Astorian Weekend Edition 07.01.10

Happy New Year everyone! Now that the crazy partying is wrapped up, here are some low-key happs to enjoy this weekend.

Attend the Visioneers premiere at the Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden this Thursday at 8 p.m.  The event is hosted by the Astoria Indies, a new indie film group in Queens that will bring you a different movie screening each Thursday at this venue.  If you don’t catch this week’s, you can always come back another time. 29-19 24^th Avenue, Astoria.  718.274.4925

Still holding on to your Christmas tree? You can put it to good use by recycling it at this year’s Mulchfest, Saturday and Sunday in Astoria Park from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m..  Just take all ornaments off and you’ll be all set – they’ll even let you indulge in some free mulch! Have fun, meet new people and benefit the environment.  19^th Street and Hoyt Avenue, Astoria.

If you’re like me, you’ve probably indulged a lot this holiday season, and are looking to hit the gym.  A lot of them are holding introductory specials with $0 down.  My personal favorite, New York Sports Clubs is free to join until February 1^st and The Rock is also offering $0 initiation, 2 free personal training sessions and the entire month of January free.  NYSC - 38-11 30^th Avenue, Astoria.  718.932.1400. The Rock – 22-15 31^st Street, Astoria.  718.204.1400

On another healthy note, check out Mackenzi’s 7 great recommendations for veggie eats in Astoria.  From Mundo (carrot dip pictured above) to Vesta to Bare Burger, you’ll find nifty tips on how to eat healthy and meat free. 

The Noguchi Museum is holding an interesting-sounding discussion this Sunday at 3 p.m. about Sculpture in the Landscape.  The talk will focus on land art, specific works and the various issues that come up when exhibiting sculpture in the open air. Sounds like a useful event for an inspiring artist or an aficionado.  9-01 33^rd Road, Long Island City.  718.204.7088

Mundo Closed on Wednesdays

You read it right - Mundo will be closed on Wednesdays this year.  It's a most delicious place, highly recommended!  They do great work, and deserve a day off.

By the way, here is the link to Mundo's reservation page.  And here is the link to La Papa.

Veggie Friendly Eating in Astoria

It is that time for resolutions and changes and perhaps for some eating less meat or trying a vegetarian lifestyle is high on your list. I’ve spent the last 20 years eating veggie, and I love all the fantastic veg friendly eating establishments Long Island City and Astoria have to offer. Here are my top choices for a great veggie meal that doesn’t consist of an assortment of unsatisfying side dishes!


The Veggie Wrap with Pesto at Mundo, from Little Girl, Big Appetite


Mundo
The jewel of healthy eating in Astoria! Choose from a wide variety of options including their perfect Red Sonjas, soups, dips and that hearty Veggie Wrap. Mundo has something in mind for every veggie, and their tapas style presentation means more to try, and less damage to the wallet. Plenty of vegan fare too, if that is more your thing. (31-18 Broadway)

Vesta
As a rather strict vegetarian, I appreciate clear menu marking of which dishes are ok for me to consume, and Vesta does a brilliant job at this task. Their locally grown, seasonally appropriate ingredients are also a huge plus in my book. Check out their deliciously layered salads, those Crispy Parm Brussel Sprouts, and the great assortment of pizzas (with whole wheat crust, too!). (2102 30th Avenue)

Café Bar
Home of Mediterranean Café style cooking, Café Bar has lots to offer people looking to cut down on their meat consumption. A wide variety of soups, sandwiches and salads are prepared with organic and healthy eating in mind. The Lebanese Salad is a hearty, protein packed salad that won’t disappoint. Their Homemade Veggie Burgers are also a knock out and a welcome change from the ‘Garden Burgers’ that are ubiquitous at most restaurants. Looking for something a bit lighter? Café Bar also has a great selection of juice and smoothies. (32-90 36th Street)

Aliada
Greek food and vegetarian eating don’t always go hand in hand, but this local favorite is actually quite veg friendly. The smoky Charcoaled Eggplant, Hummus, and Grilled Haloumi Cheese make quite the veggie feast, but the real stand out is their Horiatiki salad, a delicious Greek chopped salad with cabbage, cilantro, feta, olives, arugula, and a light lemon vinaigrette. (29-19 Broadway)

Bare Burger
Not surprisingly this organic burger joint has lots to offer non meat eaters. Their veggie patties are quite good and can be included on any of their fantastic combinations. Those looking for a change of pace should try their Portabella Burger option, bursting with flavor. Veggies will find lots of great salad and side options here too. (33 - 21 31st Avenue)

Fatty’s Café
A long time Astoria staple, Fatty’s has a great selection of non-meat options. Their ‘Make Your Own Salad’ offering is a great way to go- try the House Dressing, a smoky thick stunner. If you’re looking for something more substantial, their Grilled Veg with Hummus plate or Veggie Burrito with Mole sauce is always a winner. (25-01 Ditmars Blvd.)

