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NYC: Cheese
You're so cheesy. Enjoy the list of cheesy spots for the cheesy palate.
21 Orte
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Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: The best way I can sum up this place is simply: Outstanding. The only other place that is even remotely close is Astoria Bagel Co which is just down Ditmars Blvd, except this place has more selection, better prices, faster service, cleaner digs, and takes credit cards. Those things give this bagel joint the upper hand, even to the most popular places in Manhattan. Without question, bagels here are awesome. Each of the ones I've eaten had just the right amount of fluffiness and soft enough to chew. The variety here is great as they even have multi-grain bagels (I don't find enough places that have this). The lox and cream cheese are heaven, especially when spread on a toasted bagel. And even though a Brooklyn chain is thriving in all parts of Astoria, I'm sure all Queens folk are thankful nonetheless. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: It's hard to take a name like Mister Chicken seriously but rest assured the food is no laughing matter. For Woodside, it is the singlehandedly the best fried chicken takeout / delivery in the area. There are plenty of chicken finger joints just a few blocks down, but none can touch Mister Chicken with a 10 foot wing. Mister Chicken To Go states their chickens are organic, raised in Pennsylvania in Amish country, and hormone free. Virtually their entire menu is chicken based from fried chicken to roast chicken (pollos a la brasa) and other items like chicken salads, sandwiches, burritos, and soups. Their most expensive items, the buttermilk fried chicken ($5-$25) can be hit or miss, but when they're a hit, they're utterly fantastic. The crunch of the perfectly fried skin, the juiciness of the meat, and the heartiness the pieces are winners for all chicken lovers. More folks might find more luck with their boneless fried chicken tenders ($3-$22), which in their tiny glory might seem small, but pack a big nice, filling bite. Dip it with their uber tasty honey dijon and you're set. Pollos a la brasa (rotisserie chicken) is practically standard in most Latin joints and Mister Chicken offers an whole one at $11. It is slightly pricier than the average, but no less tasty than some of the finest in the hood. It's well seasoned with a nice soft skin and plenty of tender and juicy meat. The roasted chicken quesadilla ($6) is a favorite and a bit unique compared to its competition - as its loaded with zucchini, peppers, and broccoli. Gluttons will find satisfaction in their chicken burrito ($7), which is loaded with veggie rice, cannellini beans, sour cream, muenster cheese, and peppers. Most folks could probably just live on their sides. which are all mostly $2.50 each (unless combined with a fried chicken meal). Surprisingly all of the greasy fried chicken is balanced out by a myriad of healthy sides including roasted beats, sauteed garlic kale, and steamed broccoli just to name a few. The gluttonous choices can be their roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes (omg), and their incredible sinfully creamy mac and cheese. It is has become so popular that it is the only side at $2.95. They truly know they have it good. Finally, some have pointed out that Mister Chicken bares a striking resemblance to Dirty Bird To Go (http://www.yelp.com/biz/dirty-bird-to-go-new-york). The menu, the food, the taste, even the "Pennsylvania" + "Range Free" chicken declaration is noted to the T. But regardless of the comparisons, the Mister Chicken version is cheaper, less crowded, and the service / delivery is way faster. It truly is comfort food on the go and a vastly simple menu for all - healthy or not. -
Jandos 4-Sterne-Beitrag: There is something about Ovelia that keeps me coming back. Is it the allure of the ever popular 30th Ave? The Greeky brunch and hearty dinner fare? The trendy decor or the fact its open late? The outdoor dining and fun service? Perhaps its a little of everything. Unlike the old school Greek spots throughout Astoria, Ovelia is more bold with their contemporary, albeit trendy, decor. The space isn't large, but they've done a good job with managing the space for all kinds of groups, including some seating outdoors during good weather. The vibe is modern and undeniably young, which shows in most of the patrons. Surely the ambiance will vary from their brunch hour to the late night service, where they have been known to play some really loud and somewhat distracting house music. Food wise, there is a lot to appreciate here. While the gripes about price increases and smaller food portions over the last couple of years feel semi valid, most everything is delicious. I've been a sucker for their cold mezzes, everything from the taramosalata (cold roe spread-$7) to the skordalia (potato and garlic puree -$6) to their tzaziki ($7). Saganaki is always a must for me at any Greek spot, though the portion does feel