Chasing down ambrosia in Astoria? A trip to Taverna Kyclades

On a cold New Year's Eve, we embarked on the N train to the last stop in Queens - Ditmar's Blvd in Astoria. This would be my first trip to the epicenter of Greek cuisine in NYC and I was pretty psyched. As soon as we stepped off the elevated train platform, we were assailed with the amazing smells of busy bakeries, crowded restaurants and a lively but still laid-back neighborhood vibe.

The Decor: (8/10)

Very relaxed vibe and extremely friendly service - after walking in, I was immediately reminded of some of the family-owned tavernas I visited while in Athens.

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Appetizers: (9/10)

Caviar Dip ($5.50)
Caviar mixed with yogurt and various other things combined to make an EXTREMELY tasty dip that tasted of the essence of the ocean.


Greek Salad (Small 6.50)
This is considered a small?? This salad could easily have been a full entree. Good but nothing extraordinary.


Stuffed Grape Leaves ($5.75)
Really nice and tart grape leaves stuffed with rice.


Spinach Pie ($5.80)
Flaky layers, tender spinach filling and buttery goodness - this was probably the perfect home-made spinach pie. Extremely highly recommended.

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The main course: (9/10)


Grilled Whole Porgies (MP - $15)
An extremely simple preparation - which was just what I was hoping for. This was really well grilled and simply seasoned with some salt, pepper and olive oil. I'm happiest digging into a fresh fish, grilled and served whole, bones and all (and this little fella had a lot of them) with as little fuss in preparation as possible.

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To cap things off:

One final touch - Galaktoboureko - a complimentary pudding dish sprinkled liberally with cinnamon. This was really good and the perfect end to a great evening.

Taverna Kyclades is a great place for some great, simple, traditional Greek food. If you like your fish done simply and extremely well, you won't be disappointed by coming here.
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Info:

Taverna Kyclades



Directions by subway: Get off the train at the Ditmars Blvd stop. Walk ½ block to Ditmars Blvd and turn right. Walk 1½ blocks to 33-07 Ditmars Blvd. The restaraunt is on your left side.

On a related note, my Athens + Greek Islands photoset