Ornella's Fall Pasta is Here

Even though I love, love, love the summer, the fall is also a nice time, due to the comforting dishes we get to indulge in.  No excuses!  You'll notice a lot of restaurants in the nabe changing up their menus and offering heartier dishes that as diners, we flock to.

Ornella, one of my dear Astoria faves always does a great job of being conscious of the seasons and has recently rolled out their fall pasta specials, which change daily.  What to expect here?

Fresh pasta with all sorts of meaty ragus - wild boar, oxtail, pork, lamb, venison.  I've literally tried them all and choosing a favorite is no easy feat , but if I have to I'd go with the wild boar, which is slow cooked, fragrant and just warms your bones.

If you're a veggie, don't worry, there's a whole vegetarian pasta menu you can take advantage of too - check it out here.  

And just to give testament to the incredible fresh pasta here, just watch my friend Giuseppe make their famous corzetti.  Buon appetito and happy Fall!

Ornella Trattoria -17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.94
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

New Hangover Pasta at Ornella

Image by Ornella Trattoria and Bradley Hawks

 Always up for fun food inventions, Giuseppe, Ornella's proud owner is rolling out some brand new goodies that'll be served during brunch.  As we know, Ornella is the place to come to when you're in the mood for pasta, and after hearing that a hangover brunch pasta has been officially introduced, I'm totally going gaga.  That, alongside a most non-traditional and intriguing cheese sandwich, and you've got yourself an unforgettable meal.  Here's a better description of the two that will get you licking your chops.

Hangover Pasta - Homemade fettuccine cooked in milk (think Ornella's pasta latte) with bacon and a sunny side up egg on top with a drizzle of truffle oil.  Wow, sounds like a heavenly combo, and one that I've never had before.

Ornella's Take on the Grilled Cheese Sandwich - Grilled cheese topped with anchovies, capers, brandy and cream sauce.  To say this is decadent wouldn't do it justice.

Rumor also has it that Giuseppe serves the above-pictured Eggs Benni dish on (get this!) Italian lard bread.  Now that's a must!

Hope to see you there!  I'll be the one stuffing myself silly.

 Ornella Trattoria -17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.94
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Ornella Puts Out Another Hit

 

Any excuse I find to go to Ornella Trattoria, I take it, so when it came time to organize We Heart Astoria's bi-monthly blogger social, it was the first place that came to mind.  Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner was too happy to oblige, letting me know that a larger party wouldn't be a problem and that he'd work up a special menu for us.  Fun!  My colleagues, Meg, Mackenzi and I looked forward to it all week. And alas, the day came!

We got a nice long table at the front of the restaurant, near the long open window that carried in a comfortable breeze.  It was so fun to meet everyone and exchange our favorite Astoria blogging experiences.  There was a nice representation from various Astoria based blogs, including AJ from Handjobs for the Home, Sam from cocktailians, Annabel from 30th Ave Blog, Scott and Kate from We Could Eat and Erich & WT from gardenfreude blog.  I loved meeting these fantastic people and breaking bread with them was far more interesting that my typical Monday night.

Our special menu consisted of a choice of an appetizer, entree and wine for a good price.  Although I've tried nearly everything on the menu, here are some newbies I devoured:

Prosciutto, Melon & Burrata - I've had burrata here before, but I haven't had it with this classic melon/prosciutto combination and it was wonderful.  A lovely way to start a meal, it injected a breath of freshness from the melon, which helped to cut the indulgence from the creamy, milky cheese and the salty, smoky prosciutto.  Meg got it too and agreed it was delizioso.

Pappardelle with Braised Rabbit - Giuseppe had me at "pappardelle," which I knew even without him saying it, would be homemade.  He gave me a special portion with braised rabbit, cooked in a hearty tomatoey sauce with olives and garlic that really elevated the flavors of the meat to the next level.  I'm sometimes lukewarm on rabbit because of how bony it is, but I loved this iteration, with the tender, juicy meat that you just wanted to devour completely, leaving nothing but those little bones.  The pappardelle were smooth and a little thicker than what I'm used to, but I loved them, especially since they held their own next to the rabbit and did a great job of hanging on to that heavenly sauce.