remarkably small for $8. The spinach pie ($9), aka spanokopita comes in the form of a crispy hand roll, looking vastly different from most other renditions I've seen but is tasty nonetheless. Fans of moussaka ($14) are in for a potential treat. Their version is fluffy, well layered, and very tasty. There is a meat free version for $2 more, which should appease most vegan palates. Equally delicious is the pasticio ($13), a creamy execution worth repeating over and over. The semi-skimpy sides, especially the $6 lemon potatoes, could use a "little" work in portion and pricing. Looking for less traditional fare? Ovelia has it. Everything from a creatively named lamb burger in the "lamburgini" ($22) to a stir fry ouzo ($14) to a house special linguini ($16). There is no shortage of seafood options, such as a prosciutto wrapped asparagus and grilled scallops ($25) to a tasty seafood pasta aka Thallasini Makaronada ($20), to the $32 thallasini pikilia, a seafood assortment of grilled little neck clams, shrimp, calamari, scallops and baby shark. If you're not feelin the food, the drinks at the bar are a very nice option. They have custom cocktails that are roughly $9-10 each, as well as beer and wine. Whether you're coming for group eats, catching a drink, or on a date, Ovelia in all of its Mediterranean hip variety has something for everyone. -
Jandos 3-Sterne-Beitrag: Manhattan's Mexican scene has already had a long standing reputation of cranking out "watered down" cuisine with sloppy execution at above average prices. It hasn't exactly happened here per se, but a name like "Baby Bo's" dismisses all notions that this place should be taken seriously . Instead of comparing this burrito spot to the most divey taqueria or authentic truck, appreciate it for what it really is: a small Midtown eatery that just happens to be heavy on the delivery. It's hardly gourmet but hardly divey and the prices will likely reflect it. $12 for 3 tacos with rice and beans? $13-15 for various enchilada combinations? Yeah, that sounds about right. And to no one's surprise, the fajitas are the most expensive items on the menu at $17 (shrimp or steak). To their credit the food is decent but not mind blowingly good. Ironically the kudos goes to their vegetarian options, which at many Mexican spots are usually lacking. The $4 smokey black bean soup is well seasoned and the chile blackened green beans ($5) are surprisingly tasty. People irritated at the $8 price tag for the freshly made guacamole might enjoy the hearty portion and creamy exterior. There is even a fajita alternative, which involves a selection of grilled portobello and vegetables ($10). Now that is probably extra impressive. The value is best enjoyed through one of their burritos, which come large and in charge. At $10, the veggie burrito is the cheapest, but they have other more gourmet filings / meats like duck ($15) or sliced steak ($15). Each combination comes with a side of salsa and chips - a solid lunch / dinner deal if there was any. And of course, delivery is what they do best. They've got multiple guys heading in various directions making drop offs and hopefully a fat wad of tip money. Considering how quick they are from online order to the door step, Baby Bo's looks like it's here to stay. -
Jandos 4-Sterne-Beitrag: Croissant lovers, pay attention. If you haven't yet tried Ceci-Cela's array of delicious croissants, there better be a damned good reason. The city is full of wonderful bakeries, but less than a handful of them have been able to produce quality croissants of this kind of quality, which have amassed a reputation as one of the best in the area. Their chocolate croissant has a touch of sweetness, with just enough chocolate for the choco-loving palate and like any good pastry, retains form throughout the usual chomp / flaky induced eating session. The almond version provides a little bit of crunch and the ultimate gamechanger is the almond-chocolate together. It is a great alternative to their bread winning (pun intended) plain croissant. I enjoy the savory items the most. Croissant-wiches are fantastic, especially their ham + brie combo, which makes for an easy lunch time fave. Outside of the croissant realm, their quiches also deserve mention, especially the salmon and spinach/goat cheese ones. I've had both good and bad experiences with their croque monsieur, but nothing revolutionary on that front. As long as I stick to the little things like their addictive madeleines, fruit tarts, and of course, the croissants. Price wise, it's Soho-y so expect a slight $ increase for items you might find cheaper elsewhere. Beware of the lunchtime / morning rush, sometimes the service attitude takes a semi-dive as a result. In the end, Ceci-Cela is a lovely patisserie that does a good job of providing a French bakery experience for all. