Queens County Market at SingleCut Beersmiths is Another Hit

This past Sunday, the We Heart Astoria ladies and I went over to Singlecut for another awesome rendition of Queens County Market.  This was my second time experiencing it, in a different venue and once again, it was fantastic.  

The Setup:
I loved the setup in the back where all the beer magic happens (the brew room), which allowed for ample space for the exhibitors and for the patrons as well.  There's a huge square butcher block table in the middle of the room where people congregated with their freshly bought treats - exchanging ideas, opinions and recommendations.  This back space was also great because it allowed for privacy from the front-of-the-house tap room that was quite boisterous.

The Food:
Although I enjoyed pretty much everything I tried at the market, there are a few stand-outs that I'd like to highlight here:

Native Coffee Roasters  - This is my new obsession, and I was happy to meet Brian, the founder and creator of this fragrant delight.  Brewed right here in Astoria and distributed in a variety of local outlets including, Mackenzi's SITE, Native coffee exemplifies everything an artisan product should - great quality, flavor and real people behind it.  Look out for a fun Native coffee giveaway on We Heart Astoria soon.

New Amsterdam Baking Company - It was so refreshing to see this company at Queens County Market, as it was their very first day in operation.  The owners, a husband and wife team, were not only genuinely excited to be there, they produced an excellent product.  Look out for their specialty bundt and bourbon cakes.  My personal favorite was the double chocolate pretzel bundt with salted caramel.  

Malu - I never cease to be impressed by Malu and their incredible homemade flavors of ice cream.  On Sunday, I was lucky to try the bourbon maple bacon with actual bits of chewy bacon inside.  It was absolutely delectable and a must try.  The vanilla ice cream that the bourbon maple bacon was intertwined with was also exemplary. 

Check back with Queens County Market for their next event happening in June - I know it'll be awesome!

3 Delicious Spring Treats

Image by Brooklyn Bagel

Now that it officially feels like spring, and boy did we need it, everyone is up and about, roaming the nabe.  I love seeing everyone looking all chipper and happy, and it goes without saying that we're now in the mood for refreshing, cold treats.  In honor of spring, I wanted to give you just that - three delicious, cool treats you can enjoy on a warm sunny day.

Cold brewed iced coffee - With so many places to get a flavorful cup of iced coffee, there are a few that stand out to me, including Brooklyn Bagel, Avenue Cafe and The Queens Kickshaw of course.  Take one to go while walking to the subway or enjoy one while sitting down at a sidewalk cafe (Avenue Cafe would be great for that!).  

Gelato or ice cream - If you're looking for a cool, delicious little something, there's nothing like homemade gelato in the nabe.  My personal favorite is the pistachio from La Guli, followed by the hazelnut from Martha's or my new personal favorite, the We Heart Astoria Baklava ice cream from Malu in LIC.  

Healthy smoothie - There's nothing like a refreshing, healthy juice or smoothie to get your day started right, and there are a few places in Astoria you can get one.  Your Healthy Kitchen on 30th Avenue and 44th street will make virtually any juice you like.  Meg, Mackenzi and I tried an amazing concoction with beets, spinach, ginger, carrots and other delicious ingredients, which made this drink really satisfying.  Other good smoothie options include Pita Pan and Create Astoria.

Celebrate Spring with Ice Cream

I can't quite believe that tomorrow is the first day of spring, as it sure doesn't feel like it.  But to remind us of the warmth that will soon be coming (we hope!) why not ring it in with something, fun, sweet and uplifting - like ice cream, of course.  I love that Malu is getting in the spirit and offering a first day of spring special.  You're not going to want to miss out - and especially if you want to bring your kiddies along.

Wednesday, March 20th - enjoy a buy one get one free ice cream (of equal or lesser value), including scoops, pints and quarts.  They're also featuring an art class for kids at 4 p.m. so bring your little ones along, especially if they'd enjoy painting and molding.  It'll keep them occupied and their tummies satisfied.