Rest-Au-Rant
An unusual choice, Rest-Au-Rant is the king of the cheese plate, that yummy veggie staple. This cozy Astoria bar/eatery has lots of cheese plates to choose from, often in differing sizes. Enjoy a pressed sandwich or salad with your glass of wine if that is more your speed. (30-01 35th Avenue)

New Year's Eve in Astoria

New Year's Eve is almost upon us.  If you're looking for a way to celebrate, there's no need to leave Astoria - there's plenty to do right here in town!  Here's what has come our way as far as tasting menus, prix fixe menus, and other celebrations.  Happy New Year, Astoria!

718, 35-01 Ditmars Blvd. 718-204-5553
"Join us for New Year's celebration - DJ Leon kicks off with Sounds of the 80's and Latin Music, starting at 11 p.m."

Bistro 33, 1933 Ditmars Blvd. 718-721-1933
A la carte menu Bistro 33 available all night (reservations suggested).
Special chef’s tasting menu beginning at 9:30 pm at Side Door. 6 course tasting menu with wine pairings, champagne toast at midnight. $95 per person. Reservation only.
New Year’s Day brunch 12:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Bistro Les Minots, 47-16 30th Avenue, 718-606-2535
Special 4 course menu, two seatings at 6 p.m. ($39.95 per person) and 9 p.m. ($49.95 per person).

DiWine, 41-15 31st Ave. 718-777-1355
Four course dinner, $70 per person,
Seating from 8-11 p.m. (regular dinner from 5-7)
Live DJ, complimentary champagne toast, party favors, free h'ors d'oeuves after midnight.

Gleasons Bar, 33-08 Broadway. 718-626-5393
"We're inviting everyone down New Years Eve. We have a kick ass band and its $60 at the door for an open bar (Top Shelf) and buffet dinner from 9 p.m to midnight. Doors will open to the public at Midnight! God Bless & Happy New Year!!!"

Hell Gate Social, 12-21 Astoria Blvd. 718-204-8313
"Ring in the New Year with the Times Square Ball drop live on our big screen, free champagne and some tasty hors d'oeuvres to snack on served throughout the night. DJ Blasphemey and The Two Bloody Tampons are lined up to keep us dancing through 2010! Doors open at nine. NO COVER."

Mundo, 31-18 Broadway, #E (on 32nd St.). 718-777-2829
Prix fixe dinner, $65 per person.
Seatings at 6:30-8:30 p.m. and 9-midnight.
For reservations call or place online.

Rest-au-Rant, 30-01 35th Ave. 718-729-9009
Free champagne toast at midnight, $3 shots, free platter of cold cuts or champagne bottle to groups of 5 or more, no cover charge.

Sweet Afton, 30-09 34th St. 718-777-2570
"Join Sweet Afton for an open bar from 9 p.m.-midnight with appetizers all night. Tickets will sell out, so purchase your tickets at the bar today."

Vesta, 21-02 30th Avenue. 718-545-5550
Sspecial 4 course prix fixe dinner.
Three seatings available: 6:00 p.m. $45 per person; 8:00 p.m. $55 per person; 9:30/10:00 p.m. $65 per person.
Party favors, Live broadcast of NYE in Times Square, Complimentary welcome glass and midnight toast, Black and  White attire recommended, not required.

Astorian Weekend Edition 04.09.08

Even though fall is here, you can still hang on to summer for a little while longer. Check out these fun happs in Astoria and LIC.

Try Café Henri, a quaint French eatery for weekend brunch. Their crepes are fantastic, prepared in both a savory and sweet fashion. The prices are easy on the wallet and you won't be disappointed with their dessert--especially the chocolate mousse. 10-10 50th Avenue, LIC, 718.383.9315 7

This is the last weekend for PS1's Warm Up series. The final line-up of this year features, Jerome Derradji (still music) from 3p & 5p, Bing Ji Ling (live) at 4p, Lisa Shaw (live) at 6p, Neil Aline (chez music) at 7p. 22-25 Jackson Ave at the intersection of 46th Ave, LIC 718.784.2084

Mundo, Astoria's eclectic eatery is back from summer hiatus, boasting new surprises and old favorites such as Red Sonjas and Ottoman Dumplings. Reservations are suggested—they get busy. FYI: They'll also participate in Queens Restaurant Week starting on September 15th. 31-18 Broadway, Store #E, Astoria, 718.777.2829

Visit the Beer Garden this Thursday between 6-9p for jazz, featuring Emil Bizga, whose music has gypsy flare. And this Friday at 6p, you can enjoy a student choir right from the home country of the Czech Republic—they'll dance and sing in traditional folk garb. How fun! 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, 718.274.4925

Gluten-Free Dining Event at Mundo

Please note: you cannot make your reservations for this event through Mundo. You must sign up for the event through the NYC Celiac Disease Meetup Group!