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: In a cruel twist of fate, it seems Catania is gone for good. I'm hoping it's only temporary but when this sort of thing happens without mention, the chances are resurrection are almost always slimmer. There were many things I loved about this place from the food, to the service, right down to the simple, homey decor. Such is life in the restaurant world really, but instead of mourning their passing and spreading the eulogy too thin, I'll just focus on the good times and the good eats. I was never much of a fan of rice balls till I had theirs. With available fillings of spinach, smoked salmon, and/or beef and peas, the arancino ball was spectacular. Pasta dishes were worthy of mention, like their killer savory lasagna with hints of pumpkin and plenty of cheese for good measure. I had always believed their pizza to be vastly underrated, not always mentioned in the same breath as their nearby competition, but certainly worthy of being among the finer slices in Brooklyn pizzadom. It has been highlighted before, but their cassatina (a ricotta stuffed marzipan ball) was head shaking good. I am not a dessert man in the least bit, cookies don't appeal to me the way a steak does and cakes never seem savory enough to catch my eye. The pistacchio biscotti was $1 of goodness and their Sicilian birthday cake was a thing of beauty. God bless Sicilian pastries and their rich ingredients. I'll miss Catania and reserve the hope that something better comes of this space, though it may not be as likely. And to the folks who ran it, I wish them good luck and continued success in their next venture. For now I always have reasons to visit Brooklyn, but it seems the list just got shorter. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: I had debated internally about whether or not to give this a full 5 star blessing, but the fact remains of all the Gotham Pizza locations, this Chelsea one is my favorite of them all. Whether its a pie or slice, these reasonably priced pizzas have been uber fresh and super tasty virtually every time I've had them. Is it dumb luck? Maybe. I'm all for keeping the dumb luck streak alive. Like all of the other Gotham locations, the interior screams more take out / delivery than sit down. There is just enough room for a small group of folks to enjoy a pie or plenty of chairs for the solo lunch time / random dinner hour pizza lovers. I've experienced the most success getting them for a lunch, delivery included. Their margherita slice is very much on point, as is their Sicilian / grandma slice. I can go with a well seasoned plain cheese any time, or a classic pepperoni slice. Perhaps my favorite two things about their pizza is the thin crust and the breadcrumb bottom, which makes Gotham the closest thing to Oregon Style Pizza (http://www.yelp.com/list/oregon-style-pizza-ore-keizer ) that I've found in NYC, period. Finally, the guys behind the counter are a friendly bunch. I've seen them throw a free slice or two to guys who could use it (i.e. the needy on the street) and it always makes their day. Gotham Pizza certainly makes mine. -
Jandos 2-Sterne-Beitrag: Considering the first Ray's pizza opened up on Prince Street, it's probably safe to say this isn't the true original. Located in the pretty confines of the Upper West Side, this Ray's is just a stone's throw away from Central Park. Ray's or not, the sad news is the pizza has more has more issues than a magazine rack. I've given this place plenty of business over the years. More for convenience rather than preference, it was always easy to default to this Ray's because unlike the many other pizzerias, there was ample seating, spacious interior, and even a bathroom to boot. Considering the decent counter space, it means there could be as many as 8-10 pizzas on display at any given time. A good thing in most respects for variety, but as the years have gone on, the pizza has just been less appealing every time. The crust. Something needs to be done about this super dry crust. It has effect that some hard French baguette can have, which can sometimes get the roof of your mouth. There is also something missing flavor wise, but that is usually overshadowed by the choices on top. Then there is the sauce. The bane of existence for any pizza joint is two fold: bread and sauce. This Ray's is mediocre in both. Instead of getting a sweetness kick from the tomatoes, I've been getting more blandness every time. It's almost as if I'd want white pie to avoid the sauce completely. As a matter of fact, I've already done this (and it was not pleasant). Forget the toppings. From pepperoni to sausage to bell peppers, everything was tasting like the lower tier. Cheese fiends might be disappointed with the pseudo-rubbery stuff baked on this dough. I'm not sure what it is, but the saltiness and the meltastic quality of good cheese is lacking here. And so are the rest of their pies. The last time I was here, I went with a total non-pizza option, a bowl of spaghetti meatballs while my friends ordered up some garlic knots. Both items were again bland and just had this unremarkable quality about them taste wise. Disappointing on the food front, my two stars give them a thumbs up for solid customer service and a decent interior. -
