It is a juicy hamburger stuffed with decadent, velvety foie gras—like a gigantic beef ravioli nestled on fluffy brioche. It sits on a bed of crumbled feta, and is topped with a ribbon of kefteri cheese and pickled onions. It is the filet mignon of burgers, and it is just the tip of the iceberg at Cavo—Astoria’s premiere restaurant, garden, lounge, and club. For years, Cavo has been serving elevated Mediterranean cuisine in one of the most sophisticated dining rooms this side of the Hudson—and the current menu is certainly no exception. Cavo showcases a lovely blend of favorite dishes from primarily Greece and Italy intermixed with accents from all over the world—under the direction and expertise of Omari Dacosta, most recently of Danny Meyer’s barbecue hot spot, Blue Smoke. Dacosta has also worked in the kitchens of Trestle on Tenth, Pera Mediterranean Brasserie, and Red Rooster in Harlem. At Cavo, the Greek influences are certainly the most pronounced. Ravioli is stuffed with Greek cheese and arrives under a blanket of creamy feta with white truffle essence. Exceptionally tender octopus is charcoal grilled with lemon and extra virgin olive oil, presented simply, yet outstanding. Jumbo lump crabmeat is forked into hearty cakes, and stacked with fennel shavings and celery root puree. Desserts are equally sublime, as well. A granita of strawberries sits on a Greek yogurt panna cotta, dressed with shavings of lime zest. Nutella crepes are stuffed with a walnut banana compote. From start to finish, dining at Cavo will leave you wanting to return. For a cocktail at the bar, hors d’oeuvres at a banquette, or a nightcap in the sunken garden. Perfect for an intimate weekday dinner or a weekend evening of dancing, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. CAVO 42-18 31st Ave | Astoria, NY 11103 www.cavoastoria.com | (718) 721-1001 Closed Mondays | Open daily at 5PM FOOD 42 | BOROMAG.COM | DECEMBER 2013 CAVO
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