Malu - 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC NY 11101
718.729.6258
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
www.amomandpopshop.com

What to do on Superbowl Sunday

The Superbowl is almost here and I hope you're excited.  I know I'm more looking forward to the incredible eats and drinks rather than watching the actual game - but it all works together to create a great atmosphere during one of the most important sporting events in America.  Still undecided about what you're doing for it? Here are some of my personal recommendations:

Studio Square - Hosting a big Superbowl shin-dig, they're bringing out the big guns with unlimited beer, wine, sangria, S2 Loaded Lemonade, and Red Stag iced tea.  A buffet with piping hot food will be available too - all for $40/person, and it starts at 4 p.m. 35-33 36th Street, Astoria.  718.383.1001

Raven's Head Public House - Come on down to this newish sports haven on Sunday, where they're taking Superbowl reservations for large groups.  They'll have beer and food specials that day, and you can expect a big helping of wings as one of the piece-de-resistance items.  38-04 Broadway, Astoria.  718.777.7565

Astoria Brewhouse - Always down to throw a party, they'll be having a private affair in honor of the Superbowl, which starts at 6 p.m. and goes til the end of the game.  While it's a bit of a splurge at $80/pop, you'll get an open bar, food and a chance to win prizes including a flat screen TV.  28-50 31st Street, Astoria.  718.728.0050  

Malu - Probably not the first place you think of when considering the Superbowl, but they've got all your sweet treats.  If you order your stuff by Thursday, you'll have it ready by the Superbowl - think ice cream cakes, mini cupcakes, cookies, brownies and all sorts of toppings.    12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC.  718.729.6258

My top Superbowl recipes - And of course there's nothing like making your own grub when hosting or attending a Superbowl party.  Here are some my gametime suggestions:  Bacon deviled eggs, Adam's Thai-style ribs, Chocolate covered bacon, Nutella peanut-butter pie.  

Malu's 1 Year Celebration Marks the Start of Summer

I really can't believe it's been a year already since Malu, the awesome artisan ice cream shop in LIC has opened its doors.  They've made such an impact on the neighborhood that it seems like they've been there for years.  Well, they are just one year young and will of course celebrate that, along with the coming of the Summer Solstice.  Here's what you can expect tomorrow:

If you come in between the hours of 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. get a buy one get one free ice cream.  Choose from their many dynamic flavors, many of which are influenced by local businesses such as:

Floresta's Lavender Macarpone
Communitea's Black Chai
Perfectly Planned Peanut Butter Perfection
Cinnamon Ken
Blue Sky Basin
Chocolate Orange Hazelnut

And lots of special daily flavors too.  Stop by tomorrow and try a few of them!
Happy Birthday Malu - congrats on making it through your first year.

Malu - 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC NY 11101
718.729.6258
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
www.amomandpopshop.com

Malu Treats Dad and Kids to Something Sweet

LIC's delicious artisanal ice cream shop, Malu never ceases to impress me.  It's also really great because they're super family oriented and on any given weekend, weekday or when have you, there's always loads of cute little kids enjoying their ice cream in Malu's colorful and creative atmosphere.  In their true spirit of family, they're doing something special this Saturday for the kiddies in honor of Father's Day.  If you have a little one or are just curious to check out this event, have a look:

Cookie Decorating Class with (or for) Dad
Saturday, June 16th from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Participants will get to decorate 2 sugar cookies and get a scoop of ice cream for just $10 (all supplies are provided)

And while you're there, make sure to check out their newest flavor, Shiraz Rocky Road, born out of the contest run by the Chocolate Theater for the Taste of LIC 2012.

Malu - 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC NY 11101
718.729.6258
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
www.amomandpopshop.com

Taste of LIC is Around the Corner

Image by The Chocolate Factory

I'm pleased to tell you that one of my favorite tasting events is back again next week, which is the Taste of LIC.    Not just another typical tasting frenzy, this one combines the deliciousness of over 50 restaurants, bars and cafes in and around LIC (a lot are from Astoria too!).

It's always a highlight for me, as it's very well organized and I enjoy learning about new exciting local eats, as sometimes restaurants unveil new dishes or sometimes even exclusive eats prepared just for the event.  

An added element just this year is the Malu ice cream competition that has been going on for some time.  The two finalists, who have devised tantalizing new flavors such as Shiraz Rocky Road and Pear Belle Helene, and the winner will be unveiled at the event.  You'll also be able to taste these goodies at the Malu table, which totally rocks.

Even though I'm looking forward to checking out all the exhibitors, the ones I'm pumped to check out in particular include:

Alewife
Alobar
Antidote
Casa Enrique
Chimney Cake
M.Wells Dinette
Malu
MitchMallows
Slovak-Czech Varieties

The fun starts on Tuesday, June 5th at 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 
Buy your tickets here!

Hope to see you there, and if you see me, don't be shy and please say hi!

