The most exciting part of any season is discovering new places to explore, and this July, Astoria is buzzing with fresh new hotspots. From Italian trattorias and delicious fresh gelato to Colombian delicacies and fried chicken sliders, here are the new kids on the block that you won’t want to miss!

Bianco Nero

Name a better way to beat the summer heat than with a scoop of some fresh gelato. With its first NYC location recently opened on Ditmars, Bianco Nero is serving up the sweet treat with plenty of creative flavors, prepared daily by the team of gelato experts. Think Kinder Bueno for the chocolate lovers, alongside classics such as stracciatella, vanilla, Belgian chocolate, Oreo, and much more. Bianco Nero also presents customers with tasty flavors of the week. Gelato is not the only thing on the menu, with additional items including coffee, gelato shakes, waffles, and more. Bonus points? The gelateria also serves dog-friendly gelato for your pup to also indulge in some summer sweetness.

33-20 Ditmars Blvd. @bianconerogelato_usa

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Il Nonno

An old-school, no-frills style Italian restaurant is just what the neighborhood needed, and Il Nonno is here to please. Located on Astoria Boulevard, the eatery serves a variety of classic pasta dishes and additional specialties. Be sure to enjoy some of Il Nonno’s cocktails, but for that perfect hint of summer, the Aperol spritz is a great choice. Highly recommended are the outstanding bucatini carbonara, a pasta dish that is equal parts cheesy, tasty, and filling. End your meal on a sweet (and caffeinated) note with Il Nonno’s outstanding affogato, vanilla ice cream served with espresso poured on top.

25-17 Astoria Blvd. @ilnonnonewyork

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Olive Coffee

There is no better start to the day than a fresh, delicious cup of coffee. Whether you prefer your morning coffee hot or iced, Olive Coffee has options. The coffee shop hosts a variety of freshly baked pastries to help you get that ideal morning going. Olive Coffee also offers customers the opportunity to try some delicious rotating flavors to give your coffee an extra hint of flavor. Open daily to help you enjoy your go-to morning beverage, Olive Coffee is the perfect spot to catch up with a friend, take a study break, get some work done, or simply unwind.

30-04 30th St. @olivecoffeenyc

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Qahwah House

Yemeni coffee is some of the most sought-after and praised coffee around the world. Astorians are in luck, as Qahwah House is now open in the neighborhood, located near Ditmars. With multiple locations around the country and serving customers authentic Yemeni-style coffee, Qahwah House is as good as it gets, importing Yemeni coffee beans to elevate the coffee profile in town. Customers can expect a variety of light roasts, dark roasts, espresso, and Yemeni teas. Pair your delicious coffee with some traditional Yemeni pastries, such as the freshly baked sabaya, to truly enjoy this experience.

22-37 31st St. @qahwah_house

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S-Meat & Hueso

Explore the flavors of Colombia this summer at Astoria’s newest grill house, S-Meat & Hueso. The Colombian eatery cooks its meats using a wood and charcoal grill that gives each dish a distinct flavor. The restaurant is complete with an inviting interior with both indoor and outdoor seating just in time for some great summer weather. Customers can also listen to live music while enjoying their meal. Start by ordering the traditional Chicharron, crispy skin on the outside while the pork is cooked to perfection. If you’re feeling bold, S-Meat & Hueso’s colossal burger is sure to satisfy, filled with three types of meat, cheese, and served with a side of fries.  Be sure to come hungry!

35-50 31st St. @s.meathueso.nyc

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Slappin Chick

Slappin Chick serves up Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches, now in the heart of Astoria. If you’re a fan of spice, then this is the spot for you this season. And, if you’re not sure of the spice level you can handle, Slappin Chick provides its very own spice ranking for its customers. Whether you’re in the mood for chicken tenders or chicken sliders, you can’t go wrong with either. Both plates come served with Slappin Chick’s specialty seasoned fries and pickles. The fried chicken establishment also has a variety of sides to enjoy—from cheese fries, mac & cheese, and even a variety of sweet puddings to savor with your meal.

25-21 Steinway St. @slappinchick

Enjoy summer in Astoria and get to these new kids on the block!