Thanks to a post on astorians.com, I learned that Mundo is doing a gluten-free prix fixe meal on Monday, July 9 at 7 p.m. Mundo is one of my favorite restaurants in town, so I'm very happy to learn they are trying this out. No, I'm not gluten-intolerant, I just think it's cool. Here's the info, from the Celiac meetup group:

Join us for a pre-fixe dinner at Mundo Cafe & Restaurant in Astoria, Queens. Mundo Cafe & Restaurant has a vegetarian friendly menu and they are now reaching out to support the gluten-free community. Please join us on July 9th for a quaint dinner at Mundo. Space is limited, so please reserve your seat today. Please only respond YES if you know you can make it to this event.

Pre-Fixe Menu
$35/person excludes tax & tip
Additional wine, champagne & beverages are available.
(if you are attending the NYC Celiac Disease Meetup, you must purchase the pre-fixe dinner)

Starter
Gazpacho - Spanish Chilled Vegetable Soup
Appetizer Platter
(dips served w/corn chips)
Carrot Dip
Eggplant Dip
Wheat-free Red Sonja
Zucchini stuffed w/ Caramelized Onions

Main Course (pick one)
Grilled Portabella Mushroom & Baby Arugula w/flaky parmesan & balsamic vinaigrette
- OR -
Shrimp Casserole in tomato, green pepper and garlic sauce topped with jack & cheddar
cheese w/ a side of white rice & greens
- OR -
Vegetarian Chili w/gluten-free textured soy protein and a side of white rice & greens
- OR -
Egyptian Artichokes & fava beans Artichoke bottoms filled with carrots, peas & shallots
w/side of favabeans

Dessert
Mundo's heavenly flourless Chocolate Souffle topped w/ vanilla ice cream

$35/person excludes tax & tip
Additional wine, champagne & beverages are available.
31-18 E Broadway (at 32nd St)
Astoria, Queens

Directions to Mundo:
Subway: Take the N or W train to Broadway station (Astoria). Walk one block up to 32nd Street and make a right.

Astorian Weekend Edition 19.06.08

Happy Solstice Weekend! According to my sources, the Summer Solstice officially occurs on Friday, June 20, 2008 at 7:59 p.m. EDT. One of the best solstice events I've been to is at Socrates Sculpture Park, which means it's local... and free! It's a great event for the entire family. This year's event is on Saturday, and there will be music, art, face painting, and more! Festivities start at 5 p.m.

As reported earlier this week, a great summer meal can be had at Mundo (31-18 Broadway #E). I loved the cherry soup, and my other two fave items are the carrot dip and Red Sonja. The warm semolina helva is phenomenal - I've not had anything like it.

One of the things I like to drink in the summer is fresh juice. Both Igloo (22-11 31st St) and Soho (22-26 31st St) have impressed me with their fresh juices. I'm partial to the carrot-apple-orange at Soho and the carrot-apple at Igloo. Igloo also has smoothies with Tasti-D-Lite. The juice and smoothies are particularly good after a nice workout, too.

There's stuff going on at PS1 (22-25 Jackson Ave, LIC), too! That Was Then...This Is Now starts on Sunday, inspired by artistic and socio-political climate of the late 1960s. The installation "PF1 (Public Farm One)" should be ready for harvesting this Sunday as well.

Mundo in the Summer

Mentioning Mundo's Summer Menu last week, Meg and I went over there to try it first-hand. We loved what we had and are excited for a summer of delicious Mundo nights.

Below you'll find a sampling of some of the dishes we tried. If you'd like to view our entire 9 course tasting menu, click here. Enjoy!

Hungarian Cherry Soup: This was our first dish of the night and it was even better than the first time I had it. There were plenty of sour cherries in it and the chilled taste was fabulously refreshing, especially on a hot day. The last time I had it, its coloring was a little light (and not the most appetizing-looking) but this time it was perfect and very cherry-like. Meg seemed impressed and we both guzzled our soups down with gusto.