Malu is Chock-Full-of Fun Events

Malu, LIC's proud "mom and pop shop," as they call themselves is heating up.  Sure they sell cool treats that are delicious all year round, but besides that, they do a great job at connecting with the community through their various events.  3 in particular are going on this week.  I hope you get to stop by for at least one and enjoy:

Wednesday, November 30th - Come by for a chocolate tasting from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Malu is known for their chocolate dips, in which they submerge all your favorite nostalgic foods into rich chocolate (think chocolate covered corn flakes, rice crispies, Swedish fish and more)

Thursday, December 1st and Saturday December 3rd - 4 p.m. story time for the kids.  Bring your little ones and enjoy some time off while they stay quiet and listen to an enchanting story (followed by a treat if you so choose).

Saturday also marks the debut of their holiday gift show, which features local artists and craftsmen, showcasing some of the most creative local products.  It's a good way to prepare yourselves for the holidays and get your loved ones some lovely food gifts.

Malu - 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC NY 11101
718.729.6258
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
www.amomandpopshop.com

Malu is Chock Full of Fun This Week

Malu, LIC's divinely awesome ice cream shop sure has a full roster of delicious activities this week.  I was impressed by how much they do for kids, looping in one of my favorite Astoria residents and food educators, Robert McMinn (aka Bucky Buckaw) who raises backyard chickens (in his Astoria apartment actually) and educates people about locally based economies.  In other words, pretty important and fascinating stuff.  So whether you bring your kiddies to enjoy some ice cream and a good story, or if you go on your own, I think you'll enjoy these activities:

Thursday - Story time for the kids, starting at 4 p.m.

Saturday - Malu Haunted Halloween awards you a free topping if you show up in costume, 3:30 join Bucky Buckaw for some quality live chicken time (fabulous for kids and adults too!)

Sunday - Cookie decorating for the kids (3:00 - 3:30 p.m., 3:45 - 4:15, 4:30 - 5:00 p.m.)  The activity will set you back $10 to decorate 2 cookies, and get a kids scoop of ice cream to go with it.

Malu - 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC NY 11101
718.729.6258
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
www.amomandpopshop.com

Malu – Putting the Spice into Ice Cream

Malu - 12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC NY 11101
718.729.6258
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
www.amomandpopshop.com

After first noticing Malu Ice Cream at this year’s Taste of LIC, I was eager to check out this new sweet spot. Since its opening back in June, it received some nice reception from the LIC and Astoria community and it seems like a welcome addition to the nabe.

Made with top-notch quality ingredients, Malu prides itself in producing a simple, nostalgic sweet treat. Additionally to its many flavors that change daily, they also have other yummy nosh such as chocolate covered cereal, gummy bears, and other candies. I went in casually one night this week and got myself some ice cream. To make a long story short, I’ll definitely be back. Here’s why…

Atmosphere:
Located on Jackson Avenue, right next to the Little Oven and a nearby sports bar, Malu is nicely situated to enjoy some good foot traffic. Its friendly storefront has an inviting bench outside where you can sit and devour their delicious ice cream, and I noticed someone hanging out there with their dogs.

Once you step inside, the cheeriness continues – the exposed brick walls and colorful embellishments make Malu wonderfully pleasant and a welcome place to sit and hang your hat. I noticed it’s very kid friendly, the shopkeepers even displaying colorful kid art on the walls, which I thought was a sweet touch.

Ice Cream:
There are plenty of varieties of both ice cream and sorbet right as you come in. From classic fruit flavors to interesting ice cream blends, the selection is anything but boring. I chose a small cup with two scoops of ice cream – blueberry graham crunch and Jose’s chocolate picante. The former I tried in advance, a friendly Malu clerk offering me a spoonful of it in a real spoon (none of that plastic stuff). I thought this was a nice gesture that made the experience more authentic.

Blueberry Graham Crunch & Jose’s Chocolate Picante – I loved the combination of these two flavors. The blueberry tasted wonderfully tangy and was made with real blueberries. The graham crackers that were spiced with cinnamon added a smoky element, which upped the flavor quotient.

The spicy chocolate scoop was something else. Made with dark chocolate, it wasn’t too sweet but still tasted luxurious, while the heat from the chili made your throat tickle. It had such an interesting kick, producing something very unique. Not sure if I would’ve loved it on its own, but paired with a more traditional flavor like the blueberry, it was a fantastic combo.

