Earth Friendly Restaurants in Astoria

Happy Earth day, Astoria!  To celebrate this important day, I've given thought to the eco-friendly restaurants in the neighborhood that do Mother Earth proud.  If you have a chance to visit these today, please do, and patronize their business.  What are some of your eco-friendly haunts?

Vesta & Pachanga Patterson - These guys aren't shy about their restaurant's mission, which is to provide their patrons an experience that's inspired by the local greenmarket, giving preference to everything that's fresh and in season.  I like that they often tell you where their ingredients come from, including the specific farms and their locales.  Vesta - 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550.  Pachanga Patterson - 33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.554.0525

Image by The Brooklyn Grange Farm

Brooklyn Grange Farm - Despite its deceiving name, Brooklyn Grange Farm is located in LIC, boasting "the world's largest rooftop soil farms," growing over 50,000 pounds of organic produce.  A direct supporter of the farm itself, I've been up there on several occasions and have patronized them through their CSA program.  There's always an abundance of something delicious, and the folks who run it are open and welcoming to new volunteers.  That's right, you can even have a go at urban farming yourself!  37-18 Northern Blvd, LIC. 347.670.3660

BareBurger - Everyone who's been to BareBurger can vouch for their environmentally friendly approach, which not only extends to its locally sourced food, including organic meat, but also the eco-chic decor.  It's not uncommon to encounter whimsy embellishments such as light fixtures built out of reused knives, forks and spoons, reclaimed wood tabletops, and the quintessential recycled tin sliding door.  33-21 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.7011, 23-01 31st Street, Astoria. 718.204.7167

Milkflower - One of my recent restaurant faves, Milkflower also supports green business practices.  I love that their interior is adorned with refurbished accents such as reclaimed wood paneled walls, tables made of old police dividers, benches made of recycled burlap and more.  Their wood fired pizza doesn't suck either.  Mmmm... 34-12 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.204.1300

Awesome Drinks and Food Specials at Pachanga Patterson

It was a crummy, rainy day today, which is both a bummer and a blessing in disguise.  After a few long days in Austin for SXSW, I took the day off to recharge a bit, which was totally awesome, as Dan happened to be home as well and we spent the day together relaxing and hangin' in LIC and Astoria.

First we hit the Noguchi Museum, which I haven't been to in years.  For those of you who haven't yet been, it's a charming little sculpture museum, which you can get through in under an hour and get a lot out of it to boot.  We saw a few exhibitions, including Noguchi's early drawings and the Archaic/Modern collection, which were both lovely - here are a few highlights.



After the museum, we headed for a quick happy hour drink at Pachanga Patterson, and it was awesome.  I love their happy hour menu, which extends competitive prices for their homemade margaritas.  For just $5, you can get a deliciou freshly made margarita, including fun flavors such as hibiscus and mango.  I got the former and totally loved its vibrant color and tropical flavor.  It reminded me of something drunk on a sunny beach, which is of course where I'd rather be.  We got a side of chips and tomatillo honey salsa with it too, which totally did the trick.  It was mild and a little garlicky, tasting very delicious together with the vibrant drinks.


During our visit, I also spied an interesting late night special, consisting of $1 tacos with the purchase of a drink between the hours of 11 p.m - 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Pachanga Patterson - 33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106
718.554.0525
N/Q Train to Broadway
www.pachangapatterson.com

Venturing out to Venturo

Ever since I've found out about Venturo, the newest outpost from the guys that run Vesta and Pachanga Patterson, I knew I wanted to check it out.  Promising a cozy, comfort food experience in an intimate setting in Sunnyside, I didn't need to hear more to know I wanted to experience it.  My brother Peter and I headed there on Saturday and totally dug it - from the friendly vibe to the down-home delectable food.

Atmosphere:
Located in a prime location on Queens Blvd, near 44th Street, Venturo is easy to find and it's also subway accessible. Surrounded by a few disparate establishments such as a pet store, an Irish pub, not far from the old Meat Boutique (now closed), Venturo really stands on its own, as it's the only one of its kind in the neighborhood.

Once you walk in, you feel not unlike you do at Vesta or Pachanga Patterson.  The space is small and intimate, but it has a certain buzz and charm.  On a Saturday evening, it was packed to the gills, and I was glad I had the foresight to make a reservation.  There's a small bar in the center of the dining room, which is similar to the setup at Vesta.  I appreciate the varied clientele, from young professionals, families, singles ready to mingle and the like.