Jandos 4-Sterne-Beitrag: All things considered, it's easy to fall in love with pizza from Polito's. It is a consummate neighborhood spot and has been marinating in the Astoria pizza scene longer than most pizzerias. The charming aura, friendly service, and above all quality pies / slices, make a visit to Polito's a must for anyone in the area. The place looks so old that it's practically vintage in these parts. So much of Astoria has changed from storefronts to new businesses, yet Polito's looks as if it's untouched by time. From the signage to the way they make pizza, the whole package is undeniably old school. Pizza aficionados might liken their product to be a classic New York pizza. Thin pizza with a crispy crust, the cheese to sauce ratio seems perfect. Some folks enjoy a little seasoning, be it oregano or a smattering of extra cheese and chili flakes, I have enjoyed it straight every time. There is a hint of greasiness with some slices, but a little napkin pat pat should do the trick. If the thin NY slice isn't appealing, shoot for their extremely tasty Sicilian. $20 gets a large order or rock a smaller version for about $16. I've been pleasantly surprised with their Buffalo Chicken pie ($19) and even the abomination of all pizza combos, the Hawaiian ($19) was definitely among the better ones I've sampled. Pizza aside, don't sleep on their Manicotti ($7.50) or Eggplant Rollatini ($10). The garlic knots ($1) also seem to be a fan favorite and it should be noted they also serve zeppoles ($1) here. Their delivery isn't the fastest in the world, but the pizza more than makes up for it. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: The quest for the perfect slice might just end at Bleeker Street Pizza. If it were any other city, it would most certainly be the pizza end all. But in NYC where the pizza hype is real, they're blessed with still being able to garner some serious recognition for plenty of reasons. Celebs aplenty love this pizza and so do I. As far as New York Pizza that isn't in Brooklyn or isn't constantly mentioned in tour guide books, Bleeker Street stands high on its own. The slices are thin, with just the right amount of sauce - cheese ratio, with a killer crust. When you don't even need additional toppings (be it peppers, parmesan, basil, etc), it's already ideal. If there was such thing as a perfect pie, let it be the Nonna Maria. An old family recipe of parm, mozzarella, a homemade sauce, and fresh basil, it sets a benchmark worthy of celebration. It might be their best seller, even if they sport a stellar Sicilian option in the Grandma. All pies deserve serious consideration, even if the plain cheese gets me every time. The pizzas have become more expensive over the years, but such is inflation. Compared to the far more mediocre and overpriced nearby bangup pizzerias, this place is more than reasonable at roughly $23 a pie. The ambiance is old school and thankfully open late till 2am on school nights and 5am on the weekend. I have a soft spot for the staff, a bunch of hard working guys who are non stop cranking out pies. They handle each one with care and greet their regulars often. The crowds aren't as heavy as the other popular pizza joints and that's part of its underrated charm. Let tourists cross the bridge or fight it off in Midtown, I'll be at Bleeker Street. -
Jandos 3-Sterne-Beitrag: A Mexican speakeasy in the heart of Chinatown? Say it ain't so. Taking a page out of the ever so popular and not so secretive Apothéke (http://www.yelp.com/biz/apoth%C3%A9ke-new-york-2), Pulqueria gets down and dirty as any sister establishment could: underground in basement fashion. There are no signs to the place, preserving some grittiness to the otherwise very quiet Doyers Street. Spawning 3 years ago after the closure of Doyers Vietnamese (http://www.yelp.com/biz/doyers-vietnamese-new-york), Pulqueria brings the same unannounced speakeasy quality with a special emphasis on food. This is a full fledged restaurant with lots of cocktail action and a space (one side bar, the other side dining) Apothéke wish it had. So why the 3 stars? For starters, the food isn't all that impressive. If they were meant to be complementary to the drinks, they're somewhat flat for cuisine seekers but suitable for bar food. Two carnitas tacos comes in at a cool $11, which are tiny in comparison to the $2-2.50 ones from the trucks, but should taste better due to quality alone right? Not so. The short rib tacos ($13) are worth some praise, but two tacos might not do it for the average taco slayer. Pro tip: Happy Hour is only $4 each for these tacos. (#1) The platos pequenos (small plates) feature queso fundido, with various protein choices like the infamous huitlacoche ($14). While tasty, the helping is definitely on the pequeno side. It makes me want to shoot for a full on $13 salad, which seems more filling. I went baller and ordered their $27 pork chop (chuletas) and their enchiladas verdes ($18) one time. I felt that while good, they weren't near $50 good. The meat was tender and juicy while the enchiladas were drenched in enough salsa to make the tortillas fall apart. Still, the drinks are the real sell. A pricey assortment of mezcal, agave, tequila, and Mexican beers, there is plenty for all drink enthusiasts to appreciate. The FIgmint ($14) has my vote; the reposado really blends in well with the fig tea. A few of these and I'm wobbling my way around Chinatown looking for wonton noodles. All in all, I would still visit if big sister Apothéke is jam packed. The drinks might not be as potent but there are still options for some Mexican sabor without having to travel beyond Chinatown. Chinese fare might be king in this hood, but it's the thrill of the underground + unknown that keeps Pulqueria around for more. _________ (#1) Yes, that's a deal. Stop looking at me like that. