FOOD + DRINK
ASTORIAN AMBIANCE
Tucked away under the metro rails
of 31st Street is a new restaurant,
aptly named The Astorian,
staffed by a team of food and
drink aficionados ready to share
their expertise with a curious crowd. That is
the goal behind The Astorian: to teach the
town a few new things about the dining out
experience.
Brought to the 30th Avenue area by the
creators of the popular, stylish Queens
staple, Forest Hills Station House, this new
hotspot is quite the achievement. The diverse
menu caters to those looking for
something unique and interesting by reinventing
the classics we love.
“We’re forcing people to be more adventurous,”
said General Manager Bobby
Burns, whose love for the industry is clear
in his excitement about his new endeavor.
And rightfully so.
“Everyone cares,” he explained. “When
we hire, we don't hire based on a resume.
We hire intelligent, altruistic people. You’ll
see it in the food. You’ll see it in the drinks.”
This philosophy has paid off for the budding
business as it looks to the bartenders
for recipes and ideas, allowing the staff
themselves to create the varied, extensive
cocktail list.
I started off my evening with the Call Your
Mom, a frothy gin drink with the fruity taste
of elderberry and the floral notes of rose.
Topped with bubbles for lightness, the cocktail
features Aquafaba, a vegan alternative to
egg whites, which provides the drink with a
smooth, deep texture. An easy sipper to take
in while touring the eclectic, open space.
Previously the home of the Astoria Brewhouse,
the two-story restaurant has been
revamped from its pub-style roots to house
a vintage, industrial design. Repurposed
piping holds shelf upon shelf of spirits and
antiques, as well as mounted televisions
for those who will miss their old football
season hangout. Tables line the stencilpatterned
stone walls and exposed brick
50 FEBRUARY 2 0 1 8
BY COLIN HOLMES
@HOLMESSLICE88
Photos courtesy of The Astorian
Photos courtesy of The Astorian