If you haven’t gotten my Christmukkah gift yet, might I suggest a zillion dollar gift certificate to Eataly? Yes, I know, Eataly is old news — thoroughly devoured by the food media upon its opening in September. I only went for the first time today for lunch, and not because I’m a lame-o, but because I *can’t* stand being jostled by crowds while I food shop (don’t ask how I survive the coop). Hence, I don’t hit up hotspots on opening month if I can help it. Admit it or not, shopping for food is full-on sensual: You eat with your eyes, smelling and touching your way to deciding whether or not you want to consume something. It’s a full-body/mind/soul process and when there is someone ramming a stroller into my shins, screaming into their cell phone or otherwise getting in my personal space, I get primally angry. So I waited for the buzz to die down a bit, finally checked it out, loved it and can’t wait to go on a proper Eataly spree ASAP.

One more Chelsea Market post and I’m done…treats at Buon Italia, Chelsea Thai Wholesale, The Filling Station, The Nutbox, People’s Pops and Manhattan Fruit Exchange.

#marketbasket #andover #heartbreak

Should naturally be about Astoria, no? I have not explored the area as much as I should so I sought out the expertise of my Greek pals Penny and Sophie on where to go and what to eat. Here is their cheat sheet:

Agnanti Meze for small plates, fresh salads and “tastes of Constantinople”

Taverna Kyclades for amazingly fresh fish, grilled just like in Greece

Telly’s Taverna, also nice seafood, and just off the beaten path so less crowded

The Original Stamatis Restaurant, (make sure it’s the one on 23rd Ave), for authentic mom-and-pop homey comfort food

Zenon Taverna for Cypriot specialties like Sheftalia char-grilled pork meatballs, grilled haloumi cheese and Arni Kleftico or “stolen” spring lamb

Tony’s Souvlaki Opaa for quick and tasty gyros and apparently to see the pet raccoon in back

Athens Café or Grand Café on 30th Ave for cold shaken coffee frappés and dessert

Artopolis Bakery for Greek cookies by the pound

Yaya’s Bakery for the best Greek bread

Titan Foods for the biggest selection of Greek groceries, including housemade pastries, fresh-cut feta, amazing olives and Greek brands you can’t find elsewhere.

Mediterranean Foods for a more edited selection of Greek goodies to take home.

What are your Astoria go-to’s?