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: Guilty pleasures don't come better than Eileen's cheesecakes. Just as the name suggests, these cheesecakes are special, practically in a league of their own. NYC is blessed to have great cheesecake in all directions (#1) and even more fortunate to have Eileen's in it. In fact, it would be safe to say they have the best cheesecake variety in all five boroughs. Their most simple option is the plain cheesecake, which is delightful. More light than creamy, with a thin crust to match. Texturally it's almost buttery smooth, without being weighed down by the dairy. It is decadent in every sense of the word and just rich enough to warrant wanting more. Simplicity doesn't get more classic than this. It's also easy to appreciate the strawberry and/or blueberry versions of Eileen's, though the raspberry purée is an underrated choice. The 4 fruit topping (i.e. special) might have a bit too much going on, but it's still worth considering for serious fruit lovers. Fruit toppings can be applied to just about any cake, so don't feel compelled to choose one style. Of the flavored variety, there is literally a little something for everyone. And to be completely honest, I've enjoyed everything I've sampled. There are more traditional flavors like pumpkin, banana, caramel pecan, marble to an entire range of chocolate ones from cappuccino to white chocolate. Then there are super sweet ones like the dulce de leche, red velvet, rocky road, salted caramel to gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy free (tofu) for our health conscious friends. The cakes are $3.50 in mini form and can be ordered by the dozen for $40. For special occasions, 6"-10" cheesecakes range from $17-$40 depending on the flavor. If you want to try "half of a 10", shoot for two different flavors and have them box it together as one cheesecake. Hacking cheesecakes, only possible at Eileen's. Eileen is a sweet woman and is keen on providing samples, good conversation, and knows her stuff. Despite the unassuming store front, Eileen's is sharing her variety of cheesecake with everyone, in delivery form. They'll ship it anywhere overnight and feature additional items like muffins, cookies, pies, and mousses. Even if your waistline won't forgive you, your tastebuds will thank you for giving one of New York's most iconic bakeries a try. ___________ (#1) Hello Two Little Red Hens (http://www.yelp.com/biz/two-little-red-hens-new-york) -
Jandos 4-Sterne-Beitrag: If you can get over the rush hour people traffic and the wallet barf prices, there is a lot about City Bakery to appreciate. Just about every regular here has a go to item, which suggests the awesome versatility in their array of specialty food. Many will debate about which bakery rules above all, but there is no denying that City Bakery is among the most popular. The hot chocolate is the stuff of legends. Topped with a beautifully fluffy marshmallow, it has just the right amount of sweetness, with a savory finish that only leaves you wanting more. The demand for this hot chocolate is so high that it's not uncommon for people to order it in the dead heat of summer. There is even a calendar throughout the month of February, where they feature hot chocolate flavor of the day. My favorites were the Bourbon Hot Chocolate and On A Peanut Butter Barge, though the others are wonderful in their own right. Some people love the croissants (especially the pretzel croissant), but their cookies steal the show for me. The classic chocolate chip is perfectly moist without the cookie crumbles and chewy enough to not be compared to Chips Ahoy! Along with a oatmeal raisin and peanut butter, it's safe to suggest these are some of the more underrated cookies in this part of town. Their other hot food deserves some mention. Hits include their Caramelized French Toast ($12), Grilled Cheese ($6), and even a killer rendition of mac and cheese ($15). Their salads and brunch hour have also garnered some recognition, which gives me more reasons to come back. While City Bakery has plenty of room for people to sit, sample, and linger, the lines can get dramatic during the morning rush and the weekend cluster. Thankfully the staff manages to stay courteous throughout, making my dollar(s) spent not nearly as painful. I'm already craving a marshmallow. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: Almost 3 years ago during one of Manhattan's miserable rainy days, I found myself sprinting around Alphabet City looking for cover and ducked into Poco. I opted for a glass of wine and sat at the bar to pass the time while the outside monsoon gave the city a proper washing. A little curiosity and a lot of hunger got me to bite the bullet and order a few of the tapas on their then skeletal menu, as Poco was still in it's infancy. What soon followed became a solo dining experience that was nothing less than outstanding. The house meatballs (albondigas) were seasoned just right and soft, almost like pillows of meat that melted in my mouth. I also sampled their scallops, seared to perfection, and were delicious with every bite. My main course would end up being a skirt steak stuffed with manchego cheese, wrapped in "lollipop" form. It wasn't the most appetizing from the initial presentation, but was enjoyable and certainly worth ordering again. That night was a quiet one. Aside from a handful of patrons, the place was practically empty. The manager also manning the bar and aside from offering what would be some killer recommendations was explaining how tough business was, noting how small the place is, and how few seats are filled each night. We agreed that "poco a poco" (little by little), the place would soon find itself running instead of crawling. My, how times have changed. It's been a few visits since, I can easily declare Poco as one of the best places in the East Village / Alphabet City. Their tapas are money, however, their brunch service might be their money maker as it has become one of my favorites in the city. While the AYCD (all you can drink) special seems to be gone, $22-24 per brunch item with 3 cocktails isn't the worst deal in the world, especially when the food is stellar (even the complimentary mini carrot muffins are delicious). One can't go wrong with either of their benedict dishes, be it the florentine, salmon, lobster, crab cakes, or the Poco benedict, as all are equally fabulous. The show stopper is of course, the infamous lobster mac and cheese. A little bit of char, panko crumbs, and a cheesy blend of cheese with a piling of lobster meat is nothing short of foodgasmic. If there was one dish to get, this might just be it. Great for groups, even better for dates, and a fun time for any occasion, Poco has all the right ingredients for a sure thing in the hood. In a relatively short time, Chopped Champion Abe Lopez's simple but scintillating menu has this place going from Poco to Mucho. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: Away from the hustle and bustle of Roosevelt Ave, the Uruguayan based La Nueva Bakery has quietly amassed a reputation as one of the most stellar Latin bakeries in Jackson Heights. It's conceivable that every bakery has its specialty, but this popular local spot excels in just about everything they make. Versatility through variety, affordability in price, and excellent customer service makes this place a favorite amongst locals in the hood. It's difficult on where to start honestly. Some folks prefer the savory (empanadas, sandwiches, alfajores, etc.) and many others are all about the sweet (pasteles / cakes, dulce de leche, churros, etc.). The good news is the variety is so vast that there is plenty of selection. The bad news is that it also makes people indecisive and like all good bakeries, things run out at some point in the afternoon. I highly recommend their custom cakes. They make for excellent occasion based treats and the ladies behind the counter are experts in their craft. No design is too crazy and no occasion is too grand. They also have an "already made" selection of cakes that can be tailored with wording afterward. One of my favorite things is their version of the tortilla española, a quiche / pie like concoction filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, and ham. It is among their most savory items from their deli, in addition to the baked tortas of spinach and cheese are fantastic. They also make a mean batch of empanadas, which are filling, hearty, and perfect on the go. La Nueva has been in operation since 1990, I can only hope they stick around for many more years for the next hungry generation. Viva La Nueva! -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: Paisanos is everything one would want in a butcher shop. Quality selection of meat, excellent customer service, cuts for days, and a really cool old school vibe that is unequivocally New York. It's so good that I'm willing, along with many others, to traverse to Brooklyn just to get some meat. Carnivore enthusiasts will see this place as a sanctuary of amazing meat. The steak variety is particularly impressive; everything from dry aged steaks to porterhouse to ribeye is expertly displayed for the masses and the quality of the meat is second to none (wagyu is also available). In addition to a plethora of various chicken and pork cuts, there is also an extensive selection of exotic meats such as