October is the perfect month to enjoy all the bold flavors our wonderful area has to offer. As with anywhere in New York, one of the best parts of living in this city is the ability to explore the globe just by visiting the diverse experiences NYC has to offer.

Let’s explore new places in the neighborhood this October!

Botte Ditmars

What’s better than on an autumn evening than some delicious comfort food, especially when it comes in the form of pasta? Astoria staple Botte has recently opened its second location on Ditmars, and is sure to be as big of a hit as the first. Whether you’re in search of pizza or pasta, you can’t go wrong with any of the delicious dishes Botte has to offer. Standout menu items include the Diavola pizza if you’re looking for a meal with a kick. As for their pasta selection, the creamy carbonara is perfect parts savory with flavorful. Pair your meal with one of Botte’s curated cocktails and expect just the right amount of fun with the ideal cozy fall meal.

35-01 Ditmars Blvd. / @botterestaurants

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Curley’s Bagels

Let’s face it: a bagel is a New York classic, no matter the time of year. Customers can anticipate soft, fluffy bagels packed with flavor. And, bagel flavors range from the basics such as the everything bagel to more decadent flavors ranging from a jalapeño cheddar bagel to a unique rosemary salt bagel. Don’t know where to begin in terms of Curley’s specialty sandwiches? The quintessential NYC breakfast sandwich, also known as the bacon, egg and cheese (BEC) is a fan favorite — but Curley’s twist takes this classic up a notch. Curley’s offers customers the BEC with some gochujang aioli, which is a spicy red chili paste. 

43-04 47th Ave. / @curleys_bagels

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Pokèworks

Pokè lovers, rejoice, as Pokèworks has officially opened its first Astoria location just off of 30th Avenue. The chain restaurant has locations throughout the country, and is known for its signature menu items ranging from pokè burritos to pokè bowls. Menu items range from vegan and vegetarian-friendly to more classic pokè bowls, such as the spicy ahi bowl filled with ahi tuna, edamame, sesame seeds, shredded onions, cucumber, and much more. If you are looking to indulge in a sweet treat along with your bowl or burrito, Pokèworks’ Astoria location also has a variety of dessert items such as pineapple soft serve to enjoy.

31-16 30th Ave. / @pokeworks.astoria

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Rice Thief

Rice Thief is a hidden gem serving up Korean food in Long Island City. Patrons can expect a variety of Korean-style seafood dishes, and much more. Must-try menu items include the soy-marinated blue crab, as well as the Gamja Tang soup, sure to keep you warm on the chillier days ahead. If you are unfamiliar with Korean food, Gamja Tang is a spicier soup made with a pork bone base, along with potatoes, perrilla seeds, and various spices. 

39-37 30th St. / @ricethief.nyc

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Teso Mini

Certainly one of the most unique openings Astoria has seen in a while, the neighborhood’s own Teso Mini is now open right on 30th Avenue. Not so familiar with Teso stores? Teso Mini is a smaller version of the Japanese convenience store, offering customers a wide range of snacks and other specialty products straight from Japan. Think Japanese chips, noodles, candy, and much more. Venture to the other side of the world without straying too far from home when you take a visit to Astoria’s own Teso Mini.

36-17 30th Ave. / @tesomini.us

Be sure to grab a friend and enjoy!