Showing posts with label El*Ay*Si. Show all posts
Showing posts with label El*Ay*Si. Show all posts

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Astorian Spooktacular Weekend Edition 29.10.09

Image by marthastewart.com

Halloween is here! And that means plenty of fun, silliness and of course, dressing up. In addition to the many Halloween goings-on, check out these cultural and food happs in your neck of the woods.

Still can’t decide what you’re doing for Halloween? We have some fabulous options– ranging from a masquerade ball to the “biggest outdoor Halloween party in Queens.” If you’re still looking for more, check out some of my restaurant-focused recos.


Have you checked out the newest fooderies in LIC? Testaccio Ristorante, focused on contemporary Roman cuisine opened last weekend and El*Ay*Si is still in previews, holding tastings this week. I’ve tried both and think they’re worth checking out—especially the delicious stone oven pizza at Testaccio. Testaccio - 47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.937.2900. El*Ay*Si – 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.389.8781


We just got news that a new bar opened in Astoria in a nabe that’s starting to buzz with activity (upper 30th Avenue). The place is called Radio Bar & Grill and they boast a “killer burger” and plenty of beers on tap. They’ll host a Halloween party on Saturday, which could be a good opportunity to check them out. 49-18 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.204.6892


Want to do something cultural this weekend? Visit P.S.1 MOMA and explore their seven (yes seven!) new art exhibits. One that particularly caught my interest spotlights a tumultuous year, 1969 and is a collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs and prints. P.S.1 MOMA – 22-25 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 718.784.2084


One of my favorite vintage furniture shops both in Astoria and LIC is Nook n’ Crannie. If you haven’t been, I highly encourage it. They sell the most wonderful, gently used items such as furniture, accessories, paintings and nostalgic gifts. Proceeds benefit the Betel of America charity. Astoria - 29-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.204.8399. LIC - 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.706.6477

Friday, October 23, 2009

Welcome 2 New LIC Eateries


The already tough question of "where to eat in LIC" got even tougher with the entrance of two new promising restaurants, Testaccio and El*Ay*Si. Both places are located on Vernon Blvd--actually just steps away from each other. The competition will be fierce but hopefully both places will get a piece of the proverbial pie. Here's more information about both eateries:

Testaccio Ristorante: 47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.937.2900

Cuisine: Contemporary Roman such as thin crust stone oven pizzas, charcuterie such as prosciutto, cheeses, and fresh pastries such as mascarpone filled purses with fresh raspberries. Click here for menu.
Chef: Ivan Beacco, former Chef de Cuisine at Pepolino Restaurant and former Executive Chef at Borgo Antico
Decor: Modern, warm and non-pretentious. Atmosphere can be both romantic and social.
Opening: This Saturday, October 24th
Special Features: Stone oven pizza, fun kids menu
Price Range: Appetizers: $6-$15, Pasta: $10-$17, Pizza: $10-$14, Entrees: $16-$30, Kids Menu: $6-$10

El*Ay*Si: 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.389.8781

Cuisine: Comfort food such as spicy fried chicken, dijon-crusted flank steak, caramelized apples, roasted corn on the cob, etc. Final menu not yet available.
Chef: Christopher Frakes former chef at E.U. and Butcher Bay
Decor: Modern, semi-rustic (exposed brick walls, vintage mirrors)
Opening: TBD
Special Features: Chef's tastings next week - see more details on their Facebook page