and sea salt flat bread
Poached Salmon - goat cheese mashed potatoes, carrots & vidalia onions, rosemary cream sauce
Southern Fried & Biscuits  - free range poussin (young chicken), drop biscuits, sausage gravy, hominy grits
Hog Shank - miso daikon, roasted fuji apple and more...

If you'd like to visit, please note they've changed up their hours a bit:

Sunday - Monday: 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Tuesday - Thursday: 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Friday: 5:00 p.m. - Midnight
Saturday Brunch: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
718.721.1933
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.bistro33nyc.com

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

Happy Father's Day Astoria - Father's Day Resto Roundup

Happy Father's day to all the great dads out there, including my very special Oci.  That's what we call Dad in Slovak and my American friends find the word intriguing and endearing.  Just like the man himself, pictured above.  In honor of Father's Day, I bring you this resto round-up, and while you'll see that most places are doing business as usual, they still provide a wonderful atmosphere for Dad and the whole fam.

Mojave - Fun times are sure to be had at this Southwestern eatery.  In honor of Father's Day, they'll have a BBQ and an open bar on their patio and even free shots of tequila for Dad. Salud!  22-36 31st Street Astoria NY 11105.  718.545.4100

Cavo - This upscale Greek resto will feature their regular menu for Father's Day but Dads gets pampered with 1/2 priced entrees, so order something expensive.  You can also enjoy $20 pitchers of sangria, which is customary for Sundays.  42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.721.1001

eXo - You won't want to miss eXo's Trapezi night, which features a whole lamb on a spit, roasted beef, Greek pork shoulder and plenty of sides and meze to go with it.  The whole feast will only set you back $35/person and Dad gets some cold ones on the house!  15-16 149th Street, Whitestone NY 11357.  718.767.4396

Christos Steakhouse - If Christos isn't the epitome of manly cuisine then I don't know what is.  Take Dad to this staple Greek steakhouse for a gorgeous steak, lobster and classic steakhouse sides with a Greek spin.  They'll have a couple of daily specials for Dad but the menu is staying as is.  41-08 23rd Avenue, Astoria, NY 11105.  718.777.8400

Bistro 33 - Check out this neighborhood favorite for Father's Day, and especially now as it's fresh from being renovated.  As many of you may know, the previously known Side Door ice cream parlor has now been renamed Side Door Sushi and is serving just that.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria NY 11105.  718.721.1933

BareBurger - Who wouldn't want to sink their teeth into a juicy, organic burger that comes in 14 different varieties?!  Dad can mix and match his protein with the various fixins and can choose from traditional beef to a more exotic ostrich or bison patty.  33-21 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106.  718.777.7011

Zenon Taverna - If your Dad loves homemade, delectable Greek food, you can't miss Zenon.  My favorite thing to get here is the 16 course meze tasting menu for just $19.95.  Yes...it's true, and yes...it's very delicious and filling.  34-10 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106.  718.956.0133

Vesta - With their menu always being fresh and seasonal, there's nothing not to love here.  From pizza, pasta, steak, fish, pork and lots of great veggie options, Dad will surely love breaking bread at this local eatery.  They have plenty of wonderfully chosen wines on the menu too so don't forget to order a glass or a bottle.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.545.5550

Ornella - Here's an idea for you...celebrate with Dad on Monday and take advantage of Ornella's steak night where all steak dishes (6 varieties in total!) are only $14.99.  This is a great opportunity to treat Dad, while not breaking the wallet either.  And while you're there, don't miss my absolute favorite dish - the duck meatballs! 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105.  718.777.9477

Bistro 33 is Taking Time to Beautify

The four year old Bistro 33 is taking some time to beautify its appearance for the summer.  The renovation will be cosmetic and you can expect the same yummy menu when they re-open again next week.  The period of this temporary close is between now and June 5 so pay a visit to their delicious neighbors such as Fatty's Cafe and Crescent and Vine in the interim.  Agnanti is a nice option too and offers great outdoor dining right near the park.

