After graduating college I knew I wanted to live and work in New York City, the greatest city in the world and a foodie’s dream! Once I landed my first job in the Big Apple I was lucky enough to stumble upon a hidden gem of NYC - Astoria, Queens. And while I’m located three subways stops outside of Manhattan, the food is equally as scrumptious!

Yamishiro opened its doors the very same week I moved to Astoria and since then I have been back for dinner so much that I now have a VIP card, granting me 25% off my bill and they know my “usual.” The service is wonderful and the food is always fresh and reasonably priced.

As the food truck trend continues to expand across the country, here in Astoria food trucks are pushed aside by food CARTS! The best Middle Eastern cuisine can be found at a cart outside of the Broadway subway station. Every Astorian knows that the King of Falafel (winner of the 2010 Vendy Cup) will not only serve you phenomenal falafel and shawarma but it always comes with a good joke and a smile.

Small family owned establishments dominate the restaurant scene in Astoria and Diwine is by far one of my favorite local wine bars. I have frequented Diwine for their amazing brunch, cocktail-making classes, and the occasional complimentary wine tastings. The trendy, intimate atmosphere and house-infused vodkas puts Diwine on the map.   

I have now been a resident of Astoria for over a year and I’m hooked. Not only is the food superb, but the locally owned and operated restaurants sure know how to make you feel at home. So next time you are craving some delicious food and great service, mosey on out of Manhattan to Astoria!

Brittney