24 New Hot Spots to Try In 2024!
Astoria is ever-evolving, with a vibrant mix of cultures and cuisines that keeps the neighborhood lively and exciting. This year, the trend continues with a wave of fresh and diverse openings that promise to enhance Astoria’s already dynamic landscape. From innovative eateries to chic boutiques, here are the 24 hottest new spots making Astoria the ultimate destination for 2024.
Without further ado, and with just about something for everyone, here are Give Me Astoria’s 24 favorite openings (so far) this year!
Barranco
Barranco is a brand new Ditmars opening that brings the delicious flavors of Peru right to Ditmars. Aptly named after the coastal neighborhood of Barranco in Lima, this eatery is located in the space formerly occupied by Rosatoro. Patrons can expect classic dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and even Pisco-style cocktails. Must-try menu items include the chaufa, which is the Peruvian answer to fried rice, as well as the incredibly tasty lomo saltado. Barranco also hosts a bottomless brunch every weekend from 11AM-4PM, to make your weekends even better.
35-02 Ditmars Blvd. / @barranconyc
Bianco Nero
Name a better way to beat the summer heat than with a scoop of some fresh gelato. The gelateria’s first NYC location is officially open on Ditmars, and is serving up delicious scoops with plenty of creative flavors, prepared daily by Bianco Nero’s 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
BOSKÉ
Take a trip to the Dominican Republic without ever leaving Astoria when you visit BOSKÉ. This restaurant/lounge brings a beautiful atmosphere to dine and enjoy, right on Steinway. The menu presents classic Caribbean dishes with a twist. To start, be sure to try the Mofunguitos, which are smashed green plantains topped with a garlic butter sauce, and which can also be served with shrimp or chicharron. If you’re looking to take your meal to the next level and try something a bit more filling, then the Chofan, also known as Latin-style fried rice, is a must.
28-43 Steinway St. / @boskeastoria
Chiddy’s Cheesesteaks
The perfect cheesesteak in Astoria does exist, and it can be found at none other than Chiddy’s Cheesesteaks! Besides cheesesteak, Chiddy’s serves up a bunch of creative comfort foods ranging from empanadas, hot dogs, specialty fries, and more. Sandwich sizes range from junior (7 inches) to full (10 inches), and guests have the option to build their own cheesesteak sandwich as well. For first-timers, try Chiddy’s signature cheesesteak complete with onions, mushrooms, peppers, provolone cheese, and cheese whiz. Pair your cheesesteak with Chiddy’s very own ‘hell fries’, fries topped with hot sauce and melted provolone and offered ranch or bleu cheese on the side.
37-03 31st Ave. / @chiddyssteaks
Chocolate House
Chocolate House opened in Astoria this spring to satisfy any and all of your sweet tooth cravings. Chocolate House’s menu ranges from all types of delights such as crepes, waffles, and even milkshakes.Toppings are not restricted to chocolate, though, as this popular dessert shop presents its guests with many other options such as a variety of fruits, biscoff, nuts, sprinkles, and even cheesecake bites. For your first visit one of the many crepe and waffle options are a must, but if you aren’t sure where to start the cannoli crepe or waffle is sure to be a hit, complete with milk chocolate, cannoli cream, strawberries, and chocolate chips.
25-88 Steinway St. / @chocolatehouseus
Eli’s Cafe Creperie
Eli’s Cafe Creperie is a hidden gem just off of 23rd Avenue. If you are looking to support small female-owned new businesses in the neighborhood, be sure to give Eli’s a visit. This bakery is complete with coffee, pastries, and Eli’s specialty crepes, both sweet and savory. Highly recommended are Eli’s Freddo Cappuccino, and the outstanding strawberry banana crepes. There are also plant-based options available for vegan customers, such as the delicious fresh-baked blueberry muffins, and banana walnut muffins. Make your day even sweeter with any of the fresh treats at Eli’s Cafe Creperie!
23-61 31st St. / @eliscafecreperie
Elysian Cafe
Whether you are looking for a fresh start to your morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, Elysian Cafe is here to please. This new cafe is conveniently located steps away from the Astoria Boulevard station, making it an ideal stop for commuters and locals alike. Elysian Cafe offers a variety of coffees and baked goods for its customers to enjoy. If you’re looking for something a bit more filling, the cafe also makes fresh sandwiches that are also vegetarian-friendly.
25-31 31st St. / @elysiancafe_astoria
Fer
Fer is a Long Island City eatery, serving Asian comfort food sure to please. The restaurant presents customers with regional flavors from Southwest China, and has a variety of dishes for both noodle lovers and vegetarians alike. For starters, a must try is the infamous Mapo Tofu dish, which is a noodle dish comprised of Mapo tofu, scallions, and bok choy. Other standout dishes include the drooling chicken entree and saucy sesame cold noodles.
