Saying Good-Bye to a Friend - Bistro Les Minots

I had lunch with Meg this week and a hot topic that came up was the closing of Bistro Les Minots, the cute, little French Bistro up on 30th Avenue and 47th Street.  My guess for its sad ending is perhaps the remote location, set in a quiet, residential neighborhood, far away from the busy commercial streets closer to the train. 

It's a real bummer and I'll sure miss it.  While there are some other French restaurants still in the nabe, I think the only ones worth their salt are 718 and Tournesol.

So for now it's au revoir Bistro Les Minots. We'll think back on you fondly and remember your cozy, comfortable vibe, warm staff and yummy food. 

Chime in Astoria - let me know what you'll miss (or not miss) about this place and also if you have other trusty French alternatives you'll turn to in its place.

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103 - CLOSED
718.606.2535
N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street
www.bistrolesminots.com/

Happy Mother's Day Astoria

Wow this week is busy with two big special occasions happening so close to each other - yesterday's Cinco de Mayo and of course Mother's Day, which is this Sunday.  Below are 10 fun suggestions for Mother's Day in Astoria and Long Island City.  I hope whichever route you take, you treat Mom to something nice and make her feel special.

Ovelia - Although they're completely booked for brunch, dinner reservations are still available.  There's no Mother's Day menu, but they are serving their Sunday Night 3-course prix-fixe for $25.  That's a great deal on a regular night, but especially for Mother's Day when a lot of restaurants jack up their prices. 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria. 718.721.7217

Bistro Les Minots - This quaint little French bistro is also doing an affordable $29.95 prix-fixe menu for Mother's Day with a 3-course French meal and even a complimentary glass of sangria.  The offer runs from noon to 10 p.m. on Sunday.  47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.606.2535

Seva - My all-time favorite Indian restaurant in Astoria, they'll be doing business as usual on Mother's Day.  Because it's so intimate and often-times busy, I suggest you make a reservation.  My favorite dishes here are the apricot lamb curry as well as the chicken Korma.  And definitely get the naan! 30-07 34th Street, Astoria. 718.626.4440

718 - I love going to 718 for Mother's day and took my mom there two years ago.  She loved the clean, modern atmosphere and enjoyed her tarte flambee very much.  This year for Mother's Day, they'll serve brunch as usual and for dinner they're featuring a lamb special. Everything can be ordered a la carte, which is great. 35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.204.5553

Akti - If you're in the mood for wonderfully fresh Greek food, give Akti a try.  They'll be serving their regular menu, which is fabulous for Greek meze and fresh fish.  I highly recommend the dip platter and the zucchini croquettes. 34-19 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.3530

BareBurger - In addition to being a big fan of their burgers, I've recently discovered their amazing brunch and highly recommend it for Mother's Day.  The menu will remain the same and so will the prices.  If you want to indulge, I urge you to try their organic omelette with Danish blue cheese, applewood bacon and caramelized onions. Need I say more? 33-21 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106.  718.777.7011

Zenon Taverna - This deliciously homey Greek restaurant will be offering a great deal for Mother's Day with a 3-course prix fixe (including your choice of a separate side dish with your entree) for $24.95.  Reservations are highly recommended. 34-10 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.956.0133

Cavo - Want to take mom somewhere a bit fancy? Cavo is a great place, especially if the weather is cooperating because they have a large outdoor garden.  The Mother's Day offering is a 3-course meal for $35 per person.  You can come for brunch or dinner - service starts at 1p.m. 42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.1001

Tournesol - I think moms will enjoy a casual meal with panache at this adorable LIC bistro.  The cuisine is French and the menu will remain unchanged on Sunday.  However, they will be featuring a lamb special.  If you try it, definitely don't skimp on dessert - the bread pudding is amazing.  50-12 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101. 718.472.4355

Manducatis Rustica - Tradition and homestyle cooking is the theme here with tasty thin crust pizzas, pasta favorites and homemade gelato.  The menu won't change so you can enjoy all their regular specialties at their gentle prices.   46-35 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101. 718.937.1312

Where to Eat on Easter Sunday in Astoria

Easter is this Sunday and from what's been predicted, the weather will be awesome.  Warm and sunny and simply a perfect day to enjoy some time with close family and friends.  If you're not planning a home cooked meal, there are plenty of restaurant options to enjoy.  Some restaurants are planning special menus and prix-fixes while others are keeping it casual with regular menus.

