Picnic Garden - Korean BBQ Buffet

 

Winegasm

My "go-to" bar in the neighborhood of Astoria, Queens - Winegasm. This quaint little bar which seats about 25 people has an note-worthy selection of wines from all around the world. Their staff is knowledgeable and enjoy conversing and educating their customers. Their candle-lit cozy atmosphere is perfect for dates and the long bar-height table in the middle of the bar is perfect for larger groups.

 Cucumber Martini

They also have a very classic cocktail list; sidecars and vesper martinis included. Their new chef, Brian, hails from a two-Michelin star restaurant and has transformed their menu. Some of my favorites off the menu: Chicken liver pate, chick pea fries, cheese fondue, mushroom panini, and many more. Happy hour at my local watering hold is until 8:00pm and they also have a great prix-fixe three-course menu during that time for only $19. MUST TRY IF YOU'RE EVER IN ASTORIA!

DiWine

Brunch is a beautiful thing. All you can drink brunch is probably the reason why I love New York so much. I usually have brunch in Manhattan but this past weekend was my lazy, stay in my pajamas and do nothing weekend. But my friend dragged me out of my comfy fleece pajamas and to the a local restaurant around the corner from my apartment, DiWine. Lo and behold! Brunch special! For $15 dollars you can get an entree with a cup of coffee and a drink. If you want it to be endless mimosas, bellinis and bloody marys add an extra $7 only!

 Capricossa Pizza - Pepperocini, Eggs, Mushroom, and Mozzarella

I think we all know which option I choose but I was amazed at how good their pizza was. They have a wood burning brick oven in the back that gets the dough crisp on the bottom but still chewy goodness in the middle. And with V-day on the way, the made my eggs into the shape of a heart!

 Banana Bread French Toast - Maple Roasted Bananas, Strawberries, and Crème Fraiche

My friend had the banana bread french toast which I stole a bite of and it was so good! How have I never thought of making french toast with banana bread before? What made it so perfect for my taste? No raisins! I absolutely do not like raisins in bread and it was this dense banana bread with no raisins and plenty of walnuts for texture. But the most amazing part of that dish was the citrus creme fraiche that came with it. Amazing! Good to know that I don't HAVE to head into the city for a good brunch. Well done DiWine. I will definitely be back.