Last week was really fun as far as foodie adventures go, as I found myself at a Queens food blogger tasting at Basil Brick Oven Pizza, organized by none other than my friend, Bradley Hawks. Known for his tantalizing pictures of food (aka ridiculously graphic food porn), Bradley did a great job of uniting a lot of different Queens food personalities under one roof. Basil Brick was only too happy to host and show off their new goods, as they have tons of new menu items they were curious to get in the right hands (and mouths). While there was maybe a bit too much food served, I really enjoyed what I had and wanted to give you all the highlights.
Octopus Carpaccio - The mere concept of this dish sounded innovative, and I was curious as to how their octopus would stack up. Everyone literally oohed and ahhed when the dish arrived, in all its asymmetrical glory, which showed the rustic and beautiful texture of the octopus. I loved the acidity in its glaze and the octopus felt cool yet anything but tough. This reminded me of the perfect summer dish I'd love to have while lunching on the beach - the fresh tomatoes, lemon and arugula were lovely too.
Giant Meatballs Marinara - There's really nothing like having great meatballs in a delicious Italian restaurant and these tasted as good as they looked. You can tell that the marinara sauce was made from scratch, with a slightly acidic bite and a fragrant basil essence that lingered on your tongue. The meat itself was soft and juicy, and went beautifully with the stringy fresh muzz that hugged the top of the meatball.
Fresh, Stuffed Mozzarella Balls - And speaking of fresh mozzarella, these pretty pinwheels made me really happy. Combining some of my favorite things such as salty, soft cheese with the peppery arugula and the smokiness of the sopressata, it was a true winner. Dressed with a ribbon of sweet balsamic glaze, it also reminded me of eating al fresco in the summertime. It's definitely a dish that I'll be coming back for either now or in warmer summer months.
Green Lasagna - I've never seen such solidarity in opinion as when we tasted this dish. Everyone was truly in love with its simple, yet innovative take on lasagna, that was actually very Piedmontese. Combining garlicky homemade pesto with sheets of pasta and a soft pesto-potato mixture, it pleased both the veggie and meat eaters. In fact, many of my dining companions said that this is all they needed to make the night complete. I concur wholeheartedly - especially since it was such a hearty, filling dish.
Service:
Even though this was a rather large dinner, you couldn't help but notice the hospitality and warmth that emanated from every crevice of the dining room and kitchen. Chef Daniele and his business partners were more than generous and entertained all our questions, but weren't afraid to ask for feedback. My only constructive point I want to stress is that it was a bit too much food. But don't get me wrong - it was all soo, soo goood. Mille grazie Bradley and the Basil Brick Oven Pizza crew. Mission tight waisted pants accomplished :)
Basil Brick Oven Pizza - 28-17 Astoria Blvd, Astoria NY 11102
718.204.1205
N/Q Train to Astoria Blvd
www.basilbrickoven.com
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, and I just love that it's a celebration of all wonderful things - family, friends, health, happiness and food! I have so many things to appreciate in my life, but besides the obvious, my life has truly been enriched through writing about my food adventures and meeting some of the most amazing people in Queens. My fellow Queens bloggers...this one's for you.
We Heart Astoria - My other blogging pride and joy, you may know that I'm one of the fellow founders and contributors of this blog that's all about "delivering insider scoop in and out of Astoria." Check out Meg's amazing round-up of Thanksgiving activities - from special restaurant menus, bar promos and more.
Harmonious Belly - Meg's blog, dedicated to sustainable food practices and lifestyle is always a meaningful read - and the pictures make me salivate each time. In her latest post, read about the non-traditional feast she's putting together this Thanksgiving.
SITE Design Blog - Although not a food blogger per se, Mackenzi knows what's what and better yet, what's to come on the Astoria and LIC food horizon. In her blog, inspired by her fabulous store, SITE, she talks about trends, quirky items on sale at her store, and in case you didn't know, you can also find her musings on We Heart Astoria.
Amuse*Bouche - I love Bradley...but let's face it, everyone LOVES Bradley Hawks, the jovial, food porn extraordinaire who gets into every nook and cranny of Astoria's food scene. His latest post highlights the new, Bear Restaurant, which offers a Thanksgiving prix-fixe tomorrow. If you'd like to get a special deal when you visit, check this out and get a free glass of vino.
Handjobs for the Home - AJ's brilliant blog speaks to the imagination and creativity that can live in all of us too, as he uncovers simple yet sophisticated DIY projects (a lot of them centered around food). I love his Thanksgiving post that gives us some simple tips and tricks to entertaining (especially in small spaces).
Gluten Free Fun - It's funny that I came to know Erin through a nostalgic High School connection. The blogosphere really is a small world! I enjoy reading posts about a her fun, fearless gluten-free adventures that are always full of thoughtful advice and support. In her Thanksgiving post, she of course gives homage to the wonderful gluten-free community that inspires her each day.
Much to My Delight - Jenn's awesome blog is a little whimsy, tongue-in-cheek, but also full of insightful stories. Her Thanksgiving post, similar to this one gives props to her favorite Thanksgiving blog round-ups.
City Spoonful - Recently getting acquainted with Anne and Clare who run this blog, it's all about food. And what I like is that it spreads the love beyond Queens to also those other boroughs, and even New Jersey. Hmmm...not sure what I think about that, but anyway ;) Kidding! Take a look at their awesome Thanksgiving post on how to cook a perfect turkey.
Gardenfreude - WT and Erich are not only geniuses in the garden, but also in the kitchen. Their blog shines a light on a variety of creative topics from food to gardening, knitting to wellness, design and more. Their latest post totally made my tummy rumble - it's a recipe for a chocolate pumpkin loaf.
Tastoria - Focusing on her two favorite topics, food + Astoria, Sue uncovers some of our neighborhood's hidden gems. I love her intelligent observations and musings on simple things and places we'd normally bypass...until now. Her Thanksgiving post shows us just how lucky we are to have Astoria in our lives. Happy Thanksgiving everyone - and once again, thank you, thank you!