Roasted Sole with Angel Hair Pasta - This was Meg's dish and a number of other friends chose it too.  I loved the sheer size of the fish, which was so generous and sported a beautiful golden skin.  I had a taste and loved how lemony it was and also appreciated the adequate amount of seasoning on it - I dislike when a good fish tastes bland because it's underseasoned, and that wasn't the case here.

Homemade Espresso with Foam - One of the highlights of our meal was when Giuseppe demoed how to make a homemade espresso with zabaglione-style cream in the simplest way.  By whipping it!  I loved the story behind the process he described to us as, "making the first coffee of the day," which starts him off each morning.  We had a taste of course and not only was it fragrant and delicious, the cream on top was sweet, fluffly and irresistible.

Service and Cost:
In true Ornella fashion, the service was magnifico - we got tons of personal attention but were also left alone to just chill and enjoy our surroundings.  I think that I speak for everyone when I say that a fantastic time was had.  Unfortunately I had to run out early, but my colleagues stayed and lingered for some more conversation in this fantastic setting.

Costs are affordable and as I mentioned, we worked out a special menu for this large group, which set us back about $27 per person including tax and tip.

3 Mmmms

Ornella Trattoria -17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.94
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Ornella's Lobster Night

It's fun to witness all the lively food developments percolating at Ornella, one of my all-time Astoria faves.  Their theme nights offer some pretty great deals including Thursday night pasta night, where you can get any pasta dish for just $10 off their special menu.  Through my many rave reviews about their pasta, I don't think I have to convince you to try it out.

But now Ornella has a brand new theme night on Tuesdays, which involves lobster.  That's right...lobsta!  Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner loves to experiment with new things and happened to be serving linguine topped with lobster.  It was such a huge hit that it convinced him to expand the offering:

Tuesday Night Lobster Night
1 1/2 lb broiled lobster served with linguine - $21

Check it out and do let me know how you liked it.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/Q Train to Ditmars
www.ornellatrattoria.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

Inspired by Ornella's Pasta Latte

While the above picture may look like any other ordinary pasta dish, it's anything but.  Inspired by my good friend and food mentor, Giuseppe Viterale of Ornella Trattoria, I decided to try my efforts at what he calls Pasta Latte, pasta boiled in milk.

I first tasted Giuseppe's version of Pasta Latte at a "bizarre foods" dinner he hosted about a month ago.  Loving the simplicity of the dish and at the same time the different flavor element it brought to regular pasta, I thought about it often.  So often that I got out the pots and pans and tried it out on my own.  As you can see in the above picture, I added tomatoes and basil to it too, as my milky sauce wasn't as thick as Giuseppe's (probably because I used low-fat milk). But regardless, the dish was wonderful, filling and still light on your tummy.

Pasta Latte e Caprese Inspired by Ornella Trattoria

Ingredients (serves 1)
1/2 lb of fettucine noodles
2 - 3 cups of milk, enough to cover a large saucepan
8 - 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
Handful of fresh basil, julienned
Small handful of mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
A few drops of white truffle oil

Directions:
Set milk to boil in a large saucepan and then add the pasta.  Cook for about 7-8 minutes until al dente and then let milk mixture reduce for a few minutes.  At that point, you can take the pasta out, but do not rinse it in water.

Add the cheese, tomatoes, basil and season with salt, pepper and truffle oil.  Add the reduced milk mixture on top (you don't have to use all of it, just to your liking).

Exploring Bizarre Foods at Ornella

I love going to Ornella, and I know that when I do visit, it's always a personal, feel-good/feel-full experience.  Last week's dinner was graciously set up by my friend and fellow blogger, Bradley from amuse bouche blog and the theme was "bizarre foods."  With a pretense like that, what adventurous foodie worth her salt could refuse?!

Joined by a new blogger friend, Elena from The Gotham Palate blog, we formed a great trio that evening, and after just a few minutes, we were telling long-winded stories, many of which had us in stitches (especially ones told by Bradley).