Service & Cost:
Malu’s service was excellent – friendly, accommodating and completely hospitable. In my ice cream intoxication, I even forgot to pay for my order, the clerk later making a joke out of it and not making me feel the least bit foolish. I think I was so excited to eat it, that I couldn’t possibly think of anything else.

Costs are moderate and absolutely worth it for the good quality you’re getting. My two scoops set me back $4 even, which I thought was more than fair.

3 Mmmms

Taste of LIC Rocks it Again

From the title of this post, you can guess just how successful this year's Taste of LIC was. Very! I always look forward to this tasting event, as it's one of the best (or even the best dare I say) of its kind in Queens. Not only because of all the fantastic local culinary talent that's showcased, but also because it fosters a sense of community amongst LIC residents and fellow food comrades.

Seeing and meeting so many of my food colleagues and fellow community members made the evening truly enjoyable. And the never-ending supply of food wasn't too shabby either.

Graciously and beautifully organized by The Chocolate Factory, an independent community theater that "supports the creation of new work in a variety of disciplines including theater, dance, music, multi media and the visual arts," the proceeds of this event will benefit their 2011 - 2012 programs.

With over 50 local restaurants from LIC (and Astoria!) represented, there was something delicious and interesting to taste in every corner of the tent. At times, it was some truly serious sensory overload, but who could refuse? Although I enjoyed nearly everything I tried, here are a few stand-outs of the night:

M. Wells Diner - Debuting their offering at this event last year with a slow roasted pork dressed with a sweet maple reduction, this year their goods included smoked oysters on a housemade water cracker and a crazy looking, stuffed-to-the-gills chili dog. The latter was by far my favorite and you can see its gluttunous contents above including chunky beef chili, onions and melted cheddar cheese on an oversized grilled hot dog. The chili had great spice to it and the actual hot dog was juicy with a slightly crunchy casing. I can tell you that I wasn't the only one swooning over this dish. 21-17 49th Avenue, LIC. 718.425.6917

Sage General Store - Always one of my favorites at this event, this year it impressed me again. I was a little sad not to have their bacon brownie again, but surprisingly what won me over was their strawberry salad. Consisting of hulled strawberries, mixed bitter greens, candied pecans and a strawberry buttermilk dressing, it was a refreshing summer dish and one I can see myself munching on for lunch or dinner. 24-20 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 718.361.0707

Malu - It was exciting to sample a new food establishment, on the brink of opening in just about a week. This new ice cream/chocolate shop located next door to Little Oven will serve homemade ice cream and nostalgic chocolate confections.  I loved their cheery table at the event from which I sampled milk and dark chocolate rice crispy treats, corn flake clusters, chocolate covered animal crackers, gummy bears, swedish fish, pretzels and more.  Everything was simple  yet very clean tasting and delicious.  Overall, a good foreshadowing for what's to come - I can't wait for it to open!  12-09 Jackson Avenue, LIC.  718.729-6258

Pachanga Patterson - I couldn't resist one of Pachanga's delicious spicy pork tacos, served on a Nixtamal tortilla, pickled onions and plenty of hot sauce.  It left me with a hot taste in my mouth, that set my tastebuds aflutter.  What a great reminder about why this new up-and-coming Mexican eatery shouldn't be missed.  Their nearly empty table by the end of the event surely proved its popularity.  33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.554.0525

El Ay Si - Excited to see these folks dishing out their comforting grub, I had a heaping plate of spicy bacon mac n' cheese.  Creamy, smoky with a bit of heat with each bite, it was hard not to finish the whole thing.  It was clear that the quality of ingredients were wonderful and I'd certainly come back to have this anytime with some fried chicken to boot!  47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.389.8781

Some of my other honorable mentions at the event include:

Testaccio - Pulled oxtail sliders.  47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC.  718.937.2900
Gian Piero's Bakery - Assorted Italian cookies and loaves of bread that I took home!  44-17 30th Avenue, Astoria.  718.274.8959
Bantry Bay Publick House - Bacon covered dates (gets me everytime!)  33-01 Greenpoint Avenue, LIC.  718.784.9500
LIC Market - Mellon soup with mint infused cream (so refreshing and summery) 21-52 44th Drive, LIC.  718.361.0013
Little Oven - Mini French macaroons that tasted like butta. 12-07 Jackson Avenue, LIC.  718.440.9438
Sweetleaf - Mango iced tea and almond and coconut cookies.  10-93 Jackson Avenue, LIC.  718.832.6726

Hope everyone who attended had as much fun as I did.  I fondly look forward to next year's event!