Tamara Reynolds’ Last Minute Thanksgiving Round-Up

Roll out of bed and suddenly realize that you will be dining out tomorrow? If you haven’t made a rezzie yet, don’t fear. My 2 fave Astoria standbys can accommodate you.

Photo by angela h.

Kabab Café – 25-12 Steinway Street

Open Thanksgiving Day 1pm-10pm

Walk ins only

Chef Ali El-Sayed is the Mayor of Steinway Street. He is also the only person you know (most likely) who knows how to roast a goose in the ancient Egyptian tradition. If old fashioned American Thanksgiving seems…bland to you, pop in to Kabab Café where it is more likely to involve pomegranate molasses, za’atar, and “Egyptian Hocus Pocus”. Don’t bother asking for a menu: let Ali regale you with his specials and order from his verbal list. I promise you, it will be unlike any Thanksgiving you ever spent at Aunt Edna’s.

Vesta Trattoria – 21-02 30^th ave

Open Thanksgiving Day 1-9pm

Reservations best, walk ins OK too

Guiseppe, Leo and Michelle are going all out for Thanksgiving. From Charred Apple Salad, to Braised Short Ribs appetizers, to their signature super thin crust pizzas, (the BEST pizza in NYC, as far as I am concerned), to pumpkin, sage, sausage ravioli, to roasted cod or grass-fed ribeye, they have you covered on their truly lovely and thoughtful menu. Yes, there IS a roasted turkey breast with stuffing too, for those of you who want it but cannot be bothered to cook. And remember: in addition to the drool-worthy menu, there is wine on tap! So even if you are just stopping by for some Baby Jesus Cake or Pumpkin Pie Tart, you can still drown your holiday angst/ have a nightcap at the bar. Full Menu can be found here.