In the midst of all this, we ate.  We ate a lot.  In his true hospitable fashion, Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner brought out a multitude of new dishes, many of which we haven't yet tried at Ornella or nowhere else for that matter.  They included:

2 Pizzas - Although pizza is far from bizarre, it is unusual to see it at Ornella, as they technically don't have it on the menu.  The two varieties were very different - one classic with cheese and fresh basil on top and the other a stuffed pizza with prosciutto, goat cheese and peppery arugula.  Both options were nice, but I preferred the fancier pizza with the tangy cheese and salty prosciutto, not to mention the crispy, thin crust that hugged it from the top and bottom.

Sheep Salad with Burrata - Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner is a master at reinventing dishes that he remembers from childhood or that have already debuted on Ornella's menu in a slightly different format.  This gorgeous salad reminded me of the previous porchetta salad that was also served with fresh juicy tomatoes and soft burrata cheese.  The sheep meat was a nice change-up and I liked that it was served chilled and also in bite sized pieces that were appetizing and easy to digest.  I don't even have to say it, but the burrata was as creamy, silky and decadent as always.

Pasta Latte - A good example of an Ornella childhood favorite, this pasta was as simple as can be but also as equally delicious.  Cooking the pasta in milk instead of water (hence the latte in the title), and letting it reduce, the homemade pappardelle was coated in the smooth, milky and slightly sweet sauce.  And even though I didn't grow up eating it, in some way, it reminded me of childhood.

Sweetbreads with Potatoes and Spinach - One of the last dishes of the night, but as the saying goes "save the best for last," we thoroughly enjoyed it.  I thought Bradley put it best when he said Ornella has an uncanny way of making this delicacy taste like the the most finger-licking good "Kung Pao Chicken." I agree.  Even though some purists would scorn at our comparison, I say "why not?!" The texture of the sweetbreads was tender and wonderful, and its sprinkling of fragrant truffle oil on top just put the cherry on the proverbial sundae.

If you have a penchant for unusual eats that taste smashingly delicious, you know where to find them.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd
www.ornellatrattorianellatrattoria.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

Ornella - A Most Unusual Dessert Comes to Astoria

 

Going to Ornella is always a culinary adventure, which usually starts with good ol' curiosity for new food.  I never tire of hearing about what Giuseppe, Ornella's owner has resurrected from his home country of Italy, and for the record, it's always something exciting, innovative and far from run of the mill. 

During this visit, Bo and I tried three new delicacies, 2/3 of which were savory and the rest sweet.  I'll save the best for last but just know that it's unlike anything you've ever tried - that much I can guarantee.

Porchetta with Burrata - The Italian version of a spiced boneless pork roast, Ornella served it with simple, clean ingredients, rightly letting its unique flavor shine.  Served on a bed of peppery arugula, alongside fresh slices of tomato and creamy burrata cheese, it's Ornella's way of showcasing a deconstructed porchetta sandwich.  The meat was soft, delicate and flavored by the earthy spices stuck to its skin.  I liked that the pieces of porchetta had been sliced so thin, that what would normally be a heavy dish, actually felt very light and was a nice prelude to the rest of the meal.

Beef Cheek Stew with Cauliflower Puree - While conservative eaters would be hesitant to try this, I'm here to tell you that you shouldn't bat an eyelash before saying "yes."  A hearty, comforting mixture of slow cooked beef and mirepoix in a red wine reduction,  it's the perfect way to satisfy yourself after a long, hard day and not to mention a cold one.  I love the pairing of creamy cauliflower puree that's served on the side, adding a touch of lightness to a full bodied protein dish.  I appreciated this thoughtful side, which far surpassed the expected mashed potatoes. 

Sanguinaccio - Now the moment you've been waiting for, and the most unusual (but also the most delicious and coveted) part of this meal - the sanguinaccio (aka pig's blood pudding).  Now before you left click that mouse, I urge you to stop and pay full attention, for this was one of the most interesting and palate electrifying desserts I've ever had.

Resembling the consistency and look of Nutella (one of my all time favorite desserts), its flavors were actually a lot more complex and far more delicious.  Just to paint a full picture for you, the sanguinaccio is made up of chocolate, orange essence, milk and of course fresh pig's blood.  One can wonder why the latter ingredient is necessary but trust me, it makes the dish, adding a strength in texture and a richness in taste that can't be replicated with anything else.  Served alongside fried rectangular cookies called chiacchiere, also an Italian specialty, I call it a Nutella sandwich, flipped upside the head.

