The Queens Kickshaw

Astoria was S's and mine next destination for one of our famous dinner jaunts. We went to The Queens Kickshaw. Of course there was only one other table occupied upon our entering so we had a choice of where to sit. Sitting next to a huge communal table we selected a high top in the back under a dim light.

For our drinks S stayed with water while this little alchy wanted a beer. Kickshaw has a great beer list. At first I thought I wanted a flight to try 4 of the beers that are accompanied with great descriptions. When I inquired with our waiter as to what I should try he blandly pointed to the menu and said 'this one and this one'. So that helped a lot. Because of his great assistance I decided to go with a glass of Stoudts Pilsner which is described as 'Effervescent, crisp, bone dry, light sweet biscuits.' Anything with the phrase 'light sweet biscuits' has got my attention. We then indulged in the white bean and beer stew. Warm and 'beany' it was the perfect dish to start our meal with in this turning weather.

For mains S went with the Gruyere with pickled and caramelized onions on Rye with Napa cabbage-caraway slaw. It was a quaint little sandwich with a nice toasty look. I had Fontina Val d'Acosta with marinated mushrooms and basil pesto open face on foccaia with green salad with pine nuts. It was very bready. I wish the toppings would have been on the inside of the bread rather then topped on the crust and falling off every time I took a bite.

For dessert I indulged in a delicious bread pudding with a custard brioche and orange caramel. Delicious. I love bread pudding.

Good to know that this place does not accept cards - surprise. We think our waited was an anomaly. It's not fair to attack a person but I am surprised that this hip, new restaurant did not have a hip, happy person helping me with my beer, up-selling more, and making it a more enjoyable experience.