Bistro Les Minots - This intimate French bistro will be having an Easter prix-fixe but I can assure you, it's affordable.  For $29.95 per person, you'll get a three-course French meal with choices such as a Provencale tarte, roasted leg of lamb, a classic strawberry chantilly and more.  47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.606.2535

718 Restaurant - Another Frenchie spot, this one isn't changing a thing for Easter, and I don't think they need to.  You can enjoy their delicious brunch, which includes a three-course prix-fixe with a cocktail for $22.  While it may seem like a lot for brunch, it's well worth it and especially for this festive holiday.  35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.204.5553

Da Franco - This traditional Italian eatery will also skip a formal prix-fixe and instead will offer a couple of daily specials which will include fish, meat and pasta. I highly recommend asking for their blistery focaccia bread, or if you like sweet things, ask them to put nutella on it - it makes the most wonderful dessert. 23-92 21st Street, Astoria NY 11105. 718.267.0010

El Ay Si - A special Easter menu isn't in the works, so if you're in the mood for comfort food such as jalapeno corn fritters, black-eyed pea cakes, fried chicken and such, you've come to the right place. Although there's no special listed now, they often pop up on their Facebook page on the day of, so check back for updates. 47-38 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City NY 11101. 718.389.8781

Ornella - Masters of homemade food with soul, Ornella will be skipping the prix-fixes, concentrating on traditional Italian dishes that are popular for Easter. Whether you choose to go with a hearty lasagna or an earthy dish like lamb with rosemary, you can't go wrong. And if you want something special that you can't get anywhere else, ask about their buckwheat pasta called Pizzoccheri Della Valtellina. 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105. 718.777.9477

Ovelia - Tradition plays a big role in Ovelia's Easter offering with Magiritsa, a traditional egg lemon soup, available after midnight on Saturday. They'll remain open on Sunday and will serve Greek specialties such as Kokoretsi and roasted leg of lamb. You can get both as well as the soup for a $27 prix-fixe. Enjoy - and don't forget to ask for one of their fabulous cocktails. 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.7217

Testaccio - Long Island City's newest, modern Italian eatery delivers yummy Roman Easter classics.  The Easter menu includes delicacies such as thinly sliced roast veal, roasted leg of lamb with porcini mushrooms, roasted rabbit with black olives and much more.  Don't miss the Nutella pizza rolls for dessert - they're a must. 47-30 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City NY 11101. 718.937.2900

Trattoria L'Incontro - One of Astoria's best known Italian restaurants, they don't mess around when it comes to special occasions.  They'll feature a generous 4-course prix-fixe for $60/person with Easter dishes such as a special Easter soup, ravioli with sweet potatoes, lamb, filet mignon, a choice of fish and various desserts of the day.  21-76 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.721.3532

Vesta - A dear favorite of mine and of many others, Vesta will feature a special Easter menu with a mix of brunch (till 3:00 p.m.) and dinner (till 9:00 p.m.). Their Easter menu boasts some of their signature dishes such as the Hangover Pizza, Slow Braised Meatballs, Lasagna (Sunday dinner style - pictured above) as well as new dishes such as skate and borcht soup. 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102. 718.545.5550

Zenon Taverna - This wonderful Greek staple isn't wasting time when it comes to celebrating Easter.  They'll be open real late on Saturday night/Sunday morning (until 3:00 a.m.) to ensure that people can enjoy a traditional Easter dinner right after religious services.  There is a prix-fixe on Saturday and it's super affordable at $20.95/person for a 4-course meal including a special treat - flaounes, a traditional Cypriot cheese pie made especially for Easter.  They'll be closed on Sunday.   34-10 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.956.0133

An Astorian Valentine's Day

  

Valentine's Day is this Sunday.  With so many fun goings-on in Astoria and LIC, you won't need to schlep into the city. Here are 10 V-day choices that offer something for every kind of palate.