Food:
Given that the menu is quite simple and short, it's not difficult to make a decision.  Since I was limited by my gluten free diet this week, I couldn't try the pastas, but will definitely come back for them next time around.

Cauliflower and Raisins - We ordered this dish as a starter, even though it's technically a side.  Loving the sweetness that came from the golden raisins, we devoured the cauliflower, which was beautifully separated into bite sized florets.  Enjoying the lovely texture, which was quite tender, it's certainly a unique take on a sometimes underrated vegetable.

Stuffed Trout - Since I was limited in my food options, I chose the stuffed trout, which sounded and looked delicious.  I'm not sure what I imagined when reading its description, but I was in awe at how gorgeous and rustic it looked.  The taste was excellent, as the fish was flaky and buttery, while the skin remained crispy and nicely seasoned with fresh herbs. My favorite aspect was the pesto, which the fish rested on, and I scooped it up with my fork and smeared it onto the already flavorful skin.  Adoring how garlicky it all was, it packed a lot of flavor and personality.

Eggplant Lasagna - Peter couldn't resist a pasta dish, but at the same time was curious to try something new, so he went with this "pasta free" concoction.  Made of layers of breaded eggplant, cheese, tomato sauce and a creamy bechamel sauce, it was the epitome of a fall comfort dish.  I had a little bite sans the breadcrumbs of course, and was totally obsessed.

Service and Cost:
Just like at Vesta or Pachanga Patterson, the service at Venturo was unassuming yet efficient and in general took care of business.  Even though the place was packed on a Saturday night and people were hustling, we always felt well taken care of.

Costs are moderate to inexpensive for the high quality of food and the nice atmosphere.  Like I said, the only one of its kind right now.

Appetizers - $8 - $18
Pizza & Pasta - $12 - $15
Entrees - $17 - $22

3 Mmmms

Venturo - 44-07 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside NY 11375
718.406.9363
7 Train to 46th Street
www.venturovino.com 

Last Minute Cinco de Mayo Roundup

Since it's Cinco de Mayo tomorrow, and lucky for us it falls on a Sunday, there's no excuse to not celebrate.  It's a huge weekend in general actually, with the Kentucky Derby and Greek Easter happening as well, so whatever you're celebrating, here are some festive suggestions.

Mojave - In honor of Cinco de Mayo, they're featuring $4 shots of El Jimador tequila, $9 Herradura margaritas or 4 shots for $25.  Their outdoor garden will be open too so if it's warm enough, it'll be great to celebrate al fresco.   22-36 31st Street, Astoria.  718.545.4100

Pachanga Patterson - Even though their brunch and dinner menu will remain the same tomorrow, they'll feature their infused tequila shots in the spirit of Cinco de Mayo.  A few personal food recommendations include the steak tacos, chicken hot dogs and the veggie jenga.  33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria.  718.554.0525

Casa Enrique - I love this relatively new Mexican cafe in LIC that's clean, simple and serves some of the best mole I've had.  Featuring their regular menu tomorrow, it's definitely worth going in for a margarita or sangria and enjoying a fabulous sit down dinner with a group of friends or your significant other.  5-48 49th Avenue, LIC.  347.448.6040

5 Burro Cafe - Recently having the pleasure of trying this dive cafe in Forest Hills, it's a total must, if not tomorrow, just anytime.  Although the space is small and there's often a bit of a wait, the no frills, delightful Mexican food is totally worth it.  The guacamole with chunky red peppers serves as a yummy beginning, while the tacos Al Pastor send you right to heaven with tender marinated pork with a spicy pineapple salsa.  72-05 Austin Street, Forest Hills.  718.544.2984

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden - Get out your party outfit, for the beer garden's Cinco de Mayo Festival, which boasts live music, raffles (and prizes), as well as live entertainment.  Enjoy the beautiful weather by camping out in this awesome outdoor space.  I usually bring a set of games such as Apples to Apples, Cards Against Humanity, and Jenga to keep our group entertained.  29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria.  718.274.4925

Unusual Brunchin' at Pachanga Patterson

I can never turn down brunch plans and thought it would be fun to go to Pachanga Patterson with Renne (of Single Girl Cookies).  We originally planned to just grab coffee, but thought this would be the perfect excuse to try something new.  While I've been to Pachanga on several occasions, I've never yet tried brunch, and was totally intrigued.