Red Sonjas: Mundo's signature dish couldn't be ignored and while Meg was looking forward to it, I was feeling lukewarm about it, based on my previous experience. But what arrived on our plates was so much more than my first mediocre tasting. These red lentil patties were absolutely delectable--soft and flavored perfectly with parsley, scallions and a hint of garlic. The best part was wrapping them in the fresh lettuce leaves like bundles of precious cargo. I could've eaten at least three--and they were filling too.

Ottoman Dumplings: I was excited to have these for a second time and once again, they proved why this dish stays on Mundo's menu the entire year. The dumpling dough is exquisite and you can tell that it's handmade. As you're eating each once, you can imagine one of the Mundo chefs individually pinching the dough together to make a rustic triangle. The dumplings are stuffed with ground beef and topped with a fragrant garlic-yogurt sauce. It's fun to incorporate the sauce in all the dumplings and enjoy them in their full, creamy glory. This dish is more than a stand-out, it's a show-stopper.

Warm Semolina Helva: We couldn't believe that we had room for dessert. Well, we didn't but we ate it anyway because it was outstanding. The semolina exterior was warm and cinnamony while the interior was filled luxuriously with vanilla ice cream. A spoonful of this hot and cold combination put a satisfied smile on our faces. The crunchy pistachios were a great topping that enhanced the flavor of both the semolina and the rich ice cream. Meg and I were happy to split this, as I think it's a bit indulgent for one person.

The staff here is lovely and they pour their hearts and souls into the food. Once you start chatting with them, you won't want to stop. John, the Executive Chef is especially nice and a very genuine guy who loves what he does.

Mundo - 31-18 Broadway #E, Astoria, NY 11106

718.777.2829

N/W Train to Broadway

www.mundoastoria.com

Astorian Weekend Edition 12.06.08

The heat wave is finally over and we're psyched to be up and about this weekend. Don't forget Father's Day this Sunday—Astoria has plenty of fun things to do with Dad.

Mundo, the intimate eclectic eatery will be offering their new summer menu so stop in and try it. We'd suggest calling now to make a reservation, as weekends get busy. Mundo – 31-18 Broadway, Store #E, Astoria. 718.777.2829

Want to volunteer at the famous P.S.1 Warm Ups this summer? You'll help run one of the most energetic and fun music events in this city. Warm Ups start in July and volunteer training starts in 2 weeks. P.S.1 MOMA - 22-25 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 718.784.2084.

Watch the 2008 Euro Cup with Dad at the Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden. Toast to the winning team with a nice cold Czech beer in hand, and make sure you get there as early as humanly possible to beat the crowds. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria. 718.274.4925.

You can also catch the Euro Cup at most 30th Avenue cafes such as Athens (32-07 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.626.2164), Avenue (35-27 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.278.6967) and Grand Café (37-01 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.7321). But like we suggest above, get there early to grab a seat.

Want to get a festive Father's Day cake for Dad? Visit, Dolce Italia Bakery for some tasty creations—and while you're there, check out their new spins on sweet classics such as a
giant Black and White cookie and a Nutella filled Linzer Tart. Dolce Italia Bakery – 36-06 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.278.4188.

Treat Dad to one of the best steak dinners he'll ever have—take him to Christos Steakhouse. There's no special menu for Father's Day but then again, they don't need to have one (see picture above). Lunch service will start 3 hours earlier than usual on Sunday (Noon vs. 3p). Christos Steakhouse - 41-08 23rd Avenue, Astoria. 718.777.8400

Mundo's Summer Menu

Starting at the end of next week, the eclectic Mundo Cafe will be offering a summer menu. Some of their staple dishes such as Red Sonja's, Ottoman Dumplings and Argentinian empanadas will remain but there will be other seasonal specialties too.

I happen to be a big fan of this place because of its intimate charm and interesting menu selection. The weekends get busy so give a call or check out their website for a reservation.

I'm going over there this week to sample the new menu and will report back with highlights. One of my favorite things from last year was the Hungarian Cherry Soup (pictured above)--it reminds me of the refreshing, chilled soup that my grandmother used to make for me back in Slovakia.

Check out Mundo this summer--it's really unlike anything you'll ever try in this 'hood.

Mundo Cafe & Restaurant

31-18 Broadway, Store #E
Astoria, NY 11106
718.777.2829

http://www.mundoastoria.com/

Astorian Weekend Edition 01.05.08

Start your weekend with some luxurious grub—sample Ovelia's new Happy Hour menu item, the Kobe Beef slider. If you can't make happy hour, you can enjoy this decadent burger for lunch. Ovelia Psistaria 34-01 30th Avenue. 718.721.7217.

