Ample Hills Creamery
Bel Aire Diner
Bareburger
The Bonnie
Burger Club
EAT

These are the winners for the best restaurants, bakeries, street carts, and diners. Bon appétit!

Best Outdoor Dining

1st 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.”

2nd 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!“

3rd 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!”

Best Takeout/Delivery

1st 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!”

2nd 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!”

3rd 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!”

Best American

1st 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).”

2nd The Bonnie

29-12 23rd Ave, (718) 274-2105, thebonnie.com

Survey says: “Great decor, outdoor patio, and… Chicken with Waffle. Yum!”

3rd 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!!”

Best Bagels

1st 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!”

2nd 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!”

Best Bakery

1st 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.”

2nd Martha’s Country Bakery

36-21 Ditmars Blvd, (718) 545-9737, marthascountrybakery.com

Survey says: “Red Velvet options to die for!”

3rd 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!”

3rd 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!”

Best Brunch

1st Mom’s Kitchen & Bar

33-01 31st Ave, (718) 267-0142, momsastoria.com

Google says: “Funky menu featuring big portions and tasty ingredients.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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.

3rd 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.

Best Budget

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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!!”

Best Burger

1st 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.

2nd Burgerology

31-29 Ditmars Blvd, (917) 745-0299, burgerologyastoria.com

Google says: “Great burgers, fries, shakes and selection of craft beer.”

3rd 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!”

Best Chinese

1st 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!”

2nd 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.”

Best Deli

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

Best Dessert

1st 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.

2nd 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.

3rd 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.

3rd 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.”

3rd 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.

Best Diner

1st 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.

2nd 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.

3rd 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.”

Best Family-Friendly Restaurant

1st Michael’s Restaurant

33-17 Broadway, (718) 726-7474, michaelrestaurant.com

Google says: “Delicious Irish Breakfast Special with fried chicken and waffles.”

2nd 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.

3rd 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.”

Best Greek

1st 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!”

2nd 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.”

3rd Zenon Taverna

34-10 31st Ave, (718) 956-0133, zenontaverna.com

Google says: “Amazing food and friendly staff make you feel like family!”

Best Indian

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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.”

Best Italian

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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.”

Best Japanese

1st 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!”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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!

Best Mexican

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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.”

Best New Restaurant

1st 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!!”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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.”

Best Pizza

1st Milkflower

34-12 31st Ave, (718) 204-1300, milkflowernyc.com

Survey says: “Love Milkflower and their food even holds up well getting it delivered.”

2nd 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.

3rd 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!”

Best Sandwich

1st Sal, Kris, and Charlie’s Deli

33-12 23rd Ave, (718) 278-9240, places.singleplatform.com

Survey says: “Sandwich Kings.”

2nd Compton’s

30-02 14th St, (917) 745-0573, seamless.com

Google says: “Great sandwiches and highly recommend the breakfast blend cold brew.”

3rd 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.”

3rd 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!

Best Specialty Food Store

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

Best Street Cart

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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.”

Best Thai

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

3rd 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!”

Best Vegetarian

1st 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.”

2nd 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.”

EAT Write-in

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.