Vesta - All I can say is try Vesta for V-day because you won't regret it.  Dan and I went last year and were so impressed with the whole evening.  It felt special.  This year, they're offering three seatings at 5:00, 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. for $55 per person for a 3-course dinner.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.545.5550

Testaccio - This Italian newcomer is already causing a stir in LIC.  Known for their delicious pizza and rustic Italian fare, they're having a 3-course V-day prix-fixe for $55/person, including a glass of champagne.  47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC.  718.937.2900

Seva - If you're looking for a non-traditional V-Day meal, Seva shouldn't be missed.  In addition to amazingly flavorful Indian dishes, their 4-course prix-fixe is incredibly wallet friendly at $20 per person and $38 with a wine pairing.  30-07 34th Street, Astoria.  718.626.4440

Ornella - Their romantic menu looks enticing with plenty of homemade pasta options including their signature dish "the imbustata," which is to die for.  A 3-course prix-fixe will set you back a well spent $35 per person.  Remember that this place is BYOB so bring a bottle of vino with you.  29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.9477

Ovelia - You can always count on Ovelia to do something creative for a special occassion.  For V-Day, they'll feature a special aphrodisiac menu and even a chocolate buffet for dessert.  34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.7217

Mundo - This intimate eatery has quite the evening in store for lovers.  There are 3 seatings available, at 6:15, 8:15 and 10:15 with a 3-course menu for $80 per couple.  A cup of warm spiced wine comes with your dinner as an added bonus.  31-18 Broadway #E, Astoria.  718.777.2829

DiWine - Enjoy a chic atmosphere at DiWine with a 4-course V-Day menu and a glass of wine for $55 per person.  There are two seatings - one accommodating the early crowd at 5:30 p.m. and another one for the night owls at 9 p.m.  41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.1355

Bistro Les Minots - Have a very French Valentine's Day at this little brasserie on 30th Avenue.  The V-Day menu offers classic French specialties such as French onion soup, mussels and an assortment of crepes and other French desserts.  A 3-course prix-fixe is $34.95. 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.606.2535

Marshall - An Astoria newbie, it serves Balkan specialities such as cevapi and pljeskavica.  Their V-Day menu includes a hefty 5-course prix-fixe for $40 person, including a glass of champagne and live music. 35-03 Broadway, Astoria. 718.545.3500

Cavo - Praised to be one of the most romantic venues in Astoria (I agree), they're featuring a 4-course prix-fixe menu at $65 per person.  Sure it's expensive but you're paying for your surroundings as much as the food.  Service starts at 1 p.m. 42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.1001

Happy Valentine's Day Astoria! xoxo

Get a $10 Gift Certificate for Bistro Les Minots

Bistro Les Minots is still in the spirit of giving, celebrating the New Year by extending a $10 gift certificate to all customers on their new a la carte menu.  Additions include impressive-sounding dishes such as a braised lamb shank, roasted mignon of pork, lobster ravioli, a seared red snapper and many others.  This offer is valid for another month, expiring on February 12th.  The discount applies to the entire table, no matter how big or small, which could make it a great deal for a romantic dinner for two.

Email me for the coupon if you're interested and I'll happily pass it along.  All you have to do is print it out and bring it to the restaurant.  Enjoy!

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.606.2535

N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street
www.bistrolesminots.com

Happy New Year Astoria!

Happy almost New Year Astoria!  There's so many exciting and wonderful things happening on Thursday night in celebration of this holiday and here's a run-down.  Enjoy and make your reservations if you haven't done so already.

Bistro 33 - You have a choice between the regular a la carte menu or a special chef's tasting menu, complete with wine pairings and a champagne toast at midnight.  And if you prefer to hit it up on New Year's day, they'll be serving brunch all day long.  Special Chef's Tasting menu is $95/person.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria.  718.721.1933

DiWine - Hit up this fun wine bar on New Year's eve with a 4-course menu, including a champagne toast, party favors, free hors d'oeuvres after 12 and a live DJ.  Seatings are between 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.  $70/person.  If you'd like to dine prior to the hubbub, you can do so between 5 p.m. - 7p.m. 41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.1355

Mundo - Enjoy a delicious Turkish New Year's dinner at this intimate eatery with a 4-course feast including specialties such as creamy Turkish-style chicken salad with walnuts, homemade spinach pie and plenty of veggie options.  6:30p.m - 8:30 p.m seating or 9:30 p.m. - Midnight seating.  $65/person.  31-18 Broadway #E, Astoria.  718.777.2829

718 - As on most special occassions at 718, this will be rockin' party with DJ Lean spinning 80's and Latin tracks.  The party starts at 11p.m. and you can stop in for dinner anytime - they have a new menu available here.  35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria NY 11105. 718.204.5553

Radio Bar & Grill - The newly-opened Radio Bar & Grill has an enticing New Year's special with a $20 cover, all drinks for $3 and FREE food.  Sounds like a great deal and it's a nice way to check out their new digs.  49-18 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.204.6892