The sanguinaccio is featured on Ornella's Pork Night menu on Tuesday nights, where you can enjoy a four-course all pork menu for $50 (including wine).  If you want to learn more about sanguinaccio and its interesting history, read Astoria's very own, Brad Hawks' article on Grub Street.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/Q Train to Ditmars
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Don't Miss Pork Night Tomorrow at Ornella

I'm delighted to tell you about a very special pork themed event happening at Ornella tomorrow.  For one night only, the talented culinary cognoscenti at this delicious establishment are cooking up a four-course dinner that shines a light on the ever-so-wonderful, pork.  From smoked pork to slow roasted pork and even a pork dessert (yes...dessert), this is one dinner you shouldn't miss.  Especially if you're a pig fan like me!

Ornella's Special Pork Feast

Tuesday, January 25th

Course 1: Antipasto - Prosciutto and mozzarella burrata
Course 2: Intermezzo - Pamatielli with pork ragu
Course 3: Main - Roasted porchetta with broccoli and country potatoes
Course 4: Dessert - Sanguinaccio, black pudding and chiacchiere fritters (wow!)

$50/person including wine, tax and gratuity.

Talk about a rich offering with lots of meat on the bones!

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/Q Train to Ditmars
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Ornella Extends $10 Pasta Special, Monday - Thursday

Fun news Astorians - the much loved, pasta haven Ornella is starting off the new year by extending their $10 pasta special throughout the week.  What that means is that every Monday - Thursday, you can virtually get any pasta or risotto dish during lunch and dinner for just $10.  How spectacular, especially if you're on a budget.

If you haven't yet been to Ornella and experienced their pasta goodies, here are some of my personal recommendations.

Imbustata (pictured above) - By far the most popular dish on the menu, it consists of a pasta envelope stuffed with roasted veal, chicken, wild mushrooms, mozzarella, spinach, mascarpone cheese and tomato sauce.  Mamma mia!

Pasta Gone Nuts - An innovative chestnut pasta, dressed with a fragrant pistachio sauce that's also topped with truffle oil.

Pappardelle with Oxtail - For something meatier, which is just perfect during winter, Ornella's homemade pappardelle is tossed with tender oxtail in a rich broth that not only has meat but mushrooms too.

Vegetarian Risotto - Not your typical rice, cheese and meat combo, this one contains sophisticated sweet and savory ingredients such as sharp gorgonzola cheese, sweet pears, and peppery radicchio. Yum!

Enjoy these delicacies and the incredible savings.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/Q Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Ornella's Corzetti, Pork Osso Bucco and More

What I love about Ornella so much is that they never cease to reinvent themselves, always thinking up new, exciting dishes that are firmly rooted in Italy.  The last time I was there with my mom, I tried a couple of new things that still aren't officially on the menu, but will be soon. And let me tell you, one was more delicious than the next.

Corzetti Pasta - My favorite dish of the night, unsurprisingly, was fresh pasta called Corzetti.  Originating in Liguria (Northwest Italy) it's made by stamping out circle shapes with a special stamp that also has imprints for the pasta's interior.  Not only do these imprints make the Corzetti look spectacular, they also enable the sauce to stick to the pasta, thus making it richer and more flavorful.  Ornella used a traditional cream pesto sauce for the Corzetti, which worked very well.  It was incredibly flavorful and so filling that it could satisfy as an entree.

Mixed Steamed Seafood - My mom and I shared a big helping of seafood, steamed in a foil envelope.  Cooked in a simple tomato and white wine sauce, it gave the seafood just enough flavor without overpowering it.  You can distinctly taste the fresh out-of-the-sea deliciousness of the mussels, clams, calamari and the tilapia that served as a soft bed for all the crustaceans. Yum!

Pork Osso Bucco - Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner was excited to serve us a non-traditional take on Osso Bucco, which was made with pork.  When most of us think of this dish, it's undoubtedly with veal in mind.  Giuseppe explained how he likes to take an unpopular part of an animal and make it look and taste attractive, which he did with the pork.  Both my mom and I marveled at how soft and succulent the pork was, cooked down into delicate meat that separated beautifully from the bone.  Like any good Osso Bucco, this one also rested on a bed of creamy risotto, prepared Milanese style with parmesan cheese, butter and onions.  I'd confidently call this dish a show-stopper.