alligator, kangaroo, wild boar, venison, camel, antelope, snake, and even llama. Call ahead of time and confirm for anything else that isn't available in typical butcher shops. Need a little head? (#1) They've got plenty: lamb heads, cow heads, and a limited inventory of fresh cut animal parts that aren't included in the usual mix of meat cuts. This also includes other parts, from sweetbreads to liver and glandular parts. Foie gras? Plenty of it. Gonads of various kinds? Sure. Be it sealed, packaged, frozen, pre-cut, or fresh trimmed, it's all here for the world to see and eat. There is more than just meat. There is a full selection of deli classics, cold foods (pastas, salads, peppers, etc.), cheeses, and Italian specialties that are imported. There are jugs of olive oil and seasoning canisters that would make excellent gifts or be a quality addition to a potuck or simply some next level home cooking. The old school Italian guys behind the counter are fun and super knowledgeable. There are no dumb questions about meat here, just answers to the next great meaty meal. The prices aren't going to be as cheap as other butcher shops out there, but know that the quality and selection here make every visit a worthy one. __________ (#1) You're terrible. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: T'was a sad day for the Sunnyside community when Superior Market closed last year. In a hood filled with so many generic supermarkets, Superior Market stood out for being an outstanding ethnic grocery store option, with oodles of Eastern European products and a stellar selection of Central Asian cheeses. Known as "Beer World" for folks passing by on Queens Blvd, this was *the* spot for quality craft beers by the pack. The beer alone was as impressive for a non-beverage depot as they came. The guys who ran it, a Russian duo of brothers were fun, polite, and super efficient. They kept the store going for as long as they could, playing manager, cashier, and inventory specialist all in the same shift. They clearly knew their beer as well, offering recommendations to curious shoppers. I still remember the excellent spinach pie from Arsi's (https://www.yelp.com/biz/arsis-pateseria-sunnyside) sold near the registers and fairly impressive cuts of meat from their deli section. Now Sunnyside Natural and Fresh (https://www.yelp.com/biz/sunnyside-natural-and-fresh-sunnyside) has replaced this spot. I'm just hoping they'll fare just as well as Superior did, even without the giant Beer World sign. Superior Market was truly one of a kind. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: A truly family owned establishment, owner and pizza extraordinaire Steve Manna brings his love of Neapolitan style pizzas after experiencing them for himself as a youngster. Armed with a wood fired beehive oven courtesy of the wife and an ode to his grandparents' hometown, "Tufino" became a fixture on the Ditmars scene several years ago. There are takeout pizza joints all over Astoria, but not many offer the kind of sitdown, quality pie experience like Tufino. The pizza itself is thin, reminiscent of the real thing in Naples, though I trust a tad heartier with some quality ingredients. He has kept the pizzas consistent, offering a variety of good stuff that is sure to impress many lovers of the pizza kind. One of my favorites is the San Gennaro ($16), which is loaded with Italian sausage, roasted peppers, parmagiano reggiano, and some honey piccante. Delicious. The Prosciutto E Arugula ($16) looks healthy with all the green piled on, but the parm reg shavings and white truffle oil really allow it to stand out. I also appreciate classic Neapolitan pies like the Bufala ($16) and Quattro Formaggi ($16) for those who might want something a little more familiar and common. Surprisingly (or perhaps, unsurprisingly), their pastas are really tasty. Their version of Fettuccine Genovese ($16) is caked in homemade pesto, sundried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, goat cheese, and pine nuts. Equally fantastic is the Papparedelle ($15), which has pork sausage ragu and a small touch of cream. Another winner is the Gnochhi ($16), which has white truffle cream and is also homemade. They also liken themselves as a place that offers interesting fried items (hence "Friggitoria"), such as their infamous Calzone ($16), which is rich, filling, and comes with a serious side of food coma (#1). Their Aracini ($11) trumps their Meatballs ($11) in my opinion, and they even offer a fried pizza dubbed "Pizza Frita" ($15), which is stuffed with fresh ricotta, fior di latte, prosciutto colto and milled black pepper. The Ravioli Fritti ($10) only comes with 6 pieces, but they're super addicting and as always, I wish there was more. While they do offer delivery, I would highly recommend against it, at least for pizzas. The pizzas become cold quickly and the crunch of the crust is less crispy and more saggy by the time it arrives. Come in for a gut bomb of a meal and while pizza dates are fine, I would recommend being surrounded in a larger group of good company. This means, more pizza for everyone. #winning _________ (#1) Who am I kidding? All of this comes with a side of food coma. No lie. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: As far as I can tell, there is nothing in the neighborhood or in greater Queens, anything like Astoria Bier and Cheese. The diminutive storefront along busy Broadway does them few favors, but at least it's within an earshot of where so much else is going on in the hood. Beer and Cheese are two things that bring people great joy, so why not combine the best of both worlds? The interior is narrow, well lit, complete with limited seating along the bar and a few tables with views of the street. The open kitchen is a nice touch, as well as being surrounded by all sorts of lovely craft beers. There are also beers available on draft as well, which are likely seasonal and goes well with a number of items on their menu. Speaking of food, there is a special touch of quality which comes with their simple but carefully crafted menu. Mainly it comes down to their very interesting array of sandwiches (minus the butchered "Bacon Banh Mi" but thumbs up on the grilled cheese selection), some small plates, salads, and some very good charcuterie. The menu has essentially changed every year that I've been here, so it seems they're always experimenting. Lastly, I give them props for the service. A lot of craft beer novices (myself included) will come in clueless and the staff is there to help recommend something wonderful every time. Be it beer pairings with food or simply good craft beer for a relaxing evening, the wonders of Astoria Bier and Cheese makes good on the hood's promise for fun and interesting adventures. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: I wish I could count the ways I love Cannelle Patisserie but there are just too many things I appreciate about this five star business. Just a few things that come to mind: * The quality of this French bakery is second to none. The treats, pastries, cakes, sweets are all high caliber; exquisitely designed for the perfect photo op and similar, if not better than something found in the city at other more famous bakeries. In short, this is the best French bakery in the borough. * Location wise, it cannot get any more random. A spot in a strip mall in East Elmhurst? A location where aside from easy parking where any person would likely miss this spot? The power of a good dessert means none of this matters. * There is an aroma in the air, especially in the morning when their batches of fresh pastries are just being brought out. It's like smelling fresh laundry, but infinitely better. * It's not just desserts, they make excellent savory foods as well. Their salmon and zucchini quiche is something on another level of deliciousness, as is their french onion soup, which is gooey, rich, and loaded with flavor. Their croque monsieur is super filling and very well done. Even the sandwiches are lunch friendly and very tasty. * One word: coffee. They have a wide range of caffeinated beverages perfect for getting the day started. Despite my lack of interest in coffee, I must say they make a mean iced latte. Master Baker Jean-Claude Perennou should be so proud of himself for bringing this bakery to the masses. This former executive pastry chef has literally outdone himself by offering signature French classics in a variety that makes coming back to Canelle Patisserie a new adventure almost every time. -
Jandos 5-Sterne-Beitrag: Leo's Latticini Mama's is one of the borough's treasures for all things Italian. In addition to featuring quality meats and Italian products, they also have an outstanding dessert selection, and they happen to have some of the best sandwiches anywhere. Combine all of that with outstanding service and solid prices, it isn't hard to fathom why I make it a point to stop by whenever I'm in the area. The place is clean, organized, yet incredibly old school. The store is sectioned off to various areas from the garlic dangling salad and pasta area to the counter spots where cheese and hanging meats reign supreme together. The smell in the store is strangely aromatic, perhaps reminiscent of an Italian grandmother's kitchen. For a lot of folks coming to Mama's, a big draw are their signature sandwiches. One of their most popular, the Mama's Special ($8) is a nice smattering of meats with fresh mozzarella and spread. I also have high regard for their very tasty roasted turkey, fresh chunks of mozzarella, and pesto spread. ($9.50). The ultimate is the Super Italian, which is a stacking of prosciutto, cappicola, and more fresh mozzarella. On occasion if the sandwich seems stingy or flimsy, don't be afraid to ask for more meat / cheese to make the sandwich to your liking (within reason of course). Beyond the sandwiches, there is always an opportunity to try their hot foods and cold foods, which are changed out daily. From meatballs on Wednesdays to eggplant parm on Fridays, there is never a dull choice for lunch. They close in the afternoon every day, so aim for earlier to get the freshest foods.
