Welcome Crescent Grill

This past week, Meg and I had the pleasure of exploring a new LIC based bar and restaurant in the Dutch Kills area called Crescent Grill.  Even though the shin-dig they threw on Thursday eve was technically a re-launch, I've never been there before, so it was all new to me.

Atmosphere:
Since the evening was all about celebrating, the atmosphere was fun and lively, peppered with tons of folks from the neighborhood, who were happy and eager to welcome Crescent Grill.  On my walk over from the subway, I was surprised by how buzzing the neighborhood was, as I passed a holiday pop-up shop as seeing the new Dutch Kills Centraal bar.  It was a welcome change to the neighborhood, which just a mere 2-3 years ago felt sleepy and deserted.

Once we walked in, Meg and I were impressed by the open space, which was studded by a plethora of beautiful local art and photography.  In fact, the evening was also dedicated to a the opening of the Dougherty Gallery (connected to the restaurant), which pays homage to local LIC artists, some of whom were at the party.  My favorite piece was the one shown above of the NYC skyline from an LIC vantage point.

Aside from the beautiful artwork, we marveled at the industrial-looking light fixtures and the exposed wooden beams.  The overall vibe was industrial chic, but not in a pretentious way - it still accomplished to feel very warm and comfortable as well.

Food:
Although we mostly tasted a few standard appetizers, which were no doubt made just for the party, we took a peek at the menu, which looked delicious.  Exemplifying new American cuisine, you can expect some pretty snazzy dishes, including seafood.

While they'll officially start serving food on the 18th, we found out they'll be featuring a $29 3-course dinner prix-fixe as well as weekend brunch.  Milton Enriquez, who's the Chef here is also known for his success on the Food Network's Chopped program, so I'm quite excited about what he'll deliver in the coming weeks.

I'll circle back with more food details when they're ready, but in the meantime, I wanted to get you excited.

Crescent Grill - 38-40 Crescent Street, Long Island City NY 11101
718.729.4040
N/Q Train to 39th Avenue
www.crescentgrill.com

Petey's Burger is Coming to LIC

Exciting news everyone - Petey's Burger is expanding to LIC.  I noticed its new location today while on my way to Alobar with my friend Bob, and it's right there on that corner of Vernon Blvd and 46th Road, across the street from Manducatis Rustica.

This new location seems like a great opportunity and especially in this budding neighborhood full of great eats.  A casual burger joint seems like a nice addition, and I have high hopes for this Astoria-based micro-chain.  From the looks of it, it seems like an opening will be fast approaching after the new year, but I'll keep you all posted based on what I hear around the nabe.

Here's to hoping for the best and to more burger goodness!

Petey's Burger - Corner of 46th Road and Vernon Blvd, LIC 11101

Eat 'n Run is On The Way

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

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

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