Ask about these amazing specialties or some of their others such as the imbustata, chesnut pasta, gnocchi with gorgonzola dolce sauce and much more.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/Q Train to Ditmars
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Give the Gift of Astorian Food this Season

We all love getting pipe dream gifts for the holidays that we normally wouldn't get for ourselves.  Personally, I think there's nothing better than giving or getting the gift of delicious food.  And with so many wonderful new and anchor eateries in Astoria, I wanted to provide you with a mini food-focused holiday gift guide.  Today's choices are all Astorian, but tune in tomorrow for my take on LIC food gifting.

1.  Vesta - Not surprisingly, this locally-sourced Italian-style eatery with an intimate and insider vibe is an Astoria favorite.  Whether you choose to go for lunch, brunch or dinner, their carefully constructed menu boasts the freshest ingredients, including locally-sourced veggies.  My personal recommendations are any of their thin crust pizzas, the grandma-style lasagna and the Baby Jesus Cake (obvi). Gift certificates are available for purchase at the restaurant.  21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

2.  Ornella - I don't have to tell you how much I adore Ornella - the warm vibe, the excellent service and the food just says it all.  Whatever pasta choice your imagination dreams up, they have it.  Traditional white flour pasta, chestnut pasta, buckwheat pasta, rice flour pasta - the options are extensive. It's not only a great experience for omnivores but vegetarians and vegans alike.  And even though they have plenty of funky desserts to choose from, their homemade tiramisu is simply the best I've had.  You can get your gift certificates at the restaurant.  29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria.  718.777.9477

3.  Mojave - This delicious Southwestern restaurant is accessible in location and the food offers bright and versatile flavors.  Whether you like mild or spicy, Mojave's menu delivers something for every palate.  I highly recommend it for cold winter days/nights, especially their mouthwatering, warm MotherRoad Roadhouse Chili (pictured above), any of their lunch sandwiches (especially the grilled mojo chicken club and the Atlantic Salmon sandwich) and the Mexican chocolate fondue for dessert.  Gift certificates are available at the location.  22-36 31st Street, Astoria. 718.545.4100

4.  Winegasm - Want to give the gift of amazing and carefully-selected wine, paired with sophisticated food for a truly out-of-body experience? I know...sounds a bit over the top, but it's true. Winegasm rocks and I totally dig their relaxed, intelligent atmosphere, with long communal tables, a candle-lit setting and staff that is completely, utterly passionate about wine.  This would be a great gift for your favorite oenophile-foodie.  31-86 37th Street, Astoria. 718.932.3331

5.  BareBurger - For that eco-conscious giftee, an organic, grass-fed BareBurger is a must.  Offering up to seven types of humanely-raised protein including beef, chicken, turkey, elk, bison, lamb and ostrich, you can sink your teeth into the most interesting hamburger you've ever had.  Their sides are especially tasty, such as the gourmet battered onion rings, which come with three dipping sauces including peppercorn steak sauce, curry ketchup and BareBurger's special house sauce.  Gift certificates are available at the location.  33-21 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.7011 

Happy gifting (and eating) Astoria!

5 Great Food Deals to Get You Through the Week

Since we're officially in holiday season and most of us are spending lots of dough, I thought it'd be helpful to provide you with some weeknight restaurant specials to help you save those much-needed dollars.  These are some of my favorite deals in the nabe.  Some of them you may have heard of already but others could be new discoveries to share with friends, family and colleagues. Enjoy!

