These are the winners for the best restaurants, bakeries, street carts, and diners. Bon appétit!
Queen’s Room
36-02 Ditmars Blvd, (347) 987-3994, queensroomnyc.com
Survey says: “Queen’s Room has gone above and beyond throughout the pandemic. Providing window service early on before fully opening up their outdoor dining, which is fully spaced out and feels natural.”
The Bonnie
29-12 23rd Ave, (718) 274-2105, thebonnie.com
Survey says: “The best setup from day one, making me feel safe. My friends from the city would come and say its the best setup theyve seen also. I also love their food and drinks!“
Oliver’s Astoria
37-19 Broadway, (718) 806-1476, oliversastoria.com
Survey says: “Oliver’s was a great outdoor dining option during the pandemic. Tables were spread out, dividers were up and this gastropub still delivered great food, apps and burgers!”
Jujube Tree
35-02 30th Ave, (718) 545-1888, jujubetreeastoria.com
Survey says: “They have a wide range of vegetarian/vegan dishes that will please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. I especially like the Kung Po Bean Curd, but I have about seven different ’go-to’ dishes here. Perfect for weekday lunch specials, weekend lunch, any-night dinner, takeout, delivery… you name it!”
Seva Indian Cuisine
36-18 30th Ave, (718) 721-3800, places.singleplatform.com
Survey says: “They were incredibly speedy on their delivery and the food was delicious and flavorful as always!”
Mom’s Kitchen & Bar
33-01 31st Ave, (718) 267-0142, momsastoria.com
Survey says: “It’s on my corner, so easy peasy, but still, I’ve so appreciated them being ’my’ kitchen on the corner!”
Sweet Afton
30-09 34th St, (718) 777-2570, sweetaftonbar.com
Yelp says: “They have a list of cocktails that include nifty drinks like “She’s The One” (hibiscous, vodka, lemon and vnilla), “Dirty Pickle Martini” (tito’s, pickle brine) and “Ruby Bartlett” (mezcal, cachaca, hibiscus, lime and watermelon).”
The Bonnie
29-12 23rd Ave, (718) 274-2105, thebonnie.com
Survey says: “Great decor, outdoor patio, and… Chicken with Waffle. Yum!”
Compton’s
30-02 14th St, (917) 745-0573, seamless.com
Survey says: “Compton’s burgers and sandwiches are delicious, and their mozzarella sticks are my new favorite!!”
New York City Bagel & Coffee House
33-10 30th Ave, (718) 728-9512; 40-05 Broadway, (718) 728-9511; 29-10 Broadway, (718) 777-0324; 29-08 23rd Ave, (718) 728-9500, nycbch.com
Survey says: “This local coffee maven keeps upping their games with a breadth of breakfast options (including omelettes, quiches, and oatmeal) and fun and interesting drink combinations!”
Survey says: “We used to be BK bagels all the way, but the cheddar Jalepeno bagel from NYC Bagels is just too good, we’ve stuck with them ever since that discovery!”
Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company
36-14 30th Ave, (718) 777-1121; 35-05 Broadway, (718) 204-0141; 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 932-8280, bkbagel.com
Survey says: “Though the name is deceiving, this Astoria based company makes large fluffy decadent bagels!”
Parisi Bakery
30-17 Broadway, (718) 728-5282, parisibakeryastoria.com
Survey says: “Parisi is a feel-good mom and pop bakery — an absolute gem. The crumb cake is out of this world and so are the amazing other desserts. When you approach and get that ’bakery’ smell it’s absolute heaven.”
Martha’s Country Bakery
36-21 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 545-9737, marthascountrybakery.com
Survey says: “Red Velvet options to die for!”
Cerasella
36-27 31st St, (516) 534-9125, yelp.com
Survey says: “This authentic Italian pastry shop and cafe is the authentic real deal. Their caprese lemon almond cake is to die for. They even have gelato and margarita pizza!”
New York Bakery Café
32-06 30th Ave, (718) 267-1010, seamless.com
Survey says: “The only place in the area we’ve found where you can find (and pre-order) chocolate-covered strawberries! A great alternative dessert for those avoiding carbs!”
