Brick Cafe

Independent of one another, two friends of mine have termed this place "evil yuppie joint." I don't agree with that assessment--there aren't enough yuppies in Astoria to really even sustain a "yuppie joint," and if anything it's more of the Euro cafe route than Park Slope-y. But I still don't care for Brick, though I live close and there's a dearth of places to eat AND drink after 11 p.m. in the neighborhood. The seafood paella is reportedly delicious--this from a friend who is as disenchanted as I with Brick--but everything I've tried has been halfhearted and predictable (and not in a comforting way). Flaccid sandwiches, lackluster salads, and mediocre burgers, that sort of thing. It's a pleasant environment, though, especially if you grab an outside table--the quiet avenue and professional service make for a rare outside-table neighborhood treat.

Brick has all the ingredients of a successful local joint -- great and HUGE cocktails, tasty food, nice vibe -- with the added benefit of being a pleasant place to eat (outside) during better weather. While some of their dishes are 50/50 (our fish last night was overcooked), the majority of the menu hits home every time.