Koliba - A Slovak Chalet (of Dumplings!)

Koliba - 31-11 23rd Ave. Astoria, NY 11105

718.626.0430

N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

http://www.kolibarestaurant.com/

Koliba is my favorite Slovak restaurant in Astoria and I prefer it to Zlata Praha or the Bohemian Beer Garden (just the food, not the beer). Nostalgia automatically takes over when I'm here, bringing me back to my childhood in Slovakia. My family introduced me to Koliba years ago, when it was the venue of my aunt Alica's 50th birthday party. Since then, I’ve been here countless times for various festivities such as anniversaries, birthdays, casual lunches and dinners. My favorite dish to get here is the potato spaetzle (or dumplings) with sauerkraut and bacon. Also referred to as “haluski s kapustou” by Slovaks, this is a signature peasant dish. I love the way it’s made in Koliba—the dumplings are soft and hearty, the sauerkraut has a hint of sweetness and don't even get me started on the bacon. Instead of the thin American bacon, Slovak bacon is cut super thick, with flavor bursting at the seams. The fried cheese is also a delicious standby. It’s incredibly crispy, stringy and comes with homemade tartar sauce and yummy steak fries. Although I personally prefer the dumpling dishes here, the meat is also worth trying--I’d encourage the pork schnitzel and the beef goulash. Dessert is a maybe—not because it’s not good but because I’m always too full to get it. Koliba’s service can vary and while I hate to admit it, they’re usually nicer to Slovaks and Czechs than Americans. That’s not to say that you’ll get bad service, but bringing your Slovak or Czech friend along will only work to your advantage.

Thai Elephant - Still Low-Profile but has Potential

Thai Elephant - 21-09 31st St., Astoria, NY 11105

718.204.8827

N/W Train to Ditmars Blvd (last stop)

www.thaielephantastoria.com

I came to Thai Elephant with some out-of-town friends who were eager to experience Astoria’s diverse cuisine. Having tried Wave Thai many times (and loving it), I wanted to see how Thai Elephant stacked up. Overall, my visit was positive but did not blow me away. The décor was interesting and I liked all the elephants, especially the elephant mask wall fixtures. The atmosphere was laid back, with unexpected background music—mostly 80’s and 90’s. Our appetizers (curry puffs) arrived in 10 short minutes. They were soft and while fresh tasting, a bit on the greasy side and definitely not as flavorful as the ones at Wave Thai. The spring rolls on the other hand were crunchy, savory and definitely addicting. As for my entrée, I ordered a classic beef dish, the Sweet and Sour. Unfortunately, the beef was overcooked and even had a strange mushy consistency. And the vegetables, although fresh, were too heavily drenched in sauce. But both of my friends were impressed—one ordered the ginger shrimp and the other got a tofu spicy vegetarian dish. I’ve heard from several Astorians that they enjoyed the take-out here and that it arrived fresh and still hot. Overall, I’d consider going to Thai Elephant again but only if Wave Thai was too crowded or if someone in my party had their heart set on it.