Bistro 33 - I'm never disappointed when I step foot into this eclectic French/Japanese fused eatery.  Since it's getting so chilly out, I highly encourage trying their hearty soups, which I've always found flavorful.  Take advantage of 2 for $10 Tuesdays, where you can order some of their most popular appetizers, sushi and drinks for that very attractive price-point.  19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.721.1933

718 Restaurant - 718 is one of my go-tos in Astoria for modern French food.  My all-time favorite item on the menu is a classic Tarte Flambee (thin, crunchy dough topped with caramelized onions and smoky bacon). But besides this one, there are four other awesome options.  If you come in on Wednesday night, all tarte flambees are just $9.  35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105.  718.204.5553

Ornella - This delicious pasta-haven is not only personal, the food is just a little bit different than what you're used to when you think of Italian. I mean that in the best way possible.  On Thursdays, enjoy a "pick-your-pasta" special where any pasta item on the menu is just $10 between 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105 718.777.9477

Ovelia - This recently 4-year-old modern Greek resto never has a shortage of fun, festive activities, at a fair price-point.  Stop in this Thursday for live Greek Blues or "Kotobuki" and enjoy their mildly priced meze ($6 - $16) and drinks.  34-01 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103.  718.721.7217

5 Napkin Burger - One of the best Happy Hour deals in town, you can sample 5 Napkin's mighty sliders, which are a perfect size to satisfy that end-of-day hunger.  You can enjoy these sliders for just $2 every day (even weekends) and $4 beer drafts between 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.  35-01 36th Street, Astoria, NY 11106.  718.433.2727

Ornella Welcomes the Mighty Duck Meatball

My beloved Ornella Trattoria is yet again not resting on its laurels. What I love about this homemade Italian eatery is the fact that they're always refreshing their menu and experimenting with innovative dishes that are far more interesting than your customary eggplant parm or penne alla vodka.  This time...Ornella introduces a duck meatball, which headlines their 4-course Tuesday/Wednesday dinner for $35 only (including wine).

Here are the deets about the dinner and the menu breakdown.  If you haven't tried this place yet, I think it'll be time and money well spent.

Ornella's Tuesday/Wednesday Prix-Fixe Dinner

$35 for 4-courses including wine (tax and gratuity not included)

Antipasto: Duck meatball - stuffed with mild cheese and topped with orange and brandy reduction

Intermezzo: Chestnut pasta - with chestnut flour, arugula, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, garlic and olive oil sauce

Main Course: Choice of one of the following:

Short Ribs - braised in red wine and served with gnocchi

Pollo al Pistachio - chicken breast encrusted in pistachio and sauteed in light brown sauce with anise and dry apricot

Pork Chop - stuffed with prosciutto, fontina cheese, sauteed in madera wine and mushroom sauce

Dessert: choice of Italian ricotta cheesecake, tiramisu, chocolate mousse, lemon cake and chocolate eggplant cake (the latter is to die for!)

Ornella Trattoria Italiana29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.94
N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Making Fresh Pasta and Brunching at Ornella

Saturday provided quite the eating extravaganza, as I found myself in one of my favorite Astoria spots, Ornella.  I was with Rachel, a friend who interviewed me for a school project and together, we enjoyed a lovely brunch.  And as is usually the case at Ornella, we got more than what we bargained for (and that's always a good thing!)

Grilled Calamari - Because we were super hungry, Rachel ordered us a plate of grilled calamari, which was served with fresh mixed greens and cherry tomatoes, flavored by a really amazing, lemony vinaigrette.  We loved the dressing so much that we asked Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner what was in it.  With modesty, he said it was simply their basic vinaigrette with oil, lemon, garlic and salt and pepper.  Still...it was so refreshing and went perfectly with the generous pieces of grilled calamari. 

Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu - This fresh pasta dish came as a surprise.  It was piping hot and gorgeously interlaced with tender meat and other earthy ingredients such as mushrooms.  Even though it's summer, there's something so comforting and wonderful about this dish, making it suitable for any season.  I especially loved the delicate pasta and how it juxtaposed with the heartier meat.  If you're a carnivore, don't you dare skip this--I think it'd make a great dinner entree too.

Pancakes with Nutella - Hearing only good things about Ornella's pancakes, I just had to try them, and even more so because my favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread, Nutella was involved.  Well...simply look at the above picture! Aren't they beauties?  Not only are these pancakes absolutely gargantuan, they're double the width of ordinary pancakes.  But that doesn't mean they're heavy and dense - on the contrary, they're light-as-air and pair wonderfully with fresh fruit and rich Nutella.  Simply put...they're a choc-a-holic's dream.