Sweet Afton - Another newby and already a favorite is having a New Year's party with an open bar from 9 p.m. - midnight, hors d'oeuvres, a champagne toast at midnight and even a bagpiper!  $60 per person, reserve your tickets today.  30-09 34th Street, Astoria.  718.777.2570

Vesta - Black and White is the theme of this party, as black and white garb is suggested but not required.  A hefty 4-course menu will be available during 3 seatings with the following times and prices.  A welcome glass of bubbly and a midnight toast is included too.  6 p.m. seating - $45/person, 8 p.m. seating - $55/person, 9:30 p.m./10:00 p.m. seating - $65/person.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.545.5550

Bistro Les Minots - This traditional French, cozy eatery is having a 4-course menu with a terrine de Foie Gras, lobster ravioli, filet mignon, and a selection of classic French desserts such as creme brulee, a homemade apple tart and crepes as some of the options.  The 6 p.m. seating has been sold out but the 9 p.m. seating is still available.  $49.95/person. 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.606.2535

Cavo - A big celebration is in store with a 5-course tasting menu, which includes fun party favors during two seatings--one at 7 p.m. for $75/person and the other at 9:15 p.m. for $105/person.  Although pricy, it promises a high-end, trendy vibe with good entertainment.  42-18 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.1001

Ovelia - Party at this modern Greek cafe with a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, no cover and a 4-course prix-fixe dinner with a glass of wine for $65/person.  34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.721.7217

Have fun and have a Happy New Year Astoria!

Happy Thanksgiving Astoria!

The famous Turkey day is here this week.  How are you spending it? Whether in the mood for a classic American feast or a meal with an ethnic twist, here are 11 delicious venues that could help you celebrate Thanksgiving Day. 

Vesta -They're featuring a special Thanksgiving themed menu, but no prix-fixe, which is a good thing.  The butternut squash soup and braised pork shank sound particularly enticing.  See entire menu here. 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.545.5550

DiWine - A four-course Thanksgiving menu with a traditional Turkey roast, orange cranberry and walnut relish and a classic pumpkin pie with cinammon whipped cream will put you over the edge.  $55 per person.  41-15 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.777.1355

Bistro Les Minots - Curious about a French Thanksgiving? Try Bistro Les Minots' offering from 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. for just $24.95 per person.  Their feast includes three courses, and it guanrantees a couple of French infusions such as goat cheese and homemade chocolate mousse.  47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.606.2535

Cara Bella - Just steps away from Bistro Les Minots is Cara Bella and they have a special Thanksgiving menu too.  $35 per person will get you three hefty courses and a complimentary glass of prosecco.  They're kid friendly and offer a $14 kids menu.  47-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.956.1101

Da Franco - More on the Italian front, Da Franco's Thanksgiving menu boasts a 4-course $40 prix-fixe, which includes an appetizer, pasta (ravioli with toasted pumpkin), turkey and a signature dessert. They'll also have the regular menu if you're in the mood for pizza and homemade gelato.  23-92 21st Street, Astoria NY 11105.  718.267.0010

Christos Steakhouse - Does turkey bisque, an apple stuffed roast, chestnut stuffed turkey and pumpkin pie sound good to you? If so, check out these items and more on the Christos Steakhouse Thanksgiving menu for $35 per person.  41-08 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105.  718.777.8400

Zenon Taverna - This homey Greek eatery knows how to do things right with a $23 per person Thanksgiving menu with a mix of traditional Thanksgiving food like turkey and pumpkin pie--but also classic Greek dishes such as Cyprus meatballs.  The regular menu is available as well.  34-10 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106.  718.956.0133

Ovelia - Another fun Greek eatery that's celebrating Thanksgiving is Ovelia with a $19.95 3-course prix fixe with a cream of turkey soup, a turkey platter with stuffing and a choice of two sides, as well as candied sweet potatoes for dessert.  Plan for an early meal, as Ovelia will be open from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.  34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.721.7217   

Seva - Want to veer away from tradition? Have an Indian-style Thanksgiving at Seva, where they boast a $13 3-course prix-fixe dinner.  Seva's cuisine is a wonderful option for carnivores, vegetarians and vegans alike.  30-07 34th Street, Astoria NY 11103.  718.626.4440

Studio Square - Although they're not serving dinner on Thanksgiving, Studio Square will host a big Thanksgiving Eve bash on Wednesday night.  A live DJ, $15 pitchers and $5 shots should get people off their couch.  35-33 36th Street, Astoria NY 11106.  718.383.1001

Othello Deli - My favorite deli in Astoria is offering a $9.95 take-home Thanksgiving dinner plate with soup, turkey, stuffing, yams and mashed potatoes.  Call ahead and place your order.  26-19 24th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.956.1337

Establishments that are closed on Thanksgiving:
Mundo
Petey's Burger
Ornella Trattoria
Fatty's

Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving everyone!

