Astoria Food: Top 5 Must-Try Restaurants & Bars

If you ask me, you’re after amazing food experiences, Astoria is really where it’s at in Queens, and this vibrant neighborhood offers something seriously delicious for just about everybody. The spot has Greek tavernas, cozy cafes, and seriously happening bars. But let’s be real, with all that variety, picking where to eat and drink could be, like, seriously tough. That is why I’ve rounded up my top five must-try spots in Astoria, which I will share with you right now. These are the places I keep going back to, and that you will be sure to really, really love. So, get your appetite ready!

1. Taverna Kyclades: A Taste of Greece

First up, if you want to get the freshest seafood without actually going to Greece, then Taverna Kyclades has to be on your list; like, absolutely. I mean, very often there is a line out the door, but, seriously, trust me, it’s completely worth the wait. Once you get inside, it’s like being teleported to a Greek island. The vibe is, you know, super lively, and the staff, they act like your long-lost family. Now, when you are checking out the food: Order the grilled octopus, you simply have to. It is so, so tender and flavorful. Or, you might want to get the whole grilled fish – they bring it out to show you first, just so you know it’s really, really fresh. It basically just melts in your mouth. Seriously. Just be aware that they only take cash, which can be, like, a bit of a surprise these days, so come prepared.

What to Order at Taverna Kyclades

So, if you want to make the most of your visit, here is what I recommend getting from the menu: First, you absolutely need to try the Grilled Octopus; you know, everyone raves about it, and they are totally right. It’s cooked to perfection, so that it is tender with just a hint of smokiness, kind of. Then you could go for the Whole Grilled Fish; I mean, ask what the catch of the day actually is because that, basically, is how you get the freshest, most amazing flavor. Then, Mussels are like, always a hit, too, steamed in garlic and white wine – it is really just a fantastic starter. And finally, for a classic taste of Greece, you will enjoy the Greek Salad – it’s fresh, it is simple, and it’s the ideal accompaniment to your seafood feast, kind of. Also their specials change all the time, too, so ask your waiter, they are very helpful and have very great knowledge about what they think you should get!

2. The Bonnie: Comfort Food with a Twist

Okay, now for something completely different. If you like really great cocktails and elevated pub grub, The Bonnie should be very high on your list, because this place has an awesome, like, neighborhood vibe with a seriously cool atmosphere. It’s very inviting and the inside has a really pretty outdoor garden, great if the weather actually permits! The food is top notch here, very often, too, I find myself craving their burger – it’s juicy, flavorful, and served on a brioche bun that is totally divine, in my opinion. You might like the grilled cheese with tomato soup too, especially when it’s kind of, you know, a gloomy day; it is really the epitome of comfort food. The drinks here, however, might actually steal the show, too. The bartenders actually know their stuff, which is awesome, crafting unique cocktails that you can’t actually get anywhere else. Seriously, you have to get the Bonnie Mule. That is very often my go-to drink when I’m in the spot!

Must-Try Items at The Bonnie

If I had to give some recommendations for first-timers, I’d, like, say this. Start with their Signature Burger – honestly, it is one of the best burgers I have ever actually had, ever. The flavors are seriously bold and the bun, I think, makes it better too. Also, there is the Bonnie Mule Cocktail, made with ginger beer and fresh lime; it’s super refreshing. So, too, their Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup is something you might really like; like I mentioned, this dish is something simple, kind of, but hits all the right notes, if you want my opinion. And don’t just leave yet: If you are in the area for a long night, make sure to check their seasonal specials; so, anyway, there are fresh flavors every so often, and some might be really appealing!

