By Foodista of Joey in Astoria
Man, oh, man, will it be cold this weekend! But don't let a little chill stop you from enjoying these fun (indoor) "social sports."
Ornella (29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria, 718-777-9477) is a great new Italian restaurant worth trying, and all dishes are derived from cherished family recipes. Order the imbustata, a specialty pasta "envelope" with roasted veal, chicken, wild mushrooms, homemade mozzarella, spinach, mascarpone cheese, and tomato sauce. As you can see, it's an all-inclusive type of dish and it's absolutely scrumptious.
Take a farm to table cooking class this Thursday (or next Thursday) at the Sage General Store (24-20 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, 718-361-0707). This week's theme is "Trade Secrets from the Professionals" and covers topics from handling poultry to making the perfect pie crust. $80 per person includes dinner and you get to take home a pie.
In the mood for casual tapas or just good and inexpensive Latin food? Blend in LIC ((47-04 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City. 718-729-2800) is a yummy option, and I had a wonderful dinner there last week. Top picks include the arroz con pollo, which is generous in portion and features the most aromatic seasoning, and the ropa vieja, which is served in a crunchy plantain cup.
Indulge in a holiday specialty drink at Mezzo Mezzo (31-29 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, 718-278-0444). The creative holiday-theme concoctions include chocolate peppermint martinis and an oatmeal-cookie latte. You can sample a drink for free with a purchase of an entrée. The special promo code is "holiday cheer" and it can be used on all days except Saturday.
If you like to play pool or ping pong and appreciate a relaxing, low-key setting, check out Break Bar (32-04B Broadway, Astoria, 718-777-5400) on Broadway between 32nd and 33rd Streets. It's pleasantly full but never too crowded on weekends, and the bartenders make you feel like part of the family. Pool is free until 9 p.m. and happy hour is from noon to 9 p.m. on weekends with $3 beers and $5 spirits.
- Previously on Joey in Astoria
- Neighborhood Profile - Astoria, Queens
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