41-10 29th St. / @fer.restaurant
Il Nonno
An old-school, no frills style Italian restaurant is just what we needed, and Il Nonno is here to please. Located on Astoria Boulevard, the eatery serves a variety of classic pasta dishes and additional specialties. Highly recommended are the outstanding bucatini carbonara, a pasta dish that is equal parts cheesy, tasty and filling. End your meal on a sweeter note with Il Nonno’s outstanding affogato, which consists of vanilla ice cream served with espresso poured on top. For that extra kick? The aperol spritz is the perfect accompaniment to your summer meal.
25-17 Astoria Blvd. / @ilnonnonewyork
Izakaya Noname
Izakaya Noname boasts authentic, no-frills Japanese dishes sure to be enjoyed by all. The menu consists of classic dishes such as yuki fries, gyoza, and chicken karaage to start, but also has a wide array of hot and cold dishes that are well worth a try. From the selection of cold dishes, the spicy tuna tartare, as well as the takowasabi, are a must. Takowasabi is made up of raw octopus, flavored by cucumber, Japanese horseradish, red onion, and scallions. Present are also a number of ramen bowls and noodles that are all equally as tasty. For your first time, give the shoyu ramen a try. This ramen bowl has chicken broth, chashu pork, bamboo, nori, and scallion.
46-44 Vernon Blvd. / @izakayanonamenyc
Jaguar Cafe Bistro Bar
If you’re in search of an August in Europe without breaking the bank or going too far, then Jaguar is the ideal spot. Serving up delicious coffee and expertly crafted wine-infused cocktails, this new bistro/bar is sure to be a favorite. Also, be prepared to come to Jaguar hungry, as their food menu is just as delicious and inclusive as their drinks. Whether you’re dining solo or sharing with a friend, the portions are flavorful and generous. Must-try food items include the tuna tartare and any of their raw bar options. Pair your bites with the must-try Lavenderita drink. The best part? Jaguar is open from morning until night, making it the perfect location to enjoy a summer afternoon, especially in the lush jungle-themed backyard. Great vibes, delicious food, and creative cocktails? Count us in!
37-10 31st Ave. / @jaguar_nyc
Lincoln Market
With locations throughout the five boroughs, it’s only right that Lincoln Market’s newest location is right here in Astoria, within walking distance from Ditmars. The newest supermarket in the neighborhood prides itself on bringing the freshest in foods and produce in an organized, clean space. Lincoln Market’s Astoria space has multiple floors filled with a wide range of products, and also provides customers with freshly made food pre-made to go or hot food on the spot. If you’re looking for the convenience of online shopping and grocery delivery, Lincoln Market offers that directly as well via its website.
21-21 31st St. / @lincolnmarketny
Make Believe Bake Shop
With sweet treats as creative as its name, Make Believe Bake Shop certainly makes each guest’s experience special from the moment they walk through the door. This Astoria bakery prides itself on its various coffee options in addition to baked goods. With classics on the menu such as fresh gooey chocolate chip cookies and fudge brownies, if you’re looking for something unique then give the standout blueberry crumble bar a try. Other delicious options include the doughnut muffin, as well as caffeinated options such as the sprinkle iced mocha coffee.
25-11 Astoria Blvd. / @makebelievebakeshop
Meat and Salt
Let’s talk a delicious steak to treat yourself. Meat and Salt is the neighborhood’s new premier steakhouse offering customers a chance to indulge without straying too far from home. Despite being a steakhouse, this eatery stays true to its name and offers a bunch of sizzling dishes sure to satisfy your appetite. Expect a variety of meat-oriented dishes straight from the grills, and even soup to warm up on those early days in March. Delicious cocktails are also on the menu, and if you want to bring your little ones to join in on this unique dining experience, Meat and Salt encourages you to bring the whole family to enjoy.
30-07 Newtown Ave. / @meatnsaltny
Ramro
Brought to you by the same team behind Astoria favorite Foodstruck, Ramro is a brand new Filipino and Nepali dining experience. Open every Friday through Sunday for dinner, Ramro serves classic dishes from both Nepal and the Philippines, prepared with French and Japanese culinary methods. Take their momos for example, prepared with chicken, red & white chutney, garlic, butter, scallions, shallots and duck confit. This dish in particular showcases the eatery’s admiration for a classic Nepalese dish with a French twist. Or, for something a bit on the sweeter side, Ramro’s standout silvanas— a unique take on a Filipino dessert. Unlike a regular Silvana, Ramro’s silvana has a French presentation, complete with buttercream, pistachio, meringue and coffee.
30-93 38th St. / @ramronyc
Red Sorghum
Located as part of the Jacx Bulding, Red Sorghum is inspired by the Hunan and Szechuan flavors of China. Besides the incredible decor and vibrant atmosphere, Red Sorghum’s dishes are what elevate this eatery. Must-try items include the century egg claypot which has just the right texture and flavor certain to make you think about this dish until the next time you visit. Other menu items include spicy chicken, Dan Dan noodles, and Grandma’s rice noodles which, as you guessed, aims to be reminiscent of what one might eat at grandma’s house.
