Want to take a quick trip outside New York City proper for something amazing? Amylos Taverna provides scrumptious Greek cuisine in an upscale setting to all its customers in the heart of Astoria, Queens.
Astoria has slowly but surely become a food mecca that rivals many restaurants in Manhattan. Amylos Taverna, located right off the N/R lines at 33-19 Broadway, only strengthens the presence of its surroundings with food that is nothing short of absolutely amazing.
Amylos Taverna is still new to Astoria having only been open for a couple of months. Something that sets it apart from its neighbors is just how majestic and beautiful its insides are.
You truly feel as if you are transported to a beautiful Greek town via Astoria with how wonderfully decorated the entire space is. There is also window seating that overlooks the streets outside, perfect for an intimate evening for two during the cold winter seasons.
The food, as you can see from the picture above, is spectacular. It is colorful in its presentation and absolutely amazing in its execution as the chefs there have a great understanding of what Greek food is and how wonderful it can taste for even the pickiest of eaters.
Highlights for me during my recent visit were their Rock Shrimp (tempura style with sweet & spicy aioli) and Grilled Calamari (with EVOO emulsion, tomato, garlic & basil rehash). Two items commonly seen on many menus but are done so right specifically at Amylos. I’m a shrimp connoisseur and they were cooked wonderfully with just the right amount of spice added in the aioli. The Calamari tasted fresh with all the right flavors singing beautifully with one another.
Try their soup of the day as well, which of course varies, but their Butternut Squash option they provided was superbly yummy. Their entrees are hearty and plentiful, so make sure you come hungry or at least bring home a doggy bag to enjoy the next day.
Options worth devouring are their Gardiomakaronada (linguini, wild shrimp, braised in tomato & white wine broth, herbs) and Scallops (roasted, beet garlic puree, avocado mousse, fig balsamic). Again, flavor 101 with both as the pasta was amazing as was the seafood provided in both. This is a knockout place that I recommend trying immediately!
For more information on Amylos Taverna… click here.