Guest Foodista Vicky and I send smooches your wayWhile for some, Valentine's Day is a dreaded Hallmark holiday, it could also be a lot of fun. It's about what you make of it, and since V-Day is on Saturday this year, there are plenty of things going on. From low-key casual dinners to extensive prix-fixe meals, the choice is yours. You could be as casual or fancy as you want to. Here are my recommendations, in no particular order.
Vesta - This neighborhood gem has won over my heart and my stomach. For $39.95 - $49.95, enjoy a three-course prix-fixe during these seating times: 5pm, 7pm and 9:30pm. As a personal recommendation, don't miss out on the Baby Jesus Cake--it's out of this world. Vesta Vino - 21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550
Mundo - A cozy, veggie-friendly eatery, Mundo also boasts a three-course V-day prix-fixe with complimentary spiced wine. There's still room for the 6pm and the 10:15pm seatings but space is going fast. The cost is affordable at $80 per couple. Mundo - 31-18 Broadway, Store #E, Astoria NY 11106. 718.777.2829
Bistro 33 - Looking for an intimate, romantic atmosphere? Bistro 33 is your place--and they have great food to boot! The offering is pricey at $75 per-person but it includes a wine pairing with every course. Bistro 33 - 33 - 19-33 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.721.1933
Ovelia - Not just for lovers, Ovelia is great to visit with a group of friends. They take a fun, playful spin on V-day with their creative menu of modern Greek dishes such as the Saganaki Stroganoff. Enjoy a three-course prix-fixe for $55. Ovelia - 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.7217
Agnanti - A traditional Greek staple, Agnanti will feature their regular menu for V-day. But if you'd like to eat here, make a reservation now because seats fill up very fast. I was informed that when dining here on V-Day, you're limited to a two hour stay. Agnanti - 19-06 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.833.7033
Winegasm - What a deal! Winegasm offers a four-course prix-fix with wine for $45 per person. I recommend the bacon wrapped prunes and their cheeses are also great. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their vinos, as they should be. Winegasm - 31-86 37th Street, Astoria NY 11103. 718.932.3331
Brick Cafe - Brick will be serving their regular menu with a couple of specials for V-day. Reservations are available and they have a great bar section where you could relax with a nice glass of wine before or after your meal. Brick Cafe - 30-95 33rd Street, Astoria, NY 11102. 718.267.2735
Fatty's Cafe - While their Valentine's Day "singles party" didn't quite work out last year, Fatty's is looking to turn things around in 2009. This casual beer, burger and Latin flava joint will offer a special prix-fixe menu. Costs and seatings are TBD so more to come on that. Fatty's - 25-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105. 718.267.7071
Il Bambino - A beloved neighborhood paninoteca, Bambino will be featuring a $40 V-day prix-fixe. Details are still hazy and I'll follow up with more information. If you're looking to eat from their regular menu, the green bean salad and the antipasto platter are amazing! Il Bambino - 34-08 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY 11106. 718.626.0087
Akti - This delicious Greek eatery on 30th Avenue will be serving dinner as usual on Valentine's Day. There might be a couple of daily specials and opportunities for special requests, so ask for them. Their seafood is especially tasty and very fun to share. Akti - 34-19 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. 718.721.3530
Happy Valentine's Day Astoria!
Love Always,
The Foodista
Well, the one place we won't be going is Bistro 33. $75 per person? Are they out of their minds? These li'l places really have the gall! It's NOT Manhattan! AND it's a recession! Valentines Shmalentines!
ReplyDeleteWell put - I tend to agree with you.
ReplyDelete