We’re so happy that Friday is finally here (pun intended). And with all that sunshine coming our way, it’s a great opportunity to walk around the nabe and explore interesting and unusual treasures. We’re talking about specialty food stores in particular, as there are many in Astoria and Long Island City. So whether you’re looking for exotic olives or a particular cheese that you can’t find at the supermarket, we suggest you hit up some (or all) of these places for interesting foodie finds. Here are five great options to get you started. As always, we welcome your two cents.
Rosario’s – An old school Italian deli, they have everything from fresh mozzarella bufala to gourmet pasta and olive oil to European candy and even Serendipity 3 frozen hot chocolate mix. 22-55 31st Street, Astoria. 718.728.2920
Image by George B.
Mediterranean Foods I or II - I love going to Mediterranean Foods for really great hummus, wonderful olive oil, affordable Greek cheeses such as halloumi, Misko pasta that’s perfect for making pasticchio and inexpensive phyllo dough. Mediterranean Foods I – 30-12 34th Street, Astoria. 718.728.6166. Mediterranean Foods II – 23-18 31st Street, Astoria. 718.721.0221
Image by Jess L.
Parrot Coffee Market – Although its name suggests a focus on coffee, this place has so many other goodies including gargantuan dates that are perfect for stuffing, international candies such as chocolate covered apricots and plums, super thick cut bacon, frozen burek and so much more. 31-12 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.545.7920
Slovak-Czech Varieties – I’m partial to this wonderful little store because of my Slovak heritage but even if you’re not a Slovak or a Czech, I still think it’s a gem. You can get a rare sheep’s milk cheese called bryndza that’s amazing to put in spaetzle as well as homemade dumpling bread known as “knedlik.” Their international snacks and candies are wonderful, especially if you’re an Eastern European ex-pat. 10-59 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City. 718.752.2093
Rio Market – For all your Brazilian needs, visit this resourceful supermarket that boasts signature foods such as pao de queijo, various croquettes (the chicken breast and cheese is yummy), meat, bread and other hard to find Brazilian specialties. 32-15 36th Avenue, Astoria. 718.706.7272
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I love Mediterranean Foods I. And I really need to go to Parrot Coffee Market soon.
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