Mom’s Kitchen & Bar
33-01 31st Ave, (718) 267-0142, momsastoria.com
Google says: “Funky menu featuring big portions and tasty ingredients.”
The Thirsty Koala
35-12 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 626-5430, thethirstykoala.com
Google says: “All the food was tasty, whether burgers or salads or fish and chips.”
Queen’s Room
36-02 Ditmars Blvd, (347) 987-3994, queensroomnyc.com
Some of the brunch choices include Buttermilk Pancakes, Eggs Benedict, and Veggie Omelette.
The Shady Lady
34-19 30th Ave, (718) 440-9081, theshadylady30thave.com
The brunch menu here is massive. There are all sorts of egg dishes (poached, scrambled, omelette), as well as pancakes and French Toast. It’s not inexpensive, but the quality is high, and well worth it.
Create
36-03 30th Ave, (718) 204-0333; 29-21 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 777-0504, createastoria.com
Google says: “Excellent food; you can get very good, fresh salads made to order, sandwiches, burger (beef, turkey, veggie), smoothies, etc. in a casual seat yourself or take-out environment.”
Souvlaki Lady
33rd St and Ditmars Blvd, (917) 750-3748, @souvlakilady
Survey says: “Owned by a wonderful Greek woman sells souvlaki on a stick (chicken stick is on $3) or pita sandwiches and platters. In the winter she also sells homemade soup and chili ($4 for small and $6 large). Delicious food, wonderful owner/chef, and she participates in so many community events donating her time and food to those in need, essential workers, etc.”
Orale!! Tacos!!
23-23 30th Ave, (718) 545-1212, oraletacos.net
Survey says: “For an inexpensive and filling meal, our go-to is Orale!! Tacos!!”
Burger Club
32-02 30th Ave, (718) 777-7788, burger-club.com
Yes, the burgers are excellent, but have you had the hand-cut french fries with cheddar cheese drizzled with beef short rib? Enough said.
Burgerology
31-29 Ditmars Blvd, (917) 745-0299, burgerologyastoria.com
Google says: “Great burgers, fries, shakes and selection of craft beer.”
Bareburger
33-21 31st Ave, (718) 777-7011; 23-01 31st St, (718) 204-7167, bareburger.com
Survey says: “The variety of vegetarian and vegan burgers/dishes is impressive… and yum yum!”
Jujube Tree
35-02 30th Ave, (718) 545-1888, jujubetreeastoria.com
Survey says: “It’s pan-Asian, not strictly Chinese, but if it’s perfect for Christmas Eve dining, then it works here. They have a wide range of vegetarian/vegan dishes that will please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. I especially like the Kung Po Bean Curd, but I’m probably up to about seven different “go-to” dishes here. Perfect for weekday lunch specials, weekend lunch, any-night dinner, takeout… you name it!”
Golden Dragon
34-06 31st Ave, (718) 777-2727, goldendragonastoria.com
Google says: “Extraordinary vibes and super friendly service. The meals were crisp and delicious.”
Sal, Kris, and Charlie’s Deli
33-12 23rd Ave, (718) 278-9240, places.singleplatform.com
Survey says: “When you walk into this classic deli, be prepared for the absolute classics, including mega-large sandwiches of meaty goodness.”
D & F Italian Deli
35-17 Broadway, (718) 728-2422, dandfitaliandeli.com
Google says: “I love this place, their coffee is awesome and so is the customer service.”
Ample Hills Creamery
34-02 30th Ave, (347) 242-2026, amplehills.com
We had a scoop of the Cookie au Lait and would not be mad if that’s the last thing we ever had. It was that good. Coffee ice cream with bits of sandwich creme cookies.
Sanfords Astoria
30-13 Broadway, (718) 932-9569, sanfordsnyc.com
Not many people are aware of the treasure trove that is the desserts at Sanfords. We’ve had a few of them, such as Bourbon Pecan Pie, Molten Lava Cake, and the Killer Key Lime Pie, and all are delicious. They taste fresh, not too sweet, and the portions aren’t so big that you feel awful after finishing it.