As the weather gets nicer, Astoria's sidewalk cafes open up. One that we're particularly excited about is Mundo. This intimate café, serving eclectic cuisine from around the world has recently celebrated its 3rd birthday. Take a walk over there and try their fresh sangria or their amazing carrot dip. Mundo 31-18 Broadway. 718.777.2829

Heading to Astoria Park this weekend? Check out the newly opened burger-joint/Greek snack counter, Kafene right across the street. They boast five different types of burgers, an all-day breakfast menu as well as healthy snack options like Euro toast and fresh fruit smoothies. Kafene 23-08 Hoyt Avenue South. 718.274.6525

Waste Not, Want Not!? We're talking about recycling and about a cool group exhibition at Socrates Park by the same name. Learn about the goals, realities and practices of recycling at this fun event featuring artists and various craftsmen (and women). Sunday, May 4th 2-6p at Socrates Sculpture Park. 32-01 Vernon Blvd. 718.956.1819

Hit up Harry's Water Taxi Beach this Saturday or Sunday for some good beats. Victor Franco spins on Saturday from 3p-1a, FREE. On Sunday, enjoy the music of Chus, Quentin Harris, Joi Cardwell (Live Performance), Merritt, Steve Travolta, Vinyl Life and Dean K, 1p-10p. Tickets available at the door. Water Taxi Beach 2nd Street and Borden Ave.

And finally, ring in Cinco de Mayo early! Join ARROW Community Center for a Mexican shindig with music, arts & crafts and other fun stuff. Saturday, May 3rd from noon – 4p. ARROW Community Center 35-30 35th Street. 718.349.3408

Astorian Weekend Edition 20.12.07

Well, this is your last weekend to shop before the big day! A number of local Astoria places are having sales, too. Candy Plum (30-98 36th St) has a special on earrings - with every purchase of $50, receive a free pair of selected earrings! They also have gift certificates. The Museum of the Moving Image (36-01 35th Ave) is holding a store-wide sale with discounts of 10% (and 25% for Museum members) - they've got collectibles, books and DVDs (that Bladerunner DVD looks particularly good!). And Vine Wine (12-09 Jackson Avenue) in LIC is offering a 15% discount on cases (their Wednesday night tastings are pretty great, too).

For wellness related gifts, head over to the SPAce website (29-09 Ditmars) and order a gift card online! I hear very good things about the massages there, and their haircuts are extremely reasonable and well done. The Yoga Room (32-32 Steinway) is offering a number of discounts through December 31, too, for you and a friend.

For good eats, stop by Mundo (31-18 Broadway), which also has a new art exhibit up. They've got some new menu items, and the same wonderful ambiance. And gift cards! Il Bambino (34-08 31st Ave) just celebrated their one year anniversary in town - I was there last night and the food was delicious, as usual. They've been making soup lately, and the butternut squash soup I had was phenomenal. I've heard lots of good things about their other soups as well (I believe they change daily). Finally on the eating front: fantastic meatballs. The newly opened Philoxenia (32-07 34th Ave) makes excellent, almost tubular shaped meatballs (in a Greek style) which are very good, and Cassino in LIC (47-18 Vernon Blvd) makes some of the best Italian meatballs I think I've ever had. Really nice people run it, too.

This weekend also marks the Winter Solstice. This marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, and that just means more sunshine will come our way each day, bit by bit. Happy Eid, too!

Astorian Weekend Edition 20.09.07

May I suggest some dinner for tonight at Zenon Taverna or Mundo? You can get in on the Queens Restaurant week specials at these and several other spots throughout town. For only $20 (but not on weekends), I say go for it and try those places you've been meaning to get to!

You can also get your trivia on Thurs... along with $5 pitchers at Dillinger's (46-19 30th Ave). All the useless info your brain can handle brought to you by the Trivia Girls, another 5 bucks and 3 other friends will get you in on the action.

Have you seen the new face on Candy Plum (30-98 36th Street)? Well they've gone pink! Check out their new look and get in on a bunch of new designer originals and sales like crazy.

Last Resort Art Space (8-63 Astoria Blvd @ 12th St) has a show on Saturday at 9 pm. Can't beat 5 bucks for 5 bands! This party will go on until the wee hours so take an afternoon nap if need be :). Its a BYOB type thing so spending stays down (how's that for a cheap date!)

Sunday morning at 11 in Astoria Park, the Pug meetup group will be looking for YOU to create their new Pug T-shirt! HAHAHA I kid you not, they are holding a contest with prizes and all. Get more info here and maybe we'll see your design around town.