May’s Newest Spots to Check Out
Astoria continues to welcome an exciting mix of new businesses this May, adding even more flavor and variety to the neighborhood. From viral cafés and classic NYC slices to stacked sandwiches and fresh-baked goods, these latest openings are already making their mark. Whether you’re looking to try something new or discover your next go-to spot, these newcomers are worth checking out. Be sure to stop by, show them some love, and support these new additions to the community.
PYO Chai
Image Courtesy of PYO Chai
PYO Chai A viral favorite has officially landed in Astoria. PYO Chai, a South Asian-inspired bubble tea café, has opened its third location on Steinway Street, bringing a unique fusion of traditional Taiwanese bubble tea techniques and nostalgic South Asian flavors to the neighborhood. The spot has quickly gained attention for its creative menu and vibrant concept. Signature drinks like the Pyo Malai Kulfi Milk Tea, Mango Kulfi, Kashmiri Chai, and Falooda Milk Tea highlight rich, familiar flavors with a modern twist. The menu also features specialty lattes, including a Hot Gulab Jamun Latte and a Pyo Iced Pista Kulfi Espresso. Beyond drinks, PYO Chai offers a selection of bites such as hand-wrapped momos (chicken or veggie dumplings), the “PYO BEC” (halal turkey bacon, egg, and cheese), and a Chicken Tikka Grilled Cheese sandwich. A rotating lineup of handcrafted desserts adds another layer to the experience.
28-23 Steinway St. (347) 242-3061
Freddy’s Pizza
Image Give Me Astoria
Freddy’s Pizza has just opened in Astoria, bringing its authentic NYC-style thin-crust and Sicilian slices to the neighborhood.
The menu features options like the Spicy Vodka Pepperoni and Grandma Vodka slices. The Freddy, part of the heroes section, is made with chicken cutlet, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, vodka sauce, and pesto, and is a must try. Don’t sleep on the desserts either, they include Bomboloni, Mini Cannoli, and Rainbow Cookie Bars.
With an old-school, pre-internet decor, comfy booths, and even a vintage scooter out front, the space delivers a nostalgic vibe. The spot is also known for its friendly, welcoming staff and kid-friendly atmosphere, offering dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
25-27 Broadway / 347-461-6114
Brooklyn Bread Cafe
Image Courtesy of Brooklyn Bread Cafe
Brooklyn Bread Cafe has made its way to Astoria, bringing its well-known fresh-baked breads and oversized sandwiches to Ditmars Blvd. This marks the brand’s first location in Queens, expanding beyond its Brooklyn roots.
The menu centers around quality ingredients, including organic eggs and breads baked in-house. Egg sandwich options include The Astoria with over-medium eggs, cheddar, crispy bacon, cucumber & dill cream cheese, and hot honey, the Spicy Diablo with organic eggs, Taylor ham, bacon, hash browns, pepper jack, jalapeños, and chipotle mayo, and Paisano’s BEC with organic eggs, crispy bacon, and American cheese.
On the sandwich side, options like The Peter Luger feature hot roast beef, mozzarella, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and house sauce, while The Godfather with prosciutto di parma, sweet soppressata, mozzarella, provolone, mesclun, olive oil, and balsamic glaze.
The menu also includes items like French toast bagels, house-made bagels, acai bowls, smoothies, and a range of specialty coffee drinks, including matcha lattes.
29-02 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria, NY 11105 / (718) 637-0111