I’m a big fan of spicy food and want to share with you some of my favorite spicy yums in Astoria. Spicy food is apparently really helpful in cooling off during hot weather, but I’m not totally convinced of that on an experiential level. Still, a lot of the world’s spicy food comes from areas closer to the equator where it’s hot and steamy, so go figure. I just love the way spicy food tastes!
Spicy Buffalo Wings at McCann’s Pub. This serving of wings was probably the spiciest plate of food I’d eaten since I tried to down a plate of chicken “vindalava” from The Curry Club while attending grad school on Long Island. I could only eat three of the McCann’s wings on the plate, they were so spicy. So, if you want your wings at “assassination” level of spiciness, this is the place for you. You’ll have to ask them to make them really spicy, though, and then get ready for a wild ride! They’ll also make them of an average spicy level, so no worries there. 36-15 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria.
The Punisher at Mojave. I’ve not tried this personally, but my understanding is that it will rock you. Hard and painfully. Their description:
100% agave tequila infused with Habanero Peppers. If you can drink it (and keep it down without any help), it’s on us… ( 5 minute rule applies) After drinking the punisher, one can be immortalized on the wall of FAME, or reside with the masses on the wall of SHAME.. it all depends on who is drinking it.
Now that’s something. 22-36 31st St., Astoria.
Spicy Cherry Margarita at Sweet Afton. The heat level of this wonderful drink is nowhere near that of The Punisher, but it can hold its own with a delightful little kick. I love this drink. Sweet Afton makes their own habanero infused tequila, and mixes it with cherry and lime. So very, very good. It’s really good as an accompaniment to the excellent burger there, which isn’t spicy at all. Spicy bonus, though: deep fried spicy pickles with a spicy sauce. 30-09 34th St., Astoria.
Spicy Smoky Mayo at Il Bambino. This stuff is addictive – it’s a perfect combination of spicy, smoky, and creamy. They put it on their chicken cutlet panino and you can also order a side of it. It’s good on almost anything of the savory persuasion – bread is its perfect vehicle, though. One of my favorite condiments EVAR. 34-08 31st Ave., Astoria.
Chicken or Lamb Vindaloo at Seva. I was just at Seva the other night and T got the chicken vindaloo. It was pretty spicy, and he ordered mild-medium. This is always a spicy dish, and as I mentioned above, I once had a vindaloo that blew my mind and grip on reality with its level of Scoville units. I felt like I had an out of body experience at one point. Seva’s vindaloo at mild-medium wasn’t quite to that point but I bet it at least approaches it if ordered at its conventional nuclear spice level. So yeah, be sure you’re up to the task if you order vindaloo. It sure is delicious. 30-07 34th St., Astoria.
Where do you like to eat spicy food in Astoria?
Photo credits: (c) “The Punisher” by Rebecca McAlpin; spicy cherry margarita by The Foodista; chicken vindaloo by Wayne S. on yelp.com.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
OMG, I know what you mean about Seva. We were there with two of our friends and one of them ate the chili pepper in her chicken dish. She went on a “wild ride” as you’d say
Then, my husband did the same thing on purpose to join her. It was quite hilarious.
Oh no no… I have suffered the effects of The Punisher, and it was not pretty nor fun. That stuff is too spicy to exist inside your tummy, and it WILL come out! My waitress swore she was never going to allow another guest to order it after my experience! Forsake The Punisher!
Seva does spices brilliantly. I remember the first time I ordered there and had the joy of biting into a cardamon pod.
Seva’s Vindaloo is great. I usually get the chicken, and order it spicy. It makes my ears close. Pure enjoyment.