New Chef brings New Dishes to Bistro Les Minots

With the addition of a new chef, Joe Kurauchi, Bistro Les Minots is making more changes and exciting additions to their menu. Their latest culinary developments include the following classic French dishes - they sound delicious to me and many of them incorporate my favorite ingredient, bacon!

La Salade de Foie de Volaille - Baby spinach and warm chicken liver confit in a balasamic reduction sauce

Les Rougets a la Nage - Pan seared fillets of red mullets with tomatoes, zucchini, and an arugula & mussel pesto nage

Le Coq Au Vin - Dark chicken meat cooked in red wine with bacon, mushrooms, onions & carrots over spaghetti served in a red wine sauce

Les Travers de Boeuf Braises - Braised short ribs in red wine and served with polenta gratinée and a fricassé of carrots & mushrooms. The short ribs will also be available in a sandwich served with fries and salad as a variation of “Le Citadin”, the hanger steak sandwich.

Les Moules A La Normande - Steamed mussels with bacon, mushrooms, shallots and an apple brandy sauce

Bistro is also continuing its 3-course $19.95 prix-fixe from 5p.m. - 10p.m. 7 days a week.

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.606.2535
N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street www.bistrolesminots.com/

Bistro Les Minots has a New Chef

Bistro Les Minots is making some note-worthy changes--for starters, they have a new chef, Joe Kurauchi. Having much international experience, Chef Kurauchi is trained in Japan and has worked in many notable kitchens such as El Bulli in Spain, The Fat Duck in London, Morimoto in Philadelphia, Bombay, NYC, among others.

Personally, I'm curious and excited about the new life, style and cuisine that he'll infuse into Les Minots. Some of his culinary premieres include sandwiches such as "Le Marocain," with spicy lamb sausage, "Le Normand," with ham and melted brie and the "L'Atlantic," with deep fried monkfish over cole slaw in a wasabi sauzan sauce. It's interesting to see the Japanese influence come through in these dishes and I look forward to seeing more of this.

Other changes include an adjustment in prices, adding the option of dessert to their $19.95 dinner prix-fixe. This special will now be available 7 days a week from 5p.m. - 7p.m. as opposed to only on weekdays.

Check it out, enjoy and as always, let me know what you think.

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.606.2535
N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street www.bistrolesminots.com/

Mother's Day in Astoria

Mother's Day is this Sunday and there's never a lack of activity in Astoria. Below you'll find interesting restaurant specials and suggestions for a Mother's Day lunch, dinner or brunch.

Prix-Fixe Specials:

Seva - Although this isn't a Mother's Day prix-fixe per se, I'd recommend a visit here for either lunch or dinner. They offer a $12 three-course dinner and a $7 two-course brunch. The portions are generous, the food is delicious and it's a BYOB so you could bring your own wine. 30-07 34th street, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.626.4440

Bistro Les Minots - Their $29.95/person all-day Mother's Day special will feature classic French dishes such as escargots, braised short ribs, an apple tart and the like. Brunch will be offered between 11am - 4:30pm, showcasing their regular menu. 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.606.2535

Ovelia - Promising a modern Greek experience, Ovelia's $28/person three-course prix-fixe is packed with flavorful dishes such as homemade Greek sausage, fresh seafood, a leg of lamb among others. 34-01 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.721.7217

Zenon Taverna - Both a prix-fixe (price is still being decided) and the regular menu will be available. I prefer their keftedes or Cypriot meatballs that are full of flavor and spice. The hospitality is wonderful--it's very much a family oriented place. 34-10 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.956.0133

Cavo - An upscale Mother's Day at this Greek eatery includes a $54/per person four-course meal, complete with a tuna roll sampling, salad, a variety of entrees and dessert. Click here for the Mother's Day menu. Valet parking is complimentary and seating starts at 1pm. 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.1001