Food:
While they have the usual suspects such as omelets, an egg sandwich, even a breakfast burger on the menu, I went for something totally different, which were their chicken hot dogs.  Renee also chose something more lunchy and went with their signature tacos.

Chicken Hot Dogs - Even though I was on the fence about getting these, our waitress convinced me they were fabulous.  I totally agreed and was right away intrigued by the crunchy cabbage/apple slaw that was layered on top of the dogs.  The hot dog itself was delicious and quite light, I only wished it was a little bit bigger and that they went easier on the bread.  The mayo sauce on top totally worked and went nicely with the vinegary, crunchy slaw.  If I had to do it over again, I'd definitely get them, and I was glad they didn't make me feel overly full or heavy - the portion was quite right.

Single Girl Sweets - I also nibbled on some Single Girl treats including Renee's new lemon cupcake with a beautiful little lemon rind on top.  The frosting was stupendously creamy and tart and coupled nicely with the moist, dense dough.  I loved the manageable size as well, which was just enough for two delectable bites.

Renee's signature chocolate chip cookies were also a must try, and I loved how the chocolate morsels just melted in your mouth.  I don't know if it was because I just ate a lemon cupcake, but I tasted some lemon or orange zest in them too.  It was a welcome flavor that I totally devoured.

Service and Cost:
The service was nice throughout our meal, and both of our waitresses were attentive and friendly.  One of them was downright quirky and funny, and I loved how animatedly she described (and recommended) the chicken hot dogs.

Costs were moderate and we paid about $17 for our entrees and coffees, tax and tip included.

3 Mmmms

Pachanga Patterson - 33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106
718.554.0525
N/Q Train to Broadway
www.pachangapatterson.com

Last Minute Astorian Valentine's Day Ideas

Valentine's Day is almost upon us - love it or hate it.  Whether you're hanging with your hunny or celebrating love with great friends, here's a quick last minute guide to some fun things to do.

Rest-Au-Rant - For something intimate, low key yet very special, check out Rest-Au-Rant's 4-course V-day menu, paired with a champagne toast and a box of homemade assorted chocolates.  Their cocktails are fabulous and the wine selection will certainly fit the occasion.  The dinner will set you back $45/person and reservations are required.  30-01 35th Avenue, Astoria NY 11106.  718.729.9009

Bear - The menu at Bear is looking mighty rich for Tuesday night, with a 3-course prix-fixe, including dishes such as a three vodka shot special, short rib braised in red wine, diver sea scallop barley risotto and the piece-de-resistance, rose macarons and chocolate.  Dinner costs $45/person and $75 with wine pairings.  12-14 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106.  917.396.4939

Vesta & Pachanga Patterson - Both sister restaurants are featuring impressive menus in honor of cupid, and they always deliver (I speak from experience).  At Vesta, you'll enjoy a 3-course dinner, featuring yummies such as foie gras, a braised pork shank, charred gnocchi with roasted cauliflower and more.  Pachanga brings a Mexican flair with family style dishes such as empanada, quesadilla and taquito platters, $1 fried oysters, $2 shots and drinks specials.  Vesta - 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.545.5550.  Pachanga Patterson - 33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11103.  718.554.0525

Veslo - Always up for celebrating a festive occasion, Veslo has created a 3-course special menu with decadent options such as pan seared scallops, a crown rack of lamb, gnocchi in veal sauce (they're delish) and a Croatian style dessert of thin crepes or blueberry cheese strudel.  Reservations are highly recommended and the dinner will set you back $50/person.  32-11 Broadway, Astoria NY 11106.  718.728.0549 

Astor Bake Shop - I just love the special love menu at Astor Bake Shop, with a mix of sweet and savory.  Their custom V-Day offering is affordable at $23.95/person and scrumptious sounding, with items such as saffron arancini, a steelhead trout, pan seared polenta with cauliflower ragout and plenty of desserts such as a red velvet crepe, blood orange mousse and more.  12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102. 718.606.8439

Homemade Goodness - If you're staying in to create that romantic atmosphere at home, there's a couple of of homemade dishes I highly recommend making, including crab cakes, broiled steaks and potato gratin.  And for dessert, I've got tons of delectable ideas such as homemade truffles, chocolate covered bacon or fudgy skillet brownies.  