Martha’s Country Bakery
36-21 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 545-9737, marthascountrybakery.com
The cake slices are the best in Astoria (in our opinion), and we will never go wrong with the Mississippi Mud Pie, warmed up with whipped cream on top.
Al-Sham Sweets & Pastries
24-39 Steinway St, (718) 777-0876, yelp.com
Survey says: “You must have Al-Sham’s fresh kanafeh out of the oven (frequently throughout the day) before you die.”
Comfortland
40-09 30th Ave, (347) 642-9932, comfortlandnyc.com
The sweets here are awesome. Our favorite milkshake was the Cookie Crumble. In the warmer months, we were obsessed with the soft serve ice cream, and the outdooor seating situation was great. Going there makes us feel a little better during hard times. We also tip our hat since they give free coffee to healthcare workers, first responders, teachers, and restaurant industry friends.
Bel Aire Diner
31-91 21st St, (718) 721-3160, belairediner.com
One of the best 24-hour options in Astoria. You can get there by bus, which will drop you off right in front, or have the food delivered by ordering online. They have a large selection of different cuisines and great desserts.
Neptune Diner
31-05 Astoria Blvd S, (718) 278-4853, places.singleplatform.com
This Greek-themed diner is a stone’s throw away from the recently-renovated Astoria Blvd subway station, and if you drive, they have a parking lot! While open 24 hours, best service is before the late night hours.
Tasty’s Diner
33-04 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 777-8830, singleplatform.com
Google says: “All the usual you would expect from a good diner. I love the lumberjack breakfasts… large enough to keep you going all day.”
Michael’s Restaurant
33-17 Broadway, (718) 726-7474, michaelrestaurant.com
Google says: “Delicious Irish Breakfast Special with fried chicken and waffles.”
Sac’s Place
35-11 35th Ave, (718) 204-5002, sacsplace.com
Sac’s has moved from Broadway to 35th Ave, but they still make delicious pizza and other Italian dishes. Our favorite pies are the Sicilian (square) and Mama’s Old Fashioned (margherita). You cannot go wrong with either or both.
Sanfords Astoria
30-13 Broadway, (718) 932-9569, sanfordsnyc.com
Survey says: “Sanfords is classic New American comfort fare and offers a classy, upscale environment with a mix of eclectic dishes for all tastes.”
Akrotiri Seafood Taverna Restaurant
29-20 30th Ave, (718) 726-2447, akrotiritaverna.com
Google says: “OH the food. It made me want to float home! The tilapia I had was outstanding. My partner’s lamb was made to perfection. I can’t wait to come back here to eat again!”
Taverna Kyclades
33-07 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 545-8666, tavernakyclades.com
Survey says: “Classic Greek taverna with amazing seafood, bread and fun with great wine and dessert.”
Zenon Taverna
34-10 31st Ave, (718) 956-0133, zenontaverna.com
Google says: “Amazing food and friendly staff make you feel like family!”
Seva Indian Cuisine
30-07 34th St, (718) 626-4440, sevaindianrestaurant.com
Survey says: “There’s just nothing better. It’s flavorful, and just a great price. And it’s across the street from Chip sandwich shop.”
Tikka Indian Grill
34-14 30th Ave, (718) 255-1085, tikkaindiangrill.com
Survey says: “They have tasty options for vegetarians and omnivores alike. Great for dining in (non-pandemic) and takeout alike. They accommodate requests for different spice levels.”
Namaste
31-15 30th Ave, (718) 626-2783, yelp.com
Google says: “This place simply knows how to take care of their clients. Always with a friendly attitude. The food is conveniently priced, constantly fresh and neat.”
Trattoria L’Incontro
21-76 31st St, (718) 721-3532, trattorialincontro.com
Survey says: “A bit on the pricey side, but you really get the best Italian meal around.”
Vite Vinosteria
31-05 34th St, (718) 278-8483, vitevinosteria.com
Google says: “Unique dishes, super tasty and superb service with Italian heart and soul.”