Trattoria L'Incontro - Although this place is all booked up for Mother's Day, if you want it bad enough, you can call to see if they get cancellations between now and Sunday. The offering is a $60 four-course prix-fixe. Another splurge but the food is fantastic! 21-76 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.721.3532

Specials but no Prix-Fixe:

Vesta - A great place to bring Mom, Vesta has a cozy, unpretentious vibe. Brunch will be available from 11am - 4pm and dinner will start at 5pm and go until 10pm. Special dishes added to the menu include charred calamari, orecchiette with asparagus ragu and double lump-blue crab cakes. 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

Mundo - They'll have a couple of daily specials, one of which includes grilled shrimp but aside from that, their menu will remain unchanged. Good thing too because they already offer so many goodies such as empanadas, red sonjas and Ottoman dumplings. 31-18 Broadway #E, Astoria. 718.777.2829

718 - Serving dinner dishes all day long, the daily specials encompass a variety of grilled plates such as calamari, a rack of lamb, sea scallops--and the only non-grilled specials offering is the chocolate tartlet. Personally, I love their tarte flambees--try those! 35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.204.5553

Il Bambino - Want to bring Mom to an Astoria gem? Try Il Bambino where they'll have a couple of panini, crostini and salad specials for Mother's Day. Besides that, their fabulous menu of crunchy paninis and small plates remains the same. 34-08 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.626.0087

Business as Usual but Still Noteworthy:

Akti - The fresh seafood here is always impressive and they have a delectable meze selection. It's been open for about a year and has gotten very popular. They're almost booked up for Mother's Day but have a couple of open reservations (7:30pm, 8:00pm) so call soon if you're interested. 34-19 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.3530

Agnanti - If you're looking for traditional Greek food, this is it. Halloumi, biftekia, keftedes, Agnanti has it all. They might end up with some daily specials but that hasn't been decided yet. Reservations are suggested, as Agnanti gets crowded. 19-06 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.833.7033

Piccola Venezia - An upscale Italian joint, it's on the traditional side and their fresh pasta is supposed to be superb. The signature menu will stay the same for Mother's Day and there will be three main seatings -- 1:00pm, 3:30pm and 6:30pm. 42-01 28th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.721.8470

Happy Mother's Day Astoria!

Wine Tasting at Bistro Les Minots

Bistro Les Minots, the new French restaurant on 30th Avenue and 47th street will be having its first wine tasting, which from now on will take place every Tuesday.

From 5:30pm - 6:30pm, the tasting will feature the following French wines:

Pinot Blanc from Sclumberger, 2005
Viognier, Domaine de Gournier, 2007
Chinon from the Loire Valley of Marc Bredif, 2007
Costiere de Nimes, Chateau Valcombe, 2005 from the South of France

Sounds enchanting...

And enjoy their yummy cuisine along with the vino. They offer a $19.95 prix-fixe dinner from 5pm - 7pm everyday.

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.606.2535
N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street www.bistrolesminots.com/

Where to Eat on Easter Sunday

With Easter this Sunday, I thought it'd be helpful to provide some dining options in case you aren't feasting at home. The restaurant offerings below sound tasty and some are even cost effective, as not everything is a prix-fixe.

Prix-Fixes:

Beer Garden - Visit the Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden this Sunday for their Easter celebration. In addition to the authentic Czech food for $19.95 per person, they'll have an Easter egg hunt and live music. 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102. 718.274.4925

Trattoria L'Incontro - In true Trattoria fashion, they'll be featuring a $60/person 3-course prix-fixe menu. While expensive, you'll get your money's worth with all the delicious, quality food that Trattoria is known for. Entrees will consist of meats such as lamb and filet mignon, and reservations are still available. 21-76 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.721.3532

Bistro Les Minots - A new French eatery in Astoria, they're having a $25 prix-fixe on Sunday with traditional Easter dishes such as a leg of lamb with mashed potatoes and classic French desserts such as chocolate mousse with fresh strawberries. Yum! 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.606.2535

Special Menu/Daily Specials:

Vesta - Their Easter menu features selections from brunch and dinner. My favorite item is the braised lamb shank (pictured above), and I guarantee that if you get it, you won't be disappointed. Vesta's signature dessert, the Baby Jesus cake is delicious and quite appropriate for Sunday's holiday. Everything is priced a-la-carte. 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

