Ive lived in Astoria practically my whole life yet never been to Vite. It off 31st ave on 34th…read morestreet and for some reason ive never ventured there. While deciding where to go one day, this was suggested and im so glad I went. The restaurant is cozy with tables inside the main dining room and in an enclosed outdoor seating area. Im guessing it opens in the summer. I sat down with my niece while waiting for my sister and for a good 5-7 minutes, no one stopped by and gave a menu nor offered water. Finally after about 3 people walked by not saying anything, someone came. The area is not that big and 7 minutes isnt that long but to sit there any not be addressed by all the staff walking by was annoying. Finally my sister came and we were offered water and a menu. After hearing about the specials and asking for recommendations, we settled on the gnocchi (housemade potato gnocchi, burrata, peas, pesto sauce, toasted pine nuts), Pappardelle alla Bolognese (housemade ribbon pasta, meat sauce), and side of sautéed spinach. The food arrived and we were pleasantly delightful by the main. The gnocchi was so soft and creamy, the sauce was delicious. Im not a fan of gnocchi but this was so good. The papardelle was my meal and it was also so good. There was a lot of pasta and a good amount of meat sauce. It was also delicious. The spinach on the other hand was bland. It has no flavor and we had to add some salt. A few times we tried to call someone over to our table but felt like no one was paying attention. When we were done with our meals, my sister had a few pieces of gnocchi left. She asked for a box as it was to be my nieces lunch for tomorrow. I then said, can you also box up the spinach. A few minutes later, the server dropped off a bag with one container and said here's the spinach. We tried to call his attention but he was already walking away. Where was the gnocchi. Finally when we came back, we asked about it and he said oh I thought it was garbage. I said no we asked for it to be boxed. He said let me talk to the kitchen. He came back and said sorry, they cant do anything but one dessert will be on me. I guess thats fine but we more wanted the food for the baby. For dessert we ordered a tiramisu and pistachio gelato. The tiramisu was in a jar as opposed to a cake slice. One bite of the ice cream and I knew it was bad. It was grainy and sandy texture. I looked up why that would be and one reason stated it could be improper storage, like it was unfrozen or melted then refrozen. I wasn't chancing that. I told the server and said I couldn't eat it. He offered another dessert but I said know, then offered a limoncello shot. While I appreciate the offer, we weren't drinking before so that wasn't the best option to offer. I just said im fine without a replacement. When we got the bill, the dessert was taken off like he said he would. We paid and left. Overall the main course/pasta meals were delicious. The sides and desserts could use work. Service was alright. Id definitely come back for the food and to try some of the pizza.

What a charming neighborhood gem! We came on a Monday night as a party of three to celebrate our…read morefriend Liz's bday and I have had this place bookmarked for a while and it easily exceeded expectations. The decor is simple but cozy, it seems like a place you find yourself in, in the middle of the week. The food: Anchovy Special with Arugula and Orange Supremes- Shocking how good this was, the anchovy was cooked perfectly, they were incredibly tasty without being oily. It went nicely with the arugula and the freshness of the citrus. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=Y_iTTjKvV5hLy-880SZzlA&select=WXs8evyJarabbHv9XVj6fw Melanzane alla Parmigiana- breaded eggplant, mozzarella, tomato sauce, basil. This was basically an eggplant parm and the eggplant was cooked perfectly, the cheese was ok but the sauce made this dish really tasty with the nice homemade focaccia they give you in the beginning. Branzino Special with Cannelli Beans and Swiss Chard. This was the winner of the evening. The cripsy skin was amazing. The fish was cooked to perfection, the cannelli beans I thought were going to be weird but it added a nice creaminess to the fish. Lastly the swiss chard was crunchy on the ends and nice and tender on the leaf. This should be put on the regular menu. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=Y_iTTjKvV5hLy-880SZzlA&select=xNVfJCmf89OOY-1ME3FY7Q Controfiletto- grilled prime angus N.Y. strip steak served with roasted marble potatoes. I hate to say it but as good as the steak was, the roasted potatoes was the star of show. The potatoes were amazing. Pappardelle alla Bolognese- housemade ribbon pasta, meat sauce. This was good but came off a bit plain. The pasta was homemade but it was almost to a fault since the pasta came out too soft. The flavors were good but I felt this would have been a better, reheated the next day kind of dish.