Fresh Pasta Made by Us - In addition to the awesomeness I just described, Giuseppe taught us to make fresh pasta.  Not only did this make me giddy, causing me to giggle like a little kid, but the pasta tasted incredible and was a real step up from its dried brethren.

We made two kinds of pasta - first a thin, silk-like spaghetti alla chitarra and then a larger, rigatoni-like garganelli.  The first involved using a special pasta machine called a chitarra (guitar in English) that had wire strings to separate the pasta dough. So simple and timeless.  The second pasta instrument was even more rudimentary and consisted of a small, square wooden platform with grooves that helped the garganelli attain their pretty ridges.

Take a look at the video to visualize the process and to try it yourself.

Service and Cost:
I don't really even have to touch on the service aspect because it's never short of excellent.  Giuseppe and staff were as hospitable as ever and we enjoyed a very leisurely and educational meal.  I wouldn't change a thing.

Prices for brunch are pretty stellar and include a $13 prix-fixe which includes unlimited mimosas or bellinis, an entree and coffee.

3 Mmmms

Ornella Trattoria Italiana

29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.94
N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Ornella's New Creations

I love visiting Ornella - partly for its tasty, comforting food but also because of the passion owners, Ornella and Giuseppe have for it.  It's truly wonderful to see two good-hearted individuals who are genuine in their intentions and get excited about what they do.  A great feeling comes over you when you step into this place - traditions are deeply respected and the unconditional love of food permeates every nook and cranny.

While Ornella serves classic Italian eats such as spaghetti with meatballs, gnocchi, veal parm and more, it boasts a selection of non-traditional, inventive Italian food that gets your wheels spinning and your tummy gurgling with excitement.

Two new items that I had the pleasure of trying recently were the hommade chestnut bread and the bottarga di tonno, a cured tuna used similarly to truffles - shaved delicately over pasta or bread to bring out its flavor.

Chestnut Bread - Wow, the color on this loaf was gorgeous - it was a rich brown and the inside was fluffy and super moist.  Immediately after taking a bite, I noticed its hearty consistency and that it didn't need butter or olive oil.  This bread was excellent on its own.  If you'd like to try it, come in on the weekend, as they're starting to introduce it on Saturdays and Sundays.

Bottarga di Tonno - This really was something special and unique that I've never tasted before.  Giuseppe gave me the history behind it, explaining that the method of curing it has been around for many generations.  The trick is to use just a little bit on a pasta dish, bread or maybe even some plain greens - it livens them up immediately.  The taste is intense and smoky, and you have to really love salty things to appreciate it.  Ask for it on Ornella's signature fresh pasta or anything else that might desire it.

Ornella Trattoria Italiana - 29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)www.ornellatrattoria.com

V-Day at Ornella Delivered the Goods

 

  

  

  

Valentine's Day turned out great this year - not only did I have a wonderful, relaxing day, Dan and I had an amazing dinner at one of my Astorian favorites, Ornella.  I was really looking forward to my meal and couldn't stop thinking about the imbustata, a dish that made a big impression on me last time. 

Below you'll find the highlights of our meal - including a couple of new things we tried:

Nduja Crostini - "This is something really special that you won't find anywhere else," Giuseppe, Ornella's co-owner explained.  So what is nduja?  If you think it sounds and looks like the word andouille, you're right.  The root of the word is the same, and even though this product is Italian, its influence is French.  A soft pork sausage originating from the Calabria region of Italy, it has a smoky flavor with a spicy twist.  It's absolutely delicious and mouth-warming, served on a crispy piece of bread that Dan and I devoured in seconds.  I loved its texture, which behaved very much like a spread.

Pizzoccheri Della Valtellina (Homemade Buckwheat Pasta) - Another interesting specialty that Ornella was particularly proud of was this delicate buckweat pasta.  The recipe comes from Northern Italy, very much influenced by the mountanous regions where savory cooking is common.  That's why the accompaniments for this slightly thick, noodle pasta were hearty vegetables such as cabbage and potatoes.  It might seem unusual to have these in a pasta dish, but they were delicious and certainly did a good job of warming us up.  The sauce was a light garlic/butter sauce that went down smoothly.