Sac’s Place
35-11 35th Ave, (718) 204-5002, sacsplace.com
Google says: “Food and service were outstanding and truly appreciated the safety measures they have in place for outdoor dining. Plus, their new seating area at the Kaufman Studios ‘Landmark’ is gorgeous.”
Pink Nori
36-06 30th Ave, (718) 685-2365, pinknorinyc.com
Survey says: “inexpensive but still high quality sushi, lots of special rolls to choose from!”
Aji Sushi House
36-06 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 777-8889, ajisushiastoria.com
Google says: “The Aji Sushi House is a consistent, high-quality spot for meeting your sushi desires.”
Watawa Sushi
33-10 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 545-9596, www.watawasushi.com
We love the special rolls here. Everything is so fresh and tasty. Highly recommend!
Las Catrinas Mexican Bar & Eatery
32-02 Broadway, (917) 745-0969, lascatrinasnyc.com
Google says: “Pleasant staff , very attentive. Choices of food was a plus especially for those who are gluten intolerant.”
Tacuba Cantina Mexicana
35-01 36th St, (718) 786-2727, tacubanyc.com
Google says: “Empanadas were homey and filling, and nice selection of Mexican beer.”
De Mole Astoria
42-20 30th Ave, (718) 777-1655, demoleastoria.com
Survey says: “Their seitan burritos and fajitas are delicious vegetarian fare, and of course they have a menu with mostly options for meat-eaters. The chips they put out at the beginning of the meal are fantastic too.”
Compton’s
30-02 14th St, (917) 745-0573, seamless.com
Survey says: “Compton’s burgers and sandwiches are delicious, and their mozzarella sticks are my new favorite!!”
La Flor Vieja Taqueria
32-03 31st Ave, (347) 448-6120, yelp.com
Google says: “The crew is exceptionally loving and experienced. The service is very quick. Most important, the food you get is excellent.”
Barzola
33-01 Broadway, (718) 406-9929, barzolarestaurant.com
Google says: “I absolutely love this place. Everyone who works at this location are always friendly and attentive. I could never get enough of the food. They take all the precautions necessary to ensure all diners are safe.”
Milkflower
34-12 31st Ave, (718) 204-1300, milkflowernyc.com
Survey says: “Love Milkflower and their food even holds up well getting it delivered.”
Tufino Pizzeria
36-08 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 278-4800, tufinopizza.com
Tufino has a ton of different types of pizza with many different flavors, and they are really tasty. We also appreciate that any pizza can be made vegan or gluten-free.
Rizzo’s Fine Pizza
30-13 Steinway St, (718) 721-9862, rizzosfinepizza.com
Google says: “Very friendly service, and love stopping in for a slice on the way home!”
Sal, Kris, and Charlie’s Deli
33-12 23rd Ave, (718) 278-9240, places.singleplatform.com
Survey says: “Sandwich Kings.”
Compton’s
30-02 14th St, (917) 745-0573, seamless.com
Google says: “Great sandwiches and highly recommend the breakfast blend cold brew.”
Astoria Bier & Cheese
34-14 Broadway, (718) 545-5588; 35-11 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 255-6982, milkandhops.com
Google says: “Comfy environment, friendly staff and a great beer and cheese selection.”
iKraveit Foods
34-02 30th St, (718) 777-0030, ikraveitfoods.com
The sandwiches are made-to-order, and not only are they big, but they are good. When we want to make sure we’ll be filled up on a day-trip, we often pick up a sandwich to go from here. Our go-to has been the turkey avocado. It never disappoints!
Sai Organics
30-21 30th Ave, (718) 278-1726, facebook.com
Google says: “I’ve been shopping from Sai at least 7 years. I really love the place and products. They have everything I need. Always clean. Cashiers are kind and helpful.”
Greenbay Marketplace
32-06 Broadway, (718) 204-6400; 31-10 30th Ave, (929) 328-2729, yelp.com
Google says: “If you are fan of organic, healthy food, this will be the right spot for you.”