28-03 Jackson Ave. / @redsorghumlic
S-Meat & Hueso
Explore the flavors of Colombia at Astoria’s new grill house, S-Meat & Hueso. The Colombian eatery cooks its entrees using a wood and charcoal grill, that gives each dish a distinct flavor. Customers can also listen to some live music while enjoying their meal. To start, try 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.
35-50 31st St. / @s.meathueso.nyc
Seek Coffee
Seeking better coffee? Now open on Ditmars in addition to its 31st Ave. location, Seek stands out from the crowd. Whether it’s enjoying your brew with friends, or a quick study break, either of Seek Coffee’s locations is definitely the place to be. Coffee isn’t the only thing on the menu, as Seek Coffee offers plenty of delicious dishes to make the perfect pair with your drink. From fresh baked goods to more filling menu options such as sandwiches and more, definitely add Seek to your list of places to try this summer!
31-86 37th St. & 29-02 Ditmars Blvd. / @seekcoffee_
Somedays Bakery
Bringing some of the most delicious and innovative baked goods Astoria has seen in a while, Somedays stays true to its moniker and is open some days, Tuesdays through Saturdays, to be exact. These pastries are certainly not to be missed: think classic buttery croissants, but some with a twist. Standout menu items include the pistachio lattice croissant, complete with pistachio frangipane, raspberry jam, and hints of white chocolate. If sweet isn’t your thing, fret not, as the standout bakery also offers specialty savory croissants as well, such as the smoked salmon croissant and the cheddar pretzel twist.
23-37 30th Ave. / @somedaysbakery
Tipsy Scoop
This new Astoria ‘barlour’ is one of those ideas that makes you wonder just how someone didn’t think of it sooner. If you’re not entirely sure what a ‘barlour’ is think boozy ice cream. Serving up scoops with a twist, Tipsy Scoop truly lives up to its name. With locations across the country, and even in the Bahamas, the unique concept is opened up shop in May, right on 23rd Avenue. Expect creative flavors, as well as seasonal sweets, combining just the right amount of ice cream and alcohol. Tipsy Scoop is for adults 21 and over. Grab a friend and be sure to enjoy this one of a kind experience in the neighborhood!
38-15 23rd Ave. / @tipsyscoop
Tozton
Combining a world of flavors like no other in the neighborhood, Tozton serves both Peruvian and Venezuelan cuisine. Definitely come hungry, as the portions are just as generous as they are flavorful. There are plenty of menu items that are not to be missed. To start your meal, standout appetizers include the tostones with chicharron, guacamole, and hot honey that might just be one of the most delicious things to try in Astoria, perfectly pairing both savory and sweet with a touch of spice. For your main course, be sure to go with the Peruvian classic dish known as lomo salteado (skirt steak), complete with linguine sautéed in huancaina sauce, which consists of onions, cheese, and aji peppers blended together. For seafood lovers, there are plenty of fantastic choices, ranging from fresh ceviche to Peruvian jalea, otherwise known as a fried seafood medley accompanied by cassava and topped with a green onion sauce.
42-13 Broadway / @tozton
Truth Astoria
For those in search of an equally as luxurious an atmosphere as the meal itself, Truth Astoria is here to serve. Located within a short walking distance from the Astoria Boulevard station, Truth is Astoria’s newest take on Asian fusion. The menu is full of mouthwatering options, from the perfectly crispy rock shrimp to the outstanding spicy tuna tartare atop crispy rice. Cocktails are also a must when dining at Truth, especially the eatery’s specialty cocktail known as the Belmont 47. Hookah is also available for diners who are looking to elevate their experience at Truth.
27-35 21st St. / @truthastoria
Under Pressure
Now open near the Ditmars side of town, you’re in luck as their brand new Astoria storefront is located on 23rd Avenue. Bringing delicious Greek-style coffees, baked goods and more, Under Pressure also offers plenty of outdoor seating at its newest location to get some work done or to simply enjoy summer days. The best part? Under Pressure’s new location offers a wide variety of imported Greek goods courtesy of Athena’s Gourmet Market next door. Customers can expect a similar vibe to Under Pressure’s 31st Avenue location with plenty of coffee and espresso options, matcha, tea, and much more.
30-19 31st Ave. & 23-38 31st St. / @underpressurecoffeenyc
Zen Astoria
Located in the space formerly occupied by Flo, Zen Astoria is your new go-to destination for Asian fusion cuisine. Beautifully decorated with a full bar, Instagram-worthy area and equally aesthetically pleasing murals, Zen provides its guests with an ambience sure to leave everyone coming back for more. Must-try menu items include the Lemongrass beef and broccoli, along with classic fusion dishes such as fried rice, lo mein, and rock shrimp. A private dining area is also available for patrons who wish to fully enjoy their experience dining at Zen, or perhaps even host a special event.
37-20 30th Ave. / @zen_astoria
