Darren Lawless - 5 Questions

WHO: Darren Lawless
Chef/Owner, Il Bambino (34-08 31st Ave.)
- Surprise huh? As much as we write up these guys, you figured we just had to get Darren in on the 5 questions. Well here you have it:

Question #1 Were you born here? If not, where were you born, and what brought you to Astoria?
I was born in Dublin, Ireland. After 2 years in Manhattan, I moved to Astoria for it's "then" much cheaper rents, large apartments and proximity to the city.

Question #2 What is your favorite thing about living in Astoria?
Its diversity and feel of living in a city but with the strong sense of community. It also has the broadest range of ethnic restaurants of any other area I know, ensuring you'll never get bored.

Question #3 What is your number one go to restaurant in Astoria?
I work so much and I very rarely get to go out, but my favorite take out has to be the tacos at La Cabana (33-18 30th Ave)

Question #4 Best kept local secret that you don't mind sharing?
SEE ABOVE- ed note: having a brand new business and keeping it going this past year has paid a toll on our friend Darren! It's up to you guys to go frequent his little gem and get it to the point where the guy can take a day off or something!

Question #5 What would you like see happen in/for Astoria in 2008?
I'd love to see the opening of some "Americana" style eateries. We need a great bar/burger joint, a bakery with artisinal breads and traditional pastries and a B.B.Q spot. Makes your mouth water just thinking about them...

Go • Eat • Love
Il Bambino
34-08 31st Ave.
Astoria, NY
718-626-0087