On a day-to-day basis, it’s safe to say we’re all pretty reliant on platforms like Yelp and Google when it comes to researching restaurants and choosing where to dine. While the star ratings on said platforms surely carry value, they don’t compare to the star: the Michelin Star, otherwise known as “the ultimate hallmark of culinary excellence.”

In 1955, Michelin decided to expand their rating services by establishing the Bib Gourmand Award: a stamp of recognition given to “Good Little Restaurants” known for their phenomenal food and surprisingly moderate prices. Michelin judges deem a restaurant as such if they can “order a full meal – two courses and a glass of wine or dessert, not including tax and tip – for under $40 per person.”

We are thrilled and proud to announce that not only 18 Queens restaurants received Bibs this year, but five of them are right here in our own neighborhood! Check out what the Michelin inspectors had to say about each venue below.

Gregory’s 26 Corner Taverna

Gregory’s is “one of the more serious and charming [small Greek restaurants]” offering “refreshingly honest and intensely flavorful cooking.” Michelin recommends the tirokafteri, a spicy feta dip, fried eggplant and zucchini, spicy sole and the pita.

26-02 23^rd Ave. / 718.777.5511 / @gregoryscornertaverna

 

Via Vai

Deemed a “charming trattoria,” the Bib guide recommends the creamy carbonara, spicy amatriciana, and zesty cacio e pepe, along with the short ribs, wood-burned pies, and tiramisu, “all made by cooks who hail from Rome.”

 

31-09 23^rd Ave. / 347.612.4334 / @viavainyc

 

Mar’s

According to the Bib guide, “the line would be out the door” if this oyster bar was located in Manhattan, with people anxiously awaiting to devour their sweetbreads, steak tartare, seafood stew, pork belly skewers and mussel toast, a dish Michelin describes as “love letter worthy.” Need we say more?

 

34-21 34^th Ave. / 718.685.2480 / lifeatmars.com

 

Bellwether

“Packed with creativity,” this seasonal spot is known for its griddled halloumi, grilled blowfish tails and braised Colorado lamb neck, which the Michelin judges describe as “the do-not-miss dish.”

 

47-25 Vernon Blvd. / 718.392.3257 / @bellwethernyc

 

Hupo

Hupo is dominating the Asian cuisine scene in LIC with its Sichuan menu full of “fiery, umami-driven complexity.” The Bib guide insists on ordering the spicy mapo tofu, house-made cold noodles, Chungking spicy chicken and stewed fish fillet in hot chili soup.

 

1007 50^th Ave./ 718.255.6722 / @huponyc

 

Congratulations to all the Bib Award recipients! Not only have you managed to receive one of the highest levels of culinary recognition, but you did so post/amidst a pandemic. Hats off to you, restaurant owners, and what are you waiting for, restaurant-goers?!