718 - Another Frenchie spot, 718 is known for their tarte flambees, which resemble thin crust pizza. They'll have these along with their regular dinner menu all day on Easter. Brunch however, will not be available that day. 35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.204.5553

Locale - Similarly to Vesta, Locale is offering a fusion of brunch and dinner on Easter. Special dishes include an Italian-style fritatta, steak marinated with peppers and avocado relish and fancy French toast. The atmosphere is very cool, contemporary and relaxing. 33-02 34th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.729.9080

Tournesol - This LIC French bistro will have a couple of daily specials on Easter but their menu offering will remain a-la-carte. They make a killer French onion soup and some really yummy desserts such as bread pudding with luscious Creme Anglaise sauce. 50-12 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101. 718.472.4355

Akti - Even though this place is Greek and they don't celebrate Easter until next weekend, it'll be fully open on Sunday, featuring a couple of daily specials. I'd recommend their catch of the day (grilled) and the zucchini croquettes. 34-19 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.3530

Regular Menu:

Piccola Venezia - Although they won't be featuring a special menu, they're known for fresh pasta and hearty meat dishes. Like Trattoria L'Incontro, Venezia is on the upscale side and the prices reflect that. 42-01 28th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.721.8470

Mojave - In the mood for a non-traditional Easter dinner? Try Mojave and enjoy a plethora of Southwestern dishes. Prices are moderate and the atmosphere is lovely and celebratory. Everything will be offered a-la-carte on Sunday. 22-36 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.545.4100

I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday, full of beautiful dishes--and chocolate Easter eggs!

Bistro Les Minots - Hospitable French Kitchen

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.606.2535
N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street www.bistrolesminots.com/

After some buzz in the neighborhood, Meg, Tom, Dan and I decided to try the new French restaurant, Bistro Les Minots. The experience was a good one and while it's not the best French food that I've had, the service and the atmosphere were so homey and comfortable that I'm already looking forward to my next visit.

Atmosphere:
While the exterior is plain and unassuming, the inside is warm, cozy and embellished with fun little touches that have special meanings. For example, we sat at a table close to the bar, which had a small name plate above one of the seats. Ironically it said "Tom," which raised some questions. Who is Tom? We asked about it and found out that it's the name of their very first customer. I thought that was really sweet and quite personal.

The front-of-the-house dining room, while small is comfortable. The walls are painted a warm yellow and there are fun embellishments that make the place come to life. We especially liked the bicycle wheel wine rack and the gargantuan jar of Minot's "mystery wine," made right on the premises. I also loved the beautiful sounds of Edith Piaf and other French artists, that further set the scene.

Food:
Being a fan of French fare, I was happy to see that they offered great, classic options such as escargot, French onion soup, mussels, profiteroles and such. Overall, we were happy with the food--some things were done better than others but generally, we were pleased.

French Onion Soup - I was excited to see how this soup measured up to my previous experiences. It was quite good with nicely flavored broth and plenty of yummy croutons inside--I hate it when they skimp out on those. The cheese on top was of good quality but I wished that it was a bit more on the well-done side. I like to see it slightly browned and maybe next time I'll tell them so.

Escargot - Being that this is one of Dan's favorite foods, he was excited to order it. It looked absolutely gorgeous on his plate, served in a puff pastry shell and flavored with garlic, parsley, shallots and red wine sauce. He said that he liked the pastry and the sauce but that the escargot weren't the best quality. I tasted one and agreed--they had a slightly strange aftertaste and were a bit on the small side.

Truffle Fries - We ordered these for the table and devoured them at record speed. The fries themselves were beautifully golden and crispy. Topped with delicious parmesan and seasoned with truffle oil, they had a hint of decadence and luxury. These weren't your ordinary French fries--they were distinguished and sophisticated. I absolutely loved dipping them into my mussels sauce--it was pure heaven!

Mussels - I ordered the classic moules marinieres with garlic, shallots and parsley in a white wine sauce. The sauce was outstanding and the mussels were generally fine but again, not the best quality. I got a couple of inedible bad-boys that I was sad to discard. Oh well! There was plenty of delicious sauce to dip bread and fries into--and that made me very happy. I ordered the small portion, which was just enough.

Chicken Rolls - Dan chose this as his entree and couldn't be happier. The chicken was stuffed with seasonal veggies and gruyere cheese--and the whole dish was further flavored with a rosemary reduction. What was most appealing, Dan said was that the outside skin of the chicken was crispy and that the inside was wonderfully moist. It came with a side of mashed potatoes and string beans, which he said were just OK. But overall, he gave it two thumbs up.

