The last few weeks have been world-changing.
Anxiety is a daily emotion.
Social distancing is a new phrase we all take seriously. Talk of self quarantining and too many other catchphrases we all wish we never had trending.
We can not ignore the adjustments in our lives now and perhaps the future.
My commitment to assisting to support the restaurant industry in NYC so all I can do is write and eat.
VIA VAI in Astoria extended a tasting through pick up, not sit down eating at this charming restaurant on 23rd Street.
Remember when we could sit in at a table casually sipping a lovely glass of wine? Beautiful people watching with the doors and windows open exposed to the quiet spot in a bustling city.
This will be a way of life once more is what we all need to believe.
Via Vai has the most amazing if not the best burrata I’ve even had. I was lucky enough to have one of those lovely spring evenings enjoying the offerings of Via Vai a few years ago.
Thoughts of an easy calm summer’s evening in maybe Tuscany or any place taking you away from all the stress of life.
On this day I picked up my delivery I met with the owner of Via Vai, Antonio Morichini. He was smiling and waiting for me. An empty restaurant. Chairs on the table at 6:00 PM a sad sight and not the norm.
Piles of plates, full bottles of wine and glistening clean wine glasses sit alone.
Craving a Be our Guest rendition where candlesticks sing a welcoming song and come to life.
Our meal was calamari, crispy and perfectly soft in the middle. This is not an easy starter to serve as delivery. Always best right out of the fryer. These were perfect even after the short travel.
MAIALE Pork filet tenderloin prosciutto & sage saltimbocca, with truffle mashed potatoes & grilled asparagus
A side of meat balls.
When I eat French I always order the chicken. Chicken is my measure of a great French Bistro.
Meatballs is the test for every Italian.
These were perfect. Moist, flavorful sitting in a marina that did not compete but enhance this meatball experience.
Tagollini that I’m sure when served immediately would have knocked my socks off. Even a slight warm-up at home it was still delicious.
The finale to this amazing meal was the pannacotta.
Now pannacotta will be my order choice for the future.
A drizzle of caramel sauce. Forget the Tiramasu get the pannacotta.
What I take from this evening of better take out than the average pizza, which is never average, not in NY.
We have the best restaurants in the country.
This period I plan of supporting these Dining in from my choices of Dining out.
A special dinner from these talented individuals will help us all remember we still are in a great city and we all can help each other.
Things have changed, we can’t lose the things we have always enjoyed and will again. Adjust, be flexible, be safe and patient.
Call your favorites and put them at the top of the list.
Call and order at VIA VAI:
As I could not do an interview with Via Vai I am including information from their press release:
VIA VAI Astoria: Italian Cuisine & Wines Takes Center Stage
Concept: VIA VAI is an authentic meets contemporary Michelin-recognized Italian experience that is worth crossing the bridge for in Astoria.
The chef-owner run operation is helmed by Roman native Antonio Morichini, who has crafted and oversees each individual aspect of the restaurant from the dishes to the wine list and even décor with the help of his wife Cynthia.
Devoted to bringing the real tastes of Italy to New York, Chef Morichini’s menu is an ever-evolving love letter to his homeland, and Rome, infusing his own modern and inventive twists for surprising flavor profiles. Each plate served is beautifully constructed with delicate precision and can be complemented by their impressive and not to be forgotten Italian wine list. In Astoria, the husband and wife team have been serving the community for over five years and bring authentic Italian cuisine, wine and hospitality to the forefront crafting an inviting mini vacation with the feel of Italy for its diners.
LOCATION: 31-09 23rd Ave., Astoria, NY 11105
WEBSITE: www.viavai-ny.com
PHONE: 347-612-4334
INSTAGRAM: @viavainyc
HOURS: Mon. – Thurs.: 4:00pm -10:00pm
Friday – Saturday: 12:30pm-11:00pm
Sunday: 12:30pm – 10:00pm
VIA VAI Menu:
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Living and loving in NYC, food has been a passion of hers. East Coast to West, Faith’s goal is to explore and learn with the contribution of other like-minded foodies. Faith Rein has written for [email protected]. Youtube channel – faith.rein, love food love faith. You can find her @: Faith.rein/facebook (always looking to add friends) / faith rein@twitter / faith.rein@instagram / [email protected]