King Souvlaki
31st St and 31st Ave, (917) 416-1189, kingsouvlakinyc.com
Google says: “This is my absolute favorite food truck in Astoria! The food is always good and made fresh. There is always a long line which tells me that it’s worth the wait. In the summers I walk the half hour to get here and back to burn off my food. I love their chicken souvlaki on a pita.”
Souvlaki Lady
33rd St and Ditmars Blvd, (917) 750-3748, @souvlakilady
Google says: “Owned by a wonderful Greek woman sells souvlaki on a stick (chicken stick is on $3) or pita sandwiches and platters. In the winter she also sells homemade soup and chili ($4 for small and $6 large). Delicious food, wonderful owner/chef, and she participates in so many community events donating her time and food to those in need, essential workers, etc.”
King of Falafel & Shawarma
30-15 Broadway, (718) 626-3838; 33-01 30th Ave, (718) 838-4413; 30-16 Ditmars Blvd, (917) 912-7870, thekingfalafel.com
Survey says: “Where else can you get a filling container with enough food for two people? Even four falafels for two bucks is a filling cheap snack.”
Enthaice Thai Kitchen
33-20 31st Ave, (718) 932-1111, enthaicethaikitchen.com
Google says: “Enthaice never fails to disappoint. Their menu has very clear labeling for vegetarians and those that are gluten free. They are very accommodating to make even other dishes vegetarian. I personally recommend their Pad Kee Mao and their Vegetable Dumplings. Outdoor seating available with roof covering. Take out also a great option.”
Hero Thai & Izakaya
34-16 Broadway, (718) 932-8826, yelp.com
Google says: “Love their spicy basil fried rice, crispy duck salad and duck red curry.”
Thonglor Thai Formerly Red Basil Thai
32-47 Steinway St, (718) 278-3333, yelp.com
Survey says: “If you need flavor in your life, check out this amazing no-frills, straight-forward Thai cuisine experience. The noodles are awesome!”
Jujube Tree
35-02 30th Ave, (718) 545-1888, jujubetreeastoria.com
Google says: “This is my second time going to this restaurant. Every time I go it gets better! Vegan boyfriend enjoyed the food. The soy protein nuggets are super filling and delicious. The brownie is also a must have!! So yummy I can’t believe it’s vegan. Both vegans and non-vegans will love this restaurant. Many tasty And healthy options.”
Savage Sicko
37-10 31st Ave, (718) 433-9437, savagesicko.com
Google says: “Great atmosphere. Good selection of vegan, soy free, nut free, and gluten options. Food was seasoned well and the restaurant has hot sauce if you need an extra kick.”
Best Latin Food: Acento Latin Kitchen & Bar
33-06 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 440-9435, acentolatinkitchen.com
Best Australian Food: The Thirsty Koala
35-12 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 626-5430, thethirstykoala.com
Best Bosnian Food: Djerdan Burek Astoria
34-04 31st Ave, (718) 721-2694, djerdan.com
Best Korean Food: Mokja
35-19 Broadway, (718) 721-0654, mokjany.com
Best Tacos: East Coast Street Tacos
41-06 Astoria Blvd S, (718) 545-8226, eastcoaststreettacos.com
Survey says: “The most unreal tacos in the area. best I’ve ever had while living in ny. Their steak quesadilla and Buffalo chicken empanadas are to die for.”
Most Decadent Food Spot, and Best for Whatever: Comfortland
40-09 30th Ave, (347) 642-9932, comfortlandnyc.com
Survey says: “Comfortland has the over-the-top and flat-out delicious and Instagram-worthy savory and sweet treats you’ve never known that you always wanted!”
Best Afghan Food: Sami’s Kabab House
35-57 Crescent St, (917) 832-7165, samiskababhouse.com
Survey says: “A special restaurant we’re lucky to have located in Astoria, Sami’s Afghan food is always delicious and fresh. Great for meat-eaters and vegetarians. And that bread! And those desserts!”
Survey results from December 2020. Click here for the results from December 2019, December 2018, December 2017, December 2016, January 2016, July 2015, January 2015.