One Night in Astoria, Queens
Published 05/13/2025
This spring marks my 10th anniversary in New York City—eight of those years spent in Astoria, a neighborhood I consider the greatest in the world. A few late nights (and early mornings) here were all it took to call it home.
Famously diverse, this northwestern Queens neighborhood is proudly multicultural and multigenerational—home to Greek, Italian, Egyptian, Brazilian, Bangladeshi, Colombian, Filipino and Korean communities, to name a few. On any given night, you’ll find families lining up for late-night ice cream, young professionals in dive bars and longtime locals swapping stories at sidewalk cafés well past 10pm. The streets buzz with life yet never feel overwhelming. That’s the magic of Astoria: it packs the entire globe into one vibrant enclave.
While other places may serve you a meal, Astoria feeds your appetite, sense of wonder and craving for an authentic NYC experience. This neighborhood is overflowing with iconic spots—Taverna Kyclades, Comfortland, Mombar, Sweet Afton, The Ditty—but save those for another time. Below is my guide to a true Astorian evening.
1
Feast on classic Greek flavors at Ambrosia Garden
Cozily tucked off Ditmars Boulevard and a short walk from the N/W train, Ambrosia Garden gets its name from the mythical food of the gods said to bring immortality to those who taste it. One bite here and you’ll believe it.
Start with the trio of spreads—tzatziki, spicy feta and smoked eggplant—served with warm, olive-oil-drizzled pita. Add grilled marinated octopus for a great pairing. Entrées are hearty and ideal for sharing: don’t miss the grilled branzino or the flavorful sofrito—tender beef shoulder slow-cooked in rich sauce. I like mine made with gigante beans and crispy Cretan fries on the side.
If you’re lucky, you’ll get a complimentary bite of portokalopita—syrup-soaked orange cake with tart house-made Greek yogurt. It’s a sweet finish with just the right contrast. And remember, this is Astoria—always save room for more.
2
Go big on drinks at Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
Next, head to a true neighborhood institution. Founded in 1910 by the Bohemian Citizens’ Benevolent Society, Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden is the oldest beer garden in NYC—and still honors the food, decor and beer selection of the Czech and Slovak immigrants who built it.
This open-air haven with long picnic tables and sizzling brats often hosts comedy, live music, silent discos and more. Grab a stein of Czech lager, play a game of pool and kick back. Hot tips: The outdoor bar is cash-only, so come prepared. And on weekends, claim your table early; it fills up fast.
3
Sweet treats and hookah at Sands of Persia
End the night on a luxurious note. Sands of Persia is plush and atmospheric—velvety seats, ambient lighting and the scent of fruit-flavored hookah. Order the decadent rose kanefeh—warm, floral and topped with pistachios and vanilla ice cream—and sip bold Turkish sand coffee brewed over hot grains.
The shisha menu is stacked with intriguing blends (my go-to: the Pawai, a smooth blend of sweet mango, tangy pineapple and icy mint), and on weekends, a live DJ and belly dancers add dazzle to what I consider the perfect evening in Astoria.
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