For some really great last minute shopping ideas, scrumptious food options, shopping and more, check out Mackenzi's awesome Valentine's Day Gift guide on We Heart Astoria. 

Pachanga Patterson Wins Us Over Again

In the mood for a good Mexican meal this Monday, Dan and I headed over to Vesta's little sister, Pachanga Patterson.  I've already been there a few months ago, but Dan was a virgin.  Not worried about him liking it, my suspicions proved right, as he fell in love with it instantly - the added bonus being the amazing backyard seating area we got to enjoy on this warm, summer night.

Sitting here was a treat, as its charming and cheery vibe really gave us that much needed respite from the craziness of city life.  I loved the birch paneling on the walls and floor, which gave it that added jolt of newness.  That, coupled with colorful umbrellas, little hanging lights and plenty of greenery made it a fantastic place to unwind and linger.

Since the menu is limited, there's only a few things I haven't yet tried, and here they are:

Vintage Steak Tacos - Dan ordered these, as they were the healthiest taco option on the menu, given they are grilled.  Basted in a smoky, thick salsa, the steak was far from dry and it was grilled to a nice medium texture (sans any chewiness).  The mix of onions and cilantro on top gave each bite that extra zing and freshness, looking very plain but tasting anything but.  Overall, the dish was very light and allowed room for other things such as snacking on chunky/creamy guacamole.  I know it sounds like a contradiction, but it was indeed both of those things.

Summer Smoke Margarita - My cocktail of the night, I enjoyed its spicy flavor and the smoky aftertaste that lingered on my tastebuds after each sip.  Although it looked like any ordinary margarita on the rocks, it wasn't.  You could taste the freshness and quality of ingredients instantly, and that smoke factor was something else.

Service and Cost:
As always, the service was hospitable, attentive yet unobtrusive.  It stands true that whenever I walk into a Giuseppe/Leo establishment, I'm always treated with kindness and friendship.  Even though I've known these guys for a few years now, I observed that everyone is treated this way.  Kudos to that!

Costs are moderate and for a dinner consisting of 2 drinks, an appetizer and 2 entrees, our total was $60 with tax and tip.

3 Smoky Mmmms

Pachanga Patterson - 33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106
718.554.0525
N/Q Train to Broadway
www.pachangapatterson.com 

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!

Balls to the Wall at Pachanga Patterson

Pachanga Patterson - 33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 11106
718.554.0525
N/Q Train to Broadway
www.pachangapatterson.com

As you can tell from these pics, it was a celebration at Pachanga Patterson, as we rang in our friend Paul's (aka Ball's) birthday.  I was so happy to finally check this place out - it's been open since March and this is the first time I've been.  The owners, who also run one of my Astoria faves, Vesta, continue to deliver with this one.

Atmosphere:
Quaint and interesting are the words that come to mind when thinking back on Pachanga.  The front of the house is set up with a few small and larger sized rectangular tables, one of which we occupied.  I loved the turquoise wrap-around bar with casual stools and a friendly bar staff, ready and willing to have you taste some nifty tequila specialties, some of which are concepted on the spot.

Overall, the space is on the long, narrow side, and lit partially by decorative hanging lights, reminiscent of Mexican street fairs.  Funky wall art decs the gorgeous exposed bricks that add another element of earthiness and authenticity to this already fabulous vibe. 

Food:
Very different from Vesta, Pachanga features homemade Mexican food. Comforting, filling, spicy and delicious Mexican food.  But just like at Vesta, quality and simplicy are key, as Pachanga showcases this both in their ingredients and its overall menu setup.  Choosing a dish from its pithy menu is a cinch, and a lot of items are conducive to sharing.  Here's what we tried:

Appetizers - Because this was a celebration, we started with a couple of apps including the guacamole with house-fried tortillas, a trio of salsas and cheese quesadillas.  My favorite were the quesadillas, which were creamy and cheesy with a nice charred exterior.  The inside was stuffed with a combination of corn, cannellini beans, pickled serrano and cotija cheese.  It had a hint of sharpness at the end of each bite, but overall was a mild and interesting dish - definitely an elevated version of your ordinary quesadilla.

Entrees - Everyone more or less got a variety of tacos and shared them.  Sonya also ordered an interesting vegetarian dish called the veggie jenga, which turned out to be one of my favorites.  But before I get to that, a bit about the tacos...