Ate at Vesta with my family years ago, and we decided to revisit the place. Had reservations on a…read moreSaturday evening for a party of 6. We were running a little late and called the restaurant, but we got there within 15 minutes of the reservation and were seated promptly. The place was relatively empty when we got there toward the opening of dinner service, but quickly filled up as the evening progressed. There's not a very extensive menu, basically one page of food and one page of drinks, but they put together a nice variety of options. We ordered a few glasses of wine, including from the wine on tap, which were great. Ordered several apps, most of which were large enough to share with everyone: burrata (fresh and creamy, which we piled onto the accompanying toast), steamed mussels (couldn't stop dipping the garlic crostini in the flavorful broth), and baked shrimp & calamari (the seafood was tender, and the sauce had a little kick to it and was great for dipping the toasted sourdough in). Two of my sisters ordered individual apps: carrot & ginger soup (came out piping hot and had a well-balanced flavor), and the spring salad (the ingredients were so fresh, especially the tomatoes). For my main dish, I ordered the gnocchi. The gnocchi was a little firm, but the sauce was flavorful and the braised rabbit lent the dish a mild meaty taste. My sisters had the wild boar lasagna (packs a flavorful punch) and the pasta special, spaghetti al limone (my sister liked it, but said she wasn't wowed enough to order it again). My BIL had the braised meatballs, usually an appetizer, as his main dish. It came with three tender, flavorful meatballs in a slightly spicy tomato sauce. My parents had the half roasted chicken and the pan seared striped bass, which they both immensely enjoyed. We all saved room for our favorite dessert: the Baby Jesus cake. If you love sticky toffee pudding, then this is the dessert for you. It is divine. We also got the house-made gelato, which comes with three scoops. We got one of each flavor: vanilla (plenty of vanilla bean flecks and tasted like it had honey in it), strawberry (a little tart, but with the right amount of sweetness), and cinnamon (my favorite flavor, nice warming spice). The souffle al cioccolato came out nice and hot, wasn't too sweet, and had a rich chocolate flavor. It was a wonderful ending to a delicious dinner. Service was great from start to finish. They were helpful with answering questions, refilling water, clearing off plates, and checking in on us every so often. They also have one bathroom that is cat themed (as a cat lady, this made me love this place even more). You can even upload your cat's pics to be shared on the digital display via a QR code. This is a wonderful neighborhood spot, and we will definitely be back.

It's not hard to find decent Italian food in Queens. But it's hard to find great, authentic Italian…read morefood....so enter Vesta! It has truly amazing food, fair prices, good service and a family feel. We have been twice on weekend nights and both times were treated to prompt, friendly service. Try the lasagna you won't be sorry! Food: 5/5. The tomato sauce is key. It's tangy, but semi-sweet, and seems made with love. Service: 5/5. Ambiance: 5/5. Semi-rustic wood tables and dark lighting make it seem like a real taverna from Rome. Plenty of seats but it may be a little cramped for parties of more than 4 Value: 4/5. The entrees run about $20-30 each, but the quality is high.

Went here for Valentine's Day. It was a prefixed menu which was just okay. I got the prosciutto…read moreplate for appetizer, which was the best dish I had. For main I got the ragú which was decent but not delicious to me. I definitely wouldn't order again. For Dessert I got the pannacota. To me it tasted like jello. Lastly I got a wine. I attached the photo here. It was good. It would've tasted better with steak. The appetizer and the wine were the best things I had that night. They were also giving out roses that day which was really nice of the staff. The waiter was really nice. The back of the restaurant is also really nice. Definitely the best place to sit.