3. Sanford’s Restaurant: Diner Classics, Elevated

Next on the tour is Sanford’s, because this isn’t any normal diner – this diner actually has great service with upscale diner fare, that just can’t be compared to the traditional, old school diner you would, you know, might think. Think of it as a diner, seriously. It’s actually open 24/7, too, making it really the place to go if you need a great meal very, very late. Breakfast here, actually, is the bomb, and I really enjoy their Eggs Benedict; the hollandaise sauce is so, so smooth and rich. Also, the pancakes are pretty awesome too, just in case you like something a little sweeter. The dinner options are killer here; from the delicious burgers to the hefty salads and amazing sandwiches, there really, truly is something for every single person here. Also, I think Sanford’s manages to make every single dish it actually makes just that much better than the regular classic dish, I guess.

What to Enjoy at Sanford’s

Okay, if you end up here for your first visit, there actually are a few things you just absolutely, absolutely should try, seriously. Their Eggs Benedict – basically a masterclass, and it’s like the hollandaise just sets it apart from your average run-of-the-mill breakfast dish, in my opinion. And the Classic Diner Burger? Don’t just write it off because of what you would actually think. It does make an amazing lunch, and there’s an amazing attention to every, like, detail when you get the plate; that is, like, amazing. Lastly, and in order to change it up, too, you should definitely try a Club Sandwich – layered high with fresh ingredients, because you’d want a lighter yet really filling meal, kind of!

4. Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden: A Slice of Czech Culture

Okay, so you have visited this spot before, too, in order to believe that, but that’s because it truly, really is, one of Astoria’s, you know, very special, landmark locations! Because, that, it is a super traditional Czech beer garden that’s seriously like a community hub. Opened way back in 1910, this beer garden really allows you to experience Czech culture, and you do so through traditional food, beers and the traditional music too, you know. When the weather’s actually great, there is almost nothing better than, kind of, relaxing outside with a very large stein of Czech beer and listening to some tunes. This beer goes great with sausages, the pretzels and the goulash they have! It’s definitely like going to an experience; like, you should bring your family with you, maybe you could bring some friends, and just spend a lazy afternoon at this Hall.

Experiences You Simply Cannot Miss at Bohemian Hall

This hall is definitely not like the last ones on the list! To just have a more authentic visit to this place, try the following to get an amazing time: Start with Czech Beer – a big part of the reason a lot of people enjoy visiting this place! Like, you’d want to sample what is actually on tap and enjoy their refreshing flavors. Then, try the traditional Czech Sausages; like I mentioned, a simple meal to have, alongside great beers! Get the Pretzel because, for me, it complements the beer selection in this joint pretty well. Make sure to actually check the schedule and make sure to attend some live music; usually folk or traditional Czech bands show up and their live sessions add some life into the atmosphere.

5. Sugar Freak: Louisiana Love in Astoria

Okay, lastly we have Sugar Freak, that delivers just, like, a touch of New Orleans, you know, all the way to Astoria. If you want anything from beignets and also, like, fried chicken to gumbo, this funky spot brings real Louisianan flavors right to your mouth; I feel like you really get the culture when you try their food. The, like, décor is something, also. It’s brightly colored, that definitely kind of just has that party vibe going on. The menu features lots of southern specialties that you might want to check, from sweet and savory dishes, there is definitely lots to try. I seriously like starting with beignets which are, I think, pillowy soft. Following, the chicken and waffles really cannot be beat. Don’t forget a Hurricane, because it can be a party-in-a-glass beverage!

What Sugar Freak Has to Offer

As your entry to Louisiana through New Orleans-influenced eats, follow these menu suggestions: Let’s just start, as always, with the Beignets because you have to, just like they are an essential part of any meal at this joint, because they offer you, kind of, a sweet opening to your Louisiana visit. Also, it might be worth it for you to check their Chicken and Waffles out. In particular, theirs offers that satisfying blend between sweet and savory which actually keeps you, kind of, interested and also full after that visit. You may also want to try the Gumbo. A lot of people think their Gumbo dish showcases what is basically a really rich stew packed full of seafood and spices – their dish captures everything that makes you want to visit Louisiana one time! And to just feel immersed, try their Hurricane drink which captures and showcases a signature blend of multiple rums which, usually, represents this very party vibe that the south shows!