I got the trio of the Vietnamese marinated pork tacos with pickled beans.  It was an interesting combination and unlike any taco I've ever had.  I adored the crunchy beans, which caused your face to pucker a bit, but the pork was a tad on the dry side.  Maybe I'll add some sauce to it next time.

What completely blew my mind (and my tastebuds) were the fish tacos, which were ancho battered and dressed with a citrus habanero aioli.  Not only was this taco wonderfully spicy, it also had an immense amount of flavor, freshness and a gorgeous firm texture (not mushy like some fish tacos can be). Before trying it, I was convinced that Nixtamal's version of fish tacos could never be beat, until now.  I am hands down getting a trio of those next time around - and the Pollack they used in it was just wonderful.

Now about the veggie jenga...where do I start?  The hues in this dish were just gorgeous, featuring just about very color under the sun.  Consisting of pieces of a tostada, mashed up beans, avocado, sweet potato puree that rested on the bottom of the plate and two fried eggs on top, it was an all-inclusive meal.  I don't even have to explain how much I love fried eggs on top of anything, and breaking these into the ingredients I just mentioned created a silky, comforting concoction. Almost everyone had a bite and agreed that this dish was something special.

Dessert - Because it was Paul's birthday, we had to get dessert and indulged in three options including banana tortillas with caramel sauce, cinnamon panna cotta with caramel brittle and pepitas as well as Pachanga's version of the famous Vesta Baby Jesus cake, which they call The Diablito here.  Although all three desserts were delicious, my favorite were the banana tortillas, which were so delicate on the outside, and filled with a delectable caramelized banana on the inside.  I adore banana desserts and this one was no different - everyone agreed that this was the piece-de-resistance, and the caramel sauce definitely put us over the edge from full to really really full.  But it was worth every calorie, and then some.

Service and Cost:
It's easy to tell that the hospitable, warm owners of Vesta, Joe and Leo run this place.  The staff is cordial and friendly, pleasantly conversational but not overbearing.  I loved that they weren't afraid to give their recommendations, and because it was Paul's birthday, they treated our whole party and Paul especially, like VIPs. It was really sweet, and didn't go unnoticed.

Costs are moderate and include:

Appetizers - $4 - $10
Tacos - $7 - $12
Entrees - $10 - $19
Sides - $4 - $9

3 Mmmms

Astoria Cinco de Mayo Mini Round-Up

Happy Cinco de Mayo everyone.  What a fun excuse to go out and enjoy festive drinks, food and time with friends.  Astoria and LIC promises to be bumpin' tomorrow, and here's my mini round-up of cool happs you can partake in.

MexiQ - Festivities will start as soon as they open their doors at 5 p.m. with dedicated food specials (i.e. seafood and short rib empanadas), $5 Mexican beer on tap and a live Mariachi band that will make an appearance later in the night.  37-11 30th Avenue, Astoria NY 11103. 718.626.0333

Mojave - This Southwestern eatery always has something fun and boisterous going on for Cinco.  This year, it'll be a special drinks promotion from Herradura and  Tiki tequila.  Shots incorporating both tequila brands will be complimentary, and there will also be a live band later on in the night to enjoy.  22-36 31st Street Astoria NY 11105.  718.545.4100

El Ay Si - Kicking it off at 8 p.m., El Ay Si's Cinco party will include enticing drinks specials, new menu items as well as lively entertainment.  Featuring guest DJ Monk One, you'll be able to groove to some hip Latin beats from Cuban Sol to Cali Salsa, Nuyorican Boogaloo and more.  The party will last all night, so you don't have to worry about showing up early.  47-38 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City NY 11101.  718.389.8781

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden - Even though it's far from a Latin establishment, the Beer Garden will be celebrating full-force with a special Mexican menu.  Instead of the typical dumplings, potato pancakes and pierogies, you can get $5 burritos, $2 tacos and $20 buckets of Corona and Corona Light.  29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria NY 11102.  718.274.4925

Pachanga Patterson - The newest Mexican eatery in town will be doing something really special tomorrow. Get this...from 7 - 8 p.m. they'll have free drinks. Yep...FREE (I was astounded too).  You can also order 2 new tacos that they're adding to the menu especially for tomorrow.  Ole!  33-17 31st Avenue, Astoria NY 718.554.0525