So me and my wife booked this restaurant for Valentines Day since we been here before…read more Once we got there we were given the Vday prix fixe menus which were $75 per person. Upon asking for a regular menu I was told it's this prix fixe menu only and no substitutions or regular menu available. There was no mention upon booking this place, it had a prix fixe menu ONLY otherwise we would have not went. The menu consisted of 1 appetizer, 1 main course and 1 dessert for $75 per person. The food was good and the service was good as well our server was very nice. What bothers me is no mention when making the reservation it's just the pre fixe menu and upon actually doing the math and adding all of the items we got for 2 people going off their regular menu prices we actually ended up paying about $30 more which is usually not the case in other restaurants this should have been much cheaper. Also some of the dishes on the prix fixe menu had an additional $12.50 charge because of the type of the ingredients used, if you're going to charge extra just make a smaller portion or use other type of meat. Definitely not happy how they prepared this whole menu thing and will not be coming back here most likely. The only reason I gave 2 stars is because the staff was very nice and the food was good.

Friendly staff. Beautiful, romantic ambience. Abundant gluten-free options…read more I visit this place whenever I want to enjoy wholesome and nourishing Italian food.

I went to Sotta La Luna because I've been to its sister restaurant, Sotto Le Stelle, which had a…read morepretty similar menu. Sotto definitely has a different vibe. When I walked in and saw the open kitchen around it there was a sign that said it was voted the best Italian restaurant for 2024 and 2025. Although it didnt say where exactly. Was it for Queens or New York in general? I wasn't sure how official it was. I suggest making reservations if you would like dinner around 6-8pm. Our table was right by the open kitchen, and it was actually really cool watching the chefs work while we ate. Foodwise, we started with the arancini balls which were delicious. For the main, I ordered the fettuccine al ragu filetto and I'm glad that I did because it was a bit different from the usual pasta dishes I've had before. However the pizza cacio e salasiccia was a bit salty for my taste. For dessert we ordered the panna cotta of the day which was a berry one. That was really good. Definitely recommend ordering that one as it was light, creamy and the berries made it flavorful.

The space is tiny, well organized, service very attentive, and we really love the food and the…read morecocktails, atmosphere nice and warm

Had the most amazing meal here last night with the girls before heading out for the holidays, and…read moreit truly exceeded every expectation. The space is quaint and cozy, but what really made the night unforgettable was the hospitality, especially Grissel. From the moment we sat down, she made us feel genuinely cared for. Her knowledge of the menu, thoughtful recommendations, and ability to read the table were next-level. We all had different tastes and interests, and she somehow managed to guide us perfectly without ever feeling rushed or scripted. I honestly can't remember the last time we all felt so welcomed and celebrated at a restaurant. The food was outstanding across the board. The bruschetta was simple, fresh, and easily the best I've had. I ordered the rigatoni with vodka sauce (add chicken), and if you're lucky enough to hear about the vodka sauce, don't hesitate. Every dish at the table impressed: ravioli, clams, risotto, and eggplant pomodoro with shrimp. All big hits. Even the chef stopped by at one point to share recommendations, which made the experience feel even more special and personal. We left feeling full, happy, and already talking about when we'd come back. An unforgettable girls' night, amazing food, and hospitality that truly stands out. Can't wait to return.

Il Bambino will never disappoint me. They have the best panini in the world and I could eat their…read morefood everyday. I love how they constantly innovate with new menu options and maintain the quality every time. The Roast Chicken with Mozzarella is my go-to but I've tried so many other sandwiches, crostini, hash browns, fries, and coffees from them and it's all delicious. The workers are always so nice and they can substitute anything if you have preferences or dietary restrictions. They will also offer recommendations if you can't decide. I've gone on weekends and weeknights and while weekends are busier, we can usually get a table especially when they open up their backyard for seating in the summer. I always bring out of town visitors here and everyone raves about it. I even bought a jar of their homemade spicy mayo because it's so iconic. The sandwich is so filling, I almost wish they served half sizes so I could try more things on the menu at once. I can't say enough good things about Il Bambino, I will continue to support them forever.