Other Dishes - Meg and Tom both ordered salads to start and they seemed to enjoy them. Meg's was a goat cheese salad served with herbed mini toasts, grapes and honey dijon dressing. The toasts looked fantastic and Meg seemed to like everything, as she cleaned her plate completely.

For their entrees Meg ordered a classic French dish, the Pisalladiere (a warm onion tart) and Tom chose the Le Fermier sandwich (aka a grilled chicken sandwich). Both dishes looked good and Tom's was an especially generous portion--for $9, I'd say that he got his money's worth. Meg's on the other hand was on the small side but she didn't mind.

Dessert - This was hands-down my favorite part of the meal--we ordered two dishes for the table, the profiteroles and the creme brulee. I liked the profiteroles better but that's not to say that the creme brulee wasn't good--they were both outstanding. What I loved about the profiteroles was the puffy, airy dough filled with delicious vanilla creme that melted in your mouth. The whole thing was slathered in warm chocolate sauce and further embellished with fresh strawberries.

The creme brulee was light on the tongue yet rich on the senses and included two flavors, vanilla-bean and banana. I preferred the classic vanilla-bean and again, the dish was enhanced with a fresh strawberry. I highly recommend both desserts.

Service and Cost:
Our servers were also the restaurant's owners and that made our experience lovely. They were hospitable, jovial and so very French. We loved hearing their charming accents and they made our evening at Les Minots fun and interactive. I use the word interactive because they made us guess 10 ingredients in their homemade "mystery wine," which we got to sample. It was absolutely delicious and we tried our best to guess the 10 ingredients for a promise of a free dinner. We guessed 8 of them and by the end, the whole restaurant was in on our little game. It was a really great time and I'm looking forward to more fun at our next visit.

The costs are moderate and we ended up paying about $40 per person (including tax and tip) for a three course meal with wine. Les Minots has a $19.95 dinner prix-fixe where you could get a choice of appetizer and entree or entree and dessert between the hours of 5pm - 7pm. I think this is a pretty good deal and they have tons of options to choose from.

2 Mmmms

Bistro Les Minots - New Frenchie Spot

Bistro Les Minots - 47-16 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103
718.606.2535
N/W Train to 30th Avenue or R/V/G Train to 46th Street www.bistrolesminots.com

My colleague Meg from Joey in Astoria mentioned Bistro Les Minots last week and there's been a lot of buzz about it from neighborhood chefs. I decided to check it out and walked by last weekend. It looks nice yet unassuming. The menu seems rich in variety and holds true to its French roots. And the affordable $19.95 dinner prix-fixe has me fully intrigued.

Here's a sampling of the menu. The only draw-back is the location, as it's far from the subway. I intend to try it soon so I'll let you know if it's worth the hike to 47th street. Stay tuned...

Soups
Traditional French onion soup gratinee...$8

Hors D'oeurves
Traditional tart with hand cut Atlantic salmon, mango, cucumber, crispy ginger croutons, cilantro vinaigrette...$9/$15

Traditional tart with hand cut Angus beef with assorted condiments, egg yolk, greens. French fries are served with entree size...$9/$18

Specialties
Warm onion tart with anchovies and black olives...$8
Escargot in puff pastry shell with garlic, parsley, shallots and red wine...$8
Homemade chef's terrine...P/A

Mussels - French fries served with large portion
Steamed mussels with garlic, shallots and parsley in a white wine sauce...$8/$15
Steamed mussels in dijon mustard sauce...$8/$15
Steamed mussels with Provencal herbs and spices in a tomato sauce...$8/$15

Entrees
Roasted monkfish with broccoli rabe, fine herbs, tapenade and a sun-dried tomato pesto sauce...$17
Chicken rolls stuffed with seasonal vegetables and Gruyere in a rosemary jus...$15
Grilled sirloin steak served with French fries and Bernaise or green peppercorn sauce...$22
Pan seared duck breast with roasted pears and apples, braised red cabbage, dried cherry sauce...$17

Desserts
Creme brulee...$6
Thin apple tart with caramel sauce...$6, +$1 for a la mode
Profiteroles with vanilla ice cream topped with hot chocolate sauce...$6

All I can say is...how hungry are you?