Omonia's Sweets Explosion

Image via Yelp by A.A

It's been way too long since I've visited Omonia Cafe, which is no doubt one of the most quintessential Greek cafes in the neighborhood.  And while Omonia may carry with it many Astoria-centric stereotypes that we often try to shake, it remains a special place for me, reminding me of my early days here.  Dan and I finally went back the other eve, for a late night snack, together with our friends Nuno and Jennifer.  We tried a few new things,  which left us feeling pleasantly full (and plump).

Chocolate Napoleon - Being that I'm Eastern European, I love me some Napoleon (or Kremes, as we say).  Omonia's version more than delivered with a light as air filling of smooth chocolate cream that was carefully placed in between crunchy layers of filo dough, topped with whipped cream and more powdered sugar for good measure.  Although I couldn't take a photo of our piece because the place is famously dark, I think the above photo helps to paint a picture.

Walnut Cookie - Because I was trying to keep to my gluten free diet, I managed to find something without any pastry dough (but truth be told, I cheated that night, as proven by my Napoleon escapades), which came in the form of a walnut cookie.  Resembling a macaron in appearance and texture, the cookie was light and airy, hugging the sweet contents of a seedy raspberry jam, producing some serious yum action.

Service and Cost:
We experienced fast and efficient service during the time we ordered and when our sweets were delivered to our table.  Even after we finished everything, we felt comfortable to just hang out and were by no means rushed to leave.

Pastry prices remain competitive, especially when dining in-house at $4.75 - $7 a piece.

3 Mmmms

Omonia Cafe - 32-20 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106

718.274.6650

N/W Train to Broadway
omoniacafe.com

Cafe Boulis - Loukomades to Die For

Tonight, I had the distinct pleasure to try out an Astoria sweet institution otherwise known as Cafe Boulis.  Known for its famous loukomades dessert (aka Greek donuts), I was eager to see what the hype was all about.  Happy to say that Boulis satisfied my sweet tooth and then some, I'll certainly be going back and buying some of these sweet goodies in bulk.

Atmosphere:
Situated just around the corner from the Astoria Bookshop, Boulis Cafe was the perfect place to stop after tonight's reading of Mastering the Art of Soviet Cooking.  While it's just a small storefront, it's hard to miss from the street, as the signage is nice and bright.  

Once you walk in, you're welcome by a narrow but cozy space that emanates with amazingly sweet smells.  You'll notice a display of pretty desserts such as cookies, baklava, cakes and other yummies, which are modest in volume but look oh so inviting.  The fresh loukomades are made to order in the back of the cafe to make sure they come out piping hot and fresh.  Although they have a few tables out front in the semi-covered seating space, my friend Emily and I sat inside on the elevated counter stools.  Since it was a little late, we were the only ones in there and enjoyed some peace and quiet.

Loukomades - The piece-de-resistance here was truly stellar, and something I'm already dreaming of getting again.  Shaped unlike the traditional donut holes, but instead looking more like a donut with a hollow middle, they were the lightest, airiest loukomades of their kind.  Each bite was truly a pleasure and exposed the airiness inside.  The outside was slightly crispy and glazed perfectly in a delicate simple syrup concoction and then sprinkled with cinnamon.  A light dusting of powdered sugar added that extra indulgence, which we certainly weren't opposed to.

Service and Cost:
While the service isn't as sugary sweet as the loukomades, the staff is relatively nice and accommodating.  I like that we were left alone to enjoy our sweets and didn't feel the least bit rushed to leave.

Loukomades are affordable!
6 pieces- $4
12 pieces - $8
24 pieces - $15

3 Sticky Mmmms

Cafe Boulis - 31-15 31st Street, Astoria NY 11106
718.806.1014
N/Q Train to Broadway
www.cafeboulis.com