I've been to Il Bambino countless times before, but this last visit was a little weird…read more It was restaurant week and all I really ever get from this spot is a panini obv, so I thought it was a good opportunity to try out some apps and dessert since the special came with it. We arrived over an hour before closing, but when I came in the hostess said they were closing and that if we wanted to eat we needed to order fast and have everything come out at once. We agreed, but then watched another duo walk in 20 minutes later and get to take their sweet time. We started out with their tomato soup and chickpea salad. Tomato soup was rich and came with a slice of bread with melted cheese on top, and the chick pea salad was light and refreshing. I had the Piggie Smalls as my main which is my go-to and was great as always. For dessert we shared a panna cotta and this chocolate dessert that had these chocolate crunchy crumbles on top that was out of this world. 10/10 food, wish I could've enjoyed it without being rushed.

Macoletta really does have fantastic pizza. The employees here are so nice and if you sit at the…read morebar, it's a lot of fun to watch them make the pizzas. I took the margherita and truffle mushroom pizza to go and had the Diablo pizza to stay. All three of them were absolutely great, but if I had to pick a favorite, I would go with the truffle mushroom pizza. The only reason I'm giving this place four stars instead of five stars is that the drinks were quite diluted in other words, I had to drink three cocktails to feel the mildest buzz. However, I would still return back because this place is about the pizza, it is not a bar, and they do make some fantastic pizza.

The spicy diablo is soooo good. Love when they have the live band posted up outside. It's a great…read moreenvironment both indoors and outdoors, waiters are quick and attentive, and this pizza is definitely a standout in the area.

I've ordered delivery from here a few times but had a chance to go in person yesterday. The place…read morewas packed for an early Saturday evening, so I was glad we had reservations. We were seated at a high top, which was the earliest available table. The grilled octopus appetizer was tender and nicely charred, and went well with a squeeze of lemon, the capers, red pepper strips, and oregano. The focaccia is cut up into 8 pieces and is delicious garlicky goodness. It's best eaten while hot, as it gets pretty hard once it cools off. My SO got the linguine fra diavolo, which he enjoyed. It was very flavorful with just the right amount of spiciness. I got the chicken parmigiana, which was delicious. I got a lychee martini, which was very good. Service was very good, with servers coming by a few times to check on us, swap out plates, refill water, etc. We were too stuffed for dessert, but we will definitely check it out next time.

Came here for a birthday celebration since this is one of his favorite spots. Great Italian food…read morethat's well popular in the neighborhood. Food and drinks were great. The seafood was fresh and pasta cooked well. Highly recommend getting reservations since this place seems to be busy and I can see why. Service was prompt and attentive. Definitely will go back to try the other dishes and desserts!

Went for a late dinner with friends last night. First time for me…read more The ambiance was nice, warm and inviting. The wait staff were a delight. We even had a bonus singing waiter, who was fantastic! The menu was stocked with an array of Italian specialties. I went for the eggplant parm, spaghetti and a nice glass of Sauvignon Blanc. The portion of eggplant was huge. Looked like a packed burrito with plenty of girth. It was a delightful bite everytime. So good. Amid great conversation and impeccable hospitality along with fabulous entertainment, I was already planning my next time back. Highly recommend this newish fabulous Italian spot for a meal that will send you home full and happy. Oh and they offered complimentary limoncello to end the evening. All and all a great place.

After many visits on our own, we invited friends making the brave trek from Manhattan to join us in…read moreAstoria for dinner at Rialto last night. Huge, huge success. They also loved the food, and the extraordinary hospitality, and the especially congenial environment. Many thanks to the entire excellent staff, seen and unseen, that have made Rialto a jewel of NYC.