Let us know what you think of the new Bistro when it comes back next week.

Bistro 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105
718.721.1933
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.bistro33nyc.com

Astoria Mother's Day Plans

One of my favorite holidays, Mother's Day is here.  Not only do you get to honor your one and only Mama, you also get to indulge in lovely food and drink.  Astoria and LIC are paying special homage to our favorite matriarchs, and there are plenty of fun things to choose from. Such as...

Ornella - Aside from the delectable menu items that you can always find at Ornella (the imbustata and the duck meatballs are favorites), they'll also feature a 3-course prix fixe for $35.  This menu will contain delectable items such as chestnut pasta, burrata with porchetta, short ribs, Ornella's homemade Italian cheesecake and much more.  29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105.  718.777.9477

Cavo - Since the weather is rumored to be quite spectacular tomorrow, treat Mom to a garden brunch at Cavo.  Sure it's a splurge at $49/person, but the setting is to die for and you can spend quite a while luxuriating in the sunshine.  The menu includes 3 courses and a glass of wine.  42-18 31st Ave, Astoria, NY 11103.  718.721.1001

Astor Room - The newly opened Astor Room will feature regular brunch service during the day but a special dinner prix-fixe dinner in the evening.  A special 3 course dinner will include highlights such as duck confit stuffed squash blossoms, champagne poached red snapper, rosemary brick chicken, a chocolate & peanut butter mousse cup and more for $50/person.  34-12 36th Street, Astoria NY 11106.  718.255.1947

eXo - Although not an Astoria based resto, its chef, Costa hails from A-town, so venture out and experience the authentic, homey Greek cuisine.  They're showcasing both brunch and dinner service with a special prix-fixe and you can see the menu here.  To whet your appetite, expect Greek specialties such as Eggs Benedict Spanakopita, sizzling lamb hash, swordfish souvlaki and more.  15-16 149th Street, Whitestone NY 1135.  718.767.4396

Bistro 33 - While usually featuring a prix-fixe, Bistro will keep things casual with their regular menu but a couple of special items as well will shake things up.  Tomorrow, you can have brunch or dinner and bask in the sunshine by sitting in their open air cafe.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105.  718.721.1933

Veslo - If your mama has an adventurous palate, take her out for Balkan food at the new, fabulous, Veslo.  Their special Mother's Day menu is quite rich with a 5-course offering for $65/person with featured items such as veal gnocchi, surf and turf, osso bucco, Eastern-European style crepes and more.  32-11 Broadway, Astoria NY 11106.  718.728.0549

Winegasm - It's all about brunch here for Mother's Day from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. So whether mom loves a good bellini, bloody Mary, mimosa or what have you, the unlimited cocktail option for moms is free tomorrow.  The food prix-fixe is just $12.50, which is a great deal, especially given the quality of the food and drink.  31-86 37th Street, Astoria NY 11103.  718.932.3331

L'Artiste Restaurant - Treat your favorite maman to a sophisticated French dinner at the quaint, L'Artiste.  Featuring a 3-course $35/person prix-fixe, you can choose from classic French dishes such as escargot, beet salad, roasted duck, steak frites and more.  Reservations are highly recommended. 42-20 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  646.309.7504

Locale - For a cool, funky vibe, take mom to Locale where you won't be tied down to a prix-fixe menu.  There will be a couple of specials that day in the form of soups, paninis and more, and you can enjoy a lovely brunch, eat outdoors and people watch on the tree-lined 34th Avenue.  33-02 34th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106.  718.729.9080

Testaccio - Whether you're in the mood for a special treat or their regular (and equally yummy) menu, Testaccio welcomes Moms and families tomorrow.  A sampling of their specials includes wild boar meatballs with goat cheese, grilled shrimp skewers with orange glaze, braised lamb shanks with cherry tomatoes, four cheese tortellini in a pesto sauce and more.  47-30 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City NY 11101.  718.937.2900