Baked Clams - A classic Italian appetizer, it happens to be one of Dan's favorites.  I tried it too and loved it - the clams were super fresh and the breadcrumb filling was golden brown and crispy on the outside but slightly doughy on the inside. 

Italian Wedding Soup - Since I went with the V-day prix-fixe menu, I chose this as my starter.  The broth had a comforting essence, which reminded me of chicken soup and the meatballs were nice and light.  Small bits of pastina and pretty green ribbons of escarole swam in this liquid of goodness.  The portion was more than generous and enough to take home for seconds.

Chicken Scarpariello - Dan wasn't disappointed with his entree, which is another one of his favorites.  The chicken was nicely browned around the edges and was smothered in a fragrant white wine sauce.  Although the meat was off the bone, I think they usually serve it on the bone for extra flavor.  In addition to the chicken, you also got some tasty bites of roasted Italian sausage and sweet roasted red peppers.  Dan nearly licked his plate clean and used the extra bread to mop up that gorgeous sauce.

Service and Cost:
Customer care is personal and warm, and I can honestly say that you're treated like family.  The minute you come in, you're greeted warmly and your bottle of vino that you bring along is uncorked and your glass is filled.  Dishes come out in good time and you're not rushed to leave, instead you feel comfortable to linger and chit chat to your heart's content.

Prices are reasonable and this place continues to be BYOB.  Brunch is served on weekends and a veggie menu has recently been rolled out.

3 Mmmms

Ornella Trattoria Italiana -29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com

Ornella Now Serving Brunch

Great news! As of this weekend, Ornella Trattoria will be adding brunch to their delicious offering.  The menu contains traditional egg dishes as well as various paninis, light pasta and other house specialties such as a potato pancake with pancetta, polenta with gorgonzola, a nutella filled crepe.  Need I say more?

When I looked at the menu, my eyes got wide and my stomach rumbled.  I hope it inspires you too!

Brunch service starts this Saturday, 1/30 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Brunch Menu

Entrees: (include choice of coffee or tea)

Selection of Italian imported cold cuts, dry figs, honey and gorgonzola cheese...$11

Uova Alla Benedettina Canadese Con Aragosta - Eggs Benedict, poached eggs, English muffin, chunks of Canadian bacon and chunks of Canadian lobster, hollandaise sauce...$9

Uova Alla Benedettina - Eggs Benedict, poached eggs, English muffin, Canadian Bacon, hollandaise sauce...$8
Uova Alla Fiorentina - Eggs Florentine, poached eggs with toasted bread, spinach and parmesan cheese...$8
Panino Di Pollo - Pressed panini with grilled chicken, fontina cheese, and arugula served with shoestring potatoes...$9
Panino Alla Giovanni - Pressed panini with mortadella, buffalo mozzarella and tomato...$9

Panino Alla Pino - Pressed panini with bresaola, porcini mushrooms, mozzarella cheese served with shoestring potatoes...$9
Frittata di Asparagi - Italian frittata with asparagus...$8
Frittata di Gamberi - Italian frittata with shrimp and artichoke...$10

Frittata Di Fegato Di Pollo - Italia frittata with chicken livers...$10

Bistecchina Alla Angelo - Very thin sliced beef steak, sauteed in extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, served with shoestring  potatoes...$11

Frittelle Di Patate Alla Massimo - Potato pancake served with pancetta...$8

Spaghetti Carbonara Vegetariana - Vegetarian carbonara made with seitan wheat...$13

Crespella Alla Nutella - Crepe with Nutella filling...$10

Polenta Con Gorgonzola - Cornmeal with melted chunks of gorgonzola cheese...$10

Sweets:

Torta Di Ricotta - Italian cheesecake, made with ricotta cheese and mascarpone cheese...$6

Torta Di Cioccolato - Choccolate Mousse Cake...$6
Tiramisu - Ladyfingers, espresso café, coffee liquor, mascarpone cheese...$6
Budino A Modo Nostro - Flan with amaretto glaze...$6

Ornella Trattoria Italiana
29-17 23rd Avenue, Astoria NY 11105
718.777.9477
N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)
www.ornellatrattoria.com