WHA Hearts
Oct 18, 2012

Meg Hearts Basil Brick Oven Pizza

In late September, I mentioned that I had family in town (they like sparkly wine and brunch), and one of the spots we hit (among many) was Basil Brick Oven (…)

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In late September, I mentioned that I had family in town (they like sparkly wine and brunch), and one of the spots we hit (among many) was Basil Brick Oven Pizza (GMAP). We were actually a bit stuck, having to choose between one of our favorites, Michael Angelo’s on 23rd Ave (GMAP) and Basil, but Basil won out for some reason. Perhaps it was the mood we were in. Anyway, it was a great choice and I’m glad we ended up there.

I was a little anxious about getting there before my perceived hordes of fans would descent upon the place, and it did get crowded around 7pm; I’m glad we got there around 6:30pm. We were easily seated and had plenty of time to mull over the menu choices, of which there are many. So many pizzas! It’s both awesome and bit terrifying because I want to eat. them. all. But as a creature of habit, I usually stick to a Margherita pizza. I am a purist at heart.

Here is the Reina Margherita, which uses buffalo mozzarella. Pure yet decadent. It was freaking AWESOME.

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So lovely and simple – the flavors of the tomatoes really came through, topped with that creamy buffalo mozz and the fresh basil. Yum.

We also ordered a more elaborate pizza – one topped with hot Italian sausage (it was not spicy) and caramelized onions.

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I would definitely get this again.

We ordered a pasta dish, too – gnocchi. I love gnocchi. Great gnocchi in Astoria comes from Sac’s Place, Ornella, Michael Angelo’s, and now Basil (I’m all ears if you want to recommend another place that makes great gnocchi in Astoria or LIC).

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This was very good, though a tad salty – the tomatoes helped balance it out.

Also, early on we ordered a caprese salad, which was very good. I first had it at one of our Bloggers Social, and had to get it again.

I was good about dessert – I chose gelato even though the cheesecakes were calling me… “Meg, Meg… come eat us!” The peanut butter chocolate gelato is excellent.

My family loved it and I think it was a highlight of their trip. So glad we could show them what awesome food is found in Queens (we also got to show off the amazing arepas from The Arepa Lady in Jackson Heights – EPIC STREET FOOD).

Thank you, Basil! You guys rocked it for us. I’ll be back.

Basil Brick Oven Pizza, 28-17 Astoria Boulevard, Astoria, NY; (718) 204-1205; basilbrickoven.com

About Meg Cotner

Meg Cotner was trained as a harpsichordist and now works as a freelance writer and editor. She is the author of "Food Lovers' Guide to Queens," and is a skilled and avid home cook, baker, and preserver.

One Comment

Hardkandy

Hi!
I am Italian (the real Italy in Europe, not the one in New Jersey), and I think the best gnocchi I have had were at Ornella. I love Basil, but I dont like their gnocchi or pastas. I don’t think they are as authentic or as great quality as the pizza, but the pizza is amazing.. again, I mean, I ate gnocchi made at home from Nonna for 18 years so maybe I am a bit too picky, but do try Ornella’s.

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