Astoria, Bars, Beer and Wine, Brunch, Cocktails, Dessert, Featured, Food and Drink, Pizza, Restaurants, Vegetarian and Vegan
May 13, 2016
Best of Astoria: Lindsay’s Picks
The Best of Astoria awards celebrate the very finest Astoria has to offer, voted on by our readers. After the well-deserved winners get their time in the spotlight, the writers (…)
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The Best of Astoria awards celebrate the very finest Astoria has to offer, voted on by our readers. After the well-deserved winners get their time in the spotlight, the writers (…)
The Best of Astoria awards celebrate the very finest Astoria has to offer, voted on by our readers. After the well-deserved winners get their time in the spotlight, the writers at We Heart Astoria take a moment to highlight some of our personal favorites. First up, Lindsay!
Best Bar: Diamond Dogs
This is probably the hardest category of all, as the amount of stellar bars in Astoria is an embarrassment of riches. Every major block has multiple spots that guarantee a fun night out, and there’s really no way to properly shout out to all of the places I love. So how did I decide on this new arrival for the coveted Best Bar award? Pretty simple: it’s my new go-to. Whenever the time comes to grab a quick drink or meet friends for a catch-up session, Diamond Dogs is always my first suggestion. The selection is awesome, the bartenders are welcoming, the music is on point, and while it’s lively, it’s never crowded to the point of feeling uncomfortable. It’s the type of place you WANT to become a regular. As a matter of fact, you’ll probably see me there this weekend!
Diamond Dogs (34-04 31st Ave) (929) 522-0061
Facebook | Instagram | Yelp
Best Pizza: Sac’s Place
Last summer, I moved from an apartment off 30th Ave to a new one off the Broadway stop. It took a little getting used to, but one of the major positives was the close proximity to Sac’s Place. Before the move, I hadn’t tried their pizza in my four years in Astoria. (I know; please don’t judge me!) Now, it’s my rock-solid takeout spot for slices, pastas, and salads. There’s also something comforting about seeing the Sacramone brothers in their element: they’ve run this place almost as long as I’ve been alive, and they still knock it out of the park every time.
Sac’s Place (25-41 Broadway) (718) 204-5002
sacsplace.com | Facebook | Twitter
Best Vegetarian/Vegan: Queens Kickshaw
Favorite Brunch: Sanfords
If there was a category for “Best Place to Take Visitors,” this would be my pick. Sanfords‘ menu feels both comfortable and adventurous, making it an excellent choice to bring out-of-towners that want a special Queens meal without trying something too far out of their comfort zone. Their different variations of Eggs Benedict are all awesome, their Nutella S’mores Pancakes left me in a happy sugar coma, and their Western Brunch Quesadilla always does the trick after a long night out. Not to mention, the $16 Prix Fixe for an entree, cocktail (with a refill!), and coffee/tea/cocoa is a pretty awesome deal. Tasty and economical? Count me in.
Sanfords (30-13 Broadway |(718) 932-9569)
sanfordsnyc.com | Facebook |
Favorite New Arrival: Kurry Qulture
Have you been to Kurry Qulture yet? If you haven’t, it’s time to plan a trip ASAP. I went around the time they opened and had a great experience, and also stopped by a few nights ago for some drinks and eats. I’m thrilled to say, it’s just as good as the beginning. The seasonal menu changes often (more reason to keep returning!) but you can always expect standouts like WHA fave Sweet & Sour Eggplant, addictive naan, and playful cocktails like the Astoria of My Life (bourbon, sweet vermouth, homemade thyme syrup, and fresh figs.) On my most recent trip, I was so in love with the sauce for the Saag Paneer Kofta (spinach and cottage cheese dumplings) that I used it all up by dipping in the naan. Make it a point to try this place out!
Kurry Qulture (36-05 30th Ave ) (718) 674-1212
kurryqulture.com| Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
As always, we want to hear from you! What are your favorites in these categories?
Pete J., that’s exactly what I was thinking! Would be nice to have more vegan options in Astoria.
Shuya Cafe de Ramen has to be one of the best new spots for a delicious and filling meal in Astoria in a while. RECOMMEND!
Be sure to nominate them next year for best arrival 2016! :)
Too bad Queens Kickshaw doesn’t actually have a single vegan entree on their menu!
Hi Pete, Jen from Kickshaw here! We actually do have vegan items on the menu, and can convert other dishes. Shoot me an email when you’re headed in next and we’ll answer any questions you may have.
Best,
Jen
info@thequeenskickshaw.com
Jen L. If vegan options were clearer on the menu or even social media, I could look at bringing friends (or a